Overview
- Upper Room formally launched on Thursday, June 4, 2026, with Mark Lee named co‑CEO and creator and longtime colleagues listed as co‑founders.
- The company describes itself as a multidisciplinary creative studio centered on music that will connect video, visual art and performance to expand Mark’s artistic world.
- The launch included an artisanal announcement film inspired by 15th‑century movable‑type printing that the company said was produced entirely by hand with no AI imagery used.
- Mark ended his decade‑long exclusive contract with SM Entertainment in April 2026 and has framed Upper Room as the next phase of his solo career after his April 2025 solo album helped clarify his artistic direction.
- Industry observers note this follows a growing pattern of K‑pop idols founding independent labels and warn long‑term success will hinge on whether Upper Room develops a roster and sustainable business beyond serving as a vehicle for Mark’s own work.