'National Sparkling Tour' has raised expectations for its first broadcast by releasing a Q&A with the production team.
Mnet's idol festival operation 'National Sparkling Tour' (directed by Jo Hye-mi) is a new entertainment program by Mnet based on the concept where top K-POP idol groups active on the world stage launch into various regions, providing local specialties and performances as a one plus one (1+1) offer. Each episode will feature different artists appearing in different regions for surprise pop-ups, actively gathering audiences and exciting the city.
This program stands out with its innovative planning aimed at local communities. Jo Hye-mi, the director of 'National Sparkling Tour,' noted, "We wanted to create a festival that would remain memorable for fans who may have felt that domestic activities were short and for local residents who are usually hard to meet in person. We wanted to introduce the beauty and specialties dispersed throughout Korea, and it seems we were able to capture various images by combining 'performances and specialties 1+1.'
The lineup was revealed early on and garnered attention. A total of five teams, including MONSTA X, NCT DREAM, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, TREASURE, and ZEROBASEONE, are part of the lineup. Jo Hye-mi said, "While proceeding with the invitations, I felt that the artists also wanted to directly meet fans whom they usually find it hard to meet." She added that since this program offers an opportunity to engage with fans and local citizens, most of the artists consented willingly.
With the first broadcast set for 10 p.m. on the 12th (Tue), curiosity about 'National Sparkling Tour' is growing, as Jo Hye-mi, the director, shared the background of the program's planning, criteria for selecting local specialties, and points to watch for.
▲ Below is the complete Q&A with Jo Hye-mi.
Q. The concept of meeting local specialties and idol performances as a one plus one is fresh. How did you come up with this idea?
: We planned to create a festival that is not only memorable for fans who may have felt that domestic activities were short but also for local residents who are usually hard to meet in person. We wanted to introduce the beauty and specialties scattered throughout Korea, and it seems we were able to capture various scenarios by combining 'performances and specialties 1+1.'
Q. The local specialties like zucchini and apples are quite diverse. Is there a selection criteria for the local specialties?
: First, we prioritize researching the specialties that represent each region and narrow down items that can meet a selling price of 990 won. We then finalize the local specialties through consultation with local governments, considering portability as an important selection criterion—since the specialties will be used like tickets, we wanted to ensure they are easy to carry and will not spoil easily in hot weather like these days.
Q. There has been considerable interest from fans even before the broadcast. What reaction has stood out the most?
: I am grateful for reactions like 'the purpose is good' and 'the planning is fresh,' but the most impressive reaction was seeing messages like 'thank you for coming.' There are not many opportunities to directly experience K-POP performances in various regions, so if this program allows many people to meet the K-POP artists they have wanted to see and create unforgettable memories, that would be the most rewarding aspect.
Q. The lineup is as grand as year-end award ceremonies. Could you share some behind-the-scenes about the invitations?
: Since these artists enjoy top-level popularity globally and conduct large-scale overseas tours, it was not easy to invite them due to their busy schedules. However, during the invitation process, I felt that the artists also wanted to meet fans whom they typically find it hard to meet. Since this program provides an opportunity to engage with fans across regions and connect with citizens, most of them responded positively to the invitations.
Q. Several filming sessions have already been completed. I'm curious about the responses from the participants.
: At first, everyone felt strange and awkward about selling local specialties or meeting citizens on the streets. However, thanks to the warm welcome from local residents, they ended up enjoying the experience. Also, it seems they found the aspect of the specialties being tickets quite interesting. Above all, I was deeply moved by the fans and citizens who came running to see them.
Q. The first broadcast is approaching on August 12. If you had to pick just one reason to watch 'National Sparkling Tour' and a key point to look out for, what would it be?
: I hope viewers pay attention to the idol's struggles starting in unfamiliar places, which leads to the entire community buzzing, ultimately allowing everyone to enjoy a happy festival. I hope the hard work soaked in sweat, warm affections, and unforgettable connections communicated through this process touch the viewers.
[Photo] Mnet
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