[11.01.21] The secret to an idol group’s longevity?

There can never be anyone like them….. Shinhwa You’re the Best!!!

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After DBSK, KARA members also find themselves facing a contractual crisis now. In the midst of idol groups’ contractual disputes with their management companies, an old interview with Shinhwa member Lee Minwoo discussing the secret to Shinhwa’s longevity is now back in the spotlight.

In an interview with High Cut some time back, Lee Minwoo talked about the secret to Shinhwa’s longevity, and also offered some advice to the juniors.

Back then, Lee Minwoo said, “Memories give us the strength to keep Shinhwa going in the hardest of times.”

He said that the Shinhwa members, at 20 years old, had gone through serious arguments and fights, but they have never forgotten the existence of their group. He said, “If one member falls behind, or isn’t in a good state, the other members will pull him along”, showing the unspoken promise among the members.

In the interview, he also talks about how he wants to share with the idol group juniors some tips to longevity.

Lee Minwoo said, “Firstly, to keep the team intact, you must let go of your personal ambition”, which is to say that an excessive desire for financial or career gains is a shortcut to disbandment.

“Secondly, do not compete against one another and make things difficult. Don’t try to make yourself stand out.” He added, “Sometimes a slip of the tongue can lead to serious fights, so the closer your relationship is, the more considerate and careful you have to be.”

“Thirdly, if there are problems, the members have to solve it together. Do not involve your family members or other friends. Talk things out over soju.” Netizens have expressed that this is the advice that KARA should heed.

Lee Minwoo said, “When something as important as contract issues crop up, the members have to coordinate their own opinions first. We determine Shinhwa’s future ourselves, as adults and in a mature way. If there are conflicts or worries, we do as men do and talk it out over drinks.”

KARA members Han Seungyeon, Nicole, Goo Hara and Kang Jiyoung came under the spotlight when they issued a statement on 19 Jan, expressing that they will be terminating their contracts with KARA’s management company DSP Entertainment. This issue escalated when the members’ parents got involved and when news broke out that some members were not aware of the situation.

Goo Hara has apparently decided to stay on with the company after a discussion with the management on the afternoon on 19 Jan.

Credits: Star News + Absolut Shinhwa