The Black Label

Teddy Park established The Black Label in Seoul with the specific goal of creating a space where his production vision could operate without the constraints of a larger corporate structure. While the company began as an affiliate of YG Entertainment in 2015, it officially spun off to become an independent entity in 2020. This transition allowed Teddy to manage his roster directly while retaining the operational support of his former employer during the early years. The label's initial focus centered on artists who shared a similar affinity for hip-hop and R&B, moving away from the traditional idol group formula that dominated the industry at the time.

Financial stability arrived in 2026 when the company secured an $80 million Series B funding round led by Tencent Music. This capital injection marked a significant shift toward global expansion, enabling the label to invest heavily in international distribution and marketing infrastructure. The funding also signaled investor confidence in the company's ability to compete with major agencies like HYBE and SM Entertainment. With this backing, The Black Label has begun exploring opportunities beyond music, including soundtracks for major film projects like K-Pop Demon Hunters.

The roster reflects a deliberate strategy to prioritize vocal talent and songwriting ability over manufactured concepts. Artists such as Taeyang, Jeon Somi, Zion.T, Vince, and Leejung represent the core of the label's identity. In late 2026, the company debuted Meovv, a mixed-gender group designed to showcase the label's versatility in handling diverse lineups. The AllDay Project serves as a sub-label for frequent single releases, allowing the company to maintain constant visibility without diluting the impact of its full-length albums. [edit]