During ILLIT's media showcase, the quintet finally addressed the claims that they "lack" live vocal skills, as well as Min Hee Jin's accusation that they are NewJeans' "copycats."
On October 21, ILLIT held their media showcase to commemorate their return with their second mini-album, "I'LL LIKE YOU."
During the event, the members introduced their new title track "Cherish (My Love)," as a song that "upgraded" the group one level further. The group also expressed their aspiration to rise as a "5th-generation representative" with their own colors.
But among the questions thrown at them, what caught the attention of the media were their responses to their past controversies.
When asked if they felt upset that ILLIT was being mentioned to have "copied" NewJeans in the middle of ADOR-HYBE's internal battle, Yunah refuted.
"We prepared our second mini-album while thinking of the fans who supported ILLIT no matter what the situation is, with the goal of showing them our good image.
The team's first anniversary also coincided with our album preparation, so we thought about the supporters who allowed us to be ILLIT for a year and the consistent love that our fans gave us."
The members also sternly emphasized that ILLIT has different colors than NewJeans.
"We made up our minds to focus on showing our own color so that we can protect the hearts of those who love ILLIT.
We prepared our second mini-album with the intention of going our own path."
As the interview went on, the press also raised the controversy over their "poor" singing skills.
Iroha, who was one of the members who was massively criticized for her vocals, responded:
"I listened well to many people's opinions and practiced in detail and meticulously. I will work hard to grow more as ILLIT."
Yunah added:
"While preparing for our second mini-album, we performed on various stages, such as overseas performances and university festivals. Not only did we work hard while preparing for the stages, but these various experiences also became the foundation for our growth."
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Written by Eunice Dela Cruz
