K-Producer C40 First Deal

As the bus approached his stop, Byul-ho straightened his tie one last time. Stepping off, he made his way to the 'Iniseu' company building, his stride purposeful and confident.

At the reception, he was greeted by a surprised-looking assistant. "Are you... Jeon Byul-ho?" she asked, clearly not expecting someone so young.

"Yes, I have a meeting with Song Ji-soo-ssi," Byul-ho replied politely.

Moments later, he was ushered into a sleek meeting room. A woman in her late thirties, Song Ji-soo, stood to greet him, her eyes widening slightly at his appearance.

"Jeon Byul-ho-ssi? I'm Song Ji-soo, Marketing Director for Iniseu," she said, extending her hand.

Byul-ho shook it firmly. "Thank you for meeting with me, Song-ssi. I'm excited to discuss how Ascend can contribute to Iniseu's growth."

Byul-ho took a seat across from Song Ji-soo, who settled into her chair with a professional smile.

"So, Jeon Byul-ho-ssi," Ji-soo began, her tone a mix of curiosity and skepticism, "tell me about Ascend. Why should Iniseu consider sponsoring your group over more established artists?"

Byul-ho nodded, having anticipated this question. He launched into a well-prepared explanation of Ascend's unique appeal, their growing fanbase, and their potential for future success. As he spoke, he could see Ji-soo's expression shift from skepticism to intrigue.

"Interesting," Ji-soo mused, jotting down notes. "And how do you see Ascend aligning with our brand image?"

Byul-ho responded confidently, outlining his vision for how Ascend could represent Iniseu's youthful, natural image. Inside, however, he felt a twinge of boredom. The meeting was starting to feel less like a business negotiation and more like a job interview for his group.

As Ji-soo continued her questioning, delving into specifics about Ascend's demographics and future plans, Byul-ho maintained his composure. He answered each query thoroughly, all while thinking to himself, 'This is necessary. This is how the game is played at this time.'

Despite his internal impatience, Byul-ho knew the importance of this meeting.

Ji-soo, noticing Byul-ho's subtle signs of boredom, decided to cut to the chase. "Alright, Jeon Byul-ho-ssi, let's talk numbers. We're prepared to offer 5 million won for a six-month endorsement deal."

Byul-ho's eyebrows raised slightly. "I'm sorry, Song-ssi, but that offer is significantly below market value, even for a rookie group."

Ji-soo leaned back, a mix of surprise and amusement crossing her face. "I'm impressed you caught that, given your age. But let's be realistic - your group is barely known."

Byul-ho straightened in his chair, his voice calm but firm. "Perhaps not yet, but our potential is undeniable. Ascend currently has a total of over 50,000 followers across various social media platforms. We can leverage these channels to promote Iniseu products directly to our engaged fanbase."

He pulled out a folder, bringing up some charts. "Furthermore, our follower count is growing at an average rate of 15% week-over-week. In six months, we project to have over 200,000 followers. That's 200,000 potential customers seeing your products daily."

Ji-soo's expression shifted from skepticism to interest. "Go on," she said, leaning forward.

"We're not just offering ad space," Byul-ho continued. "We're offering a partnership. Ascend can integrate Iniseu products into our daily content - behind-the-scenes videos, fan meetings. It's organic promotion that feels authentic to our audience."

As he spoke, Byul-ho could see the wheels turning in Ji-soo's head. He knew he had her attention now. This was the opening he needed to negotiate a fair deal for Ascend.

Ji-soo leaned back in her chair, genuinely impressed by Byul-ho's presentation. The charts, projections, and innovative ad space ideas were far beyond what she had expected from someone so young.

She smiled, deciding to reassess her opinion of the young CEO. "Alright, enough with the numbers. I see your point, Byul-ho-ssi."

Byul-ho returned the smile as he closed his folder of documents. "So, what do you think?"

Ji-soo's fingers tapped thoughtfully on the armrest of her chair. After a moment, she spoke. "How about 15 million won for the six-month deal? That's an average offer for a rookie group."

Byul-ho went quiet, appearing to consider the offer carefully.

"It's already an average offer," Ji-soo reminded him, a hint of firmness in her voice.

Byul-ho smiled, his expression softening. "I want to be honest with you, Song-ssi. This could be the first endorsement deal for both my company and Ascend. I'm really serious about creating a special connection with Iniseu." He paused, letting his words sink in. "Would it be possible to raise the offer slightly?"

Ji-soo chuckled, recognizing the tactic but appreciating Byul-ho's straightforwardness. "You're quite the negotiator, aren't you? Alright, let's make it 18 million won. But I expect to see results, Byul-ho-ssi."

Byul-ho's face lit up with a genuine smile. "Thank you, Song-ssi. I promise you won't regret this decision. Ascend and Iniseu are going to do great things together."

As they shook hands to seal the deal, Ji-soo couldn't help but feel a mix of amusement and respect for the young CEO sitting across from her. She had a feeling this wouldn't be the last time she'd hear the name Jeon Byul-ho in the business world.

Byul-ho, feeling confident after successfully negotiating the deal, decided to address another important point. "Regarding the sponsorship, I assume Ascend will be receiving complimentary products for use and promotion?"

Ji-soo's eyebrows raised slightly, a small smile playing on her lips. "You don't miss a thing, do you, Byul-ho-ssi?" She paused, considering for a moment. "Yes, we'll provide a monthly supply of our core skincare line for each member. It's standard practice for endorsements."

Byul-ho nodded, trying not to show his relief. This would significantly reduce their grooming expenses.

"However," Ji-soo continued, her tone becoming more serious, "we expect to see these products featured prominently in your group's content. Behind-the-scenes videos, social media posts, the works. We need to see our investment paying off."

"Of course," Byul-ho agreed readily. "We'll integrate the products naturally into our daily routines and content. Our fans will see Iniseu as an integral part of Ascend's lifestyle."

Ji-soo seemed satisfied with this response. "Good. We'll draw up a detailed contract outlining the specifics. I'll have our legal team send it over for your review within the week."

As the meeting wrapped up, Byul-ho felt a surge of accomplishment. Not only had he secured a fair financial deal, but he'd also ensured his group would have access to high-quality skincare products. It was a win-win situation, and a significant step forward for Ascend.

"Thank you for your time, Song-ssi," Byul-ho said as he stood to leave. "I look forward to a fruitful partnership."

Ji-soo nodded, still looking somewhat bemused by the entire interaction. "Likewise, Byul-ho-ssi. I have a feeling we'll be seeing great things from Ascend in the future."

As Byul-ho left the office, he allowed himself a small, satisfied smile. This was just the beginning, he thought. Just wait until they see what's next.

***

As Byul-ho walked into the practice room, the members of Ascend looked up in surprise, pausing their rehearsal.

"Byul-ho? Aren't you supposed to be in school?" Jae-sung asked, voicing the group's confusion.

Byul-ho grinned, unable to contain his excitement. "I took the day off. I had an important meeting about an endorsement deal."

The members' eyes widened, and they quickly gathered around him.

"An endorsement deal? Really?" Min-jae asked eagerly.

Byul-ho nodded, launching into the story of his meeting with Song Ji-soo and Iniseu. He detailed the negotiations, the final offer, and the agreement for free products.

As he finished, the room erupted in cheers and excited chatter.

"Our first real deal!" Sung-ho exclaimed, high-fiving Hyun-woo.

Yoon-seok's eyes were shining. "This is amazing, Byul-ho Hyung. You really pulled it off!"

Do-hyun and Hae-won exchanged relieved glances. Hae-won spoke up, his voice soft but sincere. "You know, we've been feeling a bit... well, useless lately. With all the money you've been investing in us..."

Do-hyun nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it felt like we were just freeloading. But now, with this deal, we can start giving back."

Byul-ho's expression softened, understanding the weight of their words. "You've never been freeloaders. Your hard work and talent are what made this deal possible. We're a team, remember?"

The members nodded, fire in their eyes.

Jae-sung stepped forward, speaking for the group. "We won't let you down, Byul-ho Hyung. We'll make sure this deal is just the first of many."

The group huddled together, their excitement palpable.

This wasn't just a business victory; it was a morale boost for Ascend. They were no longer just trainees - they were endorsed artists, taking their first real step into the professional world of K-pop.

"Alright," Byul-ho said, clapping his hands together. "Let's get back to practice. We've got a skincare line to promote, after all!"

The members laughed, returning to their positions with renewed energy. As the music started up again, Byul-ho watched from the side.

As the afternoon sun streamed through the windows, Byul-ho turned to his group with a grin. "How about we celebrate our first endorsement deal?"

The members cheered enthusiastically, their earlier practice fatigue forgotten in the excitement.

"Let's invite the coaches too," Byul-ho added, earning nods of agreement from the group.

As they filed out of the building, chatting animatedly about where to eat, Byul-ho noticed a familiar figure standing near the entrance. It was Min-ji.

Byul-ho approached her, curiosity piqued. "Min-ji-ssi? This is unexpected."

Min-ji looked slightly uncomfortable, but maintained her composure. "Byul-ho-ssi. I... noticed you weren't in school again."

Byul-ho raised an eyebrow, surprised by her apparent concern. "Ah, yes. I had an important business meeting this morning."