Fans of the boy band EXO have struggled with the sudden departure of members Kris and Luhan in 2014, sparking rumors that the band may soon breakup. What is more perplexing is Exo then immediately entered the Chinese film industry. According to a Chinese film insider, he knows exactly the reason, and he feels South Korea has a problem.
Going by the name President Wang, he discussed these issues at the 2015 World Knowledge Forum. Wang hightlighted some of the differences between the two countries' entertainment industries. South Korea's is geared more towards music, while China's is film
"When Chinese celebrities complete their training in Korea, they attempt to move into the film industry," said Wang. "However, if the Korean entertainment agencies fail to provide this career path to their artists, it is likely that they [the Chinese celebrities trained in Korea] become worried for their future."
Money is another issue. At least 20-30 Chinese celebs make around 18 million dollars a year, and Korean celebs don't even approach that. There's no doubt where the better opportunity is.
As well, in China artists have more say than in South Korea. The ones in Korea, like SM Entertainment, who controls EXO are all powerful and near tyrannical in their control of artists, according to Korea Boo:
"Chinese artists used to depend on agencies in the past as well but now celebrities set up private workshops as soon as they gain fame. This is because the internet is a far more affordable marketing channel. This in turn caused the relationship between artists and companies to weaken. Korean entertainment agencies, however, still attempt to control their artists."
Better opportunity and more control over their careers and finances seem to be at the core of their decision. South Korea may lose more artists if their oppressive system isn't addressed.
© 2024 Classicalite All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
