Yoo Byung-jae, the executive who led the management of TV Chosun's Mr. Trot 3 artists, has received the President's Award from the Korea Federation of Artistic and Cultural Organizations (예총) at the 32nd Korea Entertainment Arts Awards.
The ceremony took place on February 26–27 at the Grand Theater of the Gyeonggi Arts Center. Yoo was recognized for his contributions to the development of the entertainment industry.
Yoo expressed gratitude during his acceptance speech. "It's an honor to receive such a meaningful award. I believe it encourages me to work even harder," he said. "I will continue dedicating myself to supporting our artists and the entire management team."
Expanding Management for Trot Stars
Through Yuseonsu Entertainment, Yoo currently manages the Top 7 contestants from Mr. Trot 3—Kim Yong-bin, Son Bin-ah, Chun Rok-dam, Choon-gil, Nam Seung-min, and Choo Hyuk-jin—as well as artists from Mr. Trot 4's Top 5 lineup: Lee Sona, Heo Chan-mi, Hong Sung-yoon, Gil Ryeo-won, and Yoon Tae-hwa.
Under JJ Entertainment, he has also overseen the careers of several trot singers, including Mr. Trot 2 alum Na Sang-do, veteran singer Choi Shin-hee—known for the hit song "Maze of Love"—Miss Trot 4 contestant Chae Yoon, Mr. Trot 3 participants Namgung Jin and Lim Chan, and "A Hundred-Year Life" singer Lee Ae-ran.
Long Career in the Trot Industry
Yoo previously served as CEO of KYT Entertainment starting in 2011, successfully managing the activities of veteran co-ed group Koyote.
Moving forward, he plans to strengthen a professional management system that supports not only the expansion of Korea's trot music market but also the global activities of trot artists.
