Kim Jang-hoon: "Monthly sales at my grilled fish restaurant hit 350 million won, but I'm lowering ticket prices"

Singer Kim Jang-hoon has signaled his full-scale transition into entrepreneurship, revealing a unique economic philosophy regarding his musical career. Appearing on the recent MBN program ‘Sokpuri Show Dongchimi,’ he disclosed that his grilled fish restaurant is generating 350 million won in monthly sales and that he is currently preparing to open a second location.

During the broadcast, Kim confidently discussed his business success, stating, “Celebrities often fail at business, but that isn't the case for me.” He explained that he generates revenue through various ventures, including a cosmetics business and his specialized grilled fish restaurant. He emphasized his entrepreneurial side, noting, “I am relentless when it comes to making money.”

“Music as a hobby, performances at their best”: Kim Jang-hoon’s romantic philosophy

The profits secured through his businesses are intended to serve as a foundation to alleviate the financial burden of his musical activities. Expressing his affection for his audience, Kim remarked, “When the tide comes in, you should row, but when the tide comes in, I will lower the ticket prices.” He added that he has already lowered concert ticket prices to 77,000 won.

He also presented clear standards for his attitude toward music. “There must be at least one thing that remains romantic. I remember how difficult it was when performing became just a job,” Kim said. “I make my money through business, but I treat music like a hobby—keeping ticket prices as low as possible while ensuring the performances are of the highest quality.” This approach stands in stark contrast to the recent trend in the concert market, where ticket prices continue to rise due to increasing production and labor costs. It is interpreted as a determination to preserve musical value by increasing accessibility for the audience rather than maximizing profits.

The story behind his anger at the 28,000 won suggestion

The broadcast also featured a lighthearted debate surrounding Kim’s economic views. When Kim Yong-man asked what an appropriate price for Kim Jang-hoon's concert tickets would be, comedian Yoon Hyung-bin, who was also appearing, offered an unexpected response. “Isn't 77,000 won already expensive?” Yoon countered, adding, “Comedy shows cost between 25,000 and 35,000 won, and ten comedians perform.”

When Yoon Hyung-bin followed up with a specific suggestion of “28,000 won?” without hesitation, Kim Jang-hoon ultimately erupted in mock anger, bringing laughter to the set. As Kim Yong-man previously noted while introducing him, “His bank balance might be 1 million won, but his total donations exceed 20 billion won,” Kim Jang-hoon has long carved out a unique economic trajectory, pouring a significant portion of his income into social donations and musical performances.