Earlier than I take a short take a look at a lot of Ok-pop’s smaller businesses, there are a couple of that I’ve extra to say about. Take into account these “bonus” write-ups — shorter than the “massive 4” however longer than a paragraph or two may cowl. 

As normal, the ideas under are my very own and aren’t aware about any insider info. The aim of those articles is to find out how effectively Ok-pop businesses are serving their artists and followers. There shall be loads of subjective critique.

The Good

Although they’re nowhere close to a “massive” company, I like to try Woollim Leisure as a result of they’ve been dwelling to my favourite Ok-pop artists through the years.

I’ve many frustrations with Woollim, however their capability to select songs for his or her artists stays high of the sport. We didn’t get a lot output this 12 months, however new music from Golden Little one and Kwon Eunbi continued to impress. I wasn’t as enamored with all their artists’ 2023 work, however I respect Woollim’s steadfast dedication to strong songwriting that’s largely devoid of overused tendencies. The standard of their music is what retains me coming again for extra, and I can’t say that about many businesses – together with the trade’s most profitable ones.

The Unhealthy

Ooh, boy. Typically I really feel like I’m the kiss of demise in terms of providing reward. I evaluated Woollim with an enthusiastic  “A-“ final 12 months, however their 2023 was removed from unbelievable.

Like I at all times say, I’m not aware about any insider info. Nevertheless, I’m anxious for Woollim. The company has by no means had a 12 months this barren earlier than. Certain, all their artists technically launched one thing in 2023, however no group or soloist managed greater than a three-track single album with minimal promotions. This felt just like the naked minimal Woollim may do for his or her artists, making followers query whether or not the company has the required funds to help their full roster.

Hiatuses between comebacks have been interminably lengthy – together with an immense fifteen-month wait between Korean promotions for Woollim’s most senior group Golden Little one. Attributable to rare (and sometimes truncated) promotions, youthful teams like DRIPPIN and Rocket Punch are dropping the chance to solidify their fanbases. Years in the past, I questioned if the company had bitten off greater than it may chew in terms of their roster measurement. I concern that premonition might have come true.

Whereas I respect Woollim’s basic method to idol administration, I want they’d discover a manner to attract extra consideration to themselves. I’m unsure if it’s resulting from their measurement or lack of monetary pull, nevertheless it’s straightforward to really feel that Woollim isn’t tremendous invested of their artists’ success. Comebacks are continuously introduced with restricted fanfare. Pre-order intervals are quick and teasers are sporadic. I don’t essentially love the “Ok-pop trade recreation,” however Woollim would do effectively to be an lively participant in it.

What I’d wish to see in 2024:

• The company persevering with to exist (severely!)
• Some massive breakthrough that buoys the company’s fortunes
• A couple of single album from every of its artists
• Golden Little one sticking collectively as a bunch and re-signing contracts with superb phrases

Earlier years: 2022 // 2021 // 2020 // 2019 // 2018 // 2017