From Military Fame to Dorm Life: Lee Chaeyoung's Candid Revelations on 'Radio Star'

Lee Chaeyoung of fromis_9 shares her unexpected and candid stories about her popularity in the military and her realistic dorm life with fellow members.

Airing on April 1 at 10:30 PM, MBC's variety show 'Radio Star' will feature a special episode titled 'Loyalty Inducers' with guests Jo Gap-kyung, Chae Yeon, Go Woo-ri, and Lee Chaeyoung.

Fromis_9, the group Lee Chaeyoung is part of, has consistently gained attention for their performances at military bases. Now in her ninth year since debut, she introduces herself as a "second-hand rookie," catching the audience's attention.

Lee Chaeyoung reveals her popularity among soldiers, highlighted by her song topping the 'Giga Genie Music Chart.' She humorously shares her experience of friends eagerly contacting her during their military service but going silent after discharge.

Acknowledging her long-standing title as the 'MZ Military President,' she expresses gratitude for being voted the top song to boost morale during the hot summer in a 2019 military survey. Recently, she was ranked second in a survey for 'Stars Soldiers Want to See in the 2025 Spring Consolation Train,' and she candidly shares her feelings about this ranking.

Lee Chaeyoung discusses the enthusiastic response from military performances and reveals that each member of fromis_9 captivates soldiers with their unique charms, leading to a competitive atmosphere among them.

The reason behind her image shift from 'Military Free Pass' to 'Rejection at First Meeting' is also unveiled. Lee Chaeyoung admits she was surprised by the unexpected attention and shares her initial reaction to the overwhelming response.

The show also touches on her dorm life with fellow members, highlighting their realistic chemistry through playful banter. She also shares her experiences with her Maltese dog, who often ignores her, adding a twist to her charming personality.

Lee Chaeyoung's honest stories can be seen on 'Radio Star' airing at 10:30 PM.

Meanwhile, fromis_9 has parted ways with Pledis Entertainment, a HYBE label, in 2024. During this transition, three members (Lee Saerom, Roh Jisun, Lee Seoyeon) left, and the group reformed from an eight-member to a five-member lineup (Song Hayoung, Park Jiwon, Lee Chaeyoung, Lee Nagyung, Baek Jiheon) under the new agency Ascend.

Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr