K-pop stars are making waves around the world, and Korean pop music has grown bigger than ever. Artists are now focusing on global fans, aiming for success in markets like the U.S. Billboard charts. Many K-pop stars have made it to the Billboard 'Hot 100,' showing just how powerful K-pop has become.

The genre has expanded beyond idol music to include hip-hop, ballads, rock, and more, with artists exploring new styles and breaking out of traditional molds.

Female solo artists have especially seen big changes. While in the past they often focused on 'sexy' concepts, they now showcase both performance skills and strong vocals. As 2024 begins, we’re spotlighting these solo artists who continue to push forward in the competitive music industry.

Lee Chaeyeon, who was active with IZ*ONE, now feels like a senior when she goes to music show recordings.

She shared, "With so many new artists coming up, it feels like time is flying by. Even though I’ve been active for seven years, I haven't had much chance to show my solo side. It feels good to be in my third year," and laughed, "I was born in 2000, but being around people born in the '90s, I sometimes feel older. I even call them 'kids,' even though they’re my age."

What challenges has Lee Chaeyeon faced in her solo career? She talked about her unique style, saying, "I wanted to be known for my own color, not just compared to others. I knew it wouldn’t be easy from the start. I studied how other solo artists, including my IZ*ONE members, did their solo debuts."

She added, "Going from a group to solo felt like starting over. It was scary, and I was nervous even on stages where I wasn’t before. I had to build everything up again from scratch."

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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!

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