Chapter One Hundred and One: 奧

, not all of them are entertainers. I'll introduce you later. Don't leave in a hurry after dinner, stay and chat for a bit.""I'm not leaving tonight," he said, his voice laced with anger. "If you don'...I just replied to the text message. A while later, Lee Xiuman and a few board members walked in, and right after that, the conference room door was closed. Pool Kyeong-won also took back his phone, which he had already put on silent.

Zhou Tzuyu messaged at the perfect time, if it had been any later he wouldn't have had time to reply, and the next time he saw it would be several hours later.

But maybe he'll be even too lazy to come back then.

Today's news, besides causing a huge stir and sensation outside the ** and EXO themselves are also greatly affected. As soon as the news came out, Park Kyung-sun received many congratulatory text messages from friends. After running errands for half a day, the following schedules were directly postponed and cancelled. Several people were called to the company for an emergency meeting.

It's such a hot topic, it would be strange not to have a meeting to discuss it.

He could also roughly foresee what it would be about, nothing more than an analysis of this time's ranking on the B-list and EXO's popularity among Europeans. Perhaps they would even discuss whether to change the planned strategy and try venturing into the US market.

Chi Jingyuan raised his head and glanced at the group of department heads and staff seated opposite him. Although no one had too many obvious expressions, through occasional eye contact and the noticeably hot atmosphere in the room, one could feel that everyone's mood seemed quite heated.

That's right, even though I was called in for this meeting on short notice, the topic of discussion is something that everyone is looking forward to and longing for. Developing the American market is a huge deal for **. If Park Jin-young saw this, he'd be so envious. Boots

After Lee Soo-man and several directors praised EXO's recent achievements with smiles, the department head, who had received the news beforehand and made plenty of preparations, began to report:

"...Regarding XO's unexpected jump to the B-list with their new single, while it's definitely something worth celebrating, after a cool down period and an analysis of SNS heat, search index, album sales, plus data provided by our Amuse branch, we found that EXO's chart placement was mainly due to strong download numbers and a surge in album sales…"

"...and the development of streaming, including the record-breaking surge in YouTube views this time."

...To put it simply, the main reason is that in the past two years, the rapidly developing European and American fanbase has gradually formed a considerable size and group. They are very enthusiastic about supporting EXO, including fan support, buying albums, and charting. They are no worse than domestic fans. Especially compared to Asian fans, they are extremely passionate about voluntarily promoting EXO. Even without any profit motive, you can often see them actively promoting and recommending EXO on their Twitter or other social media accounts, and they frequently organize offline activities spontaneously...

To sum it up, XO is currently very popular only within a small circle, with a fixed and crazy fanbase. However, in terms of mainstream recognition and public awareness, it's actually not high. After all, we all know the things happening within that circle... No, XO is almost the second-highest Korean artist in the Kpop category after PSY, although its data and popularity are still far behind PSY. But compared to the third place, there's a huge gap, which can be said to be completely disconnected.

“Of course, the quality of this album's lead single, , is also a crucial factor. According to our statistics, many ordinary listeners have expressed their appreciation for the song, saying they were attracted by its melody or unique dance charm. Thanks to this song and this week's chart performance, XO's visibility should see a significant increase. Based on this trend, next week's ranking should climb even higher…”

Although I was surprised by today's news, I have been following it since 2013. The various data and market analyses I've gathered over the past two years allow me to quickly understand the underlying causes of this situation, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.

boots

Don't listen to the exaggerated hype from local media, such as "writing a new history" or "defining a new mainstream." Those are empty words. Once the excitement and vanity fade away, they will soon realize that the main reason for being on the list is due to several factors: American fans' loyalty and hard work, Kpop's growing fame in recent years with an expanding audience, and this song surprisingly appealing to their taste.

The former and the latter should be the most crucial factors.

"Um..." Han Se-min, as the company's representative director, nodded and scanned the room before looking at Lee Soo-man beside her: "So, should we adjust the development strategy for XO Take advantage of this momentum and try to break into the US market"

** has always been looking towards the American market, after all, it is the world's largest entertainment hub. In terms of influence, especially revenue, it far surpasses its home turf in the peninsula. As soon as this was said, many people's eyes lit up.

"Everything about the debut in Japan has already been arranged, including the rental of the Tokyo Dome. It's too late to make any changes now."

Although the proposal was tempting, no one would be swayed by domestic media hype, especially not those attending the meeting. Facing the set plans and risks, someone quickly raised objections. After some thought, Li Zhongren, another member of the board, shook his head.

"I feel like it's not a good idea. Even if we start preparing officially now, there's still a lot to do: picking songs, practicing, and collaborating with American companies. At this rate, the album wouldn't be released for several months, by which time the hype would have died down. I also think it would be difficult to make a high-quality album if we rush it…EXO already has a solid foundation and a loyal fanbase. Their fame and popularity far surpass other groups in the company. I believe they have real potential for success, so their first attempt at breaking into America should be carefully considered. Maybe we should wait and see how things develop."

"At the same time, I think that even if they release a special album, they shouldn't specifically release English singles. They shouldn't cater too much to the market and should maintain K-pop's unique characteristics and appeal."

"Moreover, XO currently has significant language issues. Just learning English takes a considerable amount of time."

Upon hearing this, Chi Jingyuan looked up and glanced at the representative who had spoken.

If a country's market is important to ** Company and they want to enter it, they will make a lot of preparations in many aspects. The most important thing is to repeatedly emphasize internally that discussing any sensitive topics about that country is strictly prohibited. Secondly, all artists will be required to learn the language of that country.

It's not just about having one person fluent in a foreign language as the main spokesperson. Instead, it's about encouraging everyone in the group to learn seriously.

Although M team had three Chinese members at the start, the other two individuals still worked hard to learn for inland activities, even though they didn't really need to.

"Things are the same now, in preparation for their debut in Japan in the second half of the year, even though the plan isn't completely confirmed yet, the company has already arranged for teachers to give lessons to everyone. If they want to make it big in America, then they will probably have to hurry up and learn English."

Regardless of how well he studied, this attitude is definitely very rare in the Peninsula Entertainment Company.

Besides the council members, many department heads also shared their suggestions, some in favor and some against. Overall, it was about a 50/50 split. Many people didn't want to change the existing plan, but many others were very eager for the American market, which is huge. Even without a dedicated release, a tour could be very profitable.

However, the important decision about EXO, the company's biggest cash cow right now, wasn't something that could be decided in a single meeting. It will definitely take a long time to discuss further, and the company should also see how 《boywithv》 performs in the US afterwards. There's a big difference between charting for one week and continuing to climb.

"When you were composing the music, did you already consider the market on Amy's side"

After the meeting, Lee Hyo-min chatted with Jiyeong for a few moments in the hallway.

He changed to a new pair of glasses, with oval black frames accented by noticeable gold trim. They were understated yet luxurious, looking quite expensive.

At the same time, Lee Hwan also smiled happily, looking in a very good mood.

"As for specifically catering to the market, there isn't any. However, some elements from that area were used in both the arrangement and the MV."

Chi Jingyuan walked beside him and shook his head.

At the time they released the song, they didn't consider the US market at all. Honestly, he's quite surprised by this result.

However, compared to other people's expectations for market expansion and increased income, Qi Jingyuan's excitement was a bit subdued, focusing more on the recognition of his songs.

"Okay, I understand…Although nothing is decided yet, I guess XO's activities in the near future probably won't change much. As for America, it'll probably be a while."

Li Xiuman didn't ask any further questions. After exchanging a few pleasantries, she prepared to take the elevator and leave. She specifically reminded him once more, then seemed to have thought of something, turning her head to add:

"By the way, Taeyeon's solo album has already started. There are a few options for the title track, you guys can listen to them when they're ready, but Taeyeon doesn't seem too fond of any of them... Time is getting tight. If you guys have your own ideas, remember to record a deo and send it to me when you do. The final decision is up to you."

"I understand."

…………

Because of the media hype over the past two days, and the subsequent reports by various marketing accounts, EXO's chart performance has been making waves on the peninsula. While it may not be common knowledge for everyone, at least more people know about it than those who don't.

However, it was just a ranking. It wasn't a true success in entering the American market or holding tours in America and Europe. The tangible benefits, like income, weren't substantial. More importantly, the real gains were more subtle and indirect.

Besides the obviously heightened sense of sophistication, the biggest gain should be that their national recognition has skyrocketed. Many people's impressions and opinions have also improved significantly.

However, this is actually quite important for a group that aspires to be the top climbers.

At the same time, it did make Pool Jingyuan and the others very busy, with several additional schedules and interviews added at short notice.

"Jǐngyuán, are you not participating in that radio station behind you anymore"

"Well, I have something to attend to later."

At ten o'clock in the evening, just after finishing an interview, Ji Jingyuan was packing up his things when Li Chenghuan handed him a bottle of water and confirmed something at the same time.

Originally, today's dinner was supposed to be with Tzuyu as they had made plans beforehand. However, due to this B-list schedule, EXO ended up having several cases that took up their time today and unfortunately, they had to cancel the dinner appointment.

He was busy until now and finally got a chance to catch his breath. He originally had a group recording for a radio variety show scheduled next, but when he looked at the schedule and time in the afternoon, after some consideration, he directly told his manager that he needed to take a leave of absence with an excuse.

By the time this case is finished, it'll probably be twelve o'clock. He doesn't seem to mind though. Zhou Tzuyu, a trainee like that, wouldn't even think about going out.

If he hadn't made plans with someone beforehand, or if it was someone who wasn't that important, then it wouldn't be a big deal. But since he had already made arrangements, he didn't want to let them down. boots

After receiving the reply, Lee Seunghwan didn't say much. He saw Ji Kyeongwon saying something to the members, then he put on his bag and prepared to leave. Lee Seunghwan nodded and reminded him, "Come back early, there's a flight to Wanwan tomorrow morning."

"Don't worry, brother." After giving a thumbs-up, Ji Jingyuan strode out.

First, she went back to the dormitory by nanny car, washed her face and removed her makeup. Then, she changed her clothes and did some disguise, and drove to JB district by herself, stopping near the "sixteen" dormitory. After that, she sent a text message out.

JYP is really stingy, this dorm location obviously isn't in some high-end apartment building.

But ** is almost the same, their EXO just recently got out of poverty.

After a while, a tall but not thin figure came into view. He was wearing a baseball cap and kept his head down, striding towards us with a heavy thud.

"Bang." Boots.

After the gull-wing door swung open and then closed quickly, Zhou Tzuyu, who had used it many times before, was no longer as naive and innocent as she first was. She tossed her legs aside and sat up, taking off her hat and shaking her head to start tidying her hair.

The brown hair shone under the car's lights, casting a white glow. Despite not being slender, her long limbs and tall figure were undeniably attractive. She took up the entire seat as soon as she sat down. The moment the car door closed, a refreshing scent of shampoo mingled with a subtle fragrance began to spread around the vehicle.

A white short sleeve paired with denim shorts and sneakers exudes a youthful vibe, but nothing particularly special. Under the white light, the exposed thighs appear whiter and more deceptive. However, the cartoon golden retriever pattern on the chest of the shirt looks somewhat silly, adding an air of naivete to the otherwise alluring innocence.

"Every time, running so fast..." Ji Jingyuan turned his head to look at Zhou Tzuyu who was sitting in the passenger seat with her legs together, quietly fiddling with her hair. Hearing her slightly panting breath from running too quickly, he habitually muttered something before suddenly stopping.

Because he found that every time Chou Tzu-yu got in the car, she seemed to always say this.

Because, every time she always runs over.

Then she shook her head, and after that Zhou Tzuyu lifted her head up, listening to the words said, she turned her side over with a purse of her lips and smiled. At the same time, she also carefully glanced at the pool Kyung-won beside her.

His naturally black hair, a loose-fitting white short-sleeved shirt and black casual cropped trousers gave him an effortless look like he just stepped out for a stroll after a meal. However, the minimalist color scheme created a harmonious feeling of freshness and coolness.

The familiar figure right in front of her made Zhou Tzuyu's eyes involuntarily blink, a slight tremor running through her heart.

I feel like every time we meet, no matter what he wears, it always suits my taste.

"If you're so busy…"

After a glance, she retracted her gaze, then couldn't help but steal another peek. Zhou Tzuyu paused for a moment before softly saying,

EXO is leaving Seoul tomorrow, so they were supposed to have a dinner together last night to celebrate his birthday in advance. However, due to the sudden increase in schedule, it was canceled. They said they would get together later, but there hasn't been any news yet.

Just now she thought Ji Jingyuan wouldn't come out. Although she would definitely be a little disappointed, Zhou Tzuyu didn't really want to cause him so much trouble.

Until just now when I received the text message.

"We already made plans, and I don't have anything else going on... Aren't you thirsty Since you just finished something, maybe that's why you didn't buy a drink... You're heading back to the dorm this early"

When they drove out of the EXO dormitory, it was almost nine o'clock. Ji-seong had originally planned to pick her up at JYP, but when he arrived, she and the others were already back at their dorm. Ji-seong let out a small sigh, waved his hand dismissively, and casually asked.

"Well...practice ended a bit earlier today."

What about the others

Our group is all in the dorm, they're probably waiting to watch tonight's broadcast...

Upon hearing this, Ji Jingyuan remembered that today was the broadcast date for episode six of "SIXTEEN." The program had been airing since early May, and it had already been more than half-way through.

But he was paying more attention during the previous few episodes because not only did he participate in the recording, but also because Zhou Tzuyu wasn't doing well at the time. She lacked confidence and often asked for his opinion.

In the following episodes, because his schedule was too busy and he wasn't interested in others much, he didn't watch them.

But the voting has been ongoing, although the number of votes is not high, Zhou Tzuyu and Nako Yabuki have this ranking now, she has also put in a lot of effort.yun was startled awake with a small cry, quickly recovering herself and smoothing down the hair around her left ear. She smiled casually and said, "No, just thinking about our performance a moment ago...