HYBE JAPAN appoints Iijima Michi as J-POP producer

HYBE JAPAN said on July 7 that it has created the position of J-POP Executive Producer and appointed Iijima Michi, a veteran of Japan's entertainment industry, to the role. The company is the Japan headquarters of HYBE.

According to Newsis, Iijima has worked since 1978, for about 50 years, in artist management, producing and video content planning. The report said she is credited with helping establish Japan's entertainment industry's 'multi-talent model,' which expands artists' activities beyond music into variety shows, dramas and films.

Newsis said Iijima is known for managing and producing SMAP over a long period and helping the Japanese group develop into top artists. The report also said she has worked as a film producer and participated in the planning of multiple works, including 'Midnight Swan,' which won best picture at the 44th Japan Academy Film Prize.

HYBE JAPAN said Iijima will handle a broad range of work after joining the company, from planning and producing artist IP to strategies for activities, creative direction and producing. The company said it plans to combine her experience in Japan's entertainment industry with its global-level artist development system to strengthen its strategy for discovering and developing next-generation J-POP artist IP.

Newsis reported that Iijima will continue to serve as head of the entertainment agency CULEN, which she founded. The report said the appointment is part of HYBE's growth strategy, 'HYBE 2.0,' and that HYBE JAPAN has been developing in Japan a 'multi-home, multi-genre' strategy based on businesses reflecting local culture and market characteristics.

Iijima said she has worked for a long time in entertainment with a focus on each artist's individuality and human appeal, while making content across music, video, film and TV. She said, 'Now that the entertainment industry is at a major turning point, I am convinced that the future lies in fandom. Through the fusion of fandom and entertainment, I will work to expand the possibilities of Japanese entertainment and help artists and content born in Japan be loved for a long time.'

HYBE JAPAN Chairman Kim Young-min said the company was pleased to welcome Iijima, citing her achievements, insight and affection for artists in Japan's entertainment industry. He said, 'Iijima's outstanding producing capabilities and HYBE's global infrastructure will create synergy, bring new vitality to Japan's music market and present projects loved by fans.'