Chapter 62: Choose One

ing, how can you be so rude"…"In the office, Li Mei-zhu, the head of the department, was now giving Sun Seung-wan a severe reprimand. Her voice was loud and imposing, her expression grim. She occasion...Peninsula asteroid

Regardless of whether it's YouTube, Twitter on the peninsula, or Weibo in Xia Guo, the official accounts of 's released a video announcing the debut of the new girl group Red Velvet.

"I do! I want FX!"

"**!foreveranti!**"

"This makeup is so heavy, it's really ugly. Have S-agency girl groups ever debuted with this much makeup before Are they all just too ugly to be seen without such heavy makeup But even with it on, they still look awful."

"Isn't this style plagiarism from fx Can it have a bit of its own character"

"Can you tell the four people apart They look just like quadruplets to me. They're all ugly."

"What is this new girl group, go die! We want Girls' Generation, we want f(x)!"

"Disgusting, disband!"

If you're just an ordinary passerby, the aggressiveness wouldn't be so high, after all, it's just a trailer video. You can just watch it.

It's just that, following the tradition of s company's new group debut, every time a new group debuts, the most opposed and resisted group are often fans of their own company's senior groups.

This time it's also estimated to be no exception, from the comments you can see that mainly fans of Girls' Generation and f(x) these two girl groups.

This year, Girls' Generation has been plagued by dating scandals since the beginning of the year. Their comeback in March also failed to achieve the expected results, and their overall decline is evident. Moreover, this year is a contract year, and there is still no confirmation about whether all members will renew their contracts. Their fans, SONE, are still frequently worried, fearing that news of one member not renewing their contract might suddenly surface.

At this time, the debut of a new girl group clearly aims to take over the mantle from Girls' Generation. It's hard not to make fans worried about the future of Girls' Generation.

And the f(x) fans were furious because s just announced a shortened comeback and promotional period for f(x) and didn't reveal any future activities, feeling like they were being shelved. This timing of debuting a new girl group is practically perfect for attracting all the angry f(x) fans right now.

Besides, there are also quite a few EXO fans.

"At this point, it would be more beneficial to debut a girl group and give the resources to our oppa XO than to those four chickens. You guys are to blame for XO only having ten members now, it's truly disgusting."

"We, EXO, are making so much money but we don't get enough resources. Now they're debuting a new girl group Is Kim Eungmin crazy Or is there some mistress involved" Let me know if you have any other translations you need!

"If the company hadn't pulled resources away to give to this girl group, Han oppa probably wouldn't have left. I'm boycotting this whole 'Red' thing, what a terrible group. Their name is so complicated and they look like they're going to fail."

Because of the online opinion trend in recent days, due to the issue of uneven resource distribution within the team, many internal fans of (G)I-DLE have been arguing. Just when they were arguing endlessly, a new girl group suddenly debuted, and the debut of a new group would inevitably divide a large amount of company resources. The Planet fans who had just been at odds with each other instantly began to unite against Red Velvet, and also joined in the boycott.

At a glance, the comment section is filled with various expressions of opposition, dissent, and insults. Occasionally, one or two more objective comments and fan support statements are interspersed, but their number pales in comparison to the opponents, being drowned out by the wave of condemnation. Without careful observation, it's impossible to see them clearly.

Ji-hyeong believes this wave of controversy is very similar to when EXO first debuted. Red Velvet's timing couldn't be worse; it coincides with several other groups within the company facing scandals, leaving fans in a highly agitated and angry state.

Because it involved the personal interests of their idols, fans from several groups went all out, leading to a level and quantity of boycott and abuse far exceeding that experienced by EXO at the time.

Even though there's a tradition of new girl groups being blacklisted, this time Red Velvet was attacked too harshly, it went overboard.

And at that time, XO because when they debuted the company had prepared for a long time, including a lot of pre-release videos, like Ji-seong's one which is still frequently revisited by fans, these allowed the whole team to accumulate a considerable number of fans even before their debut. Even after their debut and facing severe black attacks, there were still many fans who supported them and spoke up in their defense.

It's pitiful that Red Velvet debuted too early and had little preparation. They practically have no fanbase and it’s hard to even find anyone willing to speak up for them.

"Sigh." Chi Jingyuan's fingers quickly swiped across the screen, his gaze landing on a sea of harsh comments. He let out a soft sigh.

Pei Zhuhyun and her group's debut really has a lot of attention and heat.

If you go by Red Velvet's long-held promotional philosophy of "Black and red are also red," then Red Velvet should be considered pretty successful now.

...but I don't know if they can withstand this kind of 'red' approach....

"Jingyuan, come here quickly, let's continue rehearsals." Kim Jun-myeon shouted from the entrance.

"Here I am."

When he heard this, Chi Jingyuan replied with a sound and put his phone away.

Being attacked, harassed, and insulted are also important aspects of an idol's career. Almost every artist who debuts has been verbally abused, including groups like EXO featuring members like Park Chanyeol. Basically, all idols go through this.

Whether it's Pei Zhuhyun, Jiang Seqi, or Sun Seungwan and the others, they have all worked hard for their debut for so long, they must have been mentally prepared for this.

As a close friend and confidant, Ji Jingyuan felt that he should believe in the resilience of each person, and affirm their years of hard work as trainees. He should acknowledge the sweat they shed and the belief and passion for their dreams that kept them going through the confusion and challenges.

He ran towards the stage while dispersing some complicated thoughts, quickly entering a working state.

The biggest impact of Han's departure is likely on EXO's presence in the domestic Chinese market and their regular activities there.

Even just from what Chi Jingyuan saw on Xia Guo's internet, there were already many former fans of XO who had directly split and turned against each other. On the internet, they argued endlessly about Han, and all sorts of negative factors and emotions heavily impacted the entire fan base.

Adding fuel to the fire, some brokerage firms and marketing accounts deliberately fanned the flames, further fueling this trend.

However, the company that received the most severe online criticism here is still s company. EXO was only affected by this, and the group's overall image has not been particularly affected.

Although the fandom is divided, XO's status still speaks for itself. Tickets for the concert were extremely popular. This time, the Xingcheng concert sold out all 16,000 seats. Even fans here are similar to those on the Peninsula, being galvanized by this incident and exhibiting a surge of reverse psychology. Cheers and support were more fervent than usual.

Because the impact of events hasn't passed yet, EXO has temporarily stopped activities in China and South Korea. After the concert ended, they didn't stay long and flew back to the peninsula on the morning of the 28th.

After landing, I went straight back to the company building. After tidying up in the practice room for a bit, I was taken to a conference room on the fourth floor by Lee Seung-hwan for a meeting.

Besides the ten members of EXO and several key managers, several staff members from the company's planning and management departments were also involved.

After everyone had taken their seats, the head of the planning department handed out documents to all the members and then began to speak:

"Han's departure from the group has had a significant impact on both the company and xo. Efforts made by the company during this time have already reduced a large portion of the negative publicity, but there are still considerable aftershocks."

"After market research and investigation, in addition to the previously discussed performances and schedules, for the coming period, xo will focus primarily on concerts and personal appearances. Group activities will mainly concentrate on advertising shoots and important large-scale public stage performances."

"Next, the company may also adjust this strategy according to various factors as needed."

At this time, Kim Jun-myeon raised his hand and when called upon, answered: "Room leader, do we have plans for a comeback recently"

"Due to the current negative news and many uncertainties, there are no plans for now. However, discussions regarding a year-end/winter special for xo are currently underway."

After hearing this, the members looked at each other without saying a word.

Some members are quite anxious lately. They've been constantly being smeared and slandered, and seeing many familiar fans leave also makes everyone feel angry inside. The most direct way to remove these negative comments is to prove with concrete comeback results that they are still the group on the verge of topping the charts, even with ten people.

However, Ji-seong also felt that it wouldn't be this soon. It's only been less than three months since their return in May. Even if they released a mini album again, it would seem too rushed. EXO isn't a group that returns every year like a workaholic team, and moreover, this time frame isn't very suitable either.

After the room leader's response, he pointed to the materials in front of him, signaling for the members to take a look. At the same time, he explained: "Besides XO's upcoming tour and the launch of this year's 'stown', the newest project is an EXO-exclusive variety show titled 《exo90:2014》."

“This variety show project was already agreed upon by the company and nt before. Because of han’s situation, it has been postponed for a week. After discussion, the company decided to proceed according to the original plan. This variety show is also the first group variety show after the withdrawal incident, and to some extent, it can also serve as a preheating and trial effect.”

As the head explained, Ji Jingyuan and the others also opened up their files and began to look them over.

This program, 《exo90:2014》, is EXO's new variety show project, also known as "EXO's K-Pop Time Machine".

"90:2014" means comparing 1990 to 2014. The entire variety show content is about the members and host revisiting classic songs from the Peninsula in the 1990s, and inviting the singers to participate in discussions and reminiscences. Each episode will have a member of XO choose a classic song by a senior artist for reinterpretation, including cover versions and remaking the music videos.

Through dialogues between singers from two different eras, 90 years and 14 years ago, as well as reinterpretations of classic songs, EXO showcases their musical origins and respects for their predecessors, ensuring that those classic songs are not forgotten.

After reading the entire document, Chi Jingyuan nodded lightly, thinking that the variety show's concept was quite good. The chat segment was no less than participating in a talk show, and whether it was seniors appearing or re-enacting, it was very eye-catching. Some classic hits also came with built-in traffic.

"Please take a look at the materials first. After our meeting here is over, we will go to the TV station and have an initial production meeting with the program team this afternoon."

"Jingyuan," At that moment, the department head, who had just finished introducing everyone, called out for Chi Jingyuan's name. Chi Jingyuan immediately looked over and raised his hand to signal that he was listening.

“The company and the production team have decided that the first episode of the variety show is very important, and they want you to take on the role of the reinterpreted member. We've also chosen the song, which is HOT's 'Hope'. It's both well-known and meaningful.”

"I understand." Chi Jingyuan nodded in response.

"

“Hope” is one of H.O.T.’s classic tracks. The song’s warm melody and moving rhythm make it a powerful and inspiring piece. It has now become the signature song for the ending of S.E.S. family concerts.

"

This song is basically sung by all the artists in the company, and Park Ji-won naturally used to practice it before, so it's not difficult at all.

"Starting from the second period, male trainees from srookies will join to perform with you. The member for the second period is Chanle, you're up."

“…………”

After the head of the department finished explaining everything, Lee Seung-hwan stood up and summarized: "That's about it. Everyone go back and prepare first. The specific shooting process will be finalized at this afternoon's production meeting."

"That's right, Jingyuan, stay here for a moment."

"Good to see you."

After hearing this, all the members stood up. They looked at Ji-won once, then politely bowed and thanked him. They opened the door and walked out one by one, and several staff members from different departments of the company also left with them.

Ji Jingyuan stood up and blinked, looking at the manager standing opposite him with some confusion.

And while Lee Seong-hwan walked over to the side, took out a stack of neatly bound files from his briefcase, and sat down next to his colleague, handing the files to Ji Kyeong-won while explaining:

"During this period, our xo team activities are relatively few. This new program isn't a top priority either, and not everyone needs to be present for each recording. Four to five people per episode is enough, rotating through so as not to interfere with individual schedules."

"Jingyuan, your recent personal schedule, besides the regular advertising promotions, hasn't had anything else. The company looked and found that from August to the end of the year, apart from a few important stage performances by the team, your overall schedule has been quite open."

“As you know, after Han’s exit, the company wants you to make good use of your time and try something in the entertainment industry, like acting in a TV series. This would not only boost your personal popularity but also increase the group’s heat, winning back or gaining new fans... It's almost been a year since “The Heirs” aired, and your acting career has had a considerable gap.”

"Saying that, Lee Seung-hwan smiled, looking at Ji Sung-won with an admiring gaze like looking at a jewel, and smacked his lips: 'Speaking of which, even after so long, the company still often receives film and television invitations about you. Such a young idol actor who is so welcomed by the industry, it's really something we've never encountered before. Truly our wuli Jingyuan!'

“Gee, you’re making me so embarrassed…” Ji Jingyuan chuckled awkwardly, raised his head and glanced at Li Chenghuan with a helpless expression, spreading his hands: “I didn't say I wouldn't take it, do you need to praise me like this It's a bit exaggerated, isn't it…”

"Haha... You got me!" Lee Seung Hwan laughed twice as if he had been caught, forcefully patted Chi Kyung Won's back twice, like expressing closeness but also seemed to be hiding embarrassment.

Smiling, Lee Seong-hwan saw Ji Kyeong-won opening the files and browsing through them. He also walked over and pointed at the files, explaining to him: "These are some data that the company has collected on several major television stations' upcoming drama productions in the next few months. They include dramas that are currently forming their crews and looking for actors, or those that have already been formed and are waiting to be filmed."

"

Many of them are companies proactively inquiring, and there are also a few where the production team has proactively submitted scripts and invitations to the company hoping you will star in them. After you go back, take a good look and consider which one is most suitable for you.

"

"I think if you're suitable, you can just act" Ki-won raised his head and playfully glanced at Seung-hwan, a smile playing on his lips that made the veteran agent uncomfortable. He couldn't help but pat him hard on the back, saying in an exasperated tone:

“Once you've caught their eye, the company will definitely take the initiative to connect and fight for roles for you...Although your resume and popularity give you a strong competitive edge, you also know the situation in the film industry. To guarantee your participation, you'll still need Jingyuan to put in some effort on his end..."

Of course, there are some who actively reach out with invitations, you wouldn't need to go through so much trouble then, just nod and you can immediately start negotiating the contract.

"Arasō." Ji Jingyuan smiled and nodded, flipping through the materials Li Chenghuan had given him. On the table of contents were several drama titles.

The Secret Door

Ashes of Love

The White Night at Apgujeong

Pinocchio

The Untamed

……

The data includes a lot of information about TV series that are scheduled to start filming in the next two months, including directors, screenwriters and other key creative personnel, estimated shooting and release dates, a general outline of the plot and script, confirmed actors, suitable roles for them, and some major competitors. The information is quite detailed.

Among them, there are some scripts that aren't merely outlines but rather quite detailed. It is estimated that these are the very dramas Li Chenghuan mentioned earlier, those he proactively sent invitations to and specifically hoped for Park Jung-hwan to participate in.

"Do you want me to give you some advice" Lee Seung-hwan chimed in as he saw Ji Kyeong-won looking over the documents and explaining them.

Ji Jingyuan turned his head and looked at him seriously, asking, "Is it brother's opinion or the company's opinion"

"Well...it was the company's film and television department who asked me to pass this along..."

"Kang Sang-mi, no need. I'll just go back and research it myself." Ji Jingyuan rejected without hesitation.

He had already heard about her talent for picking dramas, and Park Jin-young also witnessed firsthand how Yuri senior was carefully helped by the company step by step to put the "poisonous ratings" label on herself.

Li Chenghuan naturally knew why Chi Jingyuan reacted like that, but he was also flustered and his face flushed slightly. After twitching the corner of his mouth, he looked at Chi Jingyuan who had lowered his head to look at the documents again. He couldn't help but laugh and scold him: "You little rascal..."

……

This afternoon, I rushed to nt and had a production meeting with the team of the program "exo90:2014". The director and writer detailed the theme and concept of this variety show, and confirmed the specific shooting time for the first four episodes. They also urged and arranged specific matters for Ji-seong to re-record and reshoot the "hope" MV.

It was said that the members filmed it themselves, but in reality, the production team arranged it. After all, not every one of EXO's ten members possesses such talent, and with time being so tight, the program team couldn't afford to wait for them to research and design how to film it themselves. Many things were already considered and designed beforehand.

The premiere date is set for August 20th, and there are over twenty days left to film two episodes. There's still plenty of time, so there's no need to rush.

Over the next two days, following the company's previous meeting arrangements, EXO's group schedule was significantly reduced. All members began to focus on their individual schedules.

Do Kyung Soo is still busy filming a television drama. His SBS Wednesday-Thursday drama "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" premiered on July 23rd, and the viewership ratings for the first two episodes reached 9.3%. This is a great achievement for his debut TV drama. After the ratings were released, his motivation increased significantly. The past few days, while he was busy rehearsing and choreographing new dances, he also managed to film for the drama crew. He only slept for a few hours each day for several consecutive days.

She also sang the OST for this TV drama, and released the audio on the day of its premiere on the 23rd. This OST performed very well, both in terms of audio streaming and reviews.

However, the heat of those two days was overshadowed by Han's departure from the group and didn't attract much attention. Now that the aftershocks and influence have subsided somewhat, the song's reputation has gradually fermented, and he has received a number of performance invitations these two days.

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Park Chan-wook continues filming his variety show "", however, one of the members, Park Chun, has been suspended from all activities by YG due to the drug scandal and announced her departure from "" the day before yesterday.

And I heard Park Chan-lye complaining in the dorm that the show's ratings are getting lower and lower, some members have left, and it's estimated that this season will be over soon. He didn't really gain much real popularity from it.

Kim Jong-in has a magazine photoshoot and is busy helping his good friend Taemin with his solo feat. He also took on a variety show in China recently. Under the wrap of a group of assistants, he went back to record the show beforehand, even Tao was at the filming company recording artist Zhang Liyin's new song MV.

Every member basically has their own individual schedule, and in this regard, Sehun is quite generous towards EXO.

Apart from running his never-ending stream of commercials and promotions, Chi Jingyuan has also spent some time recently studying the few television drama scripts that Li Chenghuan gave him.

Some people saw the character arrangements, like male second and male third leads, and they immediately passed. With his current position among young actors, in this kind of not-so-big production, water wood or moon fire drama, if he wasn't playing the male lead, he basically wouldn't take it.

Unless it's a large production with renowned screenwriters and A-list actors, playing a supporting role (male second or third) is still acceptable. Otherwise, this approach is simply lowering oneself.

And some scripts that looked bad at a glance were also excluded directly.

Park Seo-joon's last drama "The Heirs" was a huge success. After nearly a year away from television, his return to the small screen is important, especially when it comes to choosing a script. It's been two days and he still hasn't made a decision, but he already has a clear preference in mind.

Besides studying the script, Ji Jingyuan also took time to go to the music room and study every song in the music library. He also added a few new songs.

Although it seems EXO will take a considerable amount of time before their next comeback, Park Chanyeol has already started thinking about the next album.

This year, they just released their mini-album second. According to the arrangements and plans for EXO by ** Entertainment, excluding a possible winter special album at the end of the year, the next official comeback will inevitably be their regular second full-length album. This next comeback is crucial for them. It's a chance to completely erase the shadow cast by Hani's departure, to refute the voices of those who constantly belittle them due to member departures, and even further, to achieve a level of being a true top male K-pop group.

Ji Jingyuan is preparing to start slowly considering and pondering the plan and song selection for his next official album. This way, he won't be scrambling later on. The company has asked him to participate, but when they ask for a suggestion or a project report, he can't come up with anything.

Everyone is busy with their own affairs, and three days passed in a flash.

On August 1st, at noon, Ji Chang Wook wearing a hat and mask for disguise, carrying a bag and humming a tune, walked into the recording building of KBS2's "Music Bank."

This novel is first published on the Traditional Chinese Novel Network.e smiled at Kim Yae-rong and nodded in reply."Yuanxi seems to have signed up for archery, didn't she come to practice yesterdayXO and the other members all came though."Kim Ya-rong nodded and looked a...