Former AOA member Jimin is officially making her return, but not as a singer. This time, she’s stepping into the world of YouTube, and fans are buzzing with excitement—and curiosity.

On January 5, Jimin took to her social media to announce a special event for her birthday, January 8. She invited fans to a birthday café meet-up in Seoul, writing, "I know these are heavy times, so I’ve been cautious. But I want to give back the love I’ve received. "

She added, "Instead of a big birthday party, I decided on a café event to bring comfort to one another during these tough times." Her post also included the heartfelt phrase, "Yes, I want to meet you…"

Adding to the surprise, Jimin shared plans to launch her own YouTube channel in 2025, marking her transformation into a content creator. While the exact date for her first video hasn’t been revealed, fans are eager to see what’s next for her.

Jimin’s return comes after a rocky exit from the spotlight. In 2020, she left AOA and announced her retirement following serious bullying allegations from former member Kwon Mina.

After staying away for two years, Jimin signed with a new agency and briefly appeared on JTBC’s The Second World. However, her activities have been minimal until now.

As Jimin reconnects with fans and takes steps to resume her career, attention has turned to Kwon Mina, who has a history of publicly addressing Jimin’s actions. Mina accused Jimin of bullying her for a decade, claims that initially gained her widespread support.

But public opinion shifted over time, as Mina became embroiled in controversies, including alleged two-timing, mistreatment of staff, and other scandals. Many grew tired of Mina’s repeated mentions of Jimin, leading to a promise from Mina last year that she would no longer bring her up.

Interestingly, Mina has also transitioned to online platforms, becoming a YouTuber and Afreeca BJ. With Jimin’s return now official, fans are speculating: will Mina stay true to her promise, or will she respond to Jimin’s new chapter?

Jimin’s YouTube comeback has sparked hope among fans who missed her, while others are keeping a close eye on any developments between the two former bandmates. Only time will tell how this unfolds.

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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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