Former JYP Entertainment trainee Song Minyoung recently opened up about her emotional journey as a trainee and how her long-awaited debut was suddenly canceled.

A video titled "Idol Trainee, Working Holiday Traveler, and Teacher Go on a Trip" was uploaded to the YouTube channel GwakTube, where Song Minyoung shared her story.

In the video, GwakTube went on a two-day trip with fellow Koreans he met at a Japanese language school in Hokkaido. One of them was Song Minyoung, who previously appeared on Mnet’s 2015 survival show SIXTEEN—the program that formed TWICE. Back then, she was praised for her amazing vocal skills.

During dinner, GwakTube asked, "Do trainees have to diet a lot? I never thought I’d meet a former JYP trainee here in Japan."

Song Minyoung replied, "I never thought I’d meet GwakTube here either," before adding, "Trainees have to diet a lot. I started dieting when I was in eighth grade. I trained for six years, putting my entire middle and high school life into it."

When asked about the weight requirements, she revealed, "My standard weight was 47kg (103 lbs), but I was once told to lose more, down to 44kg (97 lbs)."

Then, she shared a heartbreaking experience: "Before TWICE debuted, there was already a group called SIXMIX, and six of us were supposed to debut. We had a set debut date, filmed a music video, and even finished recording our songs. But suddenly, everything got canceled."

She continued, "Then, out of nowhere, the company announced they would be launching SIXTEEN. So I participated, but while the others debuted, I was eliminated."

Song Minyoung admitted that the experience left a lasting impact on her: "I worked so hard to never feel ashamed in front of others. I used to believe that if I gave my all, I would succeed. But after going through this, I realized that effort alone isn’t enough. Since then, I haven't been able to put my all into anything again."

Listening to her, GwakTube shared his thoughts: "I’ve had times when I worked really hard, but things didn’t go my way, and times when I didn’t try as hard, yet things worked out. I think luck plays a big role. Hard work is important, but in the end, luck has to be on your side too."

Song Minyoung’s story is touching hearts, as many admire her perseverance despite the challenges she faced.

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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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