Comedian Yoon Hyung-bin (46) has embarked on a new challenge. After closing the doors of the Yoon Hyung-bin Theater in Hongdae, which he operated for 15 years, and remodeling it into a K-pop venue, he has now stepped up as an idol producer.

ANTARES, the six-member boy group produced by Yoon, recently held a showcase to officially kick off their promotions. Yoon personally hosted the showcase, and while the group drew attention as "hidden gems who have been performing on busking stages," the public's reaction was mixed. There were quite a few skeptical comments, such as "Aren't they just idols made by a comedian?", "Is this team made for laughs?", and "They don't look like typical idols."

In a phone interview with SBS Entertainment News, Yoon Hyung-bin shared that he is fully aware of these reactions. However, he emphasized that the idol group he wants to create follows a different formula from traditional success stories.

Q. There isn't much information available yet. What kind of group is ANTARES?

"ANTARES was originally a busking team in Hongdae. Since last year, our comedy-focused agency has been expanding its business into the K-pop idol industry, and partnering with ANTARES became a part of that initiative. Currently, they are active, traveling back and forth between Japan and Korea."

Q. Because there is so little information about the members, people are even more curious. They seem a bit older compared to typical boy groups.

"The group consists of six members. It's true that they aren't that young. Some members have already completed their mandatory military service, and in fact, most of them have. Some of them have dreamed of becoming idols for a long time, while others tried before but didn't succeed. There is also a former child actor."

Q. What made you choose them?

"Just like when I helped comedians make their debuts, I think my strength lies in creating opportunities for talented people who haven't found their path yet. It's the same for idols. There are so many talented individuals out there who feel lost about what to do. The members of ANTARES are incredible live performers. It's not just about being handsome, singing well, and dancing well—there are certain people who just have that pull for fans. I felt that exact charm in ANTARES."

Q. During the showcase, you expressed the ambition of wanting them to become 'the male RESCENE.' What did you mean by that specifically?

"Idols from the 'Big 4' agencies actually have a high probability of success. But for those in small agencies or those who weren't chosen by major labels, the path is very daunting. However, look at groups like RESCENE—there are cases where the agency and the members work hard together to achieve great results even from a small agency. While we aren't a giant agency, I meant that I want us to work hard together to become a team that represents a 'small agency miracle.'"

Q. Although they are in their third year since debut, this was their first showcase. How did it feel to finish it?

"While there might have been areas that fell short in the eyes of seasoned K-pop fans, the members were genuinely happy. They were very nervous before going on stage, but after it ended, it became a moment that strengthened their resolve to work even harder. Right now, they are continuing their promotions while also working hard on filming YouTube content."

Q. Looking at some of the feedback, there are reactions regarding ANTARES having a different look or image compared to conventional idols.

"The exceptionally handsome trainees usually come from the Big 4 agencies. For me, it was the same with comedy. Rather than focusing on those who are just naturally gifted, I wanted to give opportunities to those who truly love comedy and are desperate to do it. The ANTARES members work incredibly hard. Even after their performances end, they gather on their own to practice and film videos. I wanted to create even a small opportunity for friends like them. I believe we live in an era where such teams can also stand on stage. If we keep going, I believe we will build a fandom of people who love us."

Q. What is your realistic goal?

"Our first goal is to fill the Zepp concert hall in Haneda, Japan (about 1,000 to 2,000 seats). Once we achieve that, we can aim for 5,000 seats, and then 10,000 seats. Rather than looking too far ahead from the start, I want us to be a team that builds up step-by-step from the bottom."

Q. How are people around you reacting to you producing an idol group?

"I've heard people say I'm doing a better job than they expected, and we've received a lot of praise for the group's talent."

Q. What direction do you plan to take your K-pop business in the future?

"After running a comedy theater, we shifted our focus to a K-pop venue starting last year. While I can't build a massive system like the Big 4 agencies, I want to create good opportunities for those outside the mainstream system. Our goal is to build a small but close-knit fandom that loves these artists."

Q. You are running several businesses, including the venue business, martial arts, and meal kits. How much weight does the K-pop business hold?

"From now on, our keyword is K-pop. We are going all-in on this. I think we'll be able to share some exciting news soon. All the different attempts we are making right now will connect as one. Just as Elon Musk brings Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink together into one big picture, I plan to merge each of my businesses into a single direction."

Meanwhile, Yoon Hyung-bin debuted in 2005 as a comedian in KBS's 20th recruitment class and received immense love for his "Wang Bi-ho" character. He was also active as a mixed martial artist, stepping onto the Road FC stage. In 2010, he opened the "Yoon Hyung-bin Theater" in Busan, followed by another in Hongdae, Seoul, in 2015, where he discovered and nurtured rookie comedians. After closing the theater last year after 15 years of operation, he renovated it into the "Hongdae K-POP Stage," operating it as a hybrid venue that showcases K-pop performances, fan meetings, and comedy shows.

Photo = Reporter Baek Seung-chul / Courtesy of Yoonso Group

kykang@sbs.co.kr