HYBE's Lee Jae-sang Ranks Among Variety's Top 120 Entertainment Leaders
HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang has landed on Variety's exclusive list of the world's most influential entertainment executives, marking another milestone in his rapid rise through the global music industry.
The American entertainment publication placed Lee at number 117 in its "120 Most Powerful Executives in Entertainment" ranking, released December 23 to celebrate Variety's 120th anniversary. The list spans leaders across film, television, music, and gaming worldwide.
Variety pointed to Lee's leadership of HYBE 2.0, the company's ambitious expansion strategy that pushes beyond traditional K-pop into film, television, and gaming. The publication noted HYBE America's role as a central hub for combining music, content, gaming, and fan experiences in new ways.
"HYBE is positioned to capitalize on growing worldwide interest in K-culture beyond K-pop," Variety stated, highlighting the company's strategic advantage as Korean cultural exports continue gaining global traction.
Lee officially became HYBE CEO in September 2024 following shareholder approval, though the company announced his appointment in July. He previously served as Chief Strategy Officer after joining Big Hit Entertainment (HYBE's predecessor) in 2018 from Google, where he worked following stints at Hyundai Motor Company and consulting firm Monitor Group.
During his tenure, Lee designed HYBE's three-pillar business model-Label, Solution, Platform-and led major acquisitions including Scooter Braun's Ithaca Holdings. He also spearheaded the company's October 2020 initial public offering.
The Variety recognition follows Lee's inclusion on Billboard's 2025 Global Power Players list alongside HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk and HYBE Latin America CEO Kah Jong-hyun. In August, the Recording Academy named him a professional member, granting him influence over Grammy submissions and award policies.
Under Lee's direction, HYBE manages major K-pop acts including BTS, SEVENTEEN, NewJeans, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER while pursuing expansion into gaming, technology, and Western markets through groups like American girl group KATSEYE.
