Chapter Eighty-Seven Such a Coincidence

-eun told him herself.It's Saturday night, well past ten o'clock, but the main road outside is still bustling with people. Crowds of men and women fill every inch of space, their voices blending toge...Since April, fans of the two popular boy groups EXO and BIGBANG have been fiercely battling each other online due to their overlapping comebacks, garnering massive attention.

Both groups already had immense popularity and hype, and the various factors leading to their comparison battle only amplified the fervor. This attracted a large number of casual viewers who weren't initially interested in either group, capturing the majority of the audience's attention during that period.

And the four songs from the two groups in May also did not disappoint fans and passersby. The two groups almost monopolized the top four spots on all music charts for a whole week, and in the following one or two weeks, although EXO's title track "LHT" dropped out of the rankings, the non-title track "Aiming Assault" surprisingly rose to prominence as the main contender, firmly securing the top three spots on the music charts until two or three weeks later when its ranking slowly began to decline.

Under the massive attention and the heated rivalry between fans of these two groups, many interesting memes, classic images, and GIFs emerged. During those two weeks of their comeback, almost every day brought up something fascinating and eye-catching that kept people glued to it.

Two male groups first collided on a show, after EXO won first place, Choi Si-hyeon's expression became popular and has become a classic expression seen everywhere in online forums. Even though I have seen it countless times, every time I see his subtle changes in expression, the stiff twitch of his mouth before squeezing out a smile, it still makes me chuckle.

This is a real sensation the music world hasn't seen in ages.

Even though EXO and BIGBANG had very short comeback periods in May, only two weeks before diving into concert schedules, they managed to deliver several memorable stages and heated rivalries for viewers despite limited promotional appearances.

"Those daily idol group feuds are the most boring, I want to see them tear each other apart! Especially top-tier groups fighting is the most entertaining..."

This is the truest feeling in the hearts of many viewers who have experienced those two weeks.

After a brief golden age in the music scene during May, the highly anticipated clash between two male idol groups in June has raised even more excitement among the majority of fans.

More importantly, in May, the two boy groups didn't really have a clear winner. Both had similar levels of popularity and discussion. EXO dominated in sales, with more music show wins as well. Although they didn't surpass the other group in terms of digital sound sources, they kept a close second place.

The other half of Big Bang might be missing one member, but they are far ahead in terms of YouTube views. They have a large fanbase and a clear advantage in the music charts. "Loser" has been ranked first on Melon Chart since its release until the end of its promotional period, directly claiming the #1 spot for two consecutive weeks.

Overall, both boy bands have their strengths in their respective areas. Apart from the significant gap in sales, they have achieved mixed results in other categories. All things considered, it's a pretty close match.

Although fans on both sides engage in various activities like data manipulation, chart rankings, reputation management, and even smear campaigns, the intense competition hasn't produced a clear winner, leaving many feeling like something is missing. Even the fans themselves feel that their passionate energy hasn't been fully released.

Therefore, people are even more looking forward to this collision in June because everyone knows it's the last album of EXO's four singles albums, and there will be no chance to continue fighting after that.

So no matter what, this time we're definitely going to have a winner and a loser.

So when S Company released EXO's first batch of promotional photos and the title track name at noon on the 25th, the news immediately topped the trending topics, with "#EXO support" and related hashtags dominating the top two spots, sparking widespread discussion.

Actually, the song title "" is no longer a secret. Because Ji Chang Wook and his team performed a preview stage at their first concert. After it ended, the song title spread online, and even the lyrics "ohyyy" from the chorus and the melody have been posted online. Many fans already know how to sing it.

But just the exposed part of the sentence is already very catchy to listen to. This kind of half-hidden, half-revealed style further scratches the itch in the hearts of many fans.

In the publicly released promotional poster, EXO's nine members are wearing light-colored suits on a sofa. Four are sitting in front and five standing behind. There are no exaggerated expressions or actions, and their hair colors are relatively ordinary, not revealing too much information. Whether they are sitting neatly or standing there, they all have sunny smiles looking at the camera. However, the combination of their movements and expressions with the overall warm color palette of the poster makes it feel incredibly comfortable.

Below the illustration is printed EXO's logo, as well as the song title "boywithluv", and the date 6.1.

"Still so dashing! xo This comeback is going to be huge, I can't wait!"

"After watching the concert, I'm very optimistic about 《boywithv》. The chorus is really good. This time, the results will definitely be better than last time, mainly depending on whether they can suppress the other group."

"Are the oppa's this comeback with a brand new style Completely different from last time's 'lht' So excited, so excited!"

This promotional image is great, and it really looks amazing. When does the pre-order window open I wonder if there will be individual packages.

“It was mentioned later that the pre-order for 《l》 will open at 0:00 on the 26th. I also want to buy yuan's individual version, but this time it should be unavailable. I guess I have to wait until July when the regular edition is released. Although I have been complaining for so long and there has been no signing event, it is estimated that it will also be held at that time. Although I really like xo, but still have to scold s for the sake of making the regular edition sales figures look better, it's really disgusting.”

"All the other groups have released their EXO teasers, but what about Big Bang YG, please hurry up and release something! The heat is being stolen!"

The comments under the official account are constantly refreshing, and from the jumping numbers and active messages, one can clearly feel the enthusiasm of the people for this EXO comeback.

It can only be said that the foundation laid by the first few consecutive comebacks was truly excellent. It swept away last year's slump and also reversed many people's impression of EXO, improving their sound source reputation in the public eye. Among many who don't pay much attention to K-pop or dislike boy groups, they are now, like BIGBANG at the beginning, no longer like most ordinary male idol groups. They have become a new and special presence.

After several comebacks this year, whether they are fans or not, the general public has basically stopped comparing EXO to other boy groups that debuted around the same time. Although they all belong to the third generation of boy groups, the gap in data across all aspects is huge, and they are not on the same level at all. The heat and momentum are also worlds apart, so subconsciously, they already believe that these third-generation groups and EXO are no longer in the same race.

Now, it's all about comparing the previous generation's achievements or groups.

While fans were fervently discussing who was the most handsome in this comeback pictorial, pooling money to move bricks, and debating how good the full song was, other passersby were also calling on YG to quickly release a BIGBANG teaser, Ji-young arrived at the venue arranged by the organizers of the "Baeksang Arts Awards" on the afternoon of the 26th.

……

“I think work shouldn't be commanded by your mind, but rather guided by your heart. When it comes to variety shows, the initial intention shouldn't be about pursuing success, but rather chasing that feeling of excitement.”

"The initial and ultimate aim should be to 'bring happiness to people'…"

Listening to Luo Yingshi, who was sitting in front of him and passionately talking about his variety show concept, Chi Jingyuan didn't quite understand what he was saying, but he still nodded in agreement.

It is the afternoon of May 26th, and Ji Chang-wook is currently at a banquet hall in a hotel near Kyung Hee University, preparing for the 'Baeksang Arts Awards' ceremony that will be held tonight.

Like most award ceremonies, the Baeksang Awards features a red carpet event. Before the red carpet begins, organizers often set up a nearby location to gather guests beforehand. This is primarily to arrange their order and ensure they are all transported together to the ceremony venue for the start of the red carpet.

Besides this purpose, this venue and time are also a convenient place for many insiders to socialize. After all, everyone attending is a guest eligible to attend the "Baeksang Arts Awards" tonight, as well as staff from the organizer and JTBC, including many high-ranking officials.

And when Chi Jingyuan arrived, he habitually greeted a few familiar acquaintances and senior figures in the industry. After finding a spot to sit down, he noticed that Luo Ying shi, a very well-known variety show director in the entertainment world, was sitting next to him. Seeing him, Chi Jingyuan proactively waved and called Luo Ying shi over. The other party seemed very interested in talking, or perhaps quite interested in him. After exchanging greetings and inquiring about his recent situation, the conversation naturally shifted to the topic of variety shows.

Ro Young-seok is arguably the hottest variety show director in the entertainment industry over the past two years. He first rose to fame as the producer of the popular KBS program "2 Days & 1 Night." In 2013, he resigned from KBS and joined CJ E&M, later moving to tvN where he achieved even greater success. The consecutive releases of his "Flower Boy" series were all highly successful. When it comes to variety show PDs, he's considered one of the best on the Korean peninsula.

Not even close.

He looked a bit taciturn, but when he talked about his own profession, he was very articulate.

"Although I say that, maybe 'luck' has been the biggest help to me," Luo Yinshi said after, with a hint of self-deprecation and a touch of restrained admiration. "I’m still quite casual when I work."

"PDNI is too humble. Being lucky many times is naturally also based on personal strength..."

Chi Jingyuan also laughed and held the offer, but in his heart he was somewhat discontented:

If I didn't know you were a nominee for the Daesang award at the Baeksang Television Awards today, I would have believed it.

He was initially a bit surprised by the other party's enthusiasm, because although he had met before, they hadn't had much interaction and weren't very familiar. However, after chatting for a few sentences, he discovered that Luo Yinshi was also a graduate of Yan Shi University, his senior, and it seemed that for some special reasons, he usually paid attention to him and was quite optimistic about him.

Although he didn't know why, given the other party's identity and their enthusiastic demeanor, Qi Jingyuan certainly wouldn't refuse.

"Have you ever seen the *Hana Yori Dango* series, Jingyuan" Luo Yinshi ended his discussion on variety show concepts somewhat wistfully, but then quickly shifted gears and proactively asked.

"I've seen a bit."

Qi Jingyuan nodded.

The other party said, but he recently released "Grandpas Over Flowers," "Grandmas Over Flowers," and "Youth With You" series in the past two years, which have been very popular and hot. They are one of the most outstanding variety shows in the past two years.

He wasn't wrong, they had only seen a little bit.

"Back then, when "Youth with You" was airing, we actually wanted to invite you as one of the guests, but your company rejected our invitation sent to s…"

Let me know if you have any other text you'd like me to translate!

Speaking of Luo Ying shi, it seems a little regretful, then looking at Ji Jingyuan seriously said: "I have specifically watched some variety shows you participated in. Although the shots are not many, you just sit there and operate, but you can still easily become the center of topics and laughter..."

"And from the audience's perspective, every time you briefly appear on screen and the scene shifts to other EXO members or C, I actually feel a strange anticipation for your next appearance or speech. I really want to see you appear on camera like that... Throughout the entire show, you don't speak much, but your presence is incredibly strong. This kind of quality is truly rare in variety shows."

Saying that, he smiled: "And I've noticed that every time you appear on variety shows, Jingyuan, you don't really shine. Although you respond well, you don't say much overall. Is it your company's arrangement, or do you just not really like these kinds of shows...I guess it's probably the latter"

"Well, there is a bit of that," Chi Jingyuan didn't deny it, after thinking for a moment he nodded: "It's fine with close people, but if you're not very familiar with someone, it feels a little awkward to communicate, especially on camera."

"Indeed, it's evident." Upon hearing this, Luo Yingshi revealed a knowing expression: "But your characteristic is truly precious. I've been paying attention to you for quite some time and have always wanted to find an opportunity to collaborate with you. It's not just about being a flight guest..."

The other party's enthusiasm and sincere praise made Chi Jingyuan feel a little embarrassed. He hurriedly bowed slightly to show his gratitude, then showed a rather kind smile, looking very much forward to it: "Kansanmida, pdni can say that makes me really honored, if there is a chance, brother must remember me."

"Haha, of course there will be," Luo Yinshi also laughed.

It's unclear whether it was just playful banter or genuine feeling, but overall the atmosphere was great and helped Pool Kyeong-won and Roh Yeong-seok get to know each other better.

Here, Park Ji-hyung chatted with Lee Young Seok for a while. Then, he politely bid farewell and left. He had only taken a few steps when he saw that not far away, Park Shin Hye was also just finishing a conversation with an actor. Seeing him, he smiled and waved at him. When Park Ji-hyung saw this, he also smiled and walked over.

"How do you feel about not seeing each other for a while, Nana You've matured so much! Did you recently take on any particularly challenging roles"

"Oh, come on, is that a bit harsh Are you saying I'm old"

Although they haven't met privately often since "The Heirs," their connection has never been broken, especially under Park Shin Hye's special closeness. Ji Chang Wook and she have always maintained a good relationship, considered one of the few familiar friends in the film and television industry.

The other party recently went to see EXO's first concert to support him, even taking certified photos on their SNS. At the time, Ji Kyeong-won specifically expressed his gratitude, and the two chatted about it for a while.

"How are you feeling, Nuna Big or small today" After some friendly banter with a chuckle, Ji-gyeong casually asked.

Today, Park Shin-hye attended the event as a nominee for "Best Popular Actress" in the film category.

Besides starring in the contemporaneously successful "Pinocchio" alongside "The Untamed", she also starred in the historical film "Shangyiyuan" last year, which was released at the end of the year.

It's a pity that this movie was a box office flop and received mediocre reviews. The number of viewers didn't even exceed one million by the end of its run, making her debut in the film industry a painful defeat.

However, this doesn't affect her popularity which remains very high. The foundation laid by "The Heirs" previously still exists, and last year's "Pinocchio" was also a huge hit. Therefore, Park Shin-hye is still one of the most well-known actresses among the younger generation.

"I'm wearing this dress today, what do you think" It seemed to sense the malice in Ji Jingyuan's heart, Park Shin-hye gave him a glare and, with a slight nod toward her exquisite long dress, expressed herself indifferently while radiating confidence.

This actress has won the award for "Most Popular Actress" for several years in a row, with very few people able to compete with her.

It just feels a little strange to come and collect the award for popularity of a film project when it's a box office flop...

After a brief chat with a smile, they parted ways. After all, they were all familiar faces, so just a greeting was enough. For actresses like Park Shin-hye, ordinary social interactions are still very important.

After greeting several senior actors, Park Ji-sung met an idol he knew, Kim Seolhyun of AOA.

Kim Se-jeong's resources are still pretty good. She is the best one in the entire AOA group. Last year, she starred in the movie "Gangnam 1970" alongside Lee Min-ho and was nominated for Best Newcomer.

It seems that because they both transitioned from idols to actors, or perhaps because they already knew each other for some reason, Kim Se-hwan appeared slightly delighted upon seeing Park Seo-joon and took the initiative to approach him for a good while of conversation.

Idol actors are not well-regarded in the film and television industry to begin with, and they are even despised and disliked by many actors who feel they are stealing resources. So their situation has never been good. FNC is a company that doesn't have many resources in the film and television industry either, so her treatment can be imagined.

Kim Seolhyun's makeup today is very beautiful, and her pale pink floral dress perfectly highlights her figure. Sitting there, her legs are crossed diagonally, outlining her waist, hips, and chest instantly. Even under delicate makeup, her face still appears somewhat innocent, making her quite pleasing to the eye.

She was clearly very aware of her advantages.

After taking a glance with appreciative eyes, Chi Jingyuan also naturally sat down and chatted with her. Jin Xuehyun, who had just entered the film and television industry, was obviously very much looking forward to today's award. Perhaps she wanted to win this newcomer award to make her acting career easier, and dressing up so beautifully was probably also to show her face on the big stage of "Baeksang". It's a very normal thought.

Ji Jingyuan just took some time these two days to look at the nominations for the Baeksang Arts Awards this year that his company gave him. The competition for the Best New Actress award in the film category is very intense, and Kim Sejeong's performance in "Gangnam 1970" wasn't particularly outstanding either, especially since she's an idol turned actress.

It doesn't matter if I win the award or not, as long as it looks beautiful.

After a while, she brushed her right leg and brought both legs together. She straightened her chest and lifted her hips as she got up from the sofa. She covered her chest and waved goodbye, then with a hint of reluctance, she raised her skirt and left in a graceful, teasing manner.

But not long after Kim Se-hwan had left, Ji-yeong turned his gaze back to the person in front of him. He had been chatting with several colleagues for a while and was starting to feel a bit tired. As he was about to take out his phone to check the time, a black figure slowly approached from the side, swaying as it came closer.

She timed her arrival perfectly, as if she had been observing from the side for a while.

Hearing the sound, Ji Jingyuan raised her head. Her gaze swept upward from bottom to top. The first thing that caught her eye was a pair of blue round-toed high heels with thick soles. The bright red nail polish was very noticeable. Above the curve of her calf was a black floral lace long dress. The pure black base and the faintly visible white skin contrasted beautifully, paired with an excellent waist-to-hip ratio. Even without seeing her face, she felt a subtle allure.

With long black hair cascading over her shoulders, the right side of her hair styled to fall behind her ear, revealing the outline of her ears. Jung Soo-jung, with natural makeup that hinted at meticulous effort, smiled while blinking her eyes. As she met Ki Kyeong-won's gaze, she lightly pursed her lips and calmly spoke first:

"What a coincidence"

First release on the Traditional Chinese Novel Websiteions were indeed unorthodox, they successfully heightened the atmosphere of the entire venue. The emotions of all the audience members were stirred by him, and the deafening cheers rose and fell in wa...