The Road To Glory [EN]: Chapter 2181

[Extra Story] 20. Welcome To My Earth

The world feels vast, yet it’s surprisingly small.

There are still countless uncharted territories, but the scope of human interaction isn’t as expansive as one might think.

Consider the ‘Six Degrees of Separation,’ which posits that anyone on Earth can be connected to any other person through a chain of no more than six acquaintances.

In fact, some social media platforms boast even tighter connections, claiming that their 1.59 billion users are linked by an average of just 3.57 people.

Why am I suddenly delving into social theories?

Well, writer Do Min-hee felt the world shrinking rapidly. It hadn’t been long since Halo’s unexpected visit.

[HALO at MNC: What Prompted His Surprise Visit to the Broadcasting Station?]

[Halo: Becoming the Shining Star of a New Program?]

[Who is the Lucky Protagonist Who Captured the Sun’s Attention?]

[A Comprehensive Overview of ‘His’ Programs to Date (feat. Viewership Ratings)]

The flurry of articles hastily uploaded by reporters stationed outside the broadcasting station was expected – they were simply doing their job.

However, the accompanying photos taken at the broadcasting station, coupled with speculative commentary, ignited a different kind of frenzy:

[???? Writer Do, what’s the scoop? Are you collaborating with Halo? How did you manage to persuade him?]

[I’m Reporter Im from Daily News Immortal, Writer Do. I’d like to inquire about the new program—]

[I’m calling from Santa Entertainment, Writer Do. Our agency’s actors have expressed keen interest in your program—]

[##Investment Agency]

From PDs [Production Directors] she had previously worked with to persistent reporters and eager entertainment agencies, everyone was reaching out.

The world is small, but this industry is even smaller and more cutthroat.

The shift from ‘their’ PD to ‘our’ PD can happen in an instant. While I understand that the broadcasting station is simply acting in its best interest as a company when it comes to scheduling, it’s still unsettling when entertainment agencies that previously showed no interest suddenly come knocking.

Even the caliber of celebrities they’re suggesting has dramatically increased.

The program format remains the same.

All this because of the potential presence of one cast member.

There hasn’t even been an official announcement, yet Halo’s visit to the broadcasting station has created an air of certainty. Well, it *is* practically confirmed.

No, it *has* to be confirmed.

If the contract falls through now, the director might actually strangle her.

If this is the level of attention she’s receiving as a writer, PD Na Hye-joo must be drowning in offers. Fortunately, Na Hye-joo PD was too engrossed in discussing contract details to even check her phone.

“The standard contract terms will require thorough discussion later, but the primary reason we came from the label is to outline the following rights in advance.”

Typically, artists don’t visit broadcasting stations before a contract is even signed. However, when Halo expressed his intention to visit, the label convened an emergency meeting and identified clauses that were non-negotiable for the program appearance contract.

Beyond mere profit sharing, these were fundamental rights that the label and artist absolutely couldn’t compromise on.

Artist protection was a given.

Immediate contract termination and compensation in cases of unfair treatment or excessive demands.

Prior consultation on all artist-related activities.

And—.

“Most importantly, all of our artist’s works created during the program must remain the sole property of H Label.”

Ownership of the artist’s work.

Even if the music is created during the program, the artist’s name must be the exclusive copyright holder. Naturally, the terms would differ in the event of collaborations with other artists, but H Label wanted to ensure that the broadcasting station and PD, as third parties, couldn’t claim even a fraction of the ownership.

“We’re not trying to pull a fast one,” PD Na Hye-joo said, surprised.

It’s not a question of wanting to or not; why would the broadcasting station even demand ownership of the music? That might have been the practice in the past, but it’s completely unheard of these days.

The label representative nodded.

A contract anticipates potential issues that haven’t yet arisen.

They weren’t trying to accuse the PD of anything; they simply needed these clauses included.

“And additionally, we would like to request permission for filming.”

“Filming permission?”

“Halo has been creating YouTube content recently—”

“‘Welmaworld’?”

“You’re familiar with it.”

“I’m an avid viewer of ‘Welmaworld.’ It’s the only YouTube content I make a point of watching.”

PD Na Hye-joo’s eyes lit up.

However, no matter how much you enjoy a variety show, there are certain things you can and cannot concede. For instance, spoiling content before it airs—

“Ah, ‘Welmaworld’ will primarily focus on making-of videos and behind-the-scenes glimpses, you know? Highlighting the artists appearing on the program rather than the program itself.”

“That’s acceptable.”

Of course, they would need to discuss it thoroughly with the legal team, but they would also consider airing behind-the-scenes or reaction videos on ‘Welmaworld’ a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Especially for YouTube content like ‘Welmaworld,’ which boasts a substantial international audience, it would significantly boost overseas rights.

“Now, I also have something to request. I’m not referring to contract terms—.”

Now it was PD Na Hye-joo’s turn to speak.

PD Na Hye-joo was genuinely grateful that Halo had expressed his intention to participate in the show. She had already benefited greatly from that expression of intent alone, and she anticipated many more reasons to be grateful in the future. However, there was one principle she wanted him to understand.

“I strive to treat all the *chulyeonja* [cast members] equally within the program.”

It might sound odd, but PD Na Hye-joo was committed to fairness among all the *chulyeonja* within the program’s context. Outside the program, *chulyeonryo* [appearance fees], popularity, and even editing might be subject to inequalities, but within the program itself, she would treat them all the same.

She wouldn’t favor someone simply because they were older, nor would she grant special privileges to someone she liked more.

“Specifically, it might be challenging to provide Halo with superior accommodations, more delectable food, or more engaging content. Unless someone is ill or has a legitimate reason, refusing to participate in the content could create difficulties not only for me but also for the other *chulyeonja* and the staff.”

She wasn’t trying to intimidate the *chulyeonja*.

How could PD Na Hye-joo possibly threaten a top star?

This wasn’t something to be stipulated in the contract but rather a plea for cooperation.

“This is more of a personal request as a PD.”

How many unfortunate incidents had she witnessed thus far?

PD Na Hye-joo, who had nearly developed *wieom* [gastritis] because one celebrity refused to participate in PPL [product placement], hoped that Halo would be as cooperative as possible during filming.

If Halo refused to cooperate, other *chulyeonja* might question, ‘Why should I do it if he’s not?’ or ‘Why are you giving it to him and not me?’

However, if Halo cooperated, the dynamic would shift.

If Halo is participating, which *chulyeonja* would dare to refuse?

The manager glanced at Halo, seemingly flustered by the PD’s words, and suddenly realized something.

Typically, top stars were more demanding than their artists.

Halo’s ability to be simultaneously present in multiple places was nothing compared to that.

Frankly, their artists didn’t have many sensitive areas, as long as they appeared carefree and enjoyed themselves.

PD Na Hye-joo didn’t yet know Halo well, hence her request for understanding. She would learn more after filming commenced.

Should she reassure them that it’s okay, or should she advise them to focus on other concerns?

While the label representative was pondering what to say, Halo smiled and asked,

“What kind of content are you planning to create?”

“Yes? Ah.”

She had only sent the proposal, not the detailed specifics.

Because it was still a work in progress.

They would need to revisit Baekun Island to finalize the details.

However, she did have some preliminary ideas.

“First, the program will primarily focus on two aspects: living alongside the villagers in the countryside and becoming a teacher to instruct the children in a specific subject.

I hope Halo will serve as a music teacher and provide instruction to the children, as well as Winter.

And I have several concepts for the initial content, such as painting on old walls, fishing, playing games, and cooking together on the beach. Additionally, there’s a cliff there, so on the cliff—”

“Are we diving?”

“Yes? Ah, that cliff is simply a cliff with land at the bottom, so diving isn’t possible there. I simply intended for us to stargaze, as it’s reportedly an excellent location. And I have no intention of making you engage in anything hazardous.”

Halo nodded in response.

“That’s disappointing. I was hoping to try it sometime.”

“!”

“! If our artist attempts anything dangerous, please intervene immediately.”

The manager quickly interjected.

PD Na, assuming it was a jest, chuckled along.

While there was no explicit agreement, they seemed to be conveying their willingness to cooperate through lighthearted banter.

The official signing would likely occur after both parties’ representatives and the contract were finalized. However, a provisional agreement had been reached, and the artist appeared to have a favorable attitude. Now, all that remained was to hope that the artist wouldn’t change his mind or that no unforeseen disasters would strike. Please.

“Thank you for coming, Halo. Thank you again for deciding to appear on the show.”

“See you next time.”

“Next… we can see each other next time, right?”

Halo playfully responded to PD Na Hye-joo’s words.

“Perhaps we won’t. You never know how people’s feelings might change.”

“! I’ll, I’ll expedite the preparations as much as possible.”

A massive tidal wave had subsided.

PD Na Hye-joo collapsed, utterly drained.

Writer Do Min-hee patted her on the back, as if commending her for a job well done.

However, she didn’t declare that it was all over now.

Because the real work was just beginning.

Even if it’s a gentler current than before, falling into any sea will leave you wet and weighed down.

Still, the positive aspects outweigh the negative, right?

As long as the warm sun shines upon them, they won’t catch a cold.

I think I understand why people become Halo fanatics.

Writer Do Min-hee clapped her hands together.

“Okay, let’s get to work.”

“Can’t we rest for a bit?”

“Are you going to rest when there’s good news?”

“What is it?”

“We’ve secured an S-class *chulyeonja*.”

“!”

“The world is a scary place, isn’t it? When we initially sent the proposal, a major agency scoffed at us, but now they’re rushing to us. We’ve already secured a plethora of sponsorships.”

“So, who is it?”

#

“Jung-min, you worked hard on the movie. And congratulations.”

“Hmm, what’s going on, *hyeong* [older brother/male friend]?”

“What do you mean, what’s going on? Congratulations, congratulations. It’s your first lead role in a movie.”

A sprawling penthouse.

The man, clad in a bathrobe and drying his hair, was a popular actor in his prime, in his 30s. He had risen to prominence in a youth drama and steadily taken on romantic comedies and various film roles. Now, he had landed his first lead role in a movie.

The results weren’t yet available, but ‘lead role’ carried significant weight. Especially for this man, who had endured a lengthy period of anonymity and minor roles.

Lee Jung-min, who possessed the youthful appearance of a college student in his 30s, regarded him with suspicion. Now, the *poseu* [aura] of an accomplished actor emanated from his every look and gesture. The manager felt a surge of emotion.

“What’s going on? Did a compelling script come in?”

As if he weren’t a workaholic. Straight to business.

The manager hummed in acknowledgment. He cleared his throat briefly.

“It’s not a script, but do you have any interest in participating in a variety show? The CEO offered it to you first.”

“Variety show? I’d rather focus on acting.”

“Hey, you just finished filming a movie. And you still want to do that?”

“Yeah, I’m still eager. I didn’t realize I was this ambitious. It might sound strange, but I feel like I’m still dreaming. I want to accomplish more before I wake up. More, more, more.”

“Wake up? What do you mean? Isn’t it time to embrace reality, top star?”

“Haha.”

Sometimes the manager felt a pang of sympathy for that guy.

I know how absurd it is to feel sorry for a top star.

But sometimes he feels sorry for him because he can’t fully accept his popularity and yearns to return to his humble beginnings.

The fans adore his smiling face because it evokes their maternal instincts, but because he’s known him for so long.

Anyway, Lee Jung-min didn’t seem interested and began browsing on his tablet.

Listening to music and responding to messages was his usual routine.

“Well, then I’ll decline. I was a bit hesitant about it anyway. It’s a project by a PD from MNC’s *gyoyang-guk* [educational broadcasting department], and it seems to be his *ibbongjak* [debut work as main PD]. He’s competent as an assistant director, but he’s not a proven entity as a main PD.”

“….”

“What’s his name, Na-?”

“PD Na Hye-joo?”

“Oh! That’s right. Na Hye-joo PD and writer Do Min-hee! But how did you know? You even remember the names of broadcasting station PDs—”

The manager fell silent upon seeing Lee Jung-min’s expression.

“Why? Did I say something wrong?”

“I’ll do it.”

“Huh?”

Out of the blue? It was difficult to inquire.

Because Lee Jung-min’s face had suddenly lit up with excitement.

“Tell them I’ll do it.”

“Huh?”

“Should I just contact them myself?”

“Ah, no, I’ll inform them.”

“Tell them I definitely want to do it.”

“Huh?”

“I don’t need *chulyeonryo* [appearance fee].”

“No, what do you mean a top star doesn’t need *chulyeonryo*? Of course, you should receive a substantial amount. Before that, you’ll do it? This is quite unusual. It’s amusing that the *gyoyang-guk* is producing it, but it involves going to the countryside and doing manual labor.”

“You know I’ve held numerous part-time jobs. I’ve even done hard labor.”

“No, that’s the old you. Are you really going to do it?”

“Yeah. I definitely will, tell them right now. Before other people get involved.”

On Lee Jung-min’s tablet, there was a KakaoTalk message from a close director.

[Jung-min, didn’t you mention wanting to collaborate with Halo on a program in the past?]

[I heard Halo is going to be on a program, so I contacted you because I thought of you]

[Halo is almost confirmed]

[Wise Island Life (tentative title) / PD Na Hye-joo]

And similar situations were unfolding elsewhere.

“Wow, that’s amazing.”

“Why?”

“*Nuna* [older sister/female friend], it’s about Halo. Halo.”

“Yeah, why, pretty boy? Did he release another album?”

“No, when was the last time he was a pretty boy? The person himself probably doesn’t even remember giving *nuna* lip service.”

“Lip service? Pretty boy spoke the truth, why is that lip service? Is it lip service that I look young? Kyung-ho, why don’t you give me some of that lip service too.”

“Ah, anyway. Did you know that there’s a rumor that Halo is going to be on a variety show? It’s almost confirmed. He visited MNC today.”

“Variety show? What variety show?”

“I heard it’s a program about going to the countryside? They’re doing something unique.”

“Pretty boy, no, is our baby Taeyang going to the countryside?”

Lee So-ra’s lips subtly curved upwards at some point.

“Kyung-ho.”

“Yes?”

“Bring that.”

“*Nuna*, you don’t do variety shows.”

“Bring it.”

This time, she was kicked. Kim Kyung-ho, actress Lee So-ra’s cousin and manager who knows her true nature, looked at her with a dumbfounded expression. Just by observing her actions, she’s not an actress but just an *ajeossi* [middle-aged man]. Kim Kyung-ho couldn’t fathom why she was popular.

“Aren’t you going to go quickly?”

“Yes, yes.”

However, there’s nothing Kim Kyung-ho can do today. He has no choice but to belatedly follow Lee So-ra’s orders.

“*Hyeongnim* [older brother/male friend], would you like to do a variety show?”

“Uh.”

“…Don’t you want to hear what it is?”

“Uh.”

There are all sorts of people.

As the *chulyeonjin* [cast members] were being finalized one by one and the meeting dates were being announced, that day arrived.

Welmaworld Episode 4. Welcome to my earth

This day was also the day before the [The sound of world] sound exhibition (special exhibition).