The representative leaders of the K-Pop industry, the Big 4 have committed to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and sustainable management. 

On November 11, SM Entertainment published the agency's first ever 'Sustainability Management Report', announcing plans to transition into an environmental management system (EMS) by 2025. This will involve committing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, reduction of waste and the use of non-renewable resources, the protection of ecosystems, and more.

In fact, SM Entertainment established its ESG management branch in May of this year. In June, the agency became the first South Korean entertainment company to become a member of the UN Global Compact (UNGC). 

YG Entertainment also announced plans to commit to ESG and sustainable management on November 11. The agency has officially established its EGS management consultation branch and committee, and will begin its ESG management goals by renewing its social contribution campaign 'YG WITH' in 2023. 

Earlier this year, JYP Entertainment became the first South Korean entertainment agency to publish its own 'Sustainability Management Report' in August. The company is also the first South Korean entertainment agency to become a member of the 'RE100' initiative, an initiative through which businesses pledge to convert to the use of 100% renewable electricity.

Finally, HYBE Labels also established its ESG and sustainable management committee in July of this year, appointing president Lee Mi Kyung of the Korea Green Fund as the committee's director.

As K-Pop's influence becomes increasingly global, K-Pop agencies must make efforts to uphold their social and environmental responsibilities.