K-Producer C31 The show producer tactic

Byul-ho responded to Park Jin-woo with a polite smile, "Thank you, Park PD-nim. I can assure you that Ascend has prepared diligently for today's performance."

Jin-woo nodded, seemingly satisfied with the response. "Excellent. Now, if you don't mind, we'd like to conduct a brief interview with you and Ascend. Please, follow me."

Byul-ho exchanged quick glances with his group members before agreeing. They followed Jin-woo into a small, well-lit room set up for interviews.

Once inside, Jin-woo made a subtle gesture to the interviewer, who nodded almost imperceptibly in response. Byul-ho noticed this silent exchange, immediately understanding its implications.

The interviewer, a young woman with a practiced smile, turned to face Ascend. "So, Byul-ho-ssi, Ascend members, it must be incredibly challenging for you as newcomers in this industry. Can you tell us about the struggles you've faced?"

Byul-ho had to suppress a chuckle at the transparent attempt to steer the narrative. It was clear that the producer wanted to paint a picture of Ascend as underdogs struggling against adversity, likely to boost ratings and create a more dramatic storyline.

Despite his amusement at the predictable tactic, Byul-ho kept his expression neutral.

Byul-ho met the interviewer's gaze with a composed smile. "Struggling is one way to put it," he began, "but we prefer to see these challenges not as struggles, but as stepping stones to overcome. Each obstacle is an opportunity for growth and improvement."

The interviewer's eyebrows raised slightly, clearly impressed by the young CEO's perspective. She nodded, then turned her attention to the group members.

"Jae-sung-ssi," she addressed the leader, "how do you feel about being part of Ascend so far? And what's it like having someone as young as Byul-ho leading you?"

Jae-sung's face lit up with a genuine smile. "Joining Ascend has been one of the best decisions I've ever made," he said enthusiastically. "As for Byul-ho, his age has never been an issue. He leads us with wisdom beyond his years. His vision and dedication inspire us every day."

The interviewer nodded, moving on to the other members. Each of them echoed Jae-sung's sentiments, praising Byul-ho's leadership and expressing their gratitude for being part of Ascend.

Min-jae spoke about Byul-ho's innovative approach to training, while Sung-ho highlighted how Byul-ho encouraged them to contribute creatively to their music. Hyun-woo mentioned Byul-ho's ability to bring out the best in each member, and Yoon-seok praised his strategic thinking in navigating the industry.

As the members spoke, their sincerity was evident. It was clear that their positive comments weren't just for show, but reflected genuine respect and appreciation for their young CEO.

As the interview progressed, Byul-ho's brow furrowed slightly. He couldn't help but notice that the questions were increasingly focused on him rather than Ascend as a whole.

Glancing at the producer, Byul-ho caught sight of a satisfied smile playing on Jin-woo's lips. In that moment, he understood the producer's strategy.

By focusing on the young CEO, Jin-woo was crafting a narrative that could serve multiple purposes. If Ascend succeeded, he'd have a ready-made story of a prodigy leading his group to stardom. If they failed, he'd have the dramatic tale of a young CEO's hubris and downfall. Either way, it was compelling television.

Moreover, by emphasizing Byul-ho's youth and unconventional position, Jin-woo was creating an element of controversy. Viewers would debate whether someone so young could truly lead a K-pop group, generating buzz and keeping Ascend in the public eye.

It was a clever ploy, Byul-ho had to admit. Jin-woo was using him as a lightning rod, drawing attention and potentially criticism, while simultaneously setting up a narrative that could adapt to any outcome.

As the interview shifted its focus to Ascend as a whole, Byul-ho seized the opportunity to approach Jin-woo, the producer.

Jin-woo acknowledged Byul-ho with a nod. "I must say, Byul-ho-ssi, I'm impressed. Despite your youth, you've managed to cultivate a group with real potential. They're like diamonds in the rough."

Byul-ho smiled, a glint of understanding in his eyes. "Thank you, PD-nim. I'm equally impressed by your skill in using me to increase viewer engagement."

Jin-woo's smile faltered slightly, caught off guard by Byul-ho's directness. He began to offer a subtle denial, but Byul-ho continued.

"Please, don't misunderstand. I take no offense. It's actually quite a clever tactic," Byul-ho said, his tone both complimentary and knowing.

Jin-woo found himself reassessing the young man before him. He had initially assumed that centering the narrative on Byul-ho would inflate the young CEO's ego, making him easier to manipulate for the show's benefit. However, Byul-ho's perceptiveness and graceful handling of the situation revealed a wisdom that belied his years.

"You're quite perceptive, Byul-ho-ssi," Jin-woo admitted, his tone now one of professional respect. "I underestimated you. It seems there's more to you than meets the eye."

Byul-ho smiled knowingly. "There's nothing new about the industry underestimating young people. It's true in every sector, really."

Jin-woo nodded in agreement. "It's because youth often symbolizes inexperience and recklessness."

"That may be true for some," Byul-ho countered, "but not for me. I know this industry well."

Jin-woo's eyebrows raised slightly. "I can see that. But I'm still impressed by your knowledge and wisdom at such a young age. Are you related to anyone in the industry?"

Byul-ho paused for a moment, weighing his response. "Actually, yes. My parents were both in entertainment. My father was the founder and former CEO of Starlight Entertainment, and my mother was a veteran actress." He decided to reveal this information, knowing it will come to light eventually.

Jin-woo's eyes widened in surprise. "You're the son of Jeon Yong-ho and Kim Hye-jin?" he exclaimed, mentioning Byul-ho's parents by name.

Byul-ho's expression remained neutral. "Yes, but I'd appreciate it if you didn't use my family background for publicity. You can use my age for the story if you must, but if my deceased parents become involved, I might have to withdraw Ascend from the competition."

Jin-woo studied Byul-ho intently, taken aback by the young CEO's directness and the seriousness behind his words. For a moment, he wondered if Byul-ho could read his thoughts.

While he didn't entirely believe Byul-ho would follow through on his threat, he recognized the sensitivity of the issue.

"I understand, Byul-ho-ssi," Jin-woo said, trying to reassure him. "I have no intention of exploiting your family background. Your story is compelling enough on its own."

Byul-ho nodded, satisfied. "Thank you, PD-nim. I appreciate your understanding."

***

As the interview concluded, a staff member approached Byul-ho and Ascend, informing them it was time for their performance. The timing was tight, leaving no opportunity for them to catch Dragon Sign's act, which had just wrapped up.

The group made their way to the stage entrance, the sound of the audience's anticipation growing louder with each step.

As the host's voice boomed through the speakers, introducing Ascend, they took deep breaths, centering themselves for the performance ahead.

"Welcome back, Ascend!" Park Soo-hwa's voice rang out as they stepped onto the stage. The bright lights momentarily dazzled them as they took their positions.

The judges leaned forward in their seats, their expressions a mix of expectation and curiosity. Cheon Sung-min spoke first. "We're excited to see what you've prepared for us this time. Your last performance set a high bar – we hope you're ready to exceed it."

Mun Kang-dae, known for his critical eye, added, "Show us how much you've grown since we last saw you. We're expecting great things."

The other judges nodded in agreement, their eyes fixed on the group.

Jae-sung, as the leader, stepped forward slightly. "Thank you for having us back. We've worked hard to bring you something special today."

As the audience's applause died down and the first notes of their song began to play, Ascend took their starting positions.