Chapter 61: In the Same Frame

ogo reappeared behind them, followed by an unstoppable wave of screams.As cheers died down, the lights went out. After a few seconds of eerie silence, a familiar prelude suddenly started to play."Hell...“Today is the first time our group and Steal Group are appearing on the same music show at the same time. Since this is our first direct confrontation, today’s performance is incredibly important. The other scores currently have little impact, but we need to do our best with live **S voting to secure the #1 spot and give Steal Group fans a good slap in the face!”

“Yeah, those idiotic Big Bang fans’ online bragging about their achievements a few days ago really disgusted me. They barely won in terms of digital streams, and their album sales were crushed by ours, being five or six times lower, yet they act like they completely dominated. Stealing fans is really shameless! Today I'm going to slap them hard back!”

“I also hope that today XO can defeat bigbang and get first place, but I don't think it's very stable. I calculated that the sound source score ratio is very high for 《！》and we may be pulled apart a bit. We definitely have something to do with the sales score, but 《!c》's sales score is only one thousand at full score. If we can't close the gap, it will be really disadvantageous for us. As for the remaining preference scores, social media, and broadcasting scores, I estimate that they are all half a catty and eight taels, the competition is very fierce, so on-site voting should be quite important.”

"Victory is assured! Die scum who steal!"

At this moment, Chi Jingyuan was in the lounge area of "!" two days after the event, browsing his phone. He was looking at the mobilized and combat statements of the fans club members named Ai Li, who were noticeably more active today.

Just as they said, today's Thursday episode of "" is the first time that EXO and BIGBANG, two top boy groups who had hyped up their comeback for a long time, appeared on the same music show together after their simultaneous returns. These two groups, from themselves to their companies and fanbases, have never really gotten along with each other, so today's "" carries a heavy sense of competition and fierce rivalry.

Looking at the tense atmosphere in the fan group, as if anyone who lost today would disband on the spot, even Ji Jingyuan felt a bit helpless.

Actually, both EXO and BIGBANG don't really prioritize music shows anymore. For example, BIGBANG, despite their long debut history and seniority, only participated in a few music shows this comeback due to company and personal reasons. As for EXO, they have won too many times with "M Countdown," so they are somewhat tired of it. When they return now, the most important thing is still promoting and showcasing their stage presence. Many members don't really care about winning first place anymore.

But it's different if these two boy bands lose to each other.

Because besides chasing stars every day and knowing how to look at various charts and data, more senior Kpop fans, a larger group of fans are just casual listeners who occasionally listen to songs and read news. These "passerby fan" don't want to figure out which groups are truly popular based on data and charts like the more dedicated fans. They are simply not interested in that. They prefer something more straightforward and visual.

Although a music program's ranking might not fully capture the overall heat of a group's recent comeback, it can still reflect their performance to some extent. That's why many people prefer using this metric.

And it's the simplest, most intuitive thing.

EXO and Big Bang are facing off directly. Whoever wins will see a significant increase in external and public feedback and evaluations. Many fans even judge the outcome of this battle based on which group places higher.

Although there wouldn't be any significant losses if we lost, it would really hurt our pride.

So someone I didn't used to care much about has suddenly become important because of the opponent.

Without looking, Chi Jingyuan knew. The fans in p's group chat must be just as excited as Alice's side.

"How do you guys feel about today Kinda intense, right" Jinjun Myeon, who was sitting beside him, suddenly spoke up while looking at his phone. It was clear that he too had noticed the atmosphere becoming noticeably more heated.

He just visited several seniors with some members, and he definitely went to BIGBANG's resting room too. Although fans are very against it, and they probably don't like each other much deep down, at least they have to maintain proper etiquette and seniority on the show.

That's not necessarily true in private.

Looking at Kim Jun-myeon, he seems a little nervous, like he's back to his 《wolf》 era, trying to get his first win again.

"I don't know, they all seem pretty similar to me."

"Who knows, it should be fine."

Several members on one side thought about it for a while and then spoke up one after another, but they didn't seem very confident.

The other party's sound source results are really too good. Even a week later, the songs "loser" and "baebae" are still occupying the first and second place respectively, while exo's "lht" has now fallen out of the top few competitive sequences, leaving only "orientation sniper" firmly biting behind, occasionally vying for the second place with "baebae".

But the problem is exo's title track is "lht", not "Orienting Sniper".

For this situation, both S, EXO members, and even Ji-sung himself were somewhat surprised. They didn't expect a lighthearted, sweet song that wasn't the title track to perform so well, with its data even surpassing the title track across all aspects.

"What are you worried about There's nowhere for us to run."

Seeing that the atmosphere in the lounge was a bit stuffy, Ji Jingyuan took out a bag of chocolate bars from his shoulder bag and said in a muffled voice after unwrapping one and biting into it: "Besides, they're already starting to fight now. If we don't even get one reserve spot by then, we'll be dead meat. It's not like only our group and Big Bang are participating today."

Although EXO and BIGBANG have pretty much taken up most of the spotlight, today's idols performing on music shows aren't all invisible. Besides EXID, who had a great comeback this time around, Beast's Hyun Seung, SECRET's Hyoseong, and T-ara's Jiyeon all went solo. They leveraged their group popularity to gain considerable attention and buzz.

As for the rest, things are a bit rough. Ji Jingyuan just glanced at the list of participating guests and saw that there were four or five boy bands performing today, either reunions of old groups or newly debuted ones.

Their luck was really bad this time. They ran into EXO and BIGBANG, who were basically fighting a god-like battle to steal all the spotlight and attention. They put so much effort into performing on stage, but by the end of their comeback period, nobody probably even remembered their name anymore.

"Don't worry, it's absolutely fine."

Bibi then walked over, grabbed a chocolate bar from there, and waved with a smile, radiating confidence and nonchalance. It was as if he had traveled through time from the future, already knowing the outcome.

Yesterday was Bian Xiaoxian's birthday, but there wasn't a special dinner party in the evening to celebrate. They just took a certified photo. After work, this guy was giggling and couldn't wait to say hello. Taking advantage of the manager not being back, he slipped out of the dormitory directly.

Without a doubt, he's probably out on a date with his girlfriend to celebrate his birthday alone. I wonder when he got a new girlfriend.

Of course, this kind of behavior is fine. Let Chi Jingyuan choose for himself. He would definitely choose female friends when celebrating his birthday. Who would want to get together with a man who lives with them every day

I just don't know if my new girlfriend looks like Kim Taeyeon...

Qi Jingyuan glanced at this guy, finding that although he had gotten up very early today, his complexion was indeed quite good. He was full of energy and had a rosy complexion. His usually delicate eyes seemed to be wide open, not like a middle-aged man who was already 35 years old at all.

As if noticing the slightly tense atmosphere of today's singing session, the manager pondered for a moment before walking over and clapping his hands. Seeing that all the members were looking at him, he cleared his throat and gave a few instructions:

No matter who wins the trophy today, we must remain courteous. When the awards are finally given out, clap and smile encouragingly, even if we win, we must manage our expressions well and not give outsiders any reason to criticize. You've all been in the industry for so long, you should understand this.

He makes a good point. While it's natural to be upset after losing, you definitely can't show it. And when you win, even if you're internally thrilled, fans will be ecstatic, but you need to stay humble and not get too cocky. After all, Bigbang are seniors in the industry, and being too showy could negatively impact public perception. The peninsula still places a strong emphasis on seniority and respect between artists.

Actually, everyone knows that already, but they still answered in unison:

"Okay."

……

“Because seniors sang here today, the company got us entrance tickets so we could come in early, but there were so many people queuing up at the door today, it was really scary…”

Remember to tear open the admission ticket issued by the company and stick it over your phone camera lens, otherwise, you might be kicked out by security. Photography with mobile phones is not allowed here.

"Oni, you know so much"

"Of course, I came here to sing with GD oppa before, and I often came to watch the recording live in the past. I even went backstage twice... But it wasn't through the company, my mom brought me. Let me tell you 《！》's backstage is small, the corridors and elevator are especially narrow, much smaller than the other three major stations..."

In the afternoon, several girls with different outfits but all radiating glamour and fashion walked into CJ Center. Led by Kim Ji-ni's effortless grace, they headed towards the performance hall of 《！》 . Along the way, they chatted excitedly, introducing the situation, their voices brimming with self-assurance. Especially after being praised and asked questions, their smiles became even brighter, a star-studded feeling couldn't help but appear in one's heart. With a grin stretching across her round face, she turned it into an oval shape.

Jin Ji-Soo walking beside him was already very familiar with her friend's personality, and even somewhat used to it. Only when she said 'Mommy', he couldn't help but glance at her, secretly curling his lips.

Míngmíng is a native speaker, even though he studied abroad. But it sounds strange when he calls his mother "māmī" instead of "ō mā."

Kim Ji-ni is highly valued by the company due to her family background and personal qualities. Even before her debut, she has received numerous resources. In recent years, she collaborated with Kwon Ji-yong on his solo song and appeared on a music show stage together, sparking significant discussion. In her daily interactions, she naturally comes across as 'real' .

"We're a little late, aren't we" Lisa whispered to herself, watching the staff walking back and forth beside her.

"The Big Bang recording is definitely going to be pre-recorded today. To see their pre-recording, you'd probably have to queue up in the early morning hours. Who can get there so early For EXO, it should be a live performance on-site. Coming early might give you a chance to see their rehearsal, but watching rehearsals too much can actually be quite boring. The movements are perfunctory and they're wearing casual clothes... Plus, they don't necessarily let everyone into the rehearsal."

Kim Ji-yeon, with a seasoned wave of her hand, said: "We're not like ordinary fans chasing after stars for support, we aren't here to watch seniors like EXO and BIGBANG compete for the top spot. So this timing is just perfect."

"Because the recording studio doesn't have a restroom, artists usually come here. Sometimes you can even see some idols hanging around here."

As he passed the restroom, he purposely slowed his pace and glanced inside several times, as if expecting something. Unfortunately, no one came out for several seconds, and he could only walk past with a slight disappointment.

"Eonni, aren't you here to see Yuan" Park Chaeyoung specially turned her head to glance in the direction of the restroom, then turned back to look at Kim Ji-nnie: "I remember you said you had met him privately before What's he like privately Is he good-looking"

"I came to see him, that was one of the reasons." She didn't hide it at all, Kim Ji-eun actually smiled generously: "That was a long time ago, I just saw him once outside the CB entrance. At the time, I didn't look closely...Ji-Soo unnie and Ki-Gyeong have worked together, so she probably knows more."

Facing the gazes of several sisters, Kim Jisoo, who was suddenly caught off guard, looked to her left and then to her right. She recalled the unforgettable experience from earlier this year when they collaborated on an ad together and blinked. "

"

"It's okay."

……

After the rehearsal, all the way until 6 p.m., when the official broadcast started, Chi Jingyuan sat in the resting room playing games and occasionally glancing at the livestream on his display. Today's guests weren't any friends he knew well, so he wasn't bothered to go out and socialize.

However, speaking of it, he was quite fated to have encountered EXID. He had seen them perform on the streets before they became popular and left a deep impression on him. However, after they became famous, there wasn't much interaction between them.

"Jǐngyuán, let's go, we need to do some on-site interviews."

When the broadcast was halfway through, Kim Jun Myeon loudly reminded him, "It's time for the real thing!" Ji Chang Wook hurriedly responded and put away his game console, then followed the other members out.

Although we said it might be a possibility to not win, everyone knows it was just a joke. We came anyway, and the TV station is very aware of what viewers want to see, so today they announced right at the beginning that one of the alternates was BIGBANG and EXO.

The production team is very savvy, they started building the competitive atmosphere between the two boy bands from the beginning. All kinds of rainbow farts were thrown around, leaving people dizzy.

"The return of the superhero who completely disrupted the world of May's music scene!"

"Big Bang and EXO, they ... eback"

"...such as the phrase 'earth-shaking changes like a Martian impact, an overwhelming wave of popularity...' directly ignited the passion of viewers and fans."

And sometimes there are two segments with on-site interviews in the middle of 《！》 .

It's not like this interview happens every time. The past two episodes didn't have it, but this one suddenly does.

"Wow, the top contenders for the fierce trophy competition are bigbang and exo. Please give them a round of applause..."

With a cheer, the live broadcast cameras cut to the interview stage in the studio. Two hosts, Cai Jin and Li Zhengxin, faced the camera. They glanced at the two boy bands standing beside them and, holding their scripts, loudly read their opening remarks.

"Hello everyone, we are bigbang."

"We are one, Anihaseyo, we are EXO."

"Ahhhh..."

And at this time, EXO and BIGBANG, the two hottest boy groups under them, stood on either side and began to introduce themselves. With over ten people together, they filled the entire screen.

On the left, EXO's nine members sport matching blue school uniforms, looking effortlessly cool with a fresh and energetic boyfriend vibe. On the right, BIGBANG members each wear unique outfits, showcasing their trendy and carefree style with studs, chains, ripped pants, and vibrant hair colors that exude hip-hop energy. Notably, Choi Seunghyun even has one green eye.

Because the interview stage was small, both boy bands were already standing together, all smiling at the camera, seemingly without any conflict. They got along very well, as seen between seniors and juniors.

The fans and audience members watching from below erupted in cheers, their screams echoing through the sky.

Fans have been fighting for so long, and finally the main characters ran into each other. This frame is truly a classic.

"First, two groups are tied for first place. So, Big Bang, if you were to become number one, what kind of special encore performance would you have prepared" Kim Ki Bum started by asking with a microphone in hand.

A special encore performance is a promise, an agreement made beforehand. If a certain condition is met, they will do a special performance to thank and reward the fans.

"We'll dance a special dance..." the sun chuckled, taking over the microphone.

Then what about EXO, are there any more contracts

"If we get a one, we'll do a first time relay dance." Kim Jun Myeon nodded and looked at the camera.

"Ah ah…" As soon as she said this, Ai Li below immediately screamed, looking very excited.

Relay dance means there's no movement across the stage. All members stand in a line, and the person at the front dances their part. After finishing, they move to the back of the line, passing the baton to the next dancer until the whole song is danced.

"Wow, I'm really looking forward to it...I'm very curious what kind of encore celebration ceremony will be seen. Everyone must continue watching...So let's take a look at the real-time voting situation so far." Li Zhenshin expressed his expectation in a perfunctory manner, then turned the topic to **S voting.

And upon hearing this, the members of both groups also looked over. No matter how harmonious their smiles appeared on the surface, their hearts were undoubtedly set on winning against the other.

"- bigbang37 percent."

-ex063%

Seeing these data, neither BigBang nor EXO's expressions changed much. They clapped and cheered for each other.

Chi Jingyuan's smile remained unchanged, but in his heart he couldn't help but sigh. Big Bang is truly very powerful, and their fanbase is also incredibly supportive.

Because EXO has participated in so many episodes of "" since their big fire in 2013, the **S voting rate is rarely below 95%.

Aili in the audience burst into laughter, while P's face was clouded with displeasure.

But this is only the data in the middle of the program, **S voting will not end until the end.

"Before we enjoy the amazing stage performance from both groups, yuanxi!" Li Zhengxin nodded and said a sentence before cueing in Ji Jingyuan.

This was agreed upon beforehand, with members of EXO introducing the next performance guests.

"Inside, it's really amazing, the return of t-ara's former senior Eun Jung with a new name called Elsie, her solo debut stage."

Qi Jingyuan responded with a sound, holding the microphone and smiling at the camera, saying the lines he had memorized beforehand, and then everyone made a gesture together.

Let's all enjoy it!

After the interview ended, and seeing the cameras stop recording, the live stream switched away. The two groups on stage, particularly some of the BIGBANG members' smiles immediately faded. They glanced at EXO next to them and then walked directly towards the backstage area. Only Lee Seung-hyun took the time to look back at Ji-won, smiling and nodding his head in greeting.

He waited specifically but didn't go backstage with Big Bang. They chatted and laughed briefly with Kim Gyu-fan, then after allowing some time to pass, EXO also headed towards the backstage.

Just a few steps in, Chi Jingyuan seemed to sense something. He glanced casually at the left side of the audience seats.

A few girls in the crowd were dressed a bit more noticeably and were staring at him intently. One of them had familiar eyebrows and features, but she was too far away to make out clearly.

Chi Jingyuan didn't mind, withdrew his gaze and followed the members into the backstage.

It wasn't until EXO's second-to-last performance that Pool Jiung spotted those girls again as he moved around the stage. The press area was a bit far, so it was hard to make out clearly, but these people were pretty close to the stage. After a quick glance, Pool Jiung immediately recognized the familiar face - it was Kim Ji-soo, who had worked with him on a few commercials at the beginning of the year.

Besides her good looks and photography skills, what impressed Chi Jingyuan the most was her identity as a YG trainee.

That being said, the few beside them are also YG trainees.

Ji Jingyuan took a glance while he wasn't in the center. Meanwhile, Jin Jisoo and her friends seemed to be paying attention to him as well. When they saw his gaze, one round-faced girl smiled very happily, her eyes lit up, and she even stood up and waved at him.

Although the other party seemed very enthusiastic, Ji Jingyuan didn't show much, and soon it was his turn. He naturally withdrew his gaze and walked to the middle position, looking at the camera, focusing on the performance on stage.

Because Big Bang, as the senior group, was the last to appear, EXO was second-to-last on stage. After their performance, it was time for the fans' highly anticipated performances of "Baebae" and "Loser".

Chi Jingyuan also watched the bigbang stage on the display, to be honest, the design is really unique.

Although Big Bang debuted as an idol group, besides the first few years where they performed energetic dances, in recent years their performances have mostly consisted of simple movements and hand gestures. They rarely do any intense choreography anymore, sometimes just standing still and swaying their bodies slightly to pass it off as dancing.

That being said, sometimes the stage can appear monotonous and boring. To enhance the overall performance effect, other aspects need to be addressed, including set design, props, lighting, and costumes.

Right now, YG is doing really well on this side. Even without any complex dance moves, the overall effect of both stages is very eye-catching. At least the atmosphere is created.

By the time Big Bang finished their performance, all the performers and guests had gathered at the backstage exit and walked onto the stage together. EXO stood on the left side of the front row C position, facing Big Bang who had just finished performing.

Now it's time to see who prevails.

"Great! The first week of May, “[!]”, the competition between two top male groups BIGBANG and EXO, the final result of their showdown…"

Kim Ki-bum held the script, pointing at the camera with excitement all over his face:

"Now, let it be known!"

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Traditional Chinese Novels Networky outstanding. However, because he's so polite, people often overlook this fact. Even with such a good background, he remains so humble and well-mannered. His upbringing and character are truly admira...