ATEEZ is riding high on global success.

"We're thrilled to see the love for our mini 10th album 'Golden Hour: Part.1'," a spokesperson from ATEEZ shared. Since its release on May 31st, the album has been topping various global charts, showcasing ATEEZ's widespread popularity.

The mini 10th album has consistently held top positions on global charts. It made an impressive debut by securing 6th place on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart for two consecutive weeks. Additionally, it topped the 'World Albums' chart and ranked 3rd in both 'Top Current Album Sales' and 'Top Album Sales,' maintaining strong placements across specific charts.

In the UK Official Charts, ATEEZ also made waves, securing 8th place on the 'Official Independent Albums Chart,' and ranking on other charts like the 'Official Scottish Albums Chart,' 'Official Physical Albums Chart,' and 'Official Albums Sales Chart.'

Their success extends to Japan's Oricon Chart, where they ranked 4th on the 'Weekly Album Ranking' and 6th on the 'Weekly Combined Album Ranking.' They also achieved 4th place on Billboard Japan's 'Hot Albums,' solidifying their presence on global platforms.

The title track of the album, 'WORK,' received accolades, being selected for the '2024 Best Songs 100' by U.S. music media Consequence. Praised for its vibrant K-pop appeal, ATEEZ showcased their dynamic musicality.

ATEEZ further proved their global influence by securing 2nd place on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart and reaching 4th place on the UK Official Albums Chart, making them the first K-pop group to achieve three albums in the TOP 10 within a year.

On June 23rd, ATEEZ will headline at the Mawazine Festival in Rabat, Morocco, continuing their global journey with a high-energy performance.

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]