ITZY Discusses WANNABE Comeback and Paris Variety Show Experiences on SBS Power FM Love Game

On March 17, 2020, the South Korean girl group ITZY appeared as featured guests on the SBS Power FM radio program "Park So Hyun’s Love Game" to provide insights into their recent musical activities and their latest foray into reality television. During the broadcast, the quintet—consisting of members Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna—shared personal anecdotes regarding the production of their hit single "WANNABE," their emotional growth since their 2019 debut, and the memorable experiences they garnered while filming their travel variety show, "Paris et ITZY." This appearance came at a pivotal moment in the group’s career, as they solidified their position as leaders of the fourth-generation K-pop movement under the management of JYP Entertainment.

Musical Evolution and the Creative Process Behind WANNABE

The primary focus of the radio interview was the group’s second mini-album, "IT’z ME," and its title track "WANNABE." When host Park So Hyun inquired about the members’ initial impressions of the song, leader Yeji offered a candid reflection on the pressures of a sophomore-year comeback. She noted that the group felt a complex mixture of anxiety and excitement, a sentiment that differed significantly from the raw energy of their debut with "DALLA DALLA." According to Yeji, the stakes felt higher as the group sought to establish a distinct identity within a highly competitive industry.

A particularly technical detail revealed during the broadcast involved the song’s unique sound engineering. The members recalled that the initial version of "WANNABE" they recorded did not include the now-iconic sound of a doll’s spring being wound up. This auditory element was added during the post-production and mixing phase. The group expressed that this specific addition "breathed new life" into the track, serving as a metaphorical representation of breaking free from the "doll-like" expectations often placed on young women in the spotlight—a theme central to the song’s lyrics.

Chaeryeong highlighted the emotional resonance of the track’s message, which emphasizes self-love and individuality. She stated that her greatest sense of professional fulfillment comes from hearing fans report that "WANNABE" helped them regain their confidence and personal pride. This sentiment aligns with the "teen-crush" concept that ITZY has championed since their inception, focusing on internal empowerment rather than traditional romantic themes.

Travel and Leisure: Highlights from Paris et ITZY

Beyond their musical achievements, the members discussed their experiences filming "Paris et ITZY," a reality program that documented the group’s travels through France. The show provided a rare opportunity for the members to bond outside the confines of their rigorous practice schedules.

Chaeryeong identified the Eiffel Tower as her personal highlight of the trip, noting the landmark’s aesthetic appeal and its status as a symbol of their European journey. Lia, however, found solace in the more tranquil portions of their itinerary. She spoke fondly of a beachside residence they occupied while transitioning from Paris to Germany. Lia described the location as having a "calming atmosphere" with "gorgeous ocean views" located directly outside their doorstep. For the group, these moments of leisure served as a necessary counterbalance to the high-intensity nature of the K-pop promotional cycle.

Looking toward the future of their variety content, Yuna expressed an enthusiastic desire to film a potential second season in Spain. She described a romanticized vision of the country, involving morning coffee and pasta at local cafés. Yuna emphasized that her interest in Spain was not just for the sightseeing, but for the opportunity to engage in communal activities like shopping and dining with her fellow groupmates in a new cultural setting.

Statistical Context and Market Performance

The "WANNABE" era marked a period of significant commercial growth for ITZY. Released on March 9, 2020, the "IT’z ME" mini-album debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart, further cementing the group’s status as a "monster rookie" act. "WANNABE" itself performed exceptionally well on digital platforms, peaking at number six on the Gaon Digital Chart and securing the number four spot on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart.

The music video for "WANNABE," known for its high-energy choreography and Ryujin’s viral "shoulder dance," achieved massive success on YouTube. At the time of the radio broadcast, the video was on a trajectory to surpass 100 million views in record time for the group, a feat it eventually accomplished in just 43 days. This performance was a clear indicator of ITZY’s expanding global footprint, particularly in the North American and Southeast Asian markets.

Chronology of the IT’z ME Promotional Cycle

To understand the significance of this radio appearance, it is essential to look at the timeline of ITZY’s activities in early 2020:

• February 19, 2020: JYP Entertainment officially announces the group’s comeback with the mini-album "IT’z ME."
• March 9, 2020: The album and "WANNABE" music video are released globally. The group holds a live showcase, though it is conducted without a live audience due to the early onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• March 12, 2020: ITZY begins music show promotions on Mnet’s "M Countdown," where they eventually earn their first win for the era.
• March 17, 2020: The group appears on "Park So Hyun’s Love Game," providing deep-dive commentary on the album’s production.
• Late March 2020: ITZY secures a "Triple Crown" on several music programs, meaning they won first place for three consecutive weeks, demonstrating the song’s longevity.

Impact of the Global Pandemic on Promotions

The March 2020 promotional period was unique due to the global shift caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While ITZY’s digital and physical sales remained robust, their ability to interact with fans was severely limited. Music shows were filmed in empty studios, and fan meetings were transitioned to virtual formats.

During the radio interview, the group’s focus on "confidence" and "pride" took on a secondary layer of meaning for many listeners who were facing the initial uncertainties of lockdowns. Industry analysts have noted that ITZY’s message of self-reliance was particularly resonant during this period of global isolation. The radio format of "Love Game" provided a vital bridge between the artists and their audience at a time when physical gatherings were prohibited.

Broader Implications for JYP Entertainment and the 4th Generation

ITZY’s success with "WANNABE" and their engaging presence on shows like "Love Game" signaled a strategic victory for JYP Entertainment. By focusing on a "teen-crush" aesthetic that prioritized the female gaze and self-empowerment, JYP successfully differentiated ITZY from their predecessors, TWICE, who initially focused on a more "color-pop" and "bright" concept.

The group’s ability to discuss technical production details—such as the "winding spring" sound—demonstrates an increasing level of artist involvement and awareness in the K-pop production process. This transparency helps build a more authentic connection with a modern fanbase that values the "behind-the-scenes" aspects of the music industry.

Furthermore, the group’s variety show "Paris et ITZY" highlighted the importance of multi-platform content in the digital age. By expanding their brand into travel and lifestyle content, ITZY and JYP Entertainment ensured that the members remained visible to the public even during gaps between musical releases.

Conclusion

The appearance of ITZY on "Park So Hyun’s Love Game" served as more than just a promotional stop; it was a reflection of a group coming into their own. Through their discussions of musical anxieties, technical production, and personal travel dreams, the members portrayed themselves as both professional artists and relatable young women. As "WANNABE" continued to climb charts and define the sound of K-pop in 2020, this interview captured a snapshot of a group at the height of their early career momentum, poised for the international stardom that would follow in the subsequent years. The fans’ expectations for a "Spain trip" variety show remain a testament to the enduring interest in the group’s personal chemistry and their journey beyond the stage.