ITZY Shares Insights on WANNABE Creative Process and Travel Aspirations During SBS Power FM Appearance

On March 17, 2020, the globally recognized K-pop quintet ITZY appeared as featured guests on the popular SBS Power FM radio program “Park So Hyun’s Love Game.” The appearance served as a key promotional stop following the release of their second mini-album, "IT’z ME," which was anchored by the high-energy title track "WANNABE." During the broadcast, members Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna engaged in an in-depth discussion regarding the evolution of their musical identity, the technical nuances of their latest production, and their experiences filming their travel-based reality series, "Paris et ITZY." The interview provided fans and listeners with a rare glimpse into the internal dynamics of the group as they transitioned from their high-profile debut year into their first major comeback of 2020.

The Creative Evolution of WANNABE and Group Identity

The core of the radio discussion centered on the group’s feelings regarding "WANNABE," a track that solidified ITZY’s "teen crush" concept. When host Park So Hyun inquired about their initial reactions to the song, group leader Yeji articulated a sense of professional growth tempered by the pressures of high expectations. She noted that the emotions surrounding this comeback were a complex blend of anxiety and excitement, contrasting significantly with the raw nerves they experienced during their 2019 debut with "DALLA DALLA." Yeji’s reflection highlights a common trajectory for successful K-pop groups: the shift from the "rookie" phase, where the goal is simply to be noticed, to the sophomore phase, where the goal is to establish a sustainable and evolving brand.

A particularly technical revelation emerged when the members discussed the song’s production. They recalled that the initial demo of "WANNABE" lacked one of its most distinctive sonic elements: the sound of a doll’s spring being wound up. This mechanical sound effect was added during the post-recording and arrangement phase, a decision the members credit with "breathing new life" into the track. This detail underscores the meticulous nature of JYP Entertainment’s production process, where layers of sound are added to enhance the thematic elements of the music—in this case, the metaphor of breaking free from being a "doll" or a puppet to others’ expectations.

Chaeryeong further elaborated on the emotional impact of the song, stating that her greatest satisfaction comes from hearing that the track has helped listeners regain their self-confidence and pride. This aligns with the lyrical themes of the song, which emphasize individuality and self-acceptance. In a cultural landscape where K-pop often serves as a source of empowerment for young fans, Chaeryeong’s comments reinforce the group’s mission to be more than just performers, but also messengers of positive social values.

Documenting Growth Through Paris et ITZY

Beyond their musical endeavors, the group discussed their foray into reality television with "Paris et ITZY," a program that documented their travels through France. The show was a significant departure from their choreographed stage personas, allowing the members to interact with new environments and each other in a more relaxed setting. When asked about their favorite memories from the trip, Chaeryeong expressed a deep appreciation for the Eiffel Tower, citing it as a personal highlight of their European excursion.

Lia provided a more detailed account of their itinerary, specifically mentioning the transition from Paris toward the German border. She recalled staying in a beachside house that offered an immersive natural experience. According to Lia, the proximity of the ocean—literally steps from their front door—provided a calming atmosphere that was a stark contrast to their rigorous training and performance schedules in Seoul. These anecdotes from the members suggest that the reality show served a dual purpose: providing content for their global fanbase, known as MIDZY, and offering the members a much-needed period of reflection and bonding.

Future Aspirations and the Appeal of Spain

The conversation shifted toward future possibilities when Park So Hyun asked where the group would like to film a second season of their travel show. Yuna, the group’s youngest member, expressed a strong desire to visit Spain. Her vision of a Spanish holiday was described in romantic and cinematic terms, involving morning coffee and pasta at local cafes. Yuna’s interest in Spain reflects a broader trend within the K-pop industry where idols express interest in European culture, often driven by the aesthetic and lifestyle differences from the fast-paced urban environment of South Korea.

Yuna’s wish to go shopping and enjoy leisure time with her groupmates in a Mediterranean setting resonated with fans, who quickly took to social media to advocate for a "Spain et ITZY" sequel. From a branding perspective, these travel shows are instrumental in humanizing idols, showing their personal tastes and interpersonal chemistry, which in turn strengthens the emotional connection between the artists and their audience.

Chronology of the IT’z ME Comeback Era

To understand the context of this radio appearance, it is necessary to look at the timeline of ITZY’s activities during the first quarter of 2020:

• February 19, 2020: JYP Entertainment officially announced the group’s comeback with the mini-album "IT’z ME."
• March 9, 2020: The album and the music video for "WANNABE" were released globally. The song immediately topped various real-time charts in South Korea, including Genie and Bugs.
• March 12, 2020: ITZY began their music show promotions, starting with Mnet’s "M Countdown," where the "shoulder dance" choreography by Ryujin became an instant viral sensation.
• March 17, 2020: The group appeared on "Park So Hyun’s Love Game," the event detailed in this report.
• Late March 2020: "WANNABE" secured multiple wins on music programs such as "Inkigayo," "Music Bank," and "Show Champion," eventually achieving a "triple crown" on several networks.

This timeline illustrates that the radio appearance occurred during the peak of the group’s promotional cycle, a time when public interest in their new material and personal lives was at its highest.

Supporting Data and Market Impact

The success of the "WANNABE" era, which the members discussed during the radio show, is backed by significant commercial data. Upon its release, "IT’z ME" debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart, making it their most successful physical release at that time. Internationally, the album reached number five on the Billboard World Albums chart.

"WANNABE" itself proved to be a digital powerhouse. The music video surpassed 100 million views on YouTube in record time for the group, confirming their status as global leaders of the "fourth generation" of K-pop. The song’s success was not limited to domestic charts; it also entered the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart, reflecting a growing footprint in the Western market. The production choices mentioned during the radio show, such as the "winding spring" sound and the empowering lyrics, were frequently cited by music critics as reasons for the song’s infectious appeal and longevity on the charts.

Broader Implications for the K-pop Industry

The insights shared by ITZY on "Park So Hyun’s Love Game" reflect several broader trends within the K-pop industry. First, the emphasis on "self-love" and "individuality" has become a dominant narrative for female groups, moving away from more traditional "cute" or "sexy" concepts. ITZY has been a pioneer in this regard, and their discussion of listener feedback regarding confidence suggests that this thematic direction is highly effective for audience engagement.

Second, the integration of variety content and music promotion has become seamless. Shows like "Paris et ITZY" are no longer just supplementary content; they are core components of a group’s identity. By discussing their travels on a major radio platform, ITZY effectively cross-promoted their television work and their music, creating a multifaceted brand presence.

Finally, the group’s transition from rookies to established stars involves a visible shift in their professional mindset. Yeji’s admission of feeling "worried" despite their success indicates the immense pressure placed on modern idols to consistently innovate. The "winding doll" anecdote serves as a metaphor for the industry itself—a highly structured environment that requires constant "winding up" to maintain the energy and precision required for global success.

As ITZY continues to navigate their career, the sentiments expressed during this March 2020 broadcast remain a touchstone for their development. The blend of professional diligence regarding their music and a genuine desire for personal growth through travel and new experiences continues to define the group’s public persona. Whether or not Yuna’s dream of a Spanish excursion comes to fruition, the group’s ability to connect with fans through both their art and their authentic personalities remains their greatest asset.