In a debut that has set new records for the K-pop industry, ILLIT emerged as a new pop titan upon its debut in March this year, earning its place as an unmistakable new artist to watch — and as Advertising signThe first K-Pop Rookie of the Month, for June 2024. His five-piece act Yunah, Minju, Mocha, Wonhee and Iroha created through HYBE's reality show RU Next? has rewritten global K-pop expectations with an explosive, addictive entry onto the international music scene.
ILLIT's debut single “Magnetic” made chart history by entering the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 91, a feat unprecedented for a K-pop group's debut song. Theirs Super Real Me The EP also made an impact on the Billboard 200, debuting at No. 93, and has not left the World Albums chart since it first entered the list, clocking 13 weeks so far. The group's international appeal was further cemented as “Magnetic” secured positions in the top 10 of the Global 200 and Global 200 Excl US charts, and still remains on both counts as of the chart dated June 29.
“We couldn't believe our eyes,” Wonhee says. “We have never dreamed of seeing 'Magnetic' in Advertising sign chart.”
Going from reality show contestant to chart-topping artist has been a whirlwind. While the road to ILLIT's debut wasn't without some minor challenges (a last-minute line-up change led to the departure of Youngseo, originally set to become the sixth member), the quintet has been busy with dance rehearsals, vocal training, language lessons and fitness routines. with Yunah reporting that a pre-debut appearance at Paris Fashion Week in February for Acne Studios also required practice to ensure their most elegant walks and poses. Originally announced to the world as I'll-It, the change to ILLIT was not only more visually pleasing and accessible, but was designed to “better emphasize the meaning behind the name of 'I Will ( ) It',” to represent the potential for infinite potential,” shared management company HYBE.
Although partly attributed to its association with an industrial powerhouse like HYBE, their label BELIFT LAB (which also houses ENHYPEN) and visibility from RU Next?, the discovery of ILLIT goes beyond mere circumstance. An addictive combination of sweet vocals, viral-ready choreography and, well, magnetic personalities that viewers fell in love with during their show, all struck a chord with a global audience hungry for the next K-pop breakout.
With an all-star team including HYBE president Bang Si-Hyuk, longtime BTS and TXT producer Slow Rabbit, and singer-songwriter Salem Ilese, everyone is helping to Super Real Methe set's four tracks showcase ILLIT's promising range, showing where the five members could take their future pop stylings.
To meet Advertising signK-Pop Rookie of the Month is better below, with ILLIT members sharing more of their personal and team stories and previewing what's to come.
Congratulations on your debut, ILLIT! You started off so strong with your debut single and EP topping the Korean charts, as well as Advertising signUS and world charts. How did it feel to get such a strong reaction?
MOKA: It was amazing how so many people loved “Magnetic”. We are very happy that it is enjoyed and loved by many listeners. We will do our best to show a better version of ourselves. Thanks!
WONHEE: We couldn't believe our eyes! We have never dreamed of seeing “Magnetic” in the Advertising sign chart. We are very happy that so many people love “Magnetic”.
While RU Next? And coming from a beloved label can help, do you have any theories as to why your debut resonated so strongly with fans around the world?
YUNAH: I think the cute, bubbly and modern atmosphere of our songs represents the charm of K-pop and pop combined well, capturing the ears and hearts of the audience.
MINJU: I can't believe all the love our fans around the world are showing us and I'm so grateful. I think they recognize and appreciate the efforts we put into the shows.
Can you explain the concept of ILLIT and your first reactions to the group's unique name?
IROHA: When I first heard the name, I thought the meaning behind it was great. It means that “we can be anything” and that we have infinite potential to be whatever we want to be as a team.
WONHEE: What I loved was how it has such a beautiful meaning in the name. I was so happy to learn that we have a name that is all our own.
What were the months between its finale RU Next? and the debut as?
IROHA: After RU Next? we moved into the dorm together and took dance, voice and language lessons.
YUNAH: Yes! We are watching together right now. Immediately after the performance, I spent time taking classes and working out, preparing for the debut. As for fashion week, we focused on practicing walking and posing in front of the press wall.
When did you find out that “Magnetic” was your debut single and what was your reaction?
MOKA: I think we found out sometime in the winter!! I remember how excited everyone was about the song and I personally thought the song would be perfect for ILLIT.
WONHEE: I vividly remember how we were all in awe and shouting “Wow!” Because it was so good!
What other songs are your favorites on the album?
WONHEE: I like “Midnight Fiction” better because it has its own aura of warmth delivered with cute and whimsical lyrics.
IROHA: I love all our tracks but I have to say it's “Lucky Girl Syndrome” because my heart fills with happiness and I feel really lucky girl whenever I play for it.
Are any or all of you interested in songwriting, composing or producing?
MOKA: We haven't actually tried [those] however, but our fantastic dreams were reflected in 'Midnight Fiction'. It was very interesting to see our stories turned into lyrics. I would love to get into writing lyrics whenever I get the chance.
Can US fans expect to see you soon?
IROHA: I've never been to the US before, but I'm looking forward to visiting and meeting our fans there!
There is inevitable pressure and scrutiny that comes with being a public figure. How do you stay mentally and emotionally strong? Do you have any tips or advice for those who may also be going through a tough time?
MOKA: I imagine myself achieving my goal, which I find very comforting and nourishing. So I would recommend this method.
WONHEE: Me i still sometimes have some difficulties to control my nervousness but my advice is to take a deep breath before saying something. This helps me relax a bit.
Looking ahead, what's next for ILLIT? Any chance you're already planning your first comeback?
YUNAH: We're all working hard on what's next — which I want to spoil so bad, but I shouldn't! [Laughs.]
IROHA: As YUNAH said, we are working really hard on this, so stay tuned!
Anything else you'd like to add at this time?
MINJU: I am forever grateful for all the love we received for our debut track “Magnetic”. We are working hard to come back with better music and performances, so stay tuned!
YUNAH: I can't begin to express how grateful I am for the love our fans show us. And thank you Advertising sign to share our stories!
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/pop/illit-kpop-rookie-of-the-month-june-2024-magnetic-1235718156/