LE SSERAFIM recently made headlines at the VMAs, but the group's leader, Chaewon, has come under fire for her English skills.

On September 16, LE SSERAFIM was celebrated for their achievements, including performances at Coachella and appearances on American TV. Despite their success, the group has faced criticism regarding their skills, especially in English.

As an internationally focused group, English proficiency is closely watched. Within LE SSERAFIM, main vocalist Huh Yunjin and Japanese member Kazuha are noted for their strong English skills. They often handle interviews and interactions abroad.

At the VMAs, LE SSERAFIM attracted a lot of international media attention. Yunjin handled most of the interviews, but during one, leader Kim Chaewon struggled with an English question. She appeared confused and couldn’t understand the question, even with Yunjin translating it into Korean.

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Chaewon remained frozen and unable to respond, leading Kazuha to step in and answer on her behalf. Chaewon tried to cover her embarrassment with a smile, but the moment was widely shared online.

Criticism poured in, with many questioning LE SSERAFIM’s readiness for the international market. Some netizens felt Chaewon’s struggle indicated a lack of effort to improve her English skills.

Fans, however, have defended Chaewon. They argue that language skills improve with time and that the criticism might be unfairly harsh.

They point out that many Korean idols face similar language barriers without as much backlash, and LE SSERAFIM’s three foreign members demonstrate that the group has strong English capabilities.

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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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