Devil’s Music

Chapter 36: In China?

Geon blinked in astonishment at the unreal figure, momentarily failing to grasp the situation.

Smiling broadly, Lin addressed Geon, "12 million yuan is the highest treatment even from our perspective as an 'S-grade' Hallyu star. It's merely for a two-day event, and that's specifically for drama promotion."

Rising and walking over to Geon's table, Lin took a seat. Though her tight skirt didn't create an awkward scene, Lin, being lively, just sitting there caused Geon's face to flush.

With a deep, almost endearing smile, Lin remarked, "Japan is a significant domain in the music business with strong competitiveness, but it's a country with a distinct inclination. They prefer their own music, hence are becoming somewhat isolated within their league. Unlike the K-POP expanding globally, J-POP remains unknown outside the Western sphere. Just a decade ago, Japan was a burgeoning powerhouse in Rock music. Have you heard of 'Loudness,' the band? Japan used to produce such bands but is now considered backward in cultural ventures."

Loudness.

Formed in 1981 with Akira and Munetaka as core members, they released Japan's first metal album, "The Birthday Eye." Their 1985 release, "Thunder in the East," surged to 74th on the Billboard charts, followed by "Lighting Strikes," reaching 64th. Influenced by British rock yet infused with Japan's sensibilities, they briefly soared until internal turmoil led to their decline before truly making a global mark.

"Our China differs from Japan. Some conceptually lacking Chinese proclaim superiority, disregarding other Asian nations, especially those that were once their superior countries centuries ago. However, that's only a 'part' similar to Japan's far-right.

Certainly, China, being vast with the world's largest population, harbors a significant number of such conceptually lacking individuals. Yet, their ratio compared to the entire population is small. We are prepared to learn and accept. As you know, Korea's cultural influence is swiftly recognized globally, with numerous acquisitions of broadcast programs and Hallyu stars. Our purchasing power and amounts are globally unparalleled."

Lin, showing Geon signed documents, remarked, "Mr. Geon, 12 million yuan may seem insignificant in your future."

Puzzled, Geon looked, and Lin, lifting the documents, met his gaze firmly, "Three major Chinese planning agencies linked to our CCTV presented contract terms to you. While I'm here for your signature, it's also to recruit you to China. Oh, there might be a misunderstanding. You'd only need to operate in China, not necessarily live here. After all, Korea and China are neighboring countries."

From her embrace, Lin produced three folded documents, "Mr. Geon, I won't expect an immediate reply after what I've just shared. Please consider and contact us. Here's my business card. These documents detail the terms proposed by each agency to you, and utmost confidentiality is crucial. That's for Yeongseok and other actors too. However, sharing the approximate amount is permissible. By now, there might be news on Korean websites."

Surprised, Geon asked, "Korea?"

Lin nodded, "Yes, Korea is sensitive to Hallyu star contracts originating in China. Given the larger market and amounts here compared to Korea."

As Geon gaped at his smartphone, Lin unfolded the papers, "Here are the contract terms for your review."

Geon read the content on the table:

Production: Fantasio

Artist: Geon Kim

Exclusive Contract Duration: 7 years

Scope of Activities: Lyricist, Composer, Performer, Singer, Digital Albums

Advance Payment: 60,474,601.8 CNY (1 billion KRW)

Revenue Share (R/S): Artist 60% : Production 40%

Production: Hongkong Dong A Entertainment

Artist: Geon Kim

Exclusive Contract Duration: 9 years

Scope of Activities: Lyricist, Composer, Performer, Singer, Advertising, Broadcasting, Events, Acting, Modeling, Digital Albums (Includes publicity rights)

Advance Payment: 72,525,081.59 CNY (1.2 billion KRW)

Revenue Share (R/S): Artist 50% : Production 50%

Production: Tenzen

Artist: Geon Kim

Exclusive Contract Duration: 8 years

Scope of Activities: Lyricist, Composer, Performer, Singer, Advertising, Broadcasting, Events, Acting, Modeling, Digital Albums (Includes publicity rights)

Advance Payment: 75,546,596.9 CNY (1.25 billion KRW)

Revenue Share (R/S): Artist 45% : Production 55%

Seeing Geon's surprise at the amounts, Lin smiled broadly.

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