[Zoom In] Actors Standing Alone Say "No Need for a Nest"

Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] There was a time when large entertainment agencies enjoyed a boom. Systematic promotion helped build a good image, and the power of an agency was necessary to land leading roles in major productions. Actors held hands with their colleagues and headed to solid companies. Even famous stars relied heavily on their agencies' support.

In 2021, actors changed. They no longer hastily sign unfavorable contracts just to join a large agency. They don't pay attention just because they know a manager or have a trustworthy colleague. Changes in the cultural and entertainment environment have brought about shifts in actors' paths.

Actor Kim Nam-gil left CJES Entertainment, where he had been for three years, and established Gil Story ENT last February. The company was founded together with Han Jae-deok, CEO of Sanai Pictures, which produced films such as "New World," "The Shameless," "Asura," and "The Spy Gone North." Also active as the representative of the cultural arts NGO Gil Story, launched in April 2013, he continues his social contribution activities while maintaining his own principles.

After the company was established, he recruited junior actress Lee Soo-kyung. Kim Nam-gil recently appeared as a manager on the variety show "The Manager," drawing attention. Appearing as the agency's CEO, he personally drove and ran errands for coffee, supporting the promotion of the film "Miracle."

Actor Lee Je-hoon also left People Entertainment, which had accompanied him since his debut, and became independent. "After sufficient discussion with actor Lee Je-hoon, who has been with me for nearly two years, we decided to support each other's paths from our respective positions," he said, adding, "I express deep affection and gratitude to actor Lee Je-hoon, with whom I have worked for a long time."

Lee Je-hoon, known for his sincere personality and likable image, received continuous love calls. In June, he established the entertainment company Companion and embarked on standing on his own. This is a meaningful move. Previously, he founded the film production company Hardcut with director Yang Kyung-mo and producer Kim Yoo-kyung. Given his deep affection for films and his direct involvement, the two companies are expected to collaborate flexibly and create synergy.

Lee Je-hoon recently expanded his domain by partnering with the online video service (OTT) Watcha and directing the short film "Blue Happiness." He received praise for his role as taxi driver Kim Do-gi in the SBS drama "Taxi Driver," which ended in May, and is considered a strong candidate for this year's acting awards.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The moves of prominent broadcasters with large followings are also noteworthy. Yoo Jae-suk, after ending his contract with FNC Entertainment in July, headed to Antenna, led by his close friend Yoo Hee-yeol. Beyond personal friendship, the two have worked together professionally and know each other well. They co-hosted JTBC's "Sugar Man" and collaborated on MBC's "Infinite Challenge" and "Hangout with Yoo." Yoo Jae-suk, regarded as a major figure in the industry, deliberated over changing companies but ultimately decided to work with the trusted Yoo Hee-yeol. Although not a solo venture, this is seen as a different path from before.

Jung Hyung-don and Kim Yong-man, whose contracts with FNC expired, also decided not to renew. The two signed contracts in 2015 and were active for six years but recently ended their partnership. The industry is paying close attention to their next choices.

A currently active actor said, "An agency is really important for actors. It's a crucial choice that can determine an actor's career," adding, "Recently, the trend is to choose companies that provide peace of mind. It's also important that the people you work with are flexible and communicate well."

Regarding the increasing number of actors choosing one-person agencies, an agency official said, "With the diversification of channels such as social network services (SNS), there are many ways to express oneself and communicate with fans. Due to these changes, actors no longer need to rely on agencies for promotion and can manage their own PR."

He continued, "For actors with high recognition and good self-management, dependence on agencies is low. This reduces costs and shortens decision-making time, which leads to standing on their own."