H.O.T. Member Kangta Sheds Tears During Call with Former SM Entertainment Founder Lee Soo-man

Kangta, a member of the legendary K-pop group H.O.T. and a director at SM Entertainment, was moved to tears during a phone call with Lee Soo-man, the former founder of SM Entertainment.

On the 27th, the YouTube web variety show 'Shin Dong-yup's Jjanhyung' featured H.O.T. members Moon Hee-joon, Kangta, Tony An, Jang Woo-hyuk, and Lee Jae-won as guests.

During the show, Shin Dong-yup shared, "I meet Lee Soo-man about four times a year. We even travel abroad together. He occasionally talks about H.O.T., saying that without them, SM Entertainment wouldn't exist. They were the first brand of SM and the decisive figures who built the company."

He continued, "It might be awkward and it's been a long time since you've seen each other, but that's not important. Every adult goes through such processes in life. If I see you meet after all these years, I might cry," and then he called Lee Soo-man on the spot.

When Jang Woo-hyuk greeted him, Lee Soo-man remarked, "Your voice has become very mature." Lee Jae-won expressed his desire to meet soon and shared news about their upcoming concert this year and the 30th-anniversary concert next year, to which Lee Soo-man responded, "That's great. Keep doing it," showing his support.

Moon Hee-joon jokingly said, "I wanted to greet you after a long time. Please nurture us once more," while Tony An mentioned the new group A20 produced by Lee Soo-man, saying he was watching them closely. Lee Soo-man proudly replied, "We should collaborate with you guys. You are living legends."

Kangta was moved to tears when Lee Soo-man asked if he was still practicing singing diligently. Lee Soo-man added, "It's nice to hear you're all together. Let's meet up sometime," creating a warm atmosphere.

After the call, Moon Hee-joon commented, "It feels like it's been 10 years since I last called. Even during the reunion concert six years ago, I couldn't call. But he seems just the same as before. His tone and the way he talks to the members are unchanged," adding, "I still feel nervous. It reminds me of the tension during my trainee days."

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr