ILY:1 is comprised of eliminated contestants from Mnet's reality show, "Girls Planet 999." They finally debuted on April 4. During their showcase, Ara revealed who among Kep1er sent them support for their entry into the K-pop scene.
ILY:1 Ara Shares How Kep1er Yujin Supported Them on Their Debut
ALSO READ: Former 'Girls Planet 999' Contestants Hayase Hana, Kishida Ririka and More FC ENM Trainees to Debut in 2022
On April 4, New girl group ILY:1 held a showcase for its debut album "LOVE IN BLOOM" at Ilji Art Hall in Seolneung-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul both offline and online.
The group consists of a total of six multinational members, including Nayu, Elva, as well as former participants from Mnet's survival reality program, "Girls Planet 999" Ara, Ririka, Hana, and Rona.
In regards to their debut, Ririka expressed that she shed tears with her family when she finally got to debut. In particular, aside from joining the aforementioned Korean show, the Japanese-born idol first appeared in JYP Entertainment's "Nizi Project,m." She failed to join the final lineup.
"There were many people who continued to support me and waited for my debut after that. I'm really happy, working hard, and I'll show you my best."
During "Girls Planet 999," the former trainees eventually formed friendships with Kep1er, the group which was launched through the show. Thus, when asked if they have taken any advice from their senior idols, Ara said:
"I keep in touch with Choi Yujin, who I respect as a senior, and she told me that she was watching and cheering for ILY:1 reality program and supporting the group well. "
Ara also conveyed her love for their senior idol, who also acted as an older sister to her and added:
"She also cheered me up a lot, asking me to contact her even if it wasn't during a hard time. I love you, Yujin unnie."
With this, Yujin, who initially rose into the music scene as CLC and now with Kep1er once again proved her kind and warm heart!
ILY:1 Selects Girls' Generation, Oh My Girl as Their Role Model Groups
On the same day, ILY:1 chose Oh My Girl as their role model, saying:
"We like OH MY GIRL seniors. and they told us exactly what they wanted to do."
Elva also referred to Girls' Generation as her personal inspiration that influenced her to become an idol. She said:
"Girls' Generation seniors are my role models. I've seen their performances since I was young, and I respect them because they are great seniors and I want to be so cool, just like them."
On the other hand, ILY:1 comprised of six members was launched by FC ENM Entertainment.
Their debut album "LOVE IN BLOOM" consists of four songs, including the title song of the same name and "AZALEA." It features a romantic concept and the charm of the six dazzling members. The title track depicts the hopeful message that the cherished love will finally bloom.
READ MORE: ILY:1 Releases Portrait Film Ahead Debut, Draws Mixed Reactions for Poor Quality
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Written by Eunice Dawson
