In a recent radio appearance on MBC's FM4U program 'Kim Shin Young's Noon Song of Hope', aespa member Karina expressed her apology to her friend Yeji from ITZY for not responding to her texts in a timely manner.

The show, which aired on November 13, was organized to promote aespa's comeback album 'Drama'.

The DJ, Kim Shin Young, asked the members if they were close with any other idols, and Karina revealed that she shares a close friendship with Yeji and Ryujin from ITZY.

Karina explained, "Our waiting rooms were right next to each other and we could hear everything. I wanted to befriend them, but being an extremely introverted person, I found it difficult to initiate a conversation."

However, it was the ITZY members who approached Karina first, displaying their courage by buying watermelon juice for both groups and expressing their desire to be friends. That's how the friendship between the idols began.

Karina further confessed, "I'm usually quick to reply to my team members, but I tend to delay responding to Yeji. I'd like to take this opportunity to apologize to her."

While aespa is actively participating in various promotional activities for their new album 'Drama', fans can look forward to more updates and interactions between Karina and Yeji.

Source(1)

Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]