The S-Rank Paparazzi Reincarnates as an Idol – Chapter 81

Author: Cireng

Chapter 81

“Revenue distribution is 80% to the agency and 20% to the artist. That’s the standard rate for rookies in this industry. Plenty of places cut it down to 90:10, but we set it higher because we care about our artists.”

“I see.”

My answer was empty, but my thoughts immediately cooled.

‘What a bunch of crooks.’

“Siwoo, has your question been answered?”

“No. You say that’s the standard rate for rookies, but we’re not exactly standard, are we?”

The atmosphere in the conference room visibly stiffened.

“Haha. Maybe because you took first place in the audition, you certainly speak differently.”

Director Seo Yunkyung let out a dry laugh.

“Thank you for the compliment.”

Apparently, he didn’t like my response. His eyes narrowed.

“Since contracts are important, let me say this.”

‘Should I soften the wording?’

I glanced at the members. They were looking at me with bright eyes, like baby birds waiting to be fed.

Then I shook my head.

‘I’ll take the bullet.’

Someone had to do it.

“As opposed to ordinary trainees, didn’t we earn an immediate debut through the audition?”

We didn’t have years of trainee expenses behind us. Their initial investment was much lower than normal, and we already had public recognition.

“To maintain a strong relationship in the long run, I’d like to ask whether adjusting the contract ratio is possible.”

In other words, if they wanted us to work together happily for years, they should reconsider the split.

Sometimes, a team needed someone willing to play the bad guy.

‘Besides, it’s not like I plan to stay an idol forever. Once I clear the quest, I’ll live my own life.’

Unlike the others, whose dreams were tied to this industry, money mattered a lot to me.

‘My sister’s hospital bills just doubled.’

Big hospitals charged accordingly.

Kim Sunyoo was helping us for now, but I couldn’t keep relying on him forever.

“If it’s for maintaining a good relationship with our artists, adjustments are certainly possible. Do you have a ratio in mind?”

‘They don’t want to lose us either. That means there’s room to negotiate.’

We were practically a golden goose.

With the ratings and recognition we’d gained from the audition program, our success was already relatively guaranteed. That gave us leverage that ordinary rookies didn’t have.

“Fifty-fifty.”

“…That’s ridiculous!”

The director’s sharp voice rang through the room.

I knew it was ridiculous.

But negotiations always started with an inflated number.

“Then what ratio do you have in mind, Director?”

“Seventy-thirty is the absolute best we can do. Nothing higher.”

“If you’re already spending money, why not spend a little more? How about sixty-forty?”

“…What?”

“We’re really confident we can do well. If our share is higher, we’ll be even more motivated to give it everything we’ve got.”

“Cha Siwoo. That’s not possible. The company already has established standards.”

Looking at her hardened expression, I nodded as if making a generous concession.