ArtistA2O Entertainment
Sunny
Sunny (써니), born Susan Soonkyu Lee (이순규) on May 15, 1989 in Orange County, California, holds a unique position in K-pop as both a celebrated performer and a member of its most powerful family. The niece of SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo Man, she earned her place in the industry entirely on her own terms as a member of Girls' Generation (소녀시대), one of the most iconic girl groups in K-pop history.
After joining SM Entertainment as a trainee, Sunny debuted with Girls' Generation in 2007. The group defined the second generation of K-pop, topping charts across Asia and reaching audiences far beyond Korea. Within the group, Sunny became known for her powerful vocals, comedic personality, and hosting abilities -- building a parallel career in variety television that kept her visible even during quiet release periods.
On April 9, 2025, A2O Entertainment -- the label founded by her uncle Lee Soo Man after his departure from SM -- confirmed Sunny had signed with them, where she works as a producer supporting trainees alongside producer Yoo Young Jin. She appeared at SMTOWN: The Culture, The Future in 2025, reconnecting with fans on a large stage for the first time in years.
Sunny brings both institutional K-pop lineage and genuine creative investment to everything she touches.
1 articles14 creditsDebut: August 5, 2007American
Gallery
Discography
2022
FOREVER 1Album
Group MemberSM Entertainment
2017
Holiday NightAlbum
Group MemberSM Entertainment
2015
Lion HeartAlbum
Group MemberSM Entertainment
2013
I Got a BoyAlbum
Group MemberSM Entertainment
2011
The BoysAlbum
Group MemberSM Entertainment
2010
Oh!Album
Group MemberSM Entertainment
2009
Gee (Mini Album)Mini Album
Group MemberSM Entertainment
2007
Girls' Generation (Debut Album)Album
Group MemberSM Entertainment
Filmography
2012
The Outback (Korean Dub)Film
Voice Actress (Miranda)
2011
Invincible Youth 2Variety Show
Cast Member
2009
Invincible YouthVariety Show
Cast Member
Other Credits
2025
A2O EntertainmentOther
Producer, Trainee DevelopmentA2O Entertainment
2018
Girls'Generation-Oh!GG (Subgroup)Other
MemberSM Entertainment
2007
Girls'Generation (소녀시대)Other
Member, Lead VocalistSM Entertainment
Fans Also Ask
What is Sunny doing in 2025?
In April 2025, Sunny signed with A2O Entertainment -- the US-based agency founded by SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo Man -- to work as a trainee producer. She works alongside Yoo Young-jin to guide trainees in vocal direction, styling, and choreography.
What is Sunny famous for?
Sunny is one of the nine members of Girls Generation (SNSD), one of K-pop most successful and iconic girl groups. She is known for her powerful high notes, charismatic stage energy, and her role as the group bubbly personality. Outside music, she has appeared in Korean dramas and variety shows including Invincible Youth.
Is Sunny related to the founder of SM Entertainment?
Yes. Sunny is the niece of Lee Soo Man, the founder of SM Entertainment. Despite this family connection, she auditioned and earned her spot in Girls Generation on merit. She has often spoken about the pressure of her family ties and the need to prove herself independently.
Has Sunny released a solo album?
As of 2025, Sunny has not released an official solo studio album, making her the only original Girls Generation member without a full solo debut. She has appeared on soundtrack contributions, unit tracks, and subgroup releases throughout her career but has not put out a standalone album.
When did Sunny leave SM Entertainment?
Sunny did not renew her contract with SM Entertainment in August 2023, parting ways after over 16 years with the company. She was the last of the original Girls Generation members to depart SM, following Taeyeon and others who had already transitioned to other agencies.
