Chapter 21: The Commute

s the VCR filmed by Sun Naeun and others before, to attract viewers' attention, the TV station directly invited 34 groups, a total of 125 idol and singers to participate in this song recording.This in..."You worked hard..."

Then we'll take our leave.

After Pool Kyung-won and the members waved goodbye to the staff and host, Liu Rin-na, they left the studio with their manager.

Today is March 5th…… It's already the 6th after twelve o'clock. They just finished recording KBS radio show "Liu In Na's V-Up", today's last schedule on the 5th is finally over, EXO members who have been busy for a whole day can finally breathe a sigh of relief.

The manager and assistant were walking in the front, big strides. The EXO members each held a drink and a backpack, strolling behind them. The elevator was a bit too small, so the manager and his team went down first. While EXO waited for the next one nonchalantly, Kim Jong-in casually tossed his backpack back and, recalling the recording scene just now, he smacked his lips: “Speaking of which, senior Liu Renna’s figure is really great, did you guys notice…”

Since we're all friends, you don't have to be so polite, do you

Park Chan-yeol let out a yawn and glanced around. Besides EXO, there were no outsiders present. He mumbled sleepily,

Kim Jong-in also took a look around and smiled.

“Her figure is indeed quite good. It's really impressive that she can maintain herself so well at this age.” Wu Shixun nodded thoughtfully, analyzing in the manner of an experienced person, then curiously asked, “By the way, are Liu Renna and Ji Hyun-woo already broken up”

“They probably broke up a long time ago. I remember that just two days after announcing their relationship, Park Hyun-woo went into the military, and then more than a year later, just two days after he was discharged, they announced their breakup…” Park Chan-hyeok seemed to have been paying close attention, skillfully outlining the course of their relationship. In the end, he added: “In that case, I don’t know what the point of making it public was. It felt like they were just hyping up their relationship before Park Hyun-woo went into the military.”

Ji Jingyuan listened with a nod of agreement. His thoughts were similar to Park Chan-wook's.

Speaking of it, she seems quite similar to Yoona sunbae and the others. Last year at the beginning, when their relationship was just exposed, I heard that Lee Seung Gi was going to enlist. At that time, some people speculated that it was a hype, but after a year, there's still no confirmation.

Isn't this hype

The elevator opened, and six people walked in together, pressing the button for the first floor.

Unless it's a very important radio station, EXO usually wouldn't come together for this kind of schedule. Today, only 6 members came.

"Maybe they started dating a while ago, and just happened to make it public then... Isn't Liu Ren Na currently single" Kim Jong-in raised an eyebrow with a lively expression, he seemed really interested in the topic. It was a stark contrast to his subdued demeanor during the radio recording earlier when he barely spoke for hours. His playful side was on full display.

"You're really interested Didn't you stop talking to that girl you were flirting with before"

"Which one are you talking about... I was just asking."

"No, there's quite an age difference, isn't there"

When it comes to female artists, the conversation suddenly heated up after we finished collaborating with a few actresses. The late hour sleepiness seemed to dissipate, and the elevator became lively in an instant.

"Who knows, looking at her, she doesn't seem like someone who has been single for a long time... Do you want me to ask my friend to get in touch" Park Chan-leek touched his chin and analyzed it based on his own experience. However, before Jin Jong-in could reply, he quickly raised his head and waved his hand at the other person: "But I don't think there's much of a chance. Actress eyes in this circle are pretty sharp, even if they date, they rarely choose idol singers. The two circles are quite different."

"An actor Then why not let Jingyuan try it out, our beloved Han Peninsula rising star actor representative taking the stage is definitely no problem. Besides, haven't I heard that IU and Liu Renna have a good relationship It would also be a good opportunity to get acquainted with IU."

"Jingyuan needs to know IU through someone else I guess he already has IU's contact information."

“Ding!” The elevator reached the first floor. Exo walked out of the elevator, their spirits high. Wu Se-hun chuckled and smirked upon hearing this, very familiar with Ji Kyung-won’s way: “But I remember he doesn’t like girls much older than him. Back when we weren't famous, during our debut year, he even got rejected by Rabow’s captain because of that.”

"You said that, and it suddenly came to me! Back then during "Idol Sports", Kim Jaekyung from [アイドル運動會] even came up to flirt with me... So it turns out Jingyuan likes younger women."

Park Chan-ryeok nodded in understanding, but then looked at Ji Seong-won walking ahead with surprise. "Then how is he with Jeon Somi..."

Originally, Ji Jingyuan was happily listening to gossip beside someone else when he suddenly realized that he had become the center of attention. He helplessly glanced at several gossipmongers and instinctively quickened his pace, walking out of the KBS gate first.

How come your mouth is so talkative

As soon as they stepped out the door, a cold wind hit them. Leaving the warmth of the air-conditioned interior made EXO's members a little uncomfortable. They hurriedly pulled up their collars. Park Jung-won directly put on the hoodie's hat.

Although March has arrived and daytime temperatures have risen considerably, the night air still carries a biting chill.

It was already past two in the morning, but KBS building was still dazzling with lights. There were quite a few staff members coming in and out, not looking like it was nearing midnight at all.

Exo walked a few steps towards the parking lot outside. Park Kyung-soo casually glanced at his surroundings and suddenly noticed that there were ten or so girls standing by the roadside outside the KBS gate, with EXO cheering banners that he was very familiar with placed beside them. After being stunned for a moment, he curiously turned back to the members and asked, "Are those our fans"

A few people went to take a look as well. Kim Junmyeon confirmed and nodded: “It should be, I also saw the EXO logo.”

"What are they doing here so late Aren't they hiding us"

The hoodie's hat was a little big, with the drooping brim reaching down to her eyelashes. Chi Jingyuan tilted his head slightly and looked at the girl over there, blinking in surprise.

It's past two in the morning now, and most shops in Seoul have already closed. The streets are deserted with hardly any cars passing by. Only KBS, a television station related to the entertainment industry, seems lively.

"No, our radio broadcast this time was pre-recorded. There was no announcement on the official website about this schedule, so fans should not have known... I guess it's either fans who are waiting for us to go to work tomorrow morning on 'Music Bank', or fans who were selected to watch our stage recording."

"That's so early, isn't it I thought everyone just lined up to enter around 5 or 6..." Ji Jingyuan looked in that direction, his gaze filled with a complex shimmer upon hearing this.

Under the dim streetlights, ten or so girls gathered on the roadside. Some sat on the curb holding their phones, seemingly looking at something intently. Others huddled together in small groups, clutching cheering supplies and whispering to each other. Some seemed to be cold from the temperature and sat shivering, constantly stamping their feet beside them to warm up, the muffled sounds echoing distinctly in the darkness.

The brightly lit KBS building cast a hazy glow, mixing with the dim streetlights and illuminating their faces. But under the light, these fans' faces looked so blurry, their features barely discernible.

Chi Jingyuan glanced at the time, it was 2:30 am on March 6th.

At a time when everyone else is asleep, fans are already gathering at the KBS building, waiting for EXO's commute to work and stage recording tomorrow morning.

"...".

Upon hearing Kim Jun Myeon's words, several EXO members couldn't help but glance in that direction. The previously intense conversation seemed to dissipate out of nowhere, and the entire team fell silent. After a while, someone let out a soft sigh and said, "Let's go," before the six of them walked straight towards the parking lot without drawing attention from the dozen or so fans nearby.

The nanny car roared to life, sped out of the parking lot, and raced across the deserted road, leaving only a trail of engine noise behind.

……

The next morning, exo was called up by their manager despite only having slept for a few hours after returning late last night. Under the manager's physical urging, they washed their face, picked out some clothes, and went to the beauty salon in a daze to begin getting ready.

> Having already passed the rookie period and become a top idol group, EXO no longer needs to go through the same routine as when they first debuted. They wouldn't have to queue up early in the morning to get their hair and makeup done anymore. Now, they usually bring their own stylists and head directly to the waiting room at the music show studio to get ready.

However, since today is their first comeback recording for "Music Bank," the company anticipated that many fans would be waiting outside the building. Instead of having them protect their bare faces with masks and hats, it's better to go directly after styling so they can greet the fans as a way of giving back.

As one of the three major music show broadcasts, "Music Bank" is a must-attend for idols making comebacks. Therefore, KBS's commute route is very famous among fans.

The "Going to Work" segment is a unique feature of Music Bank. It takes place right outside the KBS building, essentially a small courtyard separated from fans by a fence and retractable gate. The idols walk from their car in the parking lot through the courtyard gates to the building entrance – that's the "going to work" route.

This also gave the best opportunity for fans who wanted to see their idols in person. Their idols' comeback performance on "Music Bank", as long as they go there early and wait, they are sure to see their idols going to work.

Because you can get close to your idols without constraints and even have a chance to chat, this has also made the entrance of KBS a holy land for countless fans and tourists to squat idol and check in.

But if you want to see idols, it's not just limited to KBS. You can also do it at . Although doesn't have a commute road, fans can enter the first floor of the studio waiting area. Sometimes, the recording idols will come out to buy things or use the restroom. At this time, if you happen to be there, you can go up and interact with them. Even if you are bold enough, you can even follow them into the restroom.

A book friend I've known for ten years recommended this app to me, HuanYuan App! It's really useful. I use it to listen to audiobooks while driving or before bed to pass the time. You can download it here: .huanyuanapp

But for popular groups like EXO, they wouldn't announce when they go to television stations for recording. They might come at noon, or even super early in the morning, perhaps before dawn. So if you want to wait and see them, you have to arrive very early to make sure you don't miss them.

Like the dozen or so fans who had been squatting at his doorstep since last night, really left Chi Jingyuan a bit shaken.

Even though he had never seen the other person's face and didn't even know their name, he left a deep impression on him.

"xo is here, xo is here…"

"Ah!!!"

After getting off the bus, he hadn't even taken two steps forward when Chi Jingyuan heard a piercing shout. This was followed by countless chaotic screams and discussions, merging together into a cacophony of sound. From a slightly greater distance, it was impossible to hear what they were shouting about at all.

The path ahead was already lined with countless fans on both sides. They gathered there, forming a sea of people that was overwhelming and impressive to look at. Next to them, KBS staff in yellow work uniforms were diligently maintaining order.

As soon as exo made an appearance, a flurry of camera clicks filled the air. Many fans in attendance were equipped with professional DSLRs featuring large lenses and tripods. Others had more basic cameras, while some simply used their smartphones. The sheer volume of photography equipment, with its long and short lenses resembling weapons, was quite impressive.

Those in the front row could still aim at the focus and snap pictures. Those in the back row, who couldn't get a good spot, could only raise their cameras high and press the shutter button, capturing whatever was in frame.

However, there were also more professional photographers in the back rows. They might have brought foldable stools or ladders beforehand and stood very high, being quite noticeable. They took pictures from a superior position, quickly snapping away with their cameras.

"...

"

Nine EXO members walked briskly toward the KBS gate, smiling brightly and greeting the cheering fans along the way. They were truly professionals at their idol work.

"Yuan! Yuan, look this way, look this way!"

Chi Jingyuan was also smiling and waving non-stop to the fans beside him. After hearing a sharp and somewhat familiar shout, he followed the sound and looked over. A somewhat familiar female fan holding a high-end camera could be seen, wondering how long it took to grab such a good position.

Chi Jingyuan recognized her as a fansite manager who often attended events. They were somewhat familiar faces. He smiled brightly at the camera and made a scissor hand gesture. Seeing his response, the fansite manager was very satisfied and immediately frantically pressed the shutter button.

To be honest, Ji-won is no longer complaining about being woken up early this morning by his manager. Instead, he's quite grateful. If he hadn't gone to the beauty salon earlier for styling, the members would have disguised themselves and come to work dressed formally, rushing through the crowd in a hurry.

That always feels a little bit unfair to Alice, who's been so enthusiastic and here waiting for so long.

But I guess it's just back to their first "Music Bank" day, they also can't get up early every time to do their styling before coming.

After the other party took a few pictures, he also hurried to catch up with the front group of XO. At the same time, he scanned his surroundings with inquiring eyes, as if expecting to see those fans who had been waiting there since last night. Although he couldn't see their faces clearly yesterday, he felt that if they made eye contact, he should be able to tell.

It's just too bad, there are too many people. I walked in the door and couldn't find anyone.

The entrance to KBS was already surrounded by fans, the retractable gate only opened a small slit for the idols to enter. With the help of staff and assistants, EXO finally squeezed their way through the crowd.

There are two designated spots in the courtyard for photos. Most idols will stand at each spot in turn, making it convenient for fans to take pictures. This also increases exposure for the idols.

But EXO usually only stands at one point....

"1, 2, 3, we are one, Annyeonghaseyo, we are EXO."

But as soon as they stepped through the door, EXO lined up, gave a thumbs-up, shouted their signature slogan, and bowed to the fans and reporters. Immediately after, a barrage of flashbulbs went off incessantly, bathing the faces of all nine members in a blinding white light.

Even specially trained people like Chi Jingyuan can't help but feel overwhelmed. Though he keeps smiling, his eyes are slightly squinting because the light is simply too intense.

"Have a look over here!"

After turning several directions to allow fans from different locations to finish filming, the short shooting time came to an end quickly. After EXO once again bowed and said goodbye to their fans, they strode into the KBS building. This return's song "Music Bank" on-the-way shoot has perfectly concluded.

After them, the next male group to appear onstage caused a significant shift in the atmosphere. The previously boisterous cheers and screams instantly faded away, replaced by a sense of quiet curiosity. Many spectators simply observed the group without much enthusiasm. During the photo session, aside from some diehard fans, even the press seemed somewhat perfunctory in their engagement.

This vastly different treatment also made many onlookers and fans sigh in their hearts. As the same male group, the gap is immeasurable.

"Oh dear, how did we choose this time to come back We just happened to run into you guys during your XO."

"If I were to be left with no women at all, that would be a huge loss of face."

Yixing was in EXO's resting room hugging Kim Jun Myeon and screaming, he also repeatedly patted the sofa as if very regretful.

The Super Junior sub-unit d&e, composed of Eunhyuk and Donghae, will officially return on March 9th. They will be recording their debut stage on 'Music Bank' today. Just now, EXO members Kim Junmyeon and Park Channyeol actively visited their waiting room as juniors. The two felt a bit bored after they were done with their visit so they went back to EXO's waiting room right after styling. Sitting on the couch, they chatted freely like they were not outsiders at all.

Before they could even wait a moment, it seems word got around. Solo's member Aber from fx also came running over and joined in the commotion. This week all the artists participating in *Music Bank* gathered together in the waiting room, causing quite a lively scene for a while.

Also thanks to EXO's popularity and large number of members, the program team gave them a very spacious resting room. Otherwise, there wouldn't be enough space for so many people.

"Jia, look at how popular and powerful their "xo" people are right now. Even if our whole team returns and clashes with them head-on, I estimate we wouldn't even be able to take down one of them, let alone the two of us. Don't even think about it..."

Lee Donghae seemed a little listless, leaning on the sofa with sighs.

"Isn't it strange that you chose this time to return"

"I chose it Alice, don't talk nonsense! It was clearly arranged by the company... no, you chose it!"

The two veteran male idol group members were practically about to come to blows in front of their juniors. They kept pointing fingers at each other, blaming and shifting responsibility back and forth. Even Ji Kyeong-won couldn't help but laugh at the sight.

Now that sj has been debuting for so many years, they don't seem to place much importance on their achievements. Comparatively speaking, they might value face more.

However, to be honest, returning to focus on EXO means not being able to get first place on music shows, which is not really a shameful thing.

What they said wasn't too exaggerated either. Everyone could see the momentum EXO had with this comeback. They were definitely going to take the #1 spot on music shows, unless after XO-3's three crowns, maybe someone could snag a couple to console themselves.

"Sigh..." Even Aber next to her let out a sigh at the right time. Her solo performance this time was really quite average, even failing. Since the album release on February 16th, she hadn't achieved a single first place yet. She had been hoping to at least accumulate two or three weeks and snag a first place to make up for it...

>>>

The group is now in such a state of limbo, with members starting to consider individual career paths. They finally got a chance for a solo project but the results were disappointing. To be honest, I haven't been feeling very good lately.

I felt that Abe was a little down, so Ki-seong glanced over in his direction. However, he found himself thinking of his deceased classmate Choi Sulli from the same year.

I haven't contacted her in the last two days, and I don't know what she's busy with since there aren't many group activities on fx these days.

A group of artists chatted together for a while, and after the set was built, EXO was called out by the staff to start rehearsing on stage.

By the second week, there was only one song on stage during the performance, "". It still had a carefully designed camera language and was filmed in a continuous take throughout.

The stage rehearsal was finished, and I went to record an interview for "One Substitute Candidate" today. Then I sat in the waiting room, waiting for the live broadcast to begin tonight.

……

In the first week of March 2015 on Music Bank live broadcast, who will Exo and VIXX become number one... please reveal the scores!

At this moment, Park Seo-joon and Yoon Bo-ra are standing in the center of the stage delivering their hosting remarks. The two nominees for tonight's award, EXO and VIXX, are standing on either side of c, looking at the screen in front of them.

Ji Jingyuan looked pretty relaxed and even had time to observe his surroundings. A few EXO members seemed visibly worried about whether they could get their first #1 on a music show since their comeback today, while the VIXX members were more anxious, staring intently at the screen with wide eyes.

"Audio source score: 3327 to 1621."

"Audience favorability: 598 to 0."

"Broadcast score: 265 against 1390."

"Record score: 8491 to 4342."

"Total score..."

"EXO to VIXX 7353."

"Today's honor belongs to exo, Carmine!"

Peninsula asteroid

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