On June 9 KST, fans were treated to a rare candid conversation as actors So Ji Sub and Taecyeon appeared as guests on the popular online talk show “Zzanbro,” hosted by Shin Dong Yup. While the conversation covered various topics, one particular revelation from Taecyeon resonated deeply with fans, shedding light on his decision to join So Ji Sub‘s agency, 51K.
For years, Taecyeon was a prominent figure under JYP Entertainment, a company synonymous with his idol group, 2PM. However, as his contract neared its end, the multi-talented artist found himself at a crossroads, navigating the complex world of agency hunting. His primary condition? An unwavering commitment to his identity as a member of 2PM.
“I used to be with JYP Entertainment,” Taecyeon shared. “When I started looking for a new agency, I had several conditions in mind—and one of them was that I wanted to continue as a member of 2PM.”
This seemingly straightforward request, however, proved to be a hurdle with many potential agencies.
“There were quite a few companies that didn’t like that,” he revealed. “Many said, ‘If you’re going to keep doing that, then you should officially retire from idols and fully transition to acting.’”
The industry often pressures idols to make a definitive choice between their musical careers and their burgeoning acting pursuits. Yet, Taecyeon’s loyalty to 2PM, the group that propelled him to stardom, remained steadfast. It was this commitment that ultimately led him to 51K, So Ji Sub’s agency.
Taecyeon recalled the pivotal conversation with his current agency’s CEO.
“He told me, ‘We’re fine with you continuing music. So Ji Sub does it too. We never stop our actors from pursuing what they want.’ That gave me the biggest reassurance,” he emphasized.
So Ji Sub also chimed in to explain his own unique musical journey, further validating 51K‘s philosophy.
“There’s a reason I love hip-hop and keep releasing songs. I like to sing when I meet fans—but I’m actually a bit tone-deaf. I used to cover other songs, but eventually I wanted to perform my own. That’s how I ended up with nine albums. I never perform elsewhere—only in front of my fans.”
Meanwhile, fans can look forward to seeing Ok Taecyeon back on the small screen very soon! He is set to return in KBS2TV’s upcoming drama “The First Night With the Duke”, which is scheduled to premiere on June 11.
