NCT’s Doyoung has wrapped up his first Asia tour with a bang at his encore concert! The '2024 DOYOUNG CONCERT [Dearest Youth]' took place from November 1 to 3 at the Handball Arena in Olympic Park, Seoul, and every single seat sold out, even those with obstructed views. Around 15,000 excited fans attended the shows over three days.

During the concert, Doyoung amazed the audience with his a cappella version of 'Firefly' and performed live versions of all the songs from his first solo album, including hits like 'Song of Early Spring,' 'I Wish I Were,' and 'To My Sea.' He also introduced a brand-new song called 'Dazzlingly Brilliant,' which celebrates youth, and it received glowing reviews. The concert featured a total of 28 songs that reflected Doyoung's unique take on youth.

Doyoung even brought the highly-anticipated rap track 'DY TRACK' to life, delivering a cheerful performance of NCT 127 favorites like 'Parade,' 'Chain,' 'Mad City,' and 'Fact Check.' He also treated fans to a special acoustic medley of NCT songs, including 'Sticker,' 'Baggy Jeans,' and 'Dreams Come True,' which created an unforgettable atmosphere.

The crowd joined in to sing along to songs like '17,' 'When Starlight Blooms,' and 'Time Machine,' filling the venue with beautiful voices from Doyoung’s fans, known as “Seeznies.” Cover performances of 'Snow Flower' and 'Flying Through the Deep Night,' along with his self-written song 'Dear,' highlighted Doyoung’s talent as a top vocalist in K-pop, showcasing his versatility across different music styles.

At the end of the show, Doyoung reflected on his tour, saying, “This first tour has ended, but it was a valuable time that added precious pages to my youth. I will continue to be Doyoung, singing for my everything, Seeznies, and NCT. I sincerely thank you for being with me.” The cheers from the audience brought him back on stage for encore performances of 'Firefly' and 'Dazzlingly Brilliant,' leaving everyone with a wonderful memory.

Doyoung's new song 'Dazzlingly Brilliant' will be available on various music platforms on November 6 at 6 PM.

In other news, NCT 127, the group Doyoung is part of, will attend the '9th Asia Artist Awards' (AAA 2024) on December 27 at the IMPACT Challenger Hall 1-2 in Bangkok, Thailand. The event will be hosted by actor Ryu Jun Yeol, along with IVE member Jang Wonyoung and ZEROBASEONE member Sung Han Bin.

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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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