• ILLIT Drops Concept Photos for Mini 2nd Album, Featuring Girls in School Uniforms

    Rookie group ILLIT (Yoona, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, Iroha) has released new concept photos that are full of youthful charm, exciting fans worldwide. On the 1st (KST), ILLIT’s agency, Belift Lab, shared the "TO" version concept photos and film for their upcoming mini 2nd album I'LL LIKE YOU, set to drop on the 21st. The "TO" version gives off a dreamy vibe, expressing the feeling of wanting to be with someone, even in dreams.

    In the "TO" version, the members show off a lovable and youthful image, wearing different styles of school uniforms like cardigans and hooded zip-ups.

    Each member displays her own unique charm in these looks. The setting includes heart-shaped balloons floating outside a familiar subway station, giving off a slightly surreal and mysterious atmosphere. The girls are seen resting on each other while sleeping or gazing at the sky from a window, bringing a mix of bright yet sentimental feelings.

    The concept film that was released alongside the photos also highlights ILLIT’s playful and quirky side. In the video, Iroha falls asleep on the subway and ends up in a mysterious box where she reunites with the other members. Together, they go to school, run around, listen to music, and take photos in a photo booth, showcasing the bond of teenage friends. With dreamy visuals that mix reality and fantasy, the film has received lots of love from fans all over the world. Compared to the mischievous vibe of the "WITH" version that was shared earlier, this new content has fans even more excited for the upcoming album.

    Meanwhile, ILLIT’s debut track "Magnetic" continues to stay strong on the charts. According to Billboard’s latest rankings (October 5), the song from their first mini-album SUPER REAL ME is still holding its place, ranking 88th on the 'Global Excl. U.S.' chart and 166th on the 'Global 200' chart. "Magnetic" first entered these charts on April 6 and has stayed there for 27 weeks, proving ILLIT’s growing presence in the music scene.

    Source [1]

  • Lee Kyung Gyu secretly helped Hong Jin Kyung debut on TV and she didn’t even know for years

    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]