Key Facts
Author J Robin (also known as Oh Jong Pil), the original creator of the web novel 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier,' has received a massive royalty payout following the success of the TVING drama adaptation starring Park Jihoon. The royalty settlement for the novel alone reached approximately ₩88 million KRW (about $57,600 USD), with the webtoon settlement yet to be finalized and expected to be even larger.
Details of the Payday
J Robin shared the news on social media, expressing disbelief at the amount. He stated, 'After the drama aired, I heard this month's novel royalty settlement amount and doubted it. The novel alone was around ₩88.0 million KRW, and the webtoon settlement, which has not yet been finalized, will likely be even larger.'
Factors Behind the Success
J Robin attributed the surge in earnings to several factors. The buzz from Park Jihoon's hit film 'The King's Warden' naturally carried over to the drama. Additionally, a crackdown on illegal webtoon sites drove readers to official platforms. The differences between the drama and the original work also piqued curiosity, leading many to read the novel. J Robin's lecture fees have reportedly increased more than fivefold.
Impact on Creators
By revealing the settlement amount, J Robin aimed to dispel the myth that original creators earn little from adaptations. He explained that income comes from multiple streams: novel royalties, advertising revenue, webtoon royalties, lecture fees, and video adaptation rights. He emphasized, 'Having the drama air alone greatly increases other income streams. I don't think it is a structure where the author loses out at all.'
About 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier'
The story is a military food comedy about a cook who puts down his gun and picks up a kitchen knife, following quest windows to become a legend. The drama, which aired on TVING, starred Park Jihoon, who gained fame as a 'ten-million actor' through 'The King's Warden.' It concluded on June 16 to favorable reviews.
FAQ
How much royalty did J Robin receive for 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier' novel?
J Robin received approximately ₩88 million KRW (about $57,600 USD) in novel royalty settlement for June.
Why did J Robin reveal his royalty amount?
He wanted to clear the misconception that original creators earn little from drama adaptations, and to show how multiple income streams benefit authors.
What is 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier' about?
It is a military food comedy about a cook who trades his gun for a kitchen knife and follows quests to become a legend.
When did the drama 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier' end?
The drama wrapped up on June 16.