Rising K-pop girl group BabyMonster has achieved an impressive milestone, surpassing 1.53 million album sales in just 8 months since their debut.

On November 14, YG Entertainment revealed that BabyMonster (Luca, Parita, Asa, Ahyeon, Rami, Laura, Chikita) has sold 1.53 million albums globally, including both domestic and international sales. This achievement is especially remarkable as it was accomplished with only two albums. Their debut mini-album [BABYMONS7ER] sold 760,000 copies, while their first full-length album [DRIP] has now surpassed 770,000 copies, continuing to see strong growth.

Notably, [DRIP] reached this milestone in less than two weeks, surpassing the total sales of their debut mini-album within just eight months. The album had already sold over 670,000 copies in initial sales (according to Hanteo Chart), and after just one week, orders exceeded 820,000 copies. At this rate, BabyMonster is on track to reach their first million-seller with a single album soon.

Album sales are often a key indicator of a group's fanbase size, and BabyMonster's rapid rise proves just how popular they are becoming. Their powerful stage presence, growing international fanbase from their fan meeting tours, and the quick release of their first full album have all played a part in building a strong fan following.

With their double title tracks "DRIP" and "CLIK CLAK," along with the ongoing promotion of their follow-up track "Love In My Heart," BabyMonster's momentum shows no signs of slowing down. They are also planning their first world tour next year, which is expected to excite their global fanbase.

Meanwhile, [DRIP], released on November 1, has been performing well on various charts. The album entered the U.S. Billboard 200 at No. 149, while the title track "DRIP" ranked No. 16 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. and No. 30 on the Billboard Global 200, marking new personal bests for the group.

In addition, "DRIP" stayed on the Spotify Daily Top Songs Global chart for 10 days straight and topped the QQ Music K-pop weekly chart in China. Both title tracks and other songs from [DRIP] have dominated top positions, showing the group's growing popularity on both domestic and international charts.

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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]