By Order of the Peaky Blinders: K-Pop's Back in China?

Gambling on a New Stage

Right so Hybe the boys behind BTS have set up shop in China. An office. Fancy that. They've been planning this since last year apparently. It's like setting up a new betting shop – gotta scout the territory see what the odds are. They’ve got branches in Japan and the States too but no rookies for China the Koreans aren't daft. They know a storm is brewing but for now we just gotta sit back and wait for the moment. 'Everyone's a whore Grace. We just sell different parts of ourselves.' And right now they're selling a bit of K Pop to the Chinese.

The Price of Forgiveness

Word is Beijing’s easing up on the K Pop ban. Seems they need a bit of a boost what with the economy and trade talks hitting a snag. They are not 'a man who enjoys looking at severed heads,' so they're giving the people what they want and what they need. China's waving visas for South Koreans and South Korea will return the favour. It's all part of the game isn't it? A little give and take.

Deals with Devils and Dragon

Hybe is flogging its stake in SM Entertainment to China's Tencent Music. Now I know a thing or two about making deals with devils and Tencent seems to be making friends with all the K Pop heavyweights. As Kim from HSBC puts it these fan platforms like Weverse could be bigger than they think. It is all about the 'family,' but this family goes way beyond Small Heath.

Roads Paved with Broken Records

Don't think it'll be smooth sailing. Group Epex had to cancel a gig in Fuzhou. 'Issues,' they say. I've heard that one before. Could be anything from the police wanting a cut to someone not liking the lyrics. Either way K Pop's comeback tour might have a few flat tires. Never trust anyone who says they like a challenge. It is the cowards who are full of warnings.

Shares and Shadows

Hybe's shares took a dip. Small fry. They'll bounce back. The thing about K Pop see is it's not like selling cars or chips. It's digital. Intangible. Can't slap a tariff on a song. Fans will buy the records and merchandise as well 'cause they are so infatuated with the 'idols.' So the Koreans are playing their cards right. They are not alone as I am also playing my cards right.

The Future is Unwritten (but Profitable)

So what does it all mean? The Chinese market's opening up and K Pop's ready to cash in. But nothing's ever certain is it? This is just another gamble another move on the board. And like any good game it all comes down to who's got the nerve to see it through and I always have the nerve to see it through.