BIGBANG has officially reached its 18th debut anniversary.

On the morning of August 19th, G-Dragon took to social media to mark the occasion, sharing the cover of their 2022 digital single Still Life along with the hashtag "#bigbang18thanniversary." Interestingly, he only tagged fellow members Taeyang and Daesung in the post, leaving out T.O.P and Seungri.

Taeyang also joined in the celebration by posting on his own social media. He shared a simple message, "#18thanniversary ♥," along with a photo featuring 18 yellow hearts arranged in a tower shape. Meanwhile, Daesung posted a congratulatory message on BIGBANG's official social media, stating, "Congratulations on Daesung's 18th debut anniversary, 2024.08.19."

BIGBANG made their debut on August 19, 2006, at the YG Family 10th Anniversary Concert. Just days later, on August 29, they released their album Bigbang, which showcased their versatility in ballad, dance, and hip-hop. Their music quickly gained popularity, earning them widespread recognition.

The group’s global impact is reflected in their numerous awards, both domestically and internationally. Within just two years of their debut, they secured a grand prize, cementing their place as an iconic boy group.

BIGBANG didn't just succeed as a full group; they also found success with unit activities like G-Dragon & Taeyang and G-Dragon & T.O.P, as well as through solo projects. These ventures allowed them to blend musical artistry with mass appeal.

However, BIGBANG has faced its share of controversies. Originally a five-member group, they are now down to G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung after T.O.P and Seungri left.

T.O.P, the eldest, was involved in a marijuana scandal in 2017 while serving in the military. He admitted to the charges and was sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years. After this, he left YG Entertainment and BIGBANG, expressing a desire to retire from the industry. Despite hinting at retirement, T.O.P recently announced his return and will appear in Squid Game Season 2, set to release on December 26th this year.

Seungri, the youngest, was expelled from the entertainment industry following his involvement in the Burning Sun nightclub scandal. He faced nine charges, including procuring prostitution and habitual gambling, and was sentenced to 1 year and 6 months in prison in 2022. Since his release from prison, Seungri has stayed out of the public eye, though recent sightings of him at a club in Bali have sparked criticism.

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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]