Minju of ILLIT graduates from KBS Music Bank after 1 year, expressing gratitude and promising to continue showcasing her talent.
January/31/2026 12:33
Minju of ILLIT graduated from her role as MC of KBS 2TV's 'Music Bank' after about 1 year and 3 months, with the last broadcast on the 30th. Minju said, 'I was honored to be able to be with wonderful artists every week, GLLIT (ILLIT's fans), and the warm staff. From now on, Fridays may feel lacking, but I will work hard as ILLIT's Minju and show cool stages.' She added, 'I was able to learn a lot while serving as MC. I thank everyone who warmly watched over and supported my immature self, and I will keep the precious time spent on 'Music Bank' in my heart for a long time.' Minju, who became MC in October 2024, led the program with her unique bright energy and stable hosting. At the same time, she conducted a solo web variety 'Minju's Pink Cabinet' through the YouTube channel 'KBS Kpop,' conveying the charm of K-POP stars to fans. She also proved her abilities as the MC of the year-end music festival '2025 KBS Song Festival GLOBAL FESTIVAL.' On this day, ILLIT members made a surprise appearance on 'Music Bank,' creating a warm atmosphere with Minju. On this day, actor Moon Sang-min, who co-hosted, also graduated together. ILLIT will kick off their first live tour 'ILLIT LIVE 'PRESS START︎❤'' on March 14 and 15 at the Ticket Link Live Arena in Seoul (formerly the Handball Stadium). This tour will take place in 7 cities both domestically and internationally, including Seoul, Aichi, Osaka, Fukuoka, Hyogo, Tokyo, and Hong Kong.
Related Articles
ILLIT greets fans for the Lunar New Year, expressing gratitude for their support over the years. They hope fans enjoy time with loved ones and wish for their health and happiness. The group is set to embark on their first tour, 'ILLIT LIVE『PRESS START♥』', starting March 14 in Seoul and covering seven cities including Hong Kong.
The audition show 'WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE' by HYBE x Geffen Records aims to discover a global star by 2026, featuring talents like Hikorohee and others. The show promises intense competition and emotional stories of the contestants, as they strive to become the final member of a new girl group.
ILLIT's first Japanese single 'Toki yo Tomare' has achieved gold certification from the Japan Record Association, marking a major milestone for the group. The single features four tracks, including 'Topping' and 'Almond Chocolate,' and has topped various Japanese music charts. Their new songs continue to gain attention, including 'Bubee,' the opening theme for the upcoming anime 'Mahou no Shimai Lulut Lily.'
ABEMA will launch 'WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE' on February 24, 2026, an audition show by HYBE and Geffen Records to discover talent for a new girl group. The show features notable cast members and aims to find one standout artist from Japan, showcasing the intersection of top talent and production.
ILLIT's first single "NOT CUTE ANYMORE" has surpassed 100 million streams on Spotify, marking a significant milestone in just two months. The reggae-influenced pop song expresses a desire to be seen beyond just cuteness. With a cool vibe, it has gained popularity among fans and is trending on social media. ILLIT will embark on their first live tour across seven cities, starting in Seoul.
ILLIT has unexpectedly released the music video for their first single 'NOT CUTE ANYMORE,' featuring the track 'NOT ME.' The video captures the members' everyday life with a paparazzi-style approach, highlighting their stylish outfits and lively personalities. The song, characterized by its catchy rhythm and chic vocals, boldly discusses self-identity with the addictive phrase 'That's not my name.'
Wongi from ILLIT has been chosen as the first idol model for the popular Korean cosmetics brand rom&nd. This collaboration, starting February 23, reflects the brand's commitment to consumer involvement. Known for her love of makeup, especially rom&nd products, Wongi's selection follows her previous engagement with the brand, including participating in color gloss creation. The first product from this collaboration will be new shades of the bestselling 'Glasting Color Gloss', launching in Japan on March 3.
ILLIT has been chosen as the theme song artist for the upcoming anime "Magical Sisters Lulut Lily," airing in April 2026. The song, titled "Bubee," is a dance-pop track blending Shibuya subculture and J-POP. ILLIT has previously achieved success with their songs in other anime and is gaining popularity rapidly.
On the afternoon of the 30th, ILLIT departed through Incheon International Airport after completing their overseas schedule. They will appear in a JACQUEMUS fashion show showcasing elegant red outfits. Additionally, details for their first live tour, 'ILLIT LIVE 'PRESS START︎❤',' have been announced, featuring 11 performances across 5 cities starting June 13.
ILLIT's inaugural live tour 'PRESS START❤' kicks off in Seoul on March 14-15, 2026, and visits five cities in Japan from June 13, including Aichi, Osaka, Fukuoka, Hyogo, and Tokyo, before concluding in Hong Kong on August 22. This tour marks their first solo performances in several cities, following a successful fan concert in Japan last year.
