"New York Is the Gateway to the World Stage... Only Well-Prepared Performances Survive"

Advice from the Planner Behind Jo Sumi's Harlem Concert and K-pop Auditions
Im Ohhyuk, CEO of Better Solution

New York is the heart of the global performing arts industry. With countless venues concentrated in the city, it is more than just a cultural space-it serves as a stage where the competitiveness of content is rigorously tested in the global market. Achieving success in front of audiences gathered from across the United States and around the world not only proves one’s competitiveness but also becomes a crucial stepping stone for expanding onto the world stage.

Im Ohhyuk, CEO of Better Solution

Im Ohhyuk, CEO of Better Solution, who has been planning performances and events based in Manhattan, New York, and New Jersey for over 20 years, emphasized on the 10th (local time), "A performance in New York is not just a challenge, but a business project that must be approached with a systematic strategy."

Im is a performance planner who has hands-on experience producing local events, ranging from classical concerts and K-pop auditions to crossover performance projects. Major projects he has overseen include the 2023 charity concert in Harlem, New York, by world-renowned soprano Jo Sumi, and the "K-Fan Festival" New York audition in 2025, aimed at discovering the next generation of K-pop stars.

He remarked that "costs are high and audience standards are extremely rigorous" when it comes to performing in New York, adding, "If you are not thoroughly prepared, simply holding a performance carries no significance in the market." Based on his experience planning numerous performances and observing failures around him, he explained that success is difficult without meticulous preparation.

Im advised that, above all, it is crucial to clearly define the purpose of a performance in New York. He classified performance objectives into three categories: "branding type," which aims to imprint the image of the artist or agency in the global market; "market validation type," which assesses the potential for future tours, investment, and expansion based on the response of New York audiences; and "profit type," which achieves tangible results through ticket sales and sponsorships based on fandom. He explained that a clear objective allows for consistent concepts and operational strategies.

He stressed, "If the purpose of the performance is unclear, every decision, from the concept to budget management, becomes unstable. In New York, such ambiguity inevitably leads to failure."

Given that schedule changes and unexpected variables are frequent in New York performances, budget management is also of great importance. Im stated, "Even minor schedule delays or additional requests immediately lead to increased costs. Without a contingency fund, you have no options on site. Budget management is a 'survival tool.'" He added that, in addition to venue, technology and equipment, and labor costs, it is advisable to secure 15-20% of the total budget as contingency funds.

Contracts and operational structures were also identified as key factors determining the success or failure of a New York performance. Im pointed out, "If the contract does not specify the scope of responsibility and schedule for the venue, equipment, artists, and staff, as well as insurance conditions, it may lead to disputes or operational disruptions." He further advised, "By separating planning, operations, technology, and publicity, and documenting each person’s authority and decision-making lines in advance, you can respond without confusion during rehearsals, the main performance, or unexpected situations."

Im described New York as a "proving ground for the global market" for performance planners. He said, "Only through thorough preparation can you enhance the quality of your performance and verify the potential for future business expansion."

Finally, he emphasized, "New York values authenticity and preparedness over scale. If your content is sincere and meaningful, it can deeply resonate with the audience, even on a small stage." He added, "With systematic planning, clear goals, a responsible team, realistic budget management, and thorough technical preparation, New York can offer the best opportunities for branding and growth."