小火星

“An ?”

? Is he talking about the ads he’s seen on TV or YouTube? Thanks to the concept he was portraying, Kang Woojin managed to keep a poker face, but internally, he was genuinely taken aback.

Am I doing an ?

It was quite shocking to think that an , which usually features famous celebrities, was offered to him. Well, it was surprising for Woojin, but in the grand scheme of things, it was a natural progression. After all, the world is very sensitive to trends these days.

And the fastest to respond to these trends is the industry.

Whether it’s big companies or the entertainment industry, if the public reacts to something, they jump on it. For instance, while not celebrities per se, there were many instances where trending figures were featured in s. In other words, this proved that Kang Woojin was currently popular among the masses.

But wait, why a hamburger?

Just as Kang Woojin’s curiosity about the hamburger arose, the previously stopped vehicle began to move, and Choi Sung-gun, seated in the passenger seat, turned and started explaining.

“I honestly thought it would come eventually, but this offer came a bit sooner than expected. You know why it’s a hamburger, right?”

Suddenly, Kang Woojin recalled a line of Park Dae-ri.

“Ah, the line of Park Dae-ri.”

“That’s right. The line where Park Dae-ri said he likes hamburgers, and the way you ate in that interrogation room scene made the brand look favorably upon you.”

“Is that so?”

“After that broadcast, the sales of hamburgers skyrocketed. Anyway, I received the call yesterday but only told you today to surprise you. How do you feel? Getting an ad deal within two months of your debut? It’s record-breaking, isn’t it?”

I don’t know what’s going on, but it’s exciting. Woojin tried hard to hide his excitement.

“Yes, it’s surprising.”

“Hehe, then you should be even happier. The ad size proposed by the brand is big. They’re planning both a regular TV ad and a YouTube version. We’ll have to discuss the price during the meeting, but considering the size, it should be a good amount.”

“So, it’s just one shot?”

“Right. Usually, the first is a one-time deal. Depending on how it goes, they decide whether to extend the contract or sign a longer-term deal.”

Kang Woojin nodded slowly, and Choi Sung-gun, after opening his diary, flashed a broad smile.

“So, shall we proceed? We should definitely take this opportunity. It’s a great deal, and I don’t foresee any downsides, do you?”

Right. What could go wrong with an ? It’s a guaranteed success.

“Please take care of it.”

“Okay! Amazing, truly. To be honest, even Hye-yeon didn’t land an ad this quickly. Well, let’s catch up to Hong Hye-yeon. Oh, don’t tell her about this.”

“Understood, but what’s the format?”

“Format? Ah, the concept? I briefly heard about it during the call. It seems they’re basing it on Park Dae-ri. Just imagine Park Dae-ri enjoying a hamburger comfortably.”

Makes sense. Kang Woojin nodded internally. The concept was easy to grasp at once. Soon after, Choi Sung-gun flipped a page in his diary and began another briefing.

“There are many offers for variety shows and interview requests from various media outlets, but I’ve declined them all. You don’t need to appear on every single one. If you were trying to gain recognition from a minor role, it might be different, but in your current situation, it’s not beneficial.”

“I feel the same way.”

While Woojin pretended to know what he was talking about, in reality, he was clueless. He trusted Choi Sung-gun, the professional, to handle it.

“Instead, I’ve secured a few magazine photoshoots that can be done quickly and a few schedules related to ‘Profiler Hanryang’. Even though Park Dae-ri’s character died after episode 4, according to PD Song, he will continue to appear in flashbacks in the later episodes.”

As Woojin nodded, Choi Sung-gun closed his diary and added,

“Starting today, there will be a lot of articles related to you. While there’s already a surge of articles, they don’t have much substance. However, the ones our PR team is releasing will contain substantial content.”

His smile deepened.

“Since ‘Hanryang’ is over, let’s go all out on the PR. Let’s milk all the attention.”

Afterward.

As Choi Sung-gun said, by lunchtime, numerous articles about Kang Woojin began to surface. Before, the content was mostly associated with ‘Profiler Hanryang’ or related to Park Dae-ri, but now it was solely news related to Kang Woojin.

From PD Yoon Byung-seon’s ‘Sports Day’ to the back-to-back hits of ‘Exorcism’ and ‘Profiler Hanryang’, everyone wondered what would be next for Kang Woojin.

『[Star IS] Chungmuro’s blue chip + Rising rookie Kang Woojin, still quiet on his next project… When will it be decided?』

Especially, there was much curiosity from both the media and the public about Kang Woojin’s next project and future plans. And for good reason, as no one had heard any rumors about it. There weren’t even the usual entertainment gossip.

As a result, everyone in the entertainment industry was left in suspense.

Usually, when a newbie shines, their next move is evident. However, Kang Woojin, who made several times the impact of a typical newcomer, remained silent. Even his agency was tight-lipped.

『Movie? Drama? No news on either side, fans explode with curiosity over the silence of the rapidly rising ‘Kang Woojin’.』

However, the source of most current articles was Choi Sung-gun. The impact was already tremendous as countless places on the internet were buzzing about it. In other words, everything was rolling in the direction Choi Sung-gun wanted.

Time to let it mature.

And a day passed. Another bright morning came, Wednesday the 27th. That day, Kang Woojin signed official contracts for two works he had previously discussed.

In the morning, it was for a fill-in role in ‘Drug Dealer’.

“Ah, please take care, Woojin. Thank you, really, truly thank you. You’re a lifesaver.”

“I’ll do my best, Director.”

“Well, I should be the one working hard. But, by the way, you’ve been getting a lot of attention lately, haven’t you?”

“People seem to think highly of me.”

“No, no, it’s because you did well. I watched episode 4 of ‘Hanryang’ and wow, your acting was amazing. Anyway, I’ll get the shooting schedule sorted out as soon as possible. Please familiarize yourself with the script in the meantime.”

“Understood.”

“We’re the ones with a tight schedule, so it’s okay if you’re a bit unprepared. If you forget a line or movement, we can always cut and continue on set.”

Furthermore, since ‘Drug Dealer’ was already halfway through filming, introductions and script readings with the actors were skipped, with discussions indicating that even with a cameo role, filming would take at most 2 weeks.

Later that afternoon.

“It’s my first time, signing a contract with an actor as soon as pre-production starts.”

Kang Woojin finalized a contract with the star writer, Lee Wol-seon, for ‘Freezing Love’.

“It’s a first for me too.”

“It’s surprising. How can you be so calm but then show such diverse expressions when you act? And knowing sign language was a pleasant surprise.”

Writer Lee Wol-seon was a bit softer in her tone than during their first meeting. It was understandable. She had been concerned about the role ‘Mysterious Man Next Door’ which required sign language, but Kang Woojin had appeared like a comet and resolved those concerns.

“It’s a shame. I wanted to work with you for a longer time. Even though it’s a minor role this time, but let’s meet for a bigger role in the future.”

After the smooth contract conclusion and Kang Woojin’s departure, Writer Lee Wol-seon and the executives of KBC Drama Department remained. They were all praising Kang Woojin’s rising popularity.

“If Kang Woojin keeps this up, he’ll reach the top in no time.”

“Right? Aside from a slightly aloof demeanor, he has no flaws. Don’t you think so, writer?”

“If you look closely, his filmography is amazing. Winning a grand prize for ‘Exorcism’ and the super hit drama ‘Hanryang’ exceeding 20% in ratings, and now me. I offered him a very small role because he wanted it, but I was initially considering offering him a supporting role.”

“Do you think he’s involved in some massive project we don’t know about?”

“He might be. I have a feeling there are people who noticed him before I did. Anyway, let’s release the news now. Woojin’s side also wanted it to be announced as soon as possible.”

From late at night, new news about Kang Woojin exploded.

『[StarTalk] ‘Drug Dealer’ Director Kim Do-hee says, ‘Actor Kang Woojin saved our project’.』

Naturally, the news was about ‘Drug Dealer’ and ‘Freezing Love’.

『From writer Park Eun-mi to writer Lee Wol-seon? Rising ‘Kang Woojin’ joins star writer Lee Wol-seon’s new work in a minor role!』

The media and public opinion were mixed.

-Wow!! Moving from one star writer to another right after?

-LOL, that’s impressive! Write more articles about him, this isn’t enough to satisfy my curiosity.

-But it’s a bit disappointing… Given Kang Woojin’s current status, he could’ve taken on more than just a minor role or a cameo…

-↑Agree, even if he’s a rookie, with his current momentum, shouldn’t a supporting role be possible?

-Supporting role? LOL. Why are you all so obsessed with Kang Woojin? He’s just a rookie after all. Why expect a supporting role?

-That’s true LOL. Honestly, even having a small role after Park Eun-mi and then moving to Lee Wol-seon is impressive.

-I want to see more… I want to see Kang Woojin in a leading role! Cast him in a rom-com!

Both ‘disappointment’ and ‘impressiveness’ coexisted. Whatever the case may be, one thing is now certain. Not just in the media, but throughout the entertainment industry, including entertainment companies, production houses, and film companies.

『[Special Feature] From his debut, he captures many hearts. Reasons why the future of the rookie ‘Kang Woojin’ is particularly anticipated..』

Kang Woojin was no longer unknown.

The next morning, Thursday, the 28th.

It had been about a week since the fourth episode of ‘Profiler Hanryang’ ended. Yet Hanryang was still trending all over the internet. At this moment, Kang Woojin was on his way to bw Entertainment in a van.

“……”

Kang Woojin, looking out of the window emotionlessly because of his persona. But internally, he was quite happy.

‘I’ve received another appearance fee! Soon, I’ll get an deal. I have many projects lined up, so I’ll earn more, right? and I’m about to move to Seoul.’

His joy was for very practical reasons. He would’ve loved to dance with joy, but he couldn’t, with Jang Su-hwan and Han Ye-jung present in the van. He had to remain composed and calm.

‘Ha-I’m sleepy. What’s the schedule for today again? A photoshoot and a few meetings. Maybe I should rest a bit before going?’

Choi Sung-gun wasn’t in the van, probably at the company. According to Jang Su-hwan, Hong Hye-yeon was busy with her schedule and company matters. Well, Woojin was headed to the agency now, so they’d meet soon.

An hour later.

Upon arriving at bw Entertainment, Jang Su-hwan headed to the restroom and Han Ye-jung went straight to the PR team. Woojin casually greeted the busy employees in his low and cool tone.

‘Yeah, this is good enough.’

Praising himself, Kang Woojin headed to the CEO’s office.

-Swoosh.

The door opened immediately, and the situation inside the CEO’s office was revealed. The first thing he saw was Choi Sung-gun sitting at the desk in the center. Seeing Woojin, Choi Sung-gun smiled.

“Ah, Woojin, you’re here?”

“Hello.”

Next, he noticed Hong Hye-yeon sitting next to Choi Sung-gun. She was wearing a white hat, perhaps she hadn’t been to the makeup artist yet.

“Glad to see your face, I was about to leave.”

Hat or no hat, Hong Hye-yeon looked stunning in Woojin’s eyes.

‘As always, Hong Hye-yeon’s beauty is explosive today. What a good start to the day.’

However, he couldn’t express his true feelings. Kang Woojin replied with a slightly calm tone,

“Hello.”

The problem was.

‘Huh?’

On the opposite side of Hong Hye-yeon, there was a bear-like figure he hadn’t seen before. No, not a bear, a man. A man of burly stature. Because of this, Woojin internally chuckled.

‘He’s massive. His silhouette looks just like Kim Dae-young… wait, what?’

Kang Woojin, upon making eye contact with the man, widened his eyes in shock.

“!!!”

Why?

“Woojin.”

Kim Dae-young didn’t just resemble the silhouette; it was actually him sitting there. Why was he sitting there? And he was smiling. Without realizing it, Kang Woojin almost slapped his cheek, that’s how startled he was.

‘You crazy bastard! Why, why, why the hell is he here?!’

At that moment, Woojin’s thoughts froze. All he did was stare at Kim Dae-young with a blank face. At that moment, sitting opposite Kim Dae-young, Hong Hye-yeon chimed in.

“Isn’t he the friend from that time? The one who came with Woojin to the ‘Super Actor’ audition. I remember his face.”

‘No, please forget about it.’ Woojin desperately wished inwardly. But a smiling Hye-yeon kindly addressed Dae-young.

“On the audition day, you told me about Woojin used to design, right? Is that right?”

“Yes, I did. I acted for about 15 seconds. Do you remember?”

“No, I don’t.”

“Oh. I see. Hahaha, thank you.”

What are you thanking her for? Anyway, don’t laugh! Why are you thanking her in this situation? Kang Woojin had an irresistible urge to smack the back of Dae-young’s head. He really wanted to. But it was impossible.

‘Should I just leave? I can explain later, right?’

Kim Dae-young knew Woojin’s true personality inside and out. It’s no use putting on an act in front of him. And there was no time to explain. Woojin was flustered. However, habitually, he managed to keep his face in check.

Anyway, it was an unbelievable moment of crisis.

If Kim Dae-young realized his acts and misunderstandings, it would be problematic with Choi Sung-gun and Hong Hye-yeon. Then,

“Huh? Woojin? Shouldn’t you have a chat with your friend?”

Choi Sung-gun spoke to the silent Woojin. Woojin’s stalled thoughts started moving again. Had Choi Sung-gun heard everything? That everything about him was just an act, and he had deluded himself? Or not yet? He wasn’t sure. For now, Woojin greeted Dae-young with a gruff voice.

“It’s been a while.”

It indeed had been. It was the first time since their dash through the park. However, Kim Dae-young focused on Woojin’s tone, expression, and atmosphere.

‘What’s with him? Why is he acting so serious?’

He seemed completely different from the usual Kang Woojin. Thanks to that, Kim Dae-young slightly furrowed his brow.

“Well, it has.”

“Why are you here?”

“Never mind that, what about you?”

“You first. Why are you here?”

“……”

His tone was incredibly stern. At this point, Kim Dae-young was sure of it. Something was off with Woojin. His eyes were sharp, and his expression was extremely cold.

Why?

This wasn’t like Woojin.

Then,

‘Could it be… you?’

Internally realizing something, Kim Dae-young shifted his gaze from Woojin to the goddess Hong Hye-yeon and then to Choi Sung-gun. After a quick scan, he returned his gaze to Woojin. A few seconds of eye contact. Then, Kim Dae-young became serious.

“Woojin.”

He stood up swiftly and took a step towards Woojin, who instinctively moved his head back. Don’t come closer, you overbearing guy. But Kim Dae-young didn’t stop and put a hand on Woojin’s shoulder.

He then awkwardly said, “You’ve become a lot more cheerful.”

Both Hong Hye-yeon and Choi Sung-gun almost simultaneously commented,

“That’s… cheerful to you?”

“Cheerful? Improved… seriously? That?”

On the other hand, Kang Woojin.

“……?”

Despite staring at Kim Dae-young right in front of him, his mind was full of questions. Then,

– Wink.

Kim Dae-young, making eye contact with Woojin, secretly winked with his right eye, as if to say, ‘I did well, right?’ At this, Woojin tightly shut his eyes in exasperation.

‘Don’t do that, you crazy bastard! Don’t make things worse!’

*****