The globally acclaimed K-pop quintet ITZY made a highly anticipated guest appearance on the March 17 broadcast of SBS Power FM’s popular radio program, “Park So Hyun’s Love Game,” providing fans with an in-depth look at their professional journey and personal experiences. During the session, members Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna discussed the creative process behind their latest hit single "WANNABE," shared behind-the-scenes anecdotes from their reality travel show "Paris et ITZY," and expressed their aspirations for future international endeavors. This appearance came at a pivotal moment in the group’s career, as they continued to solidify their status as leaders of the fourth-generation K-pop movement following the release of their second mini-album, "IT’z ME."
The Evolution of ITZY’s Sound: From Debut to "WANNABE"
A central theme of the radio interview was the group’s emotional and professional evolution since their explosive debut in early 2019. When host Park So Hyun inquired about the group’s initial impressions of their new title track, "WANNABE," leader Yeji provided a candid reflection on the pressures of maintaining momentum in the fast-paced music industry. Yeji noted that the feeling of releasing new music had shifted significantly since their debut with "DALLA DALLA." She explained that the members now experience a complex blend of worry and excitement, a sentiment driven by their desire to meet the high expectations of their growing global fanbase, known as MIDZY.
The members collectively highlighted a specific technical aspect of the song’s production that surprised them. During the initial listening sessions for the demo version of "WANNABE," the track lacked the distinctive mechanical sound of a doll’s spring being wound up—a sound that has since become an iconic element of the song’s intro and outro. The group revealed that this auditory detail was added post-recording, a creative decision that they believe "breathed new life" into the composition. This mechanical motif serves as a metaphorical representation of the song’s theme: breaking free from the "frames" or expectations others set, much like a wind-up toy gaining its own autonomy.
Chaeryeong further emphasized the emotional resonance of the track’s message. Known for their "self-love" concept, ITZY has consistently advocated for individuality and self-confidence. Chaeryeong shared that her greatest sense of fulfillment comes from hearing fans testify that "WANNABE" helped them regain their self-esteem and pride. This feedback reinforces the group’s mission to deliver music that is not only catchy but also socially and psychologically empowering for their listeners.
Travel and Personal Growth in "Paris et ITZY"
Beyond their musical achievements, the radio appearance delved into the group’s recent foray into variety programming with "Paris et ITZY." The show, which documented the members’ travels through France, allowed fans to see a more relaxed and personal side of the idols. When asked about their favorite highlights from the filming process, the members shared contrasting yet equally vivid memories.
Chaeryeong expressed a deep affection for the architectural grandeur of Paris, citing the Eiffel Tower as her personal favorite landmark. Her appreciation for the iconic structure highlighted the "tourist" experience the girls were able to enjoy amidst their busy schedules. In contrast, Lia found solace in the natural beauty of the European coastline. She recounted a particularly memorable stay in a beachside house during their transit from Paris to Germany. Lia described the location as being "literally right in front of the beach," offering a serene and calming atmosphere that provided a necessary reprieve from the rigors of their promotional cycle. The gorgeous ocean views and the tranquil environment left a lasting impression on her, showcasing the group’s appreciation for quiet moments of reflection.
The discussion of their travels naturally led to a conversation about future destinations. When Park So Hyun asked where the group would like to film a potential second season of their travel show, Yuna enthusiastically nominated Spain. Yuna’s vision for a Spanish holiday was characterized by a romanticized European lifestyle, involving morning coffee and pasta at local cafés, followed by shopping and leisure time with her fellow members. This segment of the interview sparked significant buzz among fans, leading to social media speculation regarding future "ITZY in Spain" content and the potential for the group to explore more of Europe in subsequent variety projects.
![[NEWS] ITZY talks about “WANNABE” and their “Paris et ITZY” Show](https://unitedkpop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ITZY-IMAGE.png)
Chronology of ITZY’s Rise and the "IT’z ME" Era
To understand the significance of this radio appearance, it is essential to look at the timeline of ITZY’s career leading up to March 2020. Having debuted under JYP Entertainment on February 12, 2019, ITZY achieved what is known in the industry as a "Rookie Grand Slam," winning New Artist of the Year awards across all major Korean music award ceremonies.
- February 2019: Debut with "DALLA DALLA," which broke records for the most-viewed K-pop debut music video within 24 hours.
- July 2019: Release of "ICY," further cementing their "teen-crush" image.
- January 2020: Completion of their "ITZY? ITZY!" premiere showcase tour in the United States, covering cities such as Los Angeles, Houston, and New York.
- March 9, 2020: Release of "IT’z ME" and the title track "WANNABE."
- March 17, 2020: Appearance on SBS Power FM to promote the new album.
The "WANNABE" comeback was a critical juncture for the group. It marked their first collaboration with the production team Galactika * since their debut song. The track’s success was immediate; the music video garnered millions of views within hours, and the "shoulder dance" choreographed by Ryujin became a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, further driving the song’s domestic and international popularity.
Analytical Perspective: The Impact of ITZY’s Brand
The insights shared on "Park So Hyun’s Love Game" reflect a broader trend in the K-pop industry where idols are increasingly involved in the narrative of their own growth. ITZY’s shift from the "nervous rookies" of 2019 to the "worried yet excited" professionals of 2020 illustrates a maturing brand. By discussing the technical nuances of their music, such as the wind-up spring sound, the members position themselves as artists who are attentive to the creative process rather than just performers.
Furthermore, the emphasis on "self-confidence" and "pride" in their lyrics serves as a strategic brand pillar. In an era where Gen Z consumers value authenticity and mental health awareness, ITZY’s consistent messaging creates a strong emotional bond with their audience. This is reflected in the commercial data; "IT’z ME" debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart and reached number five on the Billboard World Albums chart, a testament to their cross-border appeal.
The variety show "Paris et ITZY" also serves a strategic purpose. By humanizing the members through travel content, JYP Entertainment fosters a "parasocial" relationship between the idols and their fans. Seeing Lia appreciate a quiet beach or Yuna dream of a romantic café in Spain makes the idols relatable, which is crucial for long-term fan loyalty in the competitive idol market.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The radio interview on SBS Power FM serves as a snapshot of ITZY during a period of rapid ascent. The group’s ability to articulate their feelings about their music and their personal desires for the future indicates a healthy internal dynamic and a clear vision for their career trajectory.
The mention of Spain as a future destination was more than just a passing comment; it represented the group’s desire for global exploration and their readiness to take their brand to new territories. As the K-pop industry continues to expand into European markets, ITZY’s expressed interest in countries like Spain aligns with the industry’s broader goal of diversifying its international footprint.
In conclusion, ITZY’s appearance on "Park So Hyun’s Love Game" was a comprehensive showcase of the group’s current state of mind. Between the technical evolution of their music in "WANNABE" and the personal growth fostered through their travels in France, the members demonstrated that they are well-prepared for the challenges of their sophomore year. For the fans, the interview provided not only entertainment but also a deeper understanding of the individuals behind the "teen-crush" icons. As the group continues their promotional activities, the industry will be watching closely to see how they translate their "WANNABE" momentum into sustained global success, and perhaps, one day, a long-awaited trip to the streets of Spain.