After sweeping the month-end evaluations and covering Girls' Generation's Taeyeon... "I feel competitive in the male idol challenge"

Choi Jung-eun, who rose to fame as the top finalist on 'I-LAND2: N/a' (hereafter 'I-LAND'), recently opened up about her experience covering a Taeyeon song and her participation in idol dance challenges.

On the 25th of last month, I had the opportunity to meet 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. The occasion was celebratory as izna secured their second music show win since debuting, first on SBS M's 'The Show' and then on ENA's 'K-Pop Up Chart Show.' The members, full of rookie enthusiasm, engaged earnestly in the interview.

Formed as a multinational seven-member group through Mnet's 'I-LAND' in July last year, izna officially debuted four months later in November. As the first full-fledged girl group from Wake One, they attracted significant attention even before debut, with Teddy, known for producing for BIGBANG, 2NE1, and BLACKPINK, overseeing their production.

Born from a survival show where debut was determined by public votes, izna showcases the exceptional talents and unique personalities of each member. Unlike groups meticulously crafted by agencies, they have built strong teamwork in less than a year, driven by a shared dream and passion.

Choi Jung-eun, a vocal powerhouse of izna, recently appeared on the web variety show 'Limousine Service,' where she impressed with her rendition of Girls' Generation Taeyeon's 'Melt Away,' a song known for its high difficulty. Her performance has been reevaluated by various idol fans, and she expressed gratitude, saying, "I didn't expect it, but I'm really thankful that Taeyeon sunbaenim's fans appreciated it."

Choi Jung-eun's admiration for Taeyeon is evident. She shared, "I once sang Taeyeon sunbaenim's 'Fine' during an 'I-LAND' performance, and the response was great. I wanted to cover another of her songs after debuting." She added, "After much consideration, I chose the more chic 'Melt Away.'"

Reflecting on the experience, Choi Jung-eun said, "There haven't been many opportunities to perform covers since debut, so it was a precious experience." She continued, "I'm grateful that I could showcase my skills and our team. The positive response was beyond my expectations, and it was an honor." She added, "Although I had to prepare the stage in a short time while also preparing for a comeback, I gave it my all."

Choi Jung-eun trained for about four years as a Wake One trainee and was known as the trainee with the most first-place finishes in monthly evaluations. She revealed, "I learned about that through the program. Rankings weren't disclosed during my trainee days." She continued, "I was really lacking when I first joined, but I practiced consistently. I realized that hard work doesn't betray you." Choi Jung-eun added, "Starting as number one was a burden, but it motivated me to rely on myself more and grow," her eyes sparkling with determination.

In addition to her singing, Choi Jung-eun has been gaining attention for her dance skills, earning the nickname 'Challenge Master.' She shared, "I've been getting more opportunities to do dance challenges with male idols." She added, "The more I do it, the more competitive I become. I want to keep practicing hard and show even better performances."

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