Singer Jeon Somi recently shared a funny story from her days with the group I.O.I, revealing a moment when she was scolded by fellow member Kim Sejeong.
On the September 29th episode of MBC's 'Radio Star', the show featured a special titled 'Reunited, It's Me, It's Me! Gather to Shine!' with guests including actors Lee Jong-hyuk and Yoo Sun, and singers Jeon Somi and Lee Dae-hwi.
Jeon Somi recounted some behind-the-scenes moments from her time with I.O.I. She said, "After debuting, we were so busy with daily schedules. Despite the hectic pace, we held team meetings once a month to maintain team spirit."
During one of these meetings, amidst their relentless schedule, Jeon Somi was called out by Kim Sejeong for her attitude. "We had schedules every day, and the next day was also packed with early commitments," she explained. "As the meeting dragged on, I thought it might affect the next day's schedule, so I tried to lie down."
Kim Sejeong then remarked, "Somi, even though the older members are having a meeting, it's not right for you to lie down like that," giving her a stern reminder. Jeon Somi confessed, "I pouted but stayed awake and participated in the meeting until the end," drawing laughter from the audience.
Jeon Somi also shared a strategy they used to lift the team's spirits when the atmosphere was tense. "When the mood was off, someone would start by saying 'Just smile,' and everyone had to laugh out loud without questioning it. It really lifted our spirits. We especially enjoyed playing Uhm Jung-hwa's songs to boost our mood," she recalled, highlighting the team's cheerful dynamics.
I.O.I was a project group formed in 2016 through Mnet's 'Produce 101', quickly rising to fame as a 'national girl group'. Celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, I.O.I recently announced a reunion after nine years.
By Juwon Park, TenAsia Reporter pjw00@tenasia.co.kr