Kim Seon Ho sparks backlash amid reports that Fantagio signed him for 2 billion KRW to 'prepare for Cha Eun Woo's enlistment'
Reports have claimed that Kim Seo Ho was offered a hefty sum, 2 billion KRW to be precise, by Fantagio as a signing bonus. According to K-media reports, the agency is putting its weight behind the actor as Cha Eun Woo will soon enlist in the military.
South Korean actor Kim Seon Ho has recently joined entertainment company Fantagio in a lucrative deal that reportedly includes a staggering 2 billion KRW ( $1.4 million) signing bonus. However, this move has come under scrutiny, as signing bonuses have largely become a thing of the past in the industry. The hefty sum has sparked speculation among fans, with many wondering what motivated Fantagio's generous offer.
According to K-media reports, Fantagio's move is strategic. Industry insiders have claimed that the company aims to fill the big shoes of ASTRO member and actor Cha Eun Woo, who is expected to enlist in the military soon, with Kim Seon Ho.
Kim Seon Ho joins Fantagio with a signing bonus of 2 billion KRW: Report
On March 1, Fantagio officially announced that Kim Seon Ho has signed an exclusive contract with the agency. The agency praised the actor, saying, "He is an actor who has received great love for his stable acting skills and unique charm in various fields." The statement added that it plans to provide full support for Kim Seon Ho's future projects. The actor was previously managed by Pohang.
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Our Congrats Gift to you is on the way...??? #KimSeonHo pic.twitter.com/gIgDUxKvWi
Fans were stunned by the actor's decision to join Fantagio, as previous reports suggested he would sign with HighZiumStudio, the agency representing Song Joong Ki. However, the actor reportedly had a change of heart at the last moment after he was offered a sign-on fee of 2 billion KRW from Fantagio. This is said to be the biggest buyout for any actor in the Hallyu history.
Fantagio brings Kim Seon Ho onboard as Cha Eun Woo's replacement
According to a report by allkpop, industry insiders reveal that Fantiago's decision to sign Kim Seon Ho comes ahead of Cha Eun Woo's military enlistment. The Korean media outlet reported Fantaigo aims to "prepare for singer/actor Cha Eun Woo's vacancy upon his enlistment for mandatory military service."
'Is he seriously worth that much?': K-netzs questions Fantagio's decision
Fantagio's decision to sign Kim Seon Ho for an alleged sum of 2 billion KRW has sparked criticism, given the actor has yet to deliver a hit after his controversy following the success of the 2021 K-drama Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha.
One netizen, as reported by allkpop, asked, "2 billion?? Is he seriously worth that much??" Another, meanwhile, remarked, "Wow, am I literally witnessing this dumb company throwing away the money that Cha Eun Woo made in the trash?"
"A replacement for Cha Eun Woo???? I'm sorry, what?????" said another user. One K-netz noted, "This guy is not going to make even a fraction of what Cha Eun Woo makes lol."
For those who may not be aware, Kim Seon Ho's success with the popular tvN drama soon turned into a horror story after he was accused by an alleged ex-girlfriend of forcing an abortion. The actor extended an apology but disappeared from the limelight shortly after. However, he is all set to make a comeback with the upcoming Netflix drama Can This Love Be Translated?
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As an Entertainment Content Writer with 3+ Years of experience, I have been keeping a keen eye on who wore what. A self confessed Koreaboo, I am your fangirl next door. Ps: I take pride in saying that I grew up watching "It's Controversial" as a kid.
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