BTS’s Jin has once again proven his worldwide influence—this time by appearing in a Finnish language textbook!

Jin is featured multiple times in the grammar section of the Finnish Korean language textbook "Bæum." The book uses example sentences like "I like BTS’s Jin" and "I like Jin from BTS," along with pronunciation guides, highlighting his massive global impact.

But that's not all—Jin’s solo success continues to break records! In Hallyu Now, a magazine published by KOFICE (Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange), Jin was recognized in the "Top 5 Best Hallyu Content of 2024" as chosen by overseas correspondents.

His pre-release track "I'll Be There" from his solo album "Happy" ranked No. 1 in Germany, while his self-composed hit "Super Tuna" placed No. 5, making him the only artist with two entries in the Top 5!

Since the release of his first solo album "Happy" on November 15, 2023, Jin has been dominating charts worldwide:

• No. 1 on the 2024 Hanteo Annual Album Chart for Soloists
• No. 1 in K-pop solo sales on Billboard Japan 2024
• 3rd highest first-week album sales among all male K-pop soloists in Oricon history

Jin also made history on Oricon’s All-Time Total Sales Ranking, placing 45th overall—one of the top 2 BTS members on the list! In just a month and a half after his solo debut, his massive sales helped BTS rank No. 1 overall!

His title track "Running Wild" also made waves on Spotify Japan’s Daily Top Songs chart, ranking No. 1 on November 21, 2023. It set a record as the most-streamed song by a K-pop artist, including both groups and soloists, and even ranked No. 6 on Global Spotify’s Top Songs chart the same day.

On TikTok, "Running Wild" became a viral hit, surpassing 1.7 million posts using the song in just 10 days! (as of November 25, 2023). This makes it the second most-used song by a Korean male soloist on the platform, right after Shaun’s "Way Back Home."

Jin’s massive popularity stretches far beyond Korea and Japan, with a strong influence in the U.S., Europe, and major global music markets. Whether it’s music charts or even school textbooks, Jin’s impact knows no limits.

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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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