On March 17, 2020, the globally acclaimed K-pop girl group ITZY made a highly anticipated guest appearance on the popular SBS Power FM radio program Park So Hyun’s Love Game. The broadcast served as a platform for the five-member ensemble—comprised of Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna—to engage with their domestic and international fanbase, known as MIDZY, while providing an in-depth look at their latest musical endeavors and recent foray into reality television. During the hour-long session, the members delved into the creative process behind their second mini-album, It’z Me, and shared personal anecdotes from their travel reality show, Paris et ITZY. The appearance came at a pivotal moment in the group’s career, as they solidified their status as leaders of the "fourth generation" of K-pop, characterized by their "teen crush" concept and messages of self-empowerment.
The Evolution of ITZY: Transitioning from Rookies to Established Icons
Since their explosive debut in February 2019 with the hit single "DALLA DALLA," ITZY has been at the forefront of a narrative shift in the K-pop industry, prioritizing themes of individuality and self-love over traditional romantic tropes. Their appearance on Park So Hyun’s Love Game allowed the members to reflect on their rapid ascent. When host Park So Hyun inquired about the group’s mindset regarding their latest title track, "WANNABE," leader Yeji articulated a sophisticated blend of professional anxiety and creative fervor.
Yeji noted that the release of "WANNABE" felt markedly different from their debut era. While their initial entry into the music scene was defined by the raw energy of newcomers, this comeback required a more nuanced approach. She explained that the group felt both worried and excited simultaneously, a sentiment stemming from the pressure to maintain the high standards set by their previous chart-toppers, "DALLA DALLA" and "ICY." This emotional duality highlights the maturation of the group as they navigate the complexities of the music industry and the heightened expectations of a global audience.
Technical Innovations and the Creative Process of WANNABE
A significant portion of the interview focused on the production nuances of "WANNABE." The members revealed a fascinating detail regarding the song’s sonic identity that had previously been unknown to the public. They recalled that during the initial listening sessions for the demo, the track lacked one of its most distinctive auditory elements: the sound of a mechanical doll’s spring being wound up.
According to the group, this specific sound effect was a post-recording addition. The decision to insert the "winding up" sound proved to be a masterstroke in production, as the members felt it "breathed new life" into the song. This mechanical motif serves as a metaphorical anchor for the track’s theme—breaking free from the constraints of being a "doll" or a puppet to others’ expectations. The inclusion of such intricate sound design underscores JYP Entertainment’s commitment to high-production value and the collaborative effort between the artists and their production team to refine their signature sound.
Chaeryeong further elaborated on the emotional resonance of the song. She expressed that her greatest sense of fulfillment comes not from commercial success or chart positions, but from the personal impact the music has on listeners. She shared that she is most pleased when fans communicate that "WANNABE" helped them regain their confidence and pride. This alignment between the group’s artistic output and their fans’ emotional well-being has become a hallmark of the ITZY brand.
Reflections on Paris et ITZY and the Value of Travel Content
Beyond their musical achievements, the group discussed their recent variety show venture, Paris et ITZY. Filmed in France, the show provided fans with a rare glimpse into the members’ lives outside the rigorous schedule of music show performances and practice sessions. Travel reality shows have become a staple in the K-pop industry, serving as a vital tool for humanizing idols and strengthening the bond between the performers and their fans.
When asked about their favorite memories from the trip, Chaeryeong highlighted the iconic Eiffel Tower as a personal standout, noting the profound impression the landmark left on her. In contrast, Lia spoke fondly of the group’s stay at a beachside residence during their transition from Paris to Germany. She described a "literally right in front of the house" proximity to the ocean, emphasizing the calming atmosphere and the aesthetic beauty of the coastal views. For idols who live highly regimented lives, these moments of tranquility and natural beauty represent a significant departure from their daily routines.
![[NEWS] ITZY talks about “WANNABE” and their “Paris et ITZY” Show](https://unitedkpop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ITZY-IMAGE.png)
Future Aspirations: The Potential for an ITZY Spanish Expedition
The conversation took a forward-looking turn when Park So Hyun asked the members where they would like to film a potential second season of their travel show. Yuna, the group’s youngest member, expressed an enthusiastic desire to visit Spain. Her vision for a Spanish holiday was remarkably detailed and romantic, involving morning coffee and pasta at a local café, followed by shopping and leisure time with her fellow members.
Yuna’s preference for Spain resonated with fans online, sparking discussions about the group’s potential for global exploration. From a strategic perspective, filming in Europe aligns with JYP Entertainment’s goals of expanding ITZY’s international footprint. Spain, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant street life, would provide a starkly different backdrop compared to the romanticism of Paris, potentially showcasing a more energetic and adventurous side of the group.
Statistical Context and Market Impact of the It’z Me Era
To understand the significance of this radio appearance, one must look at the data surrounding the "WANNABE" comeback. Released on March 9, 2020, the mini-album It’z Me debuted at number one on South Korea’s Gaon Album Chart. Within its first week, the album recorded significant sales, signaling a growing physical fanbase to match their digital dominance.
"WANNABE" itself became a viral sensation, largely due to its "shoulder dance" choreography, which inspired numerous challenges across social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The music video for "WANNABE" reached 100 million views on YouTube in record time for the group, further cementing their status as "digital monsters." The track’s success on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart also indicated a robust appetite for ITZY’s music in Western markets, particularly in the United States.
Analysis: The Role of Radio in the Digital Age of K-pop
While social media and streaming platforms are the primary drivers of modern K-pop success, traditional media outlets like SBS Power FM remain crucial for domestic engagement. Shows like Park So Hyun’s Love Game provide a space for long-form storytelling that is often missing from 15-second social media clips. For ITZY, appearing on a show hosted by Park So Hyun—who is widely regarded as an "idol expert" in the Korean industry—lends an air of legitimacy and prestige to their promotions.
These interviews allow the members to showcase their individual personalities and group chemistry, which are essential components of idol fandom. By discussing technical details like the "winding spring" sound or their personal travel preferences, ITZY moves beyond the image of polished performers and presents themselves as thoughtful, relatable young women.
Conclusion and Broader Implications for the K-pop Industry
ITZY’s guest spot on Park So Hyun’s Love Game was more than a mere promotional stop; it was a testament to the group’s evolving narrative and their burgeoning influence. The transition from the "worry" of a rookie to the "excitement" of an established act mirrors the trajectory of the fourth generation of K-pop, which continues to push boundaries in terms of production, messaging, and global reach.
As the group continues their promotional cycle for It’z Me, the insights shared during this broadcast provide a roadmap for their future. Whether it is the technical perfectionism found in their recording booth or their aspirations for a "romantic" trip to Spain, ITZY remains a group defined by a clear sense of purpose. For the industry at large, ITZY’s success reinforces the viability of the "self-love" concept, proving that music which empowers the listener can be just as commercially successful as traditional pop themes. As fans look forward to future projects, the echoes of the "winding spring" in "WANNABE" serve as a reminder that ITZY is only just beginning to gear up for their next big leap on the global stage.