Writer Kim Dong-young transforms into a 'Runner' caring for overseas musicians... “Doing protocol work for 2 years”

Writer Kim Dong-young appeared on the podcast 'Sleeping Daniel' hosted by actor Choi Daniel, revealing his recent status and unique activities. The conversation shared by Choi Daniel included the work Kim is currently focusing on and specific episodes he experienced during the process.

“No boundary between work and play” Kim Dong-young's recent status

Regarding his recent status, Kim Dong-young stated that he lives a life where there is no boundary between work and play. He spends most of his time sitting in cafes conceiving something, and he defined this process itself as enjoyable play. Choi Daniel continued the conversation, stating that his life itself is work, reflecting on this attitude.

The conversation also mentioned the changed environment of the podcast 'Sleeping Daniel'. Choi Daniel explained that he is sharing the process of equipping equipment and interior decor one by one because he wants to show the growth process of the podcast. It captured the efforts to seek change, such as switching from a Scarlett audio interface to RØDE equipment to improve the acoustic environment, and setting up studio lighting and props like paper lanterns. Choi Daniel added that he began paying attention to sound because he believes listening is the primary element of a podcast, and he mentioned that interior props were obtained through Coupang.

“I am a Runner” The reality of protocol activities for overseas musicians

The most eye-catching part was the protocol activity that Kim has been continuing for the past two years. He revealed that he performs the role of preparing necessary items and managing schedules for musicians and staff visiting Korea from overseas. Using field terminology, he introduced himself as a 'Runner' who carries out instructions and moves quickly. Roles in the protocol field are divided into the person giving instructions, the main person in charge, the 'Hands' who carry out instructions, and the 'Runner' who runs around the site to deliver items.

The scope of protocol work was very specific and detailed. Kim said he performs tasks ranging from checking an artist's allergy information by cross-referencing ingredient lists to find safe food, to matching the thickness (0.9mm) of a specific brand of felt-tip pen or preparing temple food. In particular, he mentioned that overseas artists have high expectations for Korea's high level of artist care, explaining that such services are an essential process to provide comfort to the artists. He noted that the ability to prepare the Rider requested by the artist is important in the industry.

Kim said he has been steadily continuing this work for two years because it is novel and fun. He shared his honest feelings, saying he recently started protocol work with the thought that he needed to earn money. He is active in various fields, such as taking care of the waiting rooms for musicians performing at the Pentaport Festival or WACK.

Choi Daniel and Kim Dong-young, reuniting after 6 months

It was confirmed that the two met again after about 6 months. After meeting at a cafe last winter when it was snowing, the two, who are facing each other for the first time in a long while, have maintained their connection by hearing news of each other through YouTube and other means. Kim concluded the conversation by sharing his honest feelings that he started protocol work with the thought that he needed to earn money.

Source: original video (YouTube)