Five Things We Learned About The K-Pop Industry From 'My Lovely Girl'

“My Lovely Girl” (She’s So Lovable) concluded this week, with an interesting ending for Hyun Wook (Rain) and Se Na (Krystal Jung). Shiwoo (INFINITE’s L) may have received the short-end of the stick, in terms of his one-sided love. However, the series concluded with Shiwoo as the the top idol at the fictitious ANA Entertainment. Shiwoo demonstrated his marketability as a solo artist, having been abandoned by his former group, Infinite Power. While he initially struggled to find an appropriate concept, he developed into a vocalist who was recognized for endearing songs.

The on-screen chemistry between Rain and Krystal remains a hotly contested debate between K-Drama viewers. “My Lovely Girl” may have hit some roadblocks in terms of romance but the plot devices employed throughout the series involving Korean entertainment make the show a must-see for K-Pop fans.

Ever wonder why a relationship that was announced one month seems to have dissolved by the next? “My Lovely Girl” tackles this issue towards the conclusion of the series.

Breakups of popular groups during the height of their fame is another relevant issue which was addressed during the series. While “My Lovely Girl” may have been billed as a romantic drama, watching it from the perspective of industry analysis makes it ten times more entertaining.

Here are ten things related to K-Pop and the Korean entertainment industry, that were featured in “My Lovely Girl.”

1. Photos supporting a dating scandal don’t always show what the tabloids want you to believe.

Episode fifteen of “My Lovely Girl” confronts the rumored relationship between Shi Woo and his songwriter, Se Na. Shi Woo confesses to having romantic feelings for Se Na during a radio broadcast, which serves as confirmation for media speculation surrounding the artists. Tabloid media uses this confession along with photos depicting Shi Woo congratulating Se Na after a music chart show win for a song she composed as relationship confirmation.

The dating rumors of Se Na and Shi Woo were an on-going theme of “My Lovely Girl.” Previously, photos depicting Shi Woo and Se Na in a compromising position were published causing Se Na to lose her job at ANA. This story arc presents fans with the concept that what is captured in tabloid photos and what is published may not always be a reflection of reality.

2. A relationship that ends in less than a month may not have been a real relationship.

Along the same lines of the photos, an announced relationship may not necessarily be a real relationship. In episode fifteen, ANA Entertainment responds to the photo scandal by announcing that Se Na and Shi Woo are actually dating. The management decides that it is better to pretend that the two are dating, in order to save face for Shi Woo, who publicly confessed during the radio broadcast.

3. Fans don’t realize that members of a group may be fighting, when they are not in the spotlight.

One of the most interesting aspects of “My Lovely Girl” was that the plot involving the breakup of the fictitious group Infinite Power unfolded at the same time that news regarding Jessica’s departure from Girls’ Generation was revealed to the public. Shi Woo is forced out by the other members of Infinite Power, who harbor resentment because he was the last addition to the group.

4. Your favorite idol may have had little input for their comeback concept. 

Shi Woo is initially stressed out by the notion of having to deliver a solo vocal performance. He turns down a ballad composed by Se Na, in favor of an intricate dance concept. In the end, he regrets choosing to dance rather than developing stronger vocals. Over the course of “My Lovely Girl,” Shi Woo develops into a strong soloist who advocates for the concepts and artists he is interested in collaborating with.

5. K-Pop is a business which is influenced by financial backing.

Shi Woo initially accepts Se Na’s song but decides to go against using her track for a solo debut. While he remained conflicted, Shi Woo settles on accepting a song from a well-known songwriter. As the president of ANA, Hyun Wook is forced to support this decision, following threats that financial backing will be removed. “My Lovely Girl” demonstrates the nuanced, behind-the-scenes maneuvers which may determine which songs are going to be the latest K-Pop hits.

Besides providing a fictitious look at the creative process behind songs, the struggle of trainees is a key part of "My Lovely Girl." There are trainees who toil in obscurity, while others are placed into the spotlight. As agencies like YG and SM Entertainment continue to reveal their trainees, it is an interesting concept to remember.

Tags
My Lovely Girl
She's So Lovable
Rain
jung ji hoon
Infinite's L
Krystal Jung
f(x) Krystal
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