Actors who starred in the musical 'Dream High Season 2' have reportedly gone several months without receiving their contracted appearance fees, with the total unpaid amount reaching into the tens of millions of won. The production company has stated that the issue will be resolved within the week.
According to a Sports Kyunghyang report on December 2, many cast members of 'Dream High Season 2' have yet to be paid by production company Artone Company, despite the payment deadlines having long passed.
'Dream High 2,' staged from April 5 to June 1 at the Woori Financial Art Hall in Seoul, is based on the 2011 KBS drama. The story follows students of Kirin Arts High School as they grow through music and dance.
However, in stark contrast to its theme of supporting young dreamers, the production is said to have failed to pay its actors on time. Not only lead and supporting actors, but ensemble members as well have reportedly not received compensation for their hard work.
One cast member, frustrated by the situation, even took to social media to protest. The actor posted a message stating, “When will the appearance fees for ‘Dream High’ be paid? Please respond,” directly calling out Artone Company.
Despite the unresolved payments, the company went on to announce Season 3 of 'Dream High,' stating that they plan to cast actors through auditions and stage the production next July. Industry insiders have voiced concern that expanding the franchise may be premature when Season 2 payments remain unsettled.
In a statement to Sports Kyunghyang, Artone Company said, “We have been coordinating with the actors and working to resolve the issue since early November. Because this is an original musical with a large cast, and because the budget exceeded expectations, payment delays occurred. We have been addressing the matter step-by-step since September,” adding, “We plan to finalize the remaining payments starting this week.”
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