K-Pop's Real Estate Hunt: Wendy, Lee Seok Hoon, & Yang Se Hyung Explore Seoul's Entertainment Hubs

MBC's popular show 'Save Me! Homes' recently took viewers on an exclusive tour of Seoul's most coveted K-Pop entertainment agency districts. Red Velvet's Wendy, singer Lee Seok Hoon, and comedian Yang Se Hyung transformed into "K-Pop Property Hunters," guiding the audience through the bustling heart of the industry.

Their first stop was Seongsu-dong, home to SM Entertainment. Wendy, a former SM artist, shared nostalgic memories of her commute, highlighting how Seoul Forest Station is colloquially known as 'SMTOWN' station. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with fan-sponsored birthday cafes and diverse subway advertisements, offered a glimpse into the fervent K-Pop fan culture. A unique moment for the show saw bodyguards accompanying Wendy and Lee Seok Hoon, underscoring their immense popularity. The team also delved into SM's enigmatic "KWANGYA" concept, sparking humorous remarks from the hosts.

Next, the trio explored Cube Entertainment's headquarters, also in Seongsu-dong. The first-floor cafe, open to the public, features a stage where trainees undergo their rigorous monthly evaluations. Wendy vividly recounted her own trainee days, detailing the intense scrutiny and high-stakes environment of these assessments. Lee Seok Hoon added his own compelling story, revealing how he lost 15kg in a month to debut, transitioning from 100kg to 64kg. Furthermore, NOWADAYS, a current trainee group at Cube, shared insights into their comprehensive curriculum, which now includes personality education and history quizzes, reflecting the evolving landscape of K-Pop training.

The final leg of their journey led them to YG Entertainment in Mapo-gu. Wendy offered a fascinating comparison between SM's concept-driven approach and YG's emphasis on individual artistry. The tour also shed light on the real estate values surrounding these iconic agencies, showcasing nearby luxury apartments, including a Han River view unit priced at 2.5 billion won. Concluding their unique scouting mission, both Wendy and Lee Seok Hoon expressed renewed motivation, finding fresh inspiration from the dynamic K-Pop landscape, a sentiment sure to resonate with fans worldwide.

Wendy, whose real name is Son Seung-wan, is the main vocalist of the globally renowned K-Pop girl group Red Velvet. Known for her powerful and emotive singing, she has also embarked on a successful solo career and contributed to numerous drama soundtracks. Beyond her musical prowess, Wendy is celebrated for her bright and amiable personality, making her a beloved figure on various South Korean television programs.