ATEEZ is continuing to dominate the global music scene with their growing popularity and musical talent.

On December 9, U.S. music media Consequence revealed its list of 200 Best Songs of 2024, and ATEEZ's title track "WORK" from their mini-album GOLDEN HOUR: Part.1, released on May 31, earned an impressive 51st place.

This achievement is especially noteworthy as it marks the highest ranking among all K-pop artists, solidifying ATEEZ’s powerful influence in the music world.

Consequence praised "WORK" for its infectious energy, saying, "The infectious energy that ATEEZ injects into their music is comparable to the scale of their live performances, and this single provided a space where their unique dynamics could truly shine."

In addition, "WORK" was previously featured in Consequence's 100 Best Songs of 2024 (So Far) list back in June, where the publication remarked, "It seems ATEEZ has delivered more than what was expected from the call to showcase the fun of K-pop."

Moreover, ATEEZ's title track "Ice On My Teeth" from their mini-album GOLDEN HOUR: Part.2 earned another impressive recognition.

On December 6, Billboard named it the 3rd best song in their The 25 Best K-Pop Songs of 2024: Staff Picks list, marking the highest ranking for any male artist this year.

As if that wasn’t enough, ATEEZ will be opening a media art exhibition called Destiny’s Memories at AUBE Studio, starting December 12. The group’s achievements continue to shine, proving that ATEEZ’s global rise is unstoppable.

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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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