ITZY Shares Behind-the-Scenes Insights on WANNABE Comeback and Paris Travel Experiences During SBS Power FM Appearance

On March 17, 2020, the globally recognized K-pop quintet ITZY made a highly anticipated appearance as guest stars on the SBS Power FM radio program, Park So Hyun’s Love Game. The broadcast served as a platform for the members—Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna—to engage with their domestic audience and provide an in-depth look into the creative process behind their latest musical release, the mini-album It’z Me, and its chart-topping lead single, "WANNABE." Beyond their musical endeavors, the group also delved into their experiences filming their dedicated reality travel series, Paris et ITZY, offering fans a glimpse into their personal dynamics and future aspirations for international exploration.

The timing of this radio appearance is significant, occurring just eight days after the group’s official comeback on March 9. ITZY, managed by JYP Entertainment, had already established themselves as "monster rookies" following their 2019 debut, and the pressure to maintain this momentum was a central theme of the discussion. During the interview, the members reflected on the transition from their debut era to their current standing in the industry, noting a shift in their internal perspectives and professional anxieties.

The Sonic Evolution of WANNABE and Technical Production Details

When host Park So Hyun inquired about the group’s initial reactions to hearing the demo for "WANNABE," leader Yeji provided a candid assessment of the group’s collective mindset. She noted that the experience was characterized by a complex interplay of apprehension and anticipation. Unlike their debut period, which was marked by the raw energy of entering the industry, the "WANNABE" era brought a more profound sense of responsibility. Yeji explained that while they were excited to showcase a new side of ITZY, they were equally concerned about meeting the high expectations set by their previous hits, "DALLA DALLA" and "ICY."

A particularly technical revelation emerged during the discussion regarding the song’s post-production. The members recalled that the original version of "WANNABE" they first heard lacked the distinctive mechanical sound effect of a doll’s spring being wound up—a motif that has since become synonymous with the track’s intro and overall identity. This specific sound was integrated into the arrangement following the recording sessions. According to the members, this late-stage addition "breathed new life" into the composition, effectively grounding the song’s lyrical themes of breaking free from societal expectations and being one’s true self, rather than a "mannequin" or "doll."

Chaeryeong further elaborated on the emotional impact of the song, moving beyond the technicalities of production to the social resonance of its message. She expressed a deep sense of professional fulfillment when hearing feedback from listeners who felt a renewed sense of self-confidence and pride after engaging with the track. This aligns with ITZY’s core brand identity, often referred to as "Teen Crush," which prioritizes themes of self-love, independence, and individuality.

Paris et ITZY: Exploring the Group’s Travel Narratives

The conversation shifted from the recording studio to the European continent as the members discussed their reality show, Paris et ITZY. The program, which aired on Mnet’s digital channel M2, followed the group as they navigated the streets of Paris, providing a "healing" experience away from their rigorous training and performance schedules.

Chaeryeong highlighted her affinity for iconic landmarks, specifically citing the Eiffel Tower as her personal favorite highlight of the trip. Her appreciation for the architectural landmark underscored the group’s genuine enthusiasm for traditional sightseeing and cultural immersion. In contrast, Lia shared a more serene memory from their travels. She described a stay at a beachside residence situated between Paris and the German border. Lia emphasized the calming atmosphere of the house, which was positioned directly on the coastline, offering immediate access to the ocean and panoramic views. This experience, she noted, provided a necessary respite and a sense of tranquility that contrasted sharply with the high-energy environment of K-pop promotions.

The discussion regarding their travel show not only humanized the members to the listening audience but also reinforced the "global idol" narrative that JYP Entertainment has cultivated for the group. By showcasing their experiences in major European hubs, the group continues to strengthen its rapport with international fanbases.

Future Aspirations and the Vision for a Spanish Expedition

Looking toward the future of their variety content, host Park So Hyun asked where the group would like to film a potential second season of their travel series. Yuna, the group’s youngest member, expressed an enthusiastic desire to visit Spain. Her vision for a Spanish holiday was described in romanticized terms, involving morning coffee and pasta at local cafes. Yuna’s interest extended beyond leisure, as she mentioned a desire to engage in shopping and spend quality time with her fellow members in a new cultural setting.

This public expression of interest has already sparked significant discussion among the group’s fandom, known as MIDZY. Historically, such mentions on popular radio shows often serve as a catalyst for future variety show concepts or promotional tours. Given Spain’s vibrant music scene and its growing appetite for K-pop, a potential "Spain et ITZY" project would logically align with the group’s international expansion strategy.

Chronology of the It’z Me Comeback and Market Impact

To understand the context of ITZY’s March 17 radio appearance, it is essential to look at the timeline of their 2020 promotional cycle:

• February 19, 2020: JYP Entertainment officially announces ITZY’s return with the second mini-album, It’z Me.
• March 9, 2020: The album and the "WANNABE" music video are released globally. The song immediately enters major South Korean real-time charts at top positions.
• March 12, 2020: ITZY begins music show promotions on Mnet’s M Countdown, where the "shoulder dance" choreography goes viral on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
• March 17, 2020: The group appears on Park So Hyun’s Love Game, providing the first detailed look into the "winding spring" production secret.
• Late March 2020: "WANNABE" secures multiple "wins" on weekly music programs, including Inkigayo and Music Bank.

The data surrounding this comeback reflects ITZY’s dominant market position. At the time of the radio broadcast, "WANNABE" had already amassed tens of millions of views on YouTube, eventually becoming one of the fastest K-pop girl group music videos to reach the 100-million-view milestone. On the Billboard charts, It’z Me debuted at number five on the World Albums chart, while "WANNABE" peaked at number four on the World Digital Song Sales chart. These metrics provide empirical evidence of the group’s burgeoning influence outside of the South Korean domestic market.

Broader Implications and Journalistic Analysis

ITZY’s appearance on SBS Power FM serves as a microcosm of the modern K-pop promotional machine. The transition from the "rookie" phase to a more established identity is a critical juncture for any musical act. By openly discussing their anxieties and the technical "surprises" in their music production, ITZY effectively bridges the gap between their polished stage personas and their authentic selves.

The emphasis on "self-confidence" mentioned by Chaeryeong is not merely a lyrical theme but a calculated brand pillar. In a saturated market, ITZY has carved out a niche by focusing on internal validation rather than external romantic narratives. This strategy has proven particularly effective with Gen Z demographics globally, who prioritize authenticity and empowerment.

Furthermore, the integration of travel variety shows like Paris et ITZY into their promotional schedule illustrates the multi-media approach required for success in the 2020s. Content is no longer restricted to music; it encompasses lifestyle, travel, and personal vlogging, all of which serve to deepen the parasocial bond between the artist and the consumer.

The mention of Spain as a future destination is also strategically relevant. As K-pop continues to penetrate European and Latin American markets, Spain acts as a cultural bridge. If JYP Entertainment follows through on Yuna’s suggestion, it would represent a logical step in diversifying ITZY’s global footprint.

In conclusion, ITZY’s guest spot on Park So Hyun’s Love Game provided more than just entertainment; it offered a roadmap of the group’s current trajectory. Through a blend of technical innovation in their music, a clear commitment to their "Teen Crush" message, and a strategic expansion into global variety content, ITZY continues to solidify its status as a leading force in the fourth generation of K-pop. As they move forward from the It’z Me era, the insights shared during this broadcast will likely serve as a reference point for the group’s artistic and commercial evolution.