Full Breakdown
HYBE Launches ABD, a Dedicated Girl-Group Label
5/8/2026, 12:31:55 PM
ABD Launch
On May 8, HYBE announced the creation of a new label named ABD, standing for “A Bold Dream.” The label will focus on producing girl groups and plans to debut its first rookie group in the second half of 2026.
Multi-Label Context
ABD joins HYBE’s multi-label system, which includes BigHit Music, Pledis Entertainment, Source Music, Belift Lab, ADOR and KOZ Entertainment. The structure lets each label operate independently while supporting HYBE’s global competitiveness. ABD is presented as a way to diversify IP and broaden K-pop’s creative scope.
Data & Statistics
HYBE’s label portfolio now comprises seven distinct entities: BigHit Music, Pledis Entertainment, Source Music, Belift Lab, ADOR, KOZ Entertainment and the newly created ABD. The addition brings the total to seven active labels under HYBE Music Group APAC.
Leadership
CEO Noh (or No) Ji-won, formerly head of artist planning at Pledis and experienced at More Vision, will run ABD. Master Professional Han Sung-soo will act as executive producer, overseeing music, concept and performance. His credits include Seventeen, After School, IZ*ONE and TWS.
Debut Timeline
ABD’s first girl group is slated for debut in the latter half of 2026; no name or member details have been disclosed.
Market Impact
HYBE says ABD will secure IP diversity, launch new musical experiments and drive fresh changes in the global market. The label’s branding stresses “imagining D instead of C after A and B.”
Official Statements
HYBE officials called the label a strategic step to broaden IP diversity and boost production capacity. They noted the upcoming group will embody new musical concepts, aiming to shift the global market. The remarks highlight ABD’s role in HYBE’s multi-label model.
Conflicts & Gaps
Sources differ on the parent company’s name, with some using “Hive” and others “HYBE.” The CEO’s name appears as “Roh Ji-won,” “Noh Ji-won,” or “No Ji-won.” No further details on concept, lineup or promotion have been released.
Verbatim Quotes
“The establishment of ABD is a strategic step to secure IP diversity and further advance K-pop production capabilities,” — HYBE official
“Through our rookie girl group, we will present new musical attempts and concepts and create fresh change in the global music market.” — HYBE official
“Through the new girl group, we will propose new musical challenges and bring fresh changes to the global music market.” — HYBE spokesperson
“The launch of ABD is a strategic move to diversify our intellectual property and further advance our production capabilities,” — HYBE representative
“We hope to bring fresh changes to the global music market through new musical attempts and concepts.” — HYBE representative
