Yujeong, former member of BB Girls, has officially made her solo debut, marking a new chapter in her career!

On January 19th, Yujeong appeared on MBC's King of Masked Singer, where she faced off against the reigning champion, "Flower-scented Perfume", in a thrilling second-round match.

Yujeong, performing under the name "Handbell", sang Na Yoon Kwon's "Expectation", but despite her efforts and praise from the original artist, she didn’t make it to the third round, earning 79 votes.

It was then revealed that the talented "Handbell" was none other than Yoojung, the star behind BB Girls' iconic "Rollin’" chart reversal.

After leaving BB Girls in April 2024, Yoojung has been pursuing her solo career, and King of Masked Singer marked her first solo stage performance. She confessed, "I realized I’ve never sung alone on stage since debut. It’s really nerve-wracking."

During the show, the MC praised Yoojung for her contribution to BB Girls’ success, especially the viral hit “Rollin’” and her memorable "Kkobukjwa" laugh, which helped the group rise to fame.

However, Yujeong humbly gave credit to all the members, saying, "I don’t think it was just me, but all the members worked hard for it. I have a loud laugh, and when I was in school, I often got scolded by teachers. I think people loved me because my laughter made them smile, so I will keep laughing more in the future."

Yujeong also shared a touching moment from her time with BB Girls, recalling a special fan gift from a soldier. "

"There was a soldier who drew my face exactly the same and gave it to me as a gift. I cried a lot looking at the pencil marks and eraser marks all over the paper. I was so grateful," she said.

Looking ahead, Yujeong is ready for her solo journey, sharing, "I’m preparing a solo album. I’m also challenging myself with various variety shows, MC roles, and acting, so I hope you will continue to watch and support me."

Source: [1]

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]