Publisher: Orange D
ISBN: 979-11-7095-055-4

Other name: Jjan Nae Idol / Photo Essay

Author: PH E&M
Publication Date: November 29, 2023
Format: 173×220mm
Number of Pages: 300 pages

Book Introduction:

The extreme survival story of an unpopular idol member you can’t watch without shedding tears!
“LA Web Fest Grand Prize x Asia Web Awards Grand Prize x Seoul Web Fest Grand Prize”
Winner of three grand prizes, “Jjan Nae Idol” photo essay is now available.

The web drama “Jjan Nae Idol,” which was released on a domestic OTT platform in 2022, has now been published as a photo essay. Upon the drama’s release, it quickly rose to the top spot among domestic OTT web dramas and received the Grand Prize at “LA Web Fest,” “Asia Web Awards,” and “Seoul Web Fest,” along with the Best Actor award. It was also officially invited to the “Buenos Aires Film Festival” and nominated for the “Septimius Awards,” gaining popularity both domestically and internationally. The drama also successfully screened at the world’s largest drama festival, the “Cannes International Series Festival,” showcasing the enthusiastic response from the local audience. “Astro” member Rocky (Park Min-hyuk) plays the role of “Hwi-yeon,” an unpopular member of the idol group “X-Pierce” within the drama. With real idols actively participating in the drama, “Jjan Nae Idol” offers a blend of comedy and reality for fans to enjoy and cherish.

Publisher’s Review:

Struggling to make ends meet, reality is in the negative
There’s only one goal: survival!

Hwi-yeon, who joined X-Pierce as a second-generation member due to the resurgence of their debut music video, finds himself ostracized by fans for not being a part of the first-generation members. He naturally becomes an unpopular member. In order to make a living, he secretly works part-time as a PPL (product placement) promoter for the company and fellow members, but his bank account remains in the negative. “Jjan Nae Idol” realistically portrays the life of a K-pop idol that may appear glamorous but often is far from it. The drama gained significant attention and love from the public as it featured actors actively engaged in real idol group activities. The fantastic chemistry among the five actors who portray X-Pierce members and the witty direction that constantly evokes laughter make “Jjan Nae Idol” stand out in the crowded web drama market.

Rewriting the history of web dramas!
Everything about the well-made K-drama “Jjan Nae Idol”

High-quality still cuts are included generously to ensure a seamless flow of the drama’s actors and storyline. The photo essay consists of 10 episodes, just like the 10-episode drama, and meticulously recreates key scenes and memorable lines to maintain the comedic atmosphere. Additionally, unseen behind-the-scenes photos are included to capture the cheerful and bright atmosphere of the shooting location. To show appreciation for the great and deep love from fans, a limited first edition includes signed prints of the five actors and five photo cards. This book, like a gift, allows you to once again feel the touching moments of the drama, which achieved unparalleled success at domestic and international award ceremonies.

Table of Contents:
Episode 1: My Life Ends If I Get Caught
Episode 2: Let’s Eat and Live a Little
Episode 3: Idol Paparazzi?
Episode 4: Secret Date of an Idol
Episode 5: Goodbye, First Love
Episode 6: The Person I Will Marry
Episode 7: Idol Love Triangle
Episode 8: Teach This Guy a Lesson!
Episode 9: An Unexpected Holiday
Episode 10: We Are X-Pierce, Aren’t We?

Excerpts from the text:

“I am an idol. But I have no fans. I have long since let go of all my pride. I need to earn money.” - Page 18-19

“Sometimes, I feel like I’m a useless existence. People keep moving forward, but I seem to be stuck in one place… At first, I could at least see the side view, but now it seems I can’t even see the back view.” - Page 64

“Yeah, that’s right. I don’t know who came up with it, but it’s a really good saying. Because it’s a comforting word that keeps coming back to you.” - Page 165

“Why, what! They won’t reveal the settlement! Curious? It’s still in the negative!” - Page 263

“We are all similar people. Whether we’re a little ahead, a little behind, or in a slightly different place. It’s just that we’re all people nearby. It’s not because we can’t see, they’re all just people nearby.” - Page 283

“We all once had someone we felt like we would die without, someone who couldn’t get up when we said we should break up. In front of such a person, just silently watching is more helpful than awkward words of comfort.” - Page 299