Jung Jihoon, The Original Maknae: An H.O.T/Shinhwa Story

An Uncertain Future

February 2001

Jung Jihoon stood in a row along with the graduating class. His highschool years could be described as chaotic with some memorable moments thanks to his classmate Wheesung. He was already famous when he began so the biggest challenge was dealing with fans left and right. Because of it he had to skip many public events. Though Jihoon wasn't complaining, the fame was starting to annoy him. Most of his studies were done at the comfort of his own dorms.

But the baby of the group has finally grown up. Now already considered an adult by most of the world Jihoon hoped to take reigns to his own public persona. He already hinted that he wanted to do something mature which he did by performed Only One near shirtless. The sudden shock sparked conversation about the role of an idol. Essentially, he was pushing the barrier of what an idol can do. He didn't want to stay in that cute baby box forever.

Jihoon's graduation theme

Jung Jihoon stood proud facing the entire SM family who each had a major impact in his young life. H.O.T, S.E.S and Shinhwa sat beside each other while Hana, BoA and the SM trainees sat on the other side where his parents were seated. Seeing this many people made Jihoon tear up a little. Not too long ago he was a farmer's boy living in a backwater town.

"I just want to say first and foremost how happy I am to finally reach this milestone. A lot of people say my story is a classic rags to riches story. I would like to say that it would not have been possible without the people who were there in my life. My parents who provided as much as they could when we were poor, my bandmates who encouraged me to be myself, and the SM family who supported me from behind the scenes.

I want my story to inspire other people, to show that anything is possible if you put your mind through it. Never let society dictate how you live your life. As a friend of mine's who almost lost his life to terminal illness who miraculously survived told me that life is an amusement park ride. You decide how you want to enjoy it, where you want to take it. Hwansung-ah... Thank you for surviving. Now I appreciate life every step I can. As I move to adulthood, I will continue to role model especially to my sister who is starting highschool." Jihoon said giving a long but sentimental speech.

Hwansung spent half of the year in the hospital over a terminal illness that nearly costed his life. This put the young Jihoon on edge as he prayed to every God that his friend would recover. By the grace of God he did, just this year has NRG began promoting.

With their biggest rival Sechkies formally disbanded, left H.O.T as the undisputed group in Kpop. For four years they impacted an entire generation with their angsty lyrics that depicts the youth in an ever-changing world.

Jihoon hoped he would continue to promote H.O.T well into his adulthood.

But fate had other plans...

It all started when the six adults were at the of their CEO Lee Sooman. Now approaching his fifties he has acted as their mentor, guiding them and financing their comebacks. They grew from a small record label to nationwide entertainment company.

As a consequence, Sooman had to think more like a businessman. He passed the paper to each of the boys.

"This is our contacts ajusshi..." Jaewon gasped.

"Why are you showing it to us? Has it already finished?" Heejun asked already aware where the conversation was going.

"You are correct these are your contacts. I have called you six here is because you have finished the time necessary to fufil your contacts. I came to discuss with you what the next course of action will be. There are some discrepancies that I need to share." Sooman stated.

"Discrepancies?... What do you mean? Are we supposed to remain together as six!?" Tony asked.

"You're hiding something ajusshi just say it." Woohyuk demanded.

"I just got graduated Sooman-nim. I was hoping we get to continue with H.O.T." Jihoon said.

"The truth is some of you boys are very popular, more than I ever imagined. Jihoon alone pulls the majority of the group's attention. I was thinking of promoting him more independently for the time being. Maybe Kangta-ssi could also take time to debut as solo artist. We already toured over in China which is an impressive feat, but I do want an Asian tour to Taipei, Singapore, Jakarta, and possibly Bangkok sometime in the summer. For now, I need to prioritize on my most profitable idols and right you're not-" The slam of the desk by Tony was enough to stop Sooman from talking.

"Listen here old man, I have trained my ass off, sinking in hours of work to the point where I felt like passing out!! I flew all the way from U.S to meet you in person and you're telling us to move aside!!? Move aside for who!? Don't forget that the group isn't all about Jihoon even though you promote him like he's some main character. He's not your merchandise and he's damn sure not your cash cow you can cash in from!!" Tony said with hostility.

"H.O.T was made from the backbone of all of six, not just Jihoon!! Don't forget I wrote most of the music y'all love to listen!! I've put too time to be casted as a background character! If you're promote us then do it evenly!" Woohyuk demanded.

"I hear all of your concerns but know I'm doing this to keep the business afloat. You're well aware of the roles you are meant to play. Some just require more attention than others and that requires money which is very important. I will handle Jihoon first-"

Woohyuk threw the papers down in fit of anger before stomping his way out of the building.

"Nah Sooman-nim. With all due respect this is a very stupid idea!! H.O.T is all SIX, not a one-man army!! If you can't respect our wishes then consider this over." Tony walked out.

"Guys, guys aren't you being a little too hasty? He only said it would be temporary." Kangta stepped in.

"Temporary or not he already showed me where his priorities are. I'm not about to throw everything I worked just because of you or Jihoon. Y'all hype this kid for way too long! Stand back Kangta." Tony argued.

"I am going to take my leave too. I haven't said anything out of respect, but I cannot let you do this Sooman-nim even if we're not popular. I have made just as much contribution as Jihoon!! I refuse to to have my work hard ignored. I'm disappointed Sooman-nim. I would have thought our time, you would have our best interests." Jaewon frowned before he took left in disgrace.

Jihoon who stood by silently stood there with a whole set of worries.

"We stood by everything together. This can't be the end. I need you hyungs..." Jihoon left with a heavy heart as the negotiations to determine H.O.T's future remains uncertain.