In a surprising turn of events, Honda Hitomi, who once graced the stage as a member of IZ*ONE and AKB48, has decided to part ways with her agency in Japan. "I'm ready for new adventures," she declared.

The news broke out on May 1st when Mama&Son, her agency, made an official announcement on their website. They confirmed that their exclusive contract with Honda Hitomi had come to an end.

Mama&Son expressed, "As of the end of April 2024, we've officially parted ways with Honda Hitomi. She expressed a desire to embark on a new journey, and we respected her decision, leading to the termination of our contract."

They continued, "Though our time together was brief, we're sincerely grateful for the journey we shared. We hope you continue to show your unwavering support for Honda Hitomi."

Honda Hitomi first stepped into the limelight as part of AKB48 Team 8 in 2014. However, she announced her graduation from the team in August of the previous year.

At the time, she shared, "I want to explore various opportunities in the future and discover my potential." It seems like this is just the beginning of a new chapter for her!

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]