Label
Cemter of Inspiration
Cemter of Inspiration (영감의 샘터) is an independent Korean record label founded by sibling duo AKMU in January 2026. The name fuses the Korean word “샘터” (saemteo, meaning wellspring or fountain) with the English word “center,” written as “Cemter” to carry both meanings simultaneously. It shares its name with Lee Chan-hyuk’s solo visual art exhibitions held in 2023 and 2025. AKMU announced the label with the words: “a new shelter for AKMU.”
Founded after the duo ended their 12-year run with YG Entertainment in December 2025, Cemter of Inspiration officially launched January 20, 2026, with contracts transferring on January 27. Multiple outlets translate the name as Fountain of Inspiration, but AKMU’s own English branding uses Cemter of Inspiration. It stands as a rare case in Korean pop: an act of AKMU’s commercial standing going entirely independent with their own imprint, with Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Soo-hyun operating as both artists and label owners.
The label’s first visible act as an independent entity was dropping a new duo profile photo in February 2026, signaling the start of a new era. AKMU has hinted at a 4th studio album -- their first since Sailing in 2019 -- as the debut release under Cemter of Inspiration. Lee Chan-hyuk, who released the acclaimed solo album Eros in July 2025 under the pseudonym “Leechanhyukvideo,” brings expanded creative range. Lee Soo-hyun, whose fanbase has grown significantly through her solo work and collaborations, contributes to the label’s artist-forward identity. Distribution arrangements have not been publicly confirmed.
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AKMU performing live (Lee Chan-hyuk on guitar, Lee Soo-hyun on vocals). CC BY-SA 3.0.
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Fans Also Ask
What is Cemter of Inspiration?
Cemter of Inspiration (영감의 샘터) is an independent Korean record label founded by sibling duo AKMU in January 2026 after they left YG Entertainment following 12 years with the label. The name combines the Korean word saemteo (meaning wellspring or fountain) with the English word center, written as Cemter to carry both meanings at once.
Who founded Cemter of Inspiration?
Cemter of Inspiration was founded by AKMU, the sibling duo consisting of Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Soo-hyun, in January 2026. They established the label after parting ways with YG Entertainment, where they had debuted in 2014 following their win on K-pop Star 2.
Why did AKMU leave YG Entertainment?
AKMU departed YG Entertainment in early 2026 after 12 years with the label. They launched Cemter of Inspiration to take full creative and business control of their music. AKMU had debuted at YG in 2014 after winning K-pop Star Season 2.
What artists are signed to Cemter of Inspiration?
Cemter of Inspiration was established as the exclusive home for AKMU, the sibling duo of Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Soo-hyun. As a self-run independent imprint launched in January 2026, the label is built entirely around their creative output and artistic direction.
What does the name Cemter of Inspiration mean?
The name Cemter of Inspiration blends saemteo (샘터, meaning wellspring) with the English word center, written as Cemter to carry both Korean and English meaning simultaneously, reflecting AKMU approach to creative identity.
