The first lineup for the highly anticipated 9th Asia Artist Awards (AAA 2024) has been revealed, and it's filled with top stars! Fans can look forward to seeing NewJeans, BIBI, ZEROBASEONE, NCT 127, QWER, and WayV take the stage at this global event, set to take place on December 27 at Thammasat Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

NewJeans (Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, Hyein) has been a sensation both at home and abroad, making waves on Billboard’s charts with five hit songs like "OMG" and "Super Shy." They’ve already won multiple Daesangs at the AAA, and fans are excited to see if they’ll continue their winning streak this year.

BIBI has charmed fans with her unique style and incredible vocals, especially with her hit "BIBI Vengeance." Her career has skyrocketed, and she even made a splash at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in Hopeless. BIBI’s rise in both music and acting has fans curious to see what she’ll achieve next.

ZEROBASEONE, despite being a newer group, has already made a big mark in the industry. Their recent album CINEMA PARADISE sold over a million copies, proving they are a force to be reckoned with. With their growing success, they’re sure to be a standout at this year’s AAA.

NCT 127 continues to dominate the global stage, having wrapped up a massive tour and released their 6th full album WALK, which brought back an old-school vibe and secured them another spot on the Billboard 200. Their constant success shows why they’re still one of K-pop’s top groups.

QWER (Chodan, Magenta, Hina, Siyeon) is an up-and-coming band to watch. Their latest release, "My Name is Clear," hit No. 2 on Melon’s chart, showing that they’re steadily climbing to the top with their unique sound and relatable lyrics.

WayV has also been on a roll, winning music shows and topping charts in multiple countries. They’ve even made a successful debut in Japan with their mini-album The Highest. With such achievements, WayV is sure to impress at this year’s AAA.

The event, co-hosted by Jang Wonyoung and Sung Hanbin, promises to be an unforgettable night with the biggest K-pop stars and actors gathering for the year-end celebration. Fans are eagerly waiting to see what surprises and performances are in store at AAA 2024.

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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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