Soyeon from i-dle is the MC and main producer of "HIP POP Princess," a new survival show debuting on U-NEXT on October 16.
September/25/2025 19:45
The video distribution service "U-NEXT" has released an interview with Soyeon from i-dle, who serves as the sole MC and main producer of the Japan-Korea joint survival audition program "Unpretty Rapstar: HIP POP Princess" (hereafter referred to as "HIP POP Princess"), which will be exclusively distributed in Japan and Korea simultaneously. Nine years ago, Soyeon participated in "Unpretty Rapstar" and left a strong impact. This time, she is participating not as a contestant but as an MC and main producer, expressing her joy by saying, "It is a great honor and pride for me to be involved as an MC and producer, having been a participant myself." She further shared, "For me, 'Unpretty Rapstar' was the program that gave me the opportunity to debut with my own songs and become an idol who also produces. That’s why I decided to participate this time, wanting to support and cheer for many idols to maximize their musical talents." Soyeon will take on two important roles in "HIP POP Princess": as the MC overseeing the entire program and as the main producer who draws out the potential of the participants. When asked about the evaluation criteria, she emphasized, "This time, 'ability' is everything," and revealed her sincere attitude by stating, "When I participated in 'Unpretty Rapstar,' I wanted to compete and be evaluated solely on my ability. I intend to prioritize ability in evaluations for 'HIP POP Princess' as well." The project "HIP POP Princess" is a Japan-Korea joint production hip-hop girls group project where participants with different identities from hip-hop, K-POP, and J-POP challenge themselves across language, culture, and generational barriers. The program will gather top-class main producers from various fields, including Soyeon from i-dle, Gaeko, RIEHATA, and Takahiro Iwata (from Sandaime J Soul Brothers). "HIP POP Princess" will start exclusive distribution on U-NEXT from October 16 (Thursday) at 21:50.
Related Articles
R.Tee has officially apologized for the plagiarism controversy surrounding his music video 'DAMDADI,' admitting to oversight in the production process. He expressed regret for any discomfort caused to artist Yseult and emphasized the need for thorough checks in future projects. He also clarified that Soojin from i-dle was not involved in the video's concept or direction. The video will be removed from official channels as part of taking responsibility.
On the afternoon of the 17th, i-dle departed through Incheon International Airport for their first Japan tour, '2025 i-dle first japan tour [逢い-dle].' The tour will feature performances at Saitama Super Arena and GLION ARENA KOBE on October 18 and 19. The article includes insights from local media and mentions various stage performances, including covers of popular anime songs.
Soyeon from i-dle made her return to 'UNPRETTY RAP STAR' after 9 years, serving as MC and main producer. She reflected on her past experiences in audition shows, emphasizing the importance of self-production and music creation. During the show, she inspired participants with her heartfelt reactions and provided valuable advice based on her own journey.
The release of the YouTube show 'Trip KODE', featuring Be Jinyoung from CIX and Miyeon from (G)I-DLE, has been postponed after negative feedback from viewers. The show involves the two stars completing missions to raise each other's heart rates. Both stars addressed concerns from fans, clarifying the show's concept.
On October 15, a charity event for the 20th Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign took place at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul. The event featured numerous K-pop stars, including members of BTS, BIGBANG, and Stray Kids, as well as popular actors, creating a glamorous atmosphere. The event highlighted the importance of breast cancer awareness and showcased the unity of the entertainment industry.
On the afternoon of the 15th, a charity event for the 20th Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign was held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul, attended by K-pop artists including aespa, IVE's Wonyoung, Yujin, LE SSERAFIM's Kim Chaewon, and others. The event highlighted the importance of awareness and support for breast cancer.
At the press conference for 'HIP POP Princess', Soyoung from i-dle expressed her feelings about returning to 'UNPRETTY RAP STAR' after 9 years. She reflects on her journey from being the youngest participant to now returning as an adult. The show aims to create a new global hip-hop girl group, blending Korean and Japanese cultures, and will premiere on October 16.
The production announcement for Mnet's 'Unpretty Rapstar: HIP POP Princess' took place on the morning of the 15th at Eliena Hotel in Gangnam, Seoul. The show, featuring producers like i-dle's Soyeon and Dynamic Duo's Gaeko, aims to create a new global hip-hop girl group, with participants showcasing their talents in music, dance, styling, and video production. The show premieres on October 16, with simultaneous streaming in Japan via U-NEXT.
R.Tee's music video 'DAMDADI' has been accused of plagiarism, prompting director Hong Min-ho to apologize. He acknowledged that he drew inspiration from Yseult's work and expressed regret for the similarities, clarifying that R.Tee and Soyeon were not involved in the creative process. Hong committed to being more careful in the future to respect original creators.
Minnie from i-dle arrived at Incheon International Airport in Korea on the afternoon of the 12th after completing an overseas schedule. During their first Japan tour, i-dle showcased a variety of performances, including 'Love♡Scream!' and covers of popular anime songs. Additionally, Minnie has been cast as the heroine in the Thai version of the movie '50 First Dates.'
