izna's Journey: Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success in the K-Pop Scene

"We didn't try to do anything special just because Ji-yoon was absent. We worked hard to ensure that fans wouldn't feel her absence by strengthening our skills and teamwork." (Bang Jee-min)

On the 25th of last month, I met with izna members Mai, Bang Jee-min, Koko, Ryu Sa-rang, Choi Jung-eun, and Jeong Sae-bi at the Ten Asia office in Jungnim-dong, Seoul. izna was formed as a multinational seven-member group through Mnet's 'I-LAND2: N/a' in July last year and officially debuted in November, four months later. However, in February, Yoon Ji-yoon announced a hiatus due to health reasons, just three months after their debut.

izna does not have an official leader, but Bang Jee-min, being the oldest Korean member and having trained for about six years, naturally takes on the leadership role. Regarding their first comeback without Yoon Ji-yoon, she said, "We prioritize Ji-yoon's condition above all. Although we feel her absence, we did our best to ensure that our vocals and dance didn't seem lacking. We prepared diligently and I believe we filled her absence well."

That day also marked izna's second music show win since their debut. Following their first win on SBS M's 'The Show' in just five months, they also took home a trophy from ENA's 'K-Pop Up Chart Show,' achieving two consecutive wins despite Yoon Ji-yoon's absence, turning a crisis into an opportunity.

izna is Wake One's first full-fledged girl group, with Teddy, known for producing Big Bang, 2NE1, and BLACKPINK, overseeing their production, garnering significant attention even before their debut. As a group formed through a survival show with public voting, izna showcases each member's exceptional talents and individuality. Despite not being a team meticulously crafted by the agency over time, they have united with a shared dream and passion, achieving solid teamwork in less than a year since their debut.

When asked about their growth through the comeback, Ryu Sa-rang said, "During our last activities, it was our first time on music show stages, so we focused on not getting nervous and performing as practiced." She continued, "This time, we tried to communicate with fans with more ease. When I made eye contact with the members on stage, everyone was smiling and enjoying themselves. I felt that I had grown a lot."

"During 'I-LAND,' we had to create a high-quality performance every week. It was extremely challenging, but after debuting, I realized how much that preparation helped. Thanks to that, we quickly learn choreography and practice efficiently." (Ryu Sa-rang)

Mai and Koko are Japanese members. Living in a foreign country isn't easy, so why did they choose Korea? Koko, whose specialty is dance, said, "I've been dancing since I was three and dreamed of becoming a dancer. Then, in middle school, I became interested in K-pop after seeing BLACKPINK seniors and started training." Having been inspired by BLACKPINK, she now works with Teddy, who produced BLACKPINK, achieving her dream.

Regarding the absence of an official leader, Bang Jee-min said, "Each member excels in different areas. We take responsibility in our strengths and support each other. It's great to work this way," she said with a smile.

"It's been almost exactly a year since we filmed 'I-LAND.' We've been so busy living each day that hearing it's been a year is surprising. Watching 'I-LAND' videos again feels strange. Back then, just being on stage made me happy. I'll never forget that feeling. I'll keep cherishing those precious moments and work hard." (Ryu Sa-rang)

Mai, known for her calm and composed demeanor since 'I-LAND,' said, "I'm trying to gain confidence. With the support of fans and many others, I've realized the importance of confidence. Reading fans' letters is healing. Their compliments and constructive criticism are invaluable. I aim to grow by addressing each expectation."

Having filled their first year since debut with relentless effort, izna members have clear goals. Koko expressed, "We debuted at last year's 'MAMA Awards,' and this year, I want to win the Rookie of the Year award at 'MAMA Awards.' I also hope to break into the top 20 on music charts." Jeong Sae-bi mentioned their recent 'Inkigayo' Tokyo Dome performance, saying, "It was a very happy memory. Although there were many other fans at the performance, I hope to fill the Tokyo Dome with our fans soon." She added, "And Gocheok Dome too," with a bright smile.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr