SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan has been appointed as the honorary ambassador for his hometown, Jeju.

On the afternoon of November 19, Seungkwan attended the appointment ceremony at the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Communication and Cooperation Center in Jeju City.

This marks the start of his role as an ambassador. The ceremony held extra significance as it recognized Seungkwan’s contributions to promoting Jeju globally, especially since he is a local from the island.

At the event, Seungkwan shared, “Since my childhood, I’ve always felt proud to be from Jeju. So when I had the chance to speak at the ‘UNESCO Youth Forum’ last year, I really wanted to introduce Jeju, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, to the world. Being appointed as Jeju’s ambassador today feels so meaningful, and I am truly thankful.”

He continued, “I’ve always wanted to give good energy and hope to the people of Jeju. I’ll keep working hard to spread the word about both Jeju and SEVENTEEN to the world, so please keep an eye on me.”

Jeju Governor Oh Young Hoon expressed his joy, saying, “I’m glad to see a world-renowned artist from Jeju take on the role of our hometown’s ambassador. We hope that Seungkwan will act as a cultural diplomat, sharing Jeju’s clean nature, cultural heritage, and the island’s value as a symbol of world peace with the world.”

Following the appointment, Seungkwan also participated in the Jeju Love Donation campaign, contributing to the protection of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin.

He said, “I’ve been thinking for a long time about how I can help Jeju, and I’m happy that I can express my love for my hometown through this opportunity.”

In September, PLEDIS Entertainment and the Jeju Provincial Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote K-pop content related to Jeju.

Both parties have agreed to collaborate to boost the island’s cultural and tourism industries and create K-pop content in Jeju, aiming to enhance the brand value of both Jeju and PLEDIS.

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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]