K-Producer C66 Not a wasted trip

Byul-ho took a seat, acutely aware of Supachai's scrutinizing gaze. He could tell that the Thai businessman was more interested in Ascend than in him personally.

"Thank you for meeting with me, Mr. Thanakorn," Byul-ho began. "As for Ascend, we've been gaining traction in Korea with our unique blend of retro and modern K-pop styles. We believe this fresh approach could resonate well with Southeast Asian audiences."

Supachai leaned back, his expression neutral. "Many K-pop groups think they can easily break into our market. What makes your group special?"

Byul-ho took a deep breath before responding. "We're not looking for a simple expansion. We want to create a cultural bridge. Our plan involves collaborating with local artists and incorporating Southeast Asian musical elements into our songs."

This seemed to pique Supachai's interest slightly. "And beyond Ascend?"

Sensing an opportunity, Byul-ho carefully revealed a bit more. "We're in the early stages of forming a girl group as well. Our vision is to create a diverse roster of artists that can appeal to various demographics across Southeast Asia."

Supachai's eyebrows raised slightly. "Ambitious. But tell me, Mr. Jeon, how do you plan to navigate the cultural differences? The entertainment industry here is quite different from Korea."

Byul-ho knew this was a crucial moment. He needed to demonstrate both knowledge and humility. "That's precisely why we're here, Mr. Thanakorn. We have ideas, but we know we have much to learn. We're hoping to find partners who can guide us through these nuances."

As the conversation continued, Byul-ho carefully balanced showcasing his plans with expressing openness to guidance. He could see Supachai becoming more engaged, asking pointed questions about marketing strategies and potential collaborations.

As Supachai continued listening to Byul-ho's plans, his initial skepticism about the young CEO's age began to fade. He found himself impressed by Byul-ho's articulate presentation and clear vision.

Finally, Supachai nodded, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "You know, Ji-won was right about you. You really do remind me of your father."

Byul-ho's eyes widened slightly, caught off guard by the mention of his father. "You... you knew my father?" he asked, his voice tinged with surprise and curiosity.

Supachai leaned back in his chair, a nostalgic smile playing on his lips. "I wasn't as close to him as Ji-won was, but I knew of him. Your father was incredibly ambitious, always had clear goals in mind. I see that same drive in you."

Byul-ho felt a lump form in his throat. He saw an opportunity to connect with Supachai on a more personal level. "Thank you," he said softly. "I'm doing my best to follow in his footsteps, to fulfill the dreams he had for the company. It's... it's not always easy, but I feel it's my duty to carry on his legacy."

Supachai's expression softened, clearly moved by Byul-ho's words. "I'm sorry for your loss, Byul-ho-ssi. Truly. Your father was a remarkable man, and it's clear that his spirit lives on in you."

Byul-ho nodded, allowing a moment of vulnerability to show. "Thank you, Mr. Thanakorn. That means a lot to me."

The atmosphere in the room had shifted. What had started as a purely business meeting had taken on a more personal tone. Supachai leaned forward, his demeanor now warmer and more engaged.

"Well then," Supachai said, his voice carrying a new note of determination, "let's see how we can help you realize those dreams, shall we? I think there's potential for a very interesting partnership here."

Byul-ho smirked inwardly, pleased that his emotional appeal had worked so effectively. He quickly schooled his features back to attentiveness as Supachai began outlining potential partnership strategies.

"I believe we could start by introducing Ascend through a series of small, exclusive showcases," Supachai proposed. "We'll invite key industry players, influencers, and media personalities. This will create a buzz before any large-scale promotions."

Byul-ho nodded, but saw an opportunity to push for more. "That's a solid foundation, Mr. Thanakorn. However, I wonder if we might also consider a collaboration with a popular Thai artist for Ascend's debut single here? It could help bridge the cultural gap more quickly."

Supachai raised an eyebrow, impressed by the suggestion. "Ambitious, but not impossible. I have some connections we could explore."

As Supachai continued, outlining plans for local TV appearances and radio interviews, Byul-ho listened carefully, occasionally interjecting with his own ideas.

As Supachai finished outlining his plans for Ascend's local promotions, his tone shifted slightly. "Now, Byul-ho, I want to be clear about something. While I'm impressed by your vision and am willing to help, this is still a business partnership."

Byul-ho nodded, understanding where this was going.

Supachai continued, "I don't want to waste your trip here, but we need to discuss how both parties will benefit from this arrangement. My connections and local expertise come at a price."

Byul-ho leaned forward, his expression serious. "Of course, Mr. Thanakorn. I completely understand. What did you have in mind?"

"I propose a 30% cut of all profits generated from Ascend's activities in Thailand," Supachai stated firmly.

Byul-ho's eyebrows rose slightly. "That's quite high, Mr. Thanakorn. Given that we'll be shouldering most of the production and promotional costs, perhaps 15% would be more reasonable?"

Supachai shook his head. "15% doesn't account for the risks I'm taking by vouching for an unknown group in this market. How about 25%?"

"I appreciate your position," Byul-ho countered, "but 25% could make it difficult for us to justify the expansion costs to our investors. What if we started at 18% for the first year, with the possibility of increasing to 22% in the second year if certain performance benchmarks are met?"

Supachai considered this for a moment. "Interesting proposal. Let's say 20% for the first year, with a potential increase to 24% based on performance. And I want exclusive rights to represent Ascend in Thailand for the duration of our contract."

Byul-ho leaned forward, his expression serious. "Mr. Thanakorn, I appreciate your offer, but I have to push back a bit. As a new company, every percentage point matters for our growth. We need to reinvest heavily to establish ourselves in this market."

Supachai raised an eyebrow, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "My, my. It seems you've inherited your father's... let's call it 'ambitious nature'. Some might even say greediness."

Byul-ho chuckled softly, not taking offense. "Necessary ambition, I'd say. In this industry, you have to fight for every advantage you can get."

Supachai studied Byul-ho for a moment, then let out a resigned sigh. "You drive a hard bargain, young man. Very well, let's go with your proposal - 18% for the first year, with the possibility of increasing to 22% based on performance metrics we'll define together."

He paused, then added with a hint of admiration, "You know, you're quite an interesting character, Byul-ho. I think I'll enjoy seeing how this partnership plays out."

Byul-ho smiled, feeling a mix of relief and triumph. "Thank you, Mr. Thanakorn. I assure you, we'll make it worth your while."

"I'm sure you will," Supachai nodded. "Now, why don't we iron out the details over dinner? I know a place that serves excellent Tom Yum Goong."

After agreeing to dinner, Byul-ho and Supachai made their way to a upscale restaurant in downtown Bangkok. Over steaming bowls of Tom Yum Goong, their conversation shifted to lighter topics. They discussed Thai culture, Supachai's experiences in the entertainment industry, and Byul-ho's impressions of Bangkok so far.

As the evening wound down, Byul-ho noticed a well-dressed man approaching their table. Supachai's eyes lit up as he saw the man, and he stood to greet him warmly. The two exchanged a brief, affectionate gesture that made Byul-ho realize Supachai was likely in a relationship with this man.

Byul-ho, maintaining his professional demeanor, simply nodded politely to the man before bidding Supachai goodnight and thanking him for the dinner.

Making his way to his hotel, Byul-ho couldn't help but notice the appreciative glances from some women in the lobby. Despite his youthful appearance, his confident posture and sharp suit clearly caught their attention.

For a brief moment, Byul-ho felt a flutter of interest, the memories of his younger self in his past life surfacing. However, he quickly pushed those thoughts aside. He was here on business, and he needed to stay focused.

As he entered his room, Byul-ho set his alarm for the next morning. Tomorrow would be another busy day of meetings and planning. He needed to be well-rested and sharp.