Following the heartbreaking news of 8-year-old Kim Haneul’s tragic passing, IVE member Jang Wonyoung is facing an overwhelming number of requests from netizens, urging her to send a message or visit the memorial. However, some believe this is putting too much pressure on the idol.

On February 11, police confirmed that Haneul was found fatally stabbed in an elementary school in Seo-gu, Daejeon.

Despite immediate medical efforts, she sadly passed away. The suspect, a teacher in her 40s, was arrested at the scene.

After media reports revealed that Haneul was a big fan of Jang Wonyoung, IVE’s agency sent a condolence wreath and a photocard to express their sympathy.

In an interview, Haneul’s father shared his heartfelt wish, saying, “Haneul’s dream was Jang Wonyoung. If any IVE representatives see this, I would appreciate it if Jang Wonyoung could send a warm message as Haneul embarks on her final journey.”

Following this, Jang Wonyoung’s Instagram was flooded with comments from fans and netizens, pleading for her to acknowledge Haneul’s passing.

Some of the messages include:

“Please say something for Haneul.”

“She really loved you. Just a short message would mean a lot.”

“Her father made a request, please consider it.”

Some even went as far as suggesting she personally attend the funeral.

However, not everyone agrees with this level of expectation. Some netizens voiced concerns, saying:

“The wreath was enough. Why pressure her?”

“This is such a tragic situation, but forcing Jang Wonyoung to publicly mourn seems unfair.”

“People should respect her privacy and let her grieve in her own way.”

As of now, Jang Wonyoung has not made any statements regarding the situation. Fans are watching closely to see if she or her agency will respond further.

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]