Play M Entertainment Director Oh Jong Heon recently sat down for an interview with Star News for their 'Star Maker' series. In the interview, he talked about the history and future of the agency artist.
Play M Entertainment Director Oh Jong Heon recently sat down for an interview with Star News for their "Star Maker" series. In the interview, he talked about the history and future of the agency's artist.
Oh Jong Heon described his title as Director of the Production Department 1 and Management Director. He explained that the agency was separated into two production departments, with Apink, Huh Gak, and VICTON in the first and their new girl group Weekly and soloist Lim Jimin in the second.
The director shared that he joined the agency in October 2017, and he has worked with Apink since their album "Five". Oh Jong Heon also shared his thoughts about the reason for Apink's longevity.
"I think the leader has played a big role in that," he praised Chorong. "Another factor is that their teamwork is still good. The members also have a lot of affection for their group. We didn't have many employees in the company at the time. Apink has done a good job playing the role of a founding contributor of the company."
Apink experienced a change of concept two years ago, and Oh Jong Heon talked about the transformation. "Apink has a 'innocent idol' image and they continue to release songs that feel like 'healing songs' with hopeful messages, but they change their image through 'I So So Sick'," he said.
"We think a lot about how now it is time for them to show their maturity as they gain more experience. Of course, it may be that the public wants Apink used to sing healing songs. However, they can clearly show a different side of themselves they themselves and they are at the point in their careers where they have to do it, so that's why they make a change. Black Eyed Pilseung, who is in charge of producing, gives a lot of thought and members also participate a lot in production, "said the director.
The interview then switches to talk about VICTON. After their debut in November 2016, VICTON promoted so well that their single titled "Time of Sorrow" was released in 2018. After that they were in a 1.5-year absence.
In 2019, members Han Seungwoo and Byungchan appeared on the survival event "Produce X 101" and gained recognition for themselves and the group. After that VICTON was able to become successful and get the full support of many people.
"I think after the two members continued the program, fans recognized and enjoyed a VICTON side they had never shown before. I feel grateful to the members," he said.
"It is true that at that time I thought a lot about it and I wanted to give members a chance (like appearing on programs). Because regardless of the results, it was an opportunity for VICTON to make a new jump. Now I need to support VICTON well so that they can continue to grow and realize their dreams, "continued the director.
(wk / daughter)
