Training

Byul-ho led Kim Jae-sung through the newly established office of Golden-Star Entertainment.

The space was still relatively bare, but Byul-ho spoke with enthusiasm about his plans for each area.

Jae-sung looked around, a mix of wonder and skepticism on his face. "I... I have to admit, when you first approached me, I thought this might be some kind of scam. You know, for... less reputable industries," he said hesitantly.

Byul-ho chuckled. "I understand your caution. But I assure you, this is a legitimate entertainment company. I come from a... fortunate background, and I'm using that to pursue my passion for music and discovering new talents."

As they walked, Jae-sung's doubt began to show. "Look, I appreciate the offer, but... no one's ever wanted to sign me before. I'm not exactly idol material," he gestured to his face and body. "I'm below average in looks."

Byul-ho paused, looking at Jae-sung thoughtfully. Drawing on his knowledge from his other life, he knew the importance of appearance in the industry. However, he also knew that talent was the true foundation of lasting success.

"Jae-sung-ssi, in this industry, looks are important, I won't lie," Byul-ho began. "But they're not everything. Your voice, your songwriting - that's where the real value lies. And as for appearance... well, that's something we can work on. If needed, the company can cover the costs of any enhancements you might want, including facial surgery."

Jae-sung's eyes widened in surprise. "You'd... you'd be willing to invest that much in me? But why? You barely know me."

Byul-ho smiled confidently. "Because I believe in your potential. I heard something special in your voice, something that could captivate audiences. With the right training, styling, and yes, perhaps some physical enhancements, you could be a star. But the core of it all - your talent - that's already there."

Jae-sung stood silent for a moment, processing Byul-ho's words. The young CEO's confidence and vision were infectious, making Jae-sung dare to hope for the first time in years.

"So," Byul-ho said, extending his hand. "Are you ready to become the next big thing?"

Jae-sung's eyes glistened with emotion, touched by Byul-ho's faith in him. After a moment of contemplative silence, he nodded. "Alright," he said softly. "I'll sign."

Byul-ho's face lit up with excitement. He quickly retrieved a prepared contract from his desk drawer, presenting it to Jae-sung. "Here you go. Take your time to read it over."

As Jae-sung began to examine the document, Byul-ho added reassuringly, "Don't worry, it's not a trap. Everything is straightforward and fair."

To Byul-ho's surprise, Jae-sung let out a small chuckle. "Actually, I studied law for a while before... well, before life took a different turn. I have some knowledge about contracts."

Byul-ho's eyebrows raised, impressed by this unexpected revelation. He watched as Jae-sung carefully read through each clause, occasionally nodding to himself.

After several minutes, Jae-sung looked up, a hint of a smile on his face. "This is... surprisingly fair. Actually, it's more than fair. You're taking a big risk with these terms, especially for an unknown artist like me."

Byul-ho shrugged, trying to hide his relief. "I believe in investing in talent. It's the foundation of any successful entertainment company."

Jae-sung nodded approvingly. "Well, your belief is reflected in this contract." He picked up a pen, hovering it over the signature line. "I hope I can live up to your expectations, Byul-ho-ssi."

With that, he signed his name on the dotted line.

Byul-ho couldn't contain his smile as he watched Jae-sung sign. This was it - his first artist, the beginning of his plan to revolutionize the K-pop industry.

"Welcome to Golden-Star Entertainment, Kim Jae-sung-ssi," Byul-ho said, extending his hand. "I have a feeling this is the start of something amazing."

As they shook hands, Byul-ho felt a surge of excitement. He had taken the first real step towards his grand vision.

Now, the real work would begin - transforming Jae-sung into a star and building Golden-Star Entertainment into a powerhouse of the K-pop world.

***

Over the next few days, Golden-Star Entertainment buzzed with activity.

Byul-ho leaned against the doorframe, watching as Jae-sung belted out a high note. The vocal coach nodded approvingly, a smile tugging at her lips. It had been five days since Jae-sung signed with Golden-Star, and the transformation was already noticeable.

"Again," the coach instructed, and Jae-sung obliged, his voice soaring through the practice room.

Byul-ho felt a surge of pride. He'd been right about Jae-sung's potential. With proper training, his raw talent was blossoming into something truly remarkable.

Later that afternoon, Byul-ho found himself in the dance studio. Jae-sung was less graceful here, his movements still stiff and uncertain. But there was determination in his eyes as he followed the choreographer's lead.

"Don't get frustrated," Byul-ho called out as Jae-sung stumbled. "Rome wasn't built in a day."

Jae-sung flashed him a grateful smile before refocusing on the steps.

As evening fell, Byul-ho sat across from Jae-sung in his office. The young singer looked exhausted but exhilarated.

"How are you feeling?" Byul-ho asked.

Jae-sung ran a hand through his hair, now styled by their image consultant. "Honestly? Overwhelmed. But in a good way. I never thought I'd get an opportunity like this."

Byul-ho nodded, understanding in his eyes. "You're doing well, Jae-sung. Keep pushing yourself. This is just the beginning."

Indeed, as Byul-ho had said, it was just the beginning. 

In his spare time, Byul-ho continued scouting for talent. Two days ago, his efforts bore fruit when he discovered two promising young men performing at a underground rap battle club in Hongdae. While neither matched Jae-sung's vocal prowess, they each possessed unique strengths that caught Byul-ho's attention.

The first, Lee Min-jae, was a natural dancer. His movements were fluid and precise, drawing the eye even in a crowded performance. His vocals, while not exceptional, were solidly above average. With his boy-next-door good looks, Byul-ho could easily envision him as part of an idol group.

The second, Park Sung-ho, initially seemed unremarkable until he took center stage for a rap segment. His flow was impeccable, his wordplay clever and sharp. What's more, he had a certain charisma that made it hard to look away. Byul-ho saw the makings of a potential breakout star in him.

Unlike with Jae-sung, Byul-ho took a more measured approach with these two. He struck up conversations, bought them coffee, and generally tried to cultivate a friendship. He sensed their caution - they weren't in desperate straits like Jae-sung had been, and thus were more wary of sudden opportunities.

Before parting ways, Byul-ho had given each his business card, encouraging them to reach out if they ever wanted to discuss their futures in the industry.

Five days passed, days filled with overseeing Jae-sung's training and managing the fledgling operations of Golden-Star Entertainment. Byul-ho was reviewing some financial reports when his phone buzzed. A text message popped up on the screen:

"Hi, this is Lee Min-jae. We met at the festival last week. I've been thinking about your offer. Can we talk?"

Barely a minute later, a second message arrived:

"Hello, Byul-ho-ssi. Park Sung-ho here. I'm interested in hearing more about your company. When are you free to meet?"

Byul-ho wasn't surprised to receive messages from both Lee Min-jae and Park Sung-ho simultaneously. He remembered they were part of the same hip-hop group, and it made sense they'd discuss the opportunity together.

The next morning, Byul-ho found himself seated across from the pair in a quiet corner of a local restaurant. Steam rose from their coffee cups as they talked.

"So, what made you decide to reach out?" Byul-ho asked, his tone casual but his eyes sharp.

Min-jae and Sung-ho exchanged glances before Min-jae spoke. "Things with the band... they're not great. We're all working day jobs to make ends meet, and it's killing our music."

Sung-ho nodded, adding, "We've been talking about taking a risk, trying something new. Your offer... it seemed like it might be that chance."

Byul-ho listened, empathy in his eyes. "I understand. It's not easy balancing passion and practicality. Would you like to see the company?"

Both men nodded eagerly.

An hour later, they stood in the modest but well-equipped space of Golden-Star Entertainment. Min-jae whistled softly, impressed by the recording booth. Sung-ho's eyes widened at the sight of the dance studio.

The professional setup, though modest, was more than they'd expected.