In an exclusive report released on May 16 KST, it was revealed that project group Kep1er will carry on their journey as a 7-member group.

Out of the original nine members (Choi Yujin, Xiaoting, Mashiro, Kim Chaehyun, Kim Dayeon, Hikaru, Huening Bahiyyih, Seo Youngeun, Kang Yeseo), seven have reportedly chosen to extend their project group contracts, showing their commitment to continue the Kep1er legacy.

Members Kang Yeseo and Mashiro, however, will be returning to their home agency, 143 Entertainment, upon the expiration of their current contracts.

They are set to join the girl group LIMELIGHT, promising a fresh start and new music for their fans.

Kep1er, born from the Mnet girl group survival program ‘Girls Planet 999’, made their debut in January 2022 with a contract period of 2 years and 6 months.

The group’s original contract is set to expire in July 2024. Post-July, Kep1er will resume their promotions as a 7-member group, continuing to captivate fans with their unique charm and talent.

In the meantime, Kep1er fans have something to look forward to as the group is set to release their 1st full album ‘Kep1going On’ next month on June 3 KST.

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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]