Ji Kyeong-won studied in LA, couldn't help but cast curious glances his way."Well… Enshunna, what kind of house do you need"Chí Jǐngyuán hesitated for a moment and asked."The larger the area and the..."That's it."
"Ah!"
Following Park Jung-hyeon's serious announcement that there would be no further additions to the lineup, the audience erupted in a cacophony of loud screams. The sounds were a mixture of surprise, delight, disappointment, and other palpable emotions, so pronounced that they could still be heard even over the background music.
After hearing this, Chi Jingyuan was also taken aback. His legs that had been dangling lightly by the bed stopped moving. The relaxed posture he had been in while snacking seemed to have straightened considerably at some point.
The debut group has seven members. If the current lineup is finalized and no more members are added, then...
His gaze unconsciously turned to Zhou Tzuyu standing in the eliminated group on the right side of the stage, and at this time, the director also timely gave the camera to her.
At this moment, Zhou Tzuyu lowered her head, her eyes lackedluster and she stared blankly at the ground, seemingly lost in thought. Her expression remained mostly unchanged, devoid of any significant reaction. However, her hands were tightly clenched together in front of her. She still held onto the microphone she had been clutching throughout the entire time, but it swayed precariously, as if about to slip from her grasp at any moment.
What is this girl thinking right now
Ji Jingyuan stared intently at the camera lens, focusing on Zhou Tzuyu.
Still feeling wronged and heartbroken, wanting to cry.
Either your mind is completely empty, or you haven't thought of anything
Just as Ji Jingyuan began to brainstorm and prepare to help her find a way out, the black-haired and black-faced Park Jin-young suddenly spoke again.
But, I want to also add something for the 7 members of Tice…
What he said wasn't very fluent, with a few pauses, as if he knew his next words would cause quite a stir: "The decision is to add two more members to make them an even more perfect combination."
"Ah…" The audience in the scene suddenly erupted into screams of even more astonishment than before.
The program originally promoted the final debut of seven members, and the judging team also always had seven spots.
Are you adding people temporarily
Hearing this, Song Min-young and a few others who had just been eliminated immediately couldn't hold back their tears and burst into tears.
Because they knew that even if temporary reinforcements were added, it wouldn't be them. If they were going to be added, they wouldn't have been eliminated just now.
"Then who are the two members" Wu Shangjin pressed, after a moment of brewing emotion.
The way to select the two members to be added is...
Park Jin-young also doesn't seem very certain at this time, facing the camera and blinking constantly: "One is someone who has completely listened to the opinions of viewers who have been with us for the past five months."
"To this day, the most beloved member... Tzuyu, and Carat."
"Oh oh oh…"
It seems like Tzuyu is pretty popular. After hearing this round, a lot of her supporters cheered loudly.
"Ugh…"
For some reason, Ji Jingyuan suddenly inhaled the rest of the chocolate bar in one gulp. He had been halfway through biting into it before, but then just froze and stopped eating. He sucked the remaining half into his mouth and chewed it with satisfaction.
"The choice made by the audience, and the chosen Tzuyu! Congratulations to you, please come forward... Joining TICE in a very special way, could you tell us your thoughts" Under the host's direction, Zhou Tzuyu slowly moved to the center of the stage.
A close-up shot was given on screen.
She held the microphone, seeming a bit hesitant and nervous, tucking her loose hair behind her ear twice in quick succession.
But no matter how nervous she was, it couldn't compare to the satisfaction and joy that surged within her. Just two seconds later, the little bags under her eyes suddenly popped up, her mouth stretched wide, revealing a row of pearly white teeth. It made her look like she was smiling with her eyes, nose, corners of her mouth, and even her ears. Her smile was like that of a battle-hardened soldier, but also like an innocent child.
Her eyes were half-moon shaped, reflecting sunlight like black gemstones, bright and refreshing, seemingly without any impurities.
At this moment, one could only feel that the entire screen seemed to brighten up.
Chi Jingyuan gazed at the phone screen, blinking. Suddenly, he felt a strange sensation, as if this was the most beautiful smile she had ever given him since they met.
He quietly watched Chou Tzu-yu gently tiptoe and then put her foot down again. Under several small movements that clearly showed the turmoil in his heart, he began to speak his feelings. Then, with a pair of timid big eyes, he listened earnestly to Park Jin-young's comments.
These kinds of comments and reviews no longer matter.
He thought from the beginning that Zhou Tzuyu, as an idol, was very talented in appearance. Both her looks and figure were far above average.
The fact is the same. In the first few episodes of , she gained a lot of attention with very few shots, and her vote ranking would rise at the end of each episode. After becoming first in the latter part of the program, she has remained there until now.
For an idol, being good-looking and likable is naturally the best talent. Tzuyu was able to eventually enter the debut group, and there are certainly many reasons for this aspect.
But, this girl went from an accidental addition to the show as one of "sixteen", being a completely background character and wallflower in the first few episodes, all the way to becoming the member with the most hot searches among all the members, and firmly holding the number one spot in popularity votes.
When Chi Jingyuan was a judge, the performance he saw made him speechless. He couldn't find any praise for the ridiculous stage full of flaws. But just now, his enthusiastic and generous performance on stage is very infectious. His smile and ink are both captivating. When encountering an unexpected situation, he didn't panic at all. He reacted timely and perfectly dealt with it, showing maturity and dashing composure.
Such significant progress and those visible efforts, if all summed up in a single phrase "looks good," would indeed be superficial and unfair.
Watching Tzuyu walk from the center stage, step by step, to stand in the lineup of the debut group on the left, Ji Kyeong-won also shook his head and laughed along.
Whatever it takes, the important thing is to make our debut.
After Zhou Tzuyu confirmed her spot, the ninth member's identity didn't matter much to Park Ji-won anymore. Though he still held a bit of interest, it wasn't as intense as before.
He could possibly be Li Cai Ling, even though he's a little younger. Or maybe it's So, his looks and face are pretty good.
Then, the final choice also took him by surprise.
”.
” Let me know if you have any other text you'd like me to translate!
As Park Jin-young earnestly uttered the last name, not just Ji Kyeong-won but the entire venue fell into an eerie silence. It was followed by bewildered screams and cheers rising together.
Picking someone to debut from among people who have already been eliminated
He was really surprised by the choice of jyp.
Although this program is essentially JYP selecting a girl group, who debuts and who doesn't ultimately boils down to Park Jin-young and the company.
But choosing a player who has long been eliminated is, in many ways, a particularly sharp irony and mockery towards the other members who have been working hard to practice and bearing immense pressure to prepare for the stage and performance in recent episodes.
They probably think this:
We put our heart and soul into every episode, from choreography to practice sessions, handing out flyers and guerilla marketing. To fight for that precious debut opportunity, it wasn't just hard work, it was pure determination.
>You said add people, just add people. It's fine to add Tzuyu, who was voted the most popular, even though everyone is kind of convinced. But bringing out someone who was eliminated ages ago, isn't that a bit excessive
So, if that's the case, what about all these upcoming episodes What's the point of us practicing day and night in the rehearsal room for the stage
As expected, when Momoko Tai's name was called, several people in the eliminated group looked visibly upset and struggled to accept it. Ji Jingyuan even reacted with an expression of disbelief upon hearing the news, saying "Can they still play like this" before letting out a chuckle and rolling his eyes at his companion.
To be honest, so this reaction, Ji Jingyuan understands very well.
However, Nakanishi and Minami were overjoyed and directly cried in each other's arms. It was truly interesting that these three Japanese girls actually all made it into the debut group through a series of twists and turns.
Since the list of winners has been finalized, all sorts of side stories like glares, tears, and touching moments become unimportant. After Taeko Hayashida delivered her acceptance speech, the final stage began.
"Yo! This is jyp's new girl group, tice!"
Under the excited introduction of the host. The nine members stood in a row on stage, ribbons descended, and the accompaniment sounded. After five months of hard work, "Sixteen" finally successfully selected JYP's new girl group members, and it also came to an end.
Chi Jingyuan arrived at this time, relaxed and with an observant gaze, watching the nine members of the season's team moving restlessly on the screen.
As for personal charm, I haven't seen it because they haven't debuted and I haven't really interacted with them.
However, in terms of looks, they're all pretty good. Most people are above average. If you were to pick the most beautiful, I'd say it would be between Tzuyu, Nana, or Nayeon.
That Minato Aqua is actually pretty good too.
But out of nine members, four are foreigners. JYP is really brave this time.
After Twice waved hello to the camera, the program ended. After sitting for half a day, Park Jinyoung stretched leisurely. This should be the time when Tzuyu and her family share their joy, but he was too lazy to send any messages to congratulate them and disturb them. He casually scrolled through his phone before going to bed.
Until the lights were turned off, this triple room was only occupied by him.
As expected, the second day saw a lot of discussion and criticism online following the finale of *sixteen* last night and the debut of tice.
The focus is mainly on the two additional spots added by Pak Je-young at the end.
Zhou Tzuyu's addition didn't cause much controversy because she had been the top vote-getter among all members since episode seven. She had held that position for a long time, and everyone could accept that the most popular member would debut.
The first to vote cannot come out of the way, it is actually what makes people argue.
Therefore, most of the energy was concentrated in the addition of Momoko Taira.
"Tzuyu is fine, after all she came first in the vote. What right does she have Someone who's already been eliminated can debut, what does that mean for us who voted with all our hearts these past two months"
"This is the first time I've heard of a survival show bringing people back from elimination months later to debut. Even if you were reviving them, wouldn't you hold a separate revival competition After all this fuss, you only revived her How much money did they give JYP Or…"
"It's really disgusting. I felt sick to my stomach when I saw this yesterday. It's obvious there's something shady going on. Who would watch a girl group chosen in this kind of situation"
Faced with the overwhelming online exposure of hidden responsibilities, JYP company seemed to have anticipated this situation beforehand. Unlike their usual efficiency and response speed, they responded rather quickly:
"...considering she's the best dancer and performer, joining tice would definitely make the group even more perfect, so we chose her..."
Let me know if you have any other text you'd like me to translate!
"...Currently, many netizens suspect that she is a member we finalized earlier. This is definitely not true. She is a trainee whom Park Jin-young observed throughout the recording of Season 10 and only decided to choose her at the very end..."
The response was quite weak and didn't mention anything important, so even though an announcement was made, people are still criticizing.
Outside of that, the other members didn't receive any attacks or arguments, except for Lim Na-yeon. Many people, including some Aelis, expressed dissatisfaction with this girl's successful breakthrough:
"Why is this Na Yeon, someone who disrespects seniors, able to debut"
"Even trainees dare to disrespect their seniors now, I can't even imagine what she'd be like if she actually debuted!"
Boycott!
It's a shame it's not very useful.
Looking at the trends online today, Ji Jingyuan, who was sitting cross-legged in the practice room brushing his phone and watching the excitement, shook his head.
JYP's statement might be true, it's estimated that they are not the predetermined members.
But Lim Na-yeon is, isn't she
However, compared to when the incident first came out two months ago, there are noticeably fewer people attacking Lin Na-yeon now. This is considered good news for her.
Chi Jingyuan was looking, and his phone suddenly vibrated with a text message. At a glance, he saw that it was from Zhou Tzuyu.
Did you finish watching it yesterday
Seeing these words, Chi Jingyuan could imagine the expression on Zhou Tzuyu's face when she sent the text message.
"Congratulations on your debut, aren't you excited" He didn't mean to be sarcastic, on the contrary, he genuinely congratulated her.
After all, it's a long-held wish that has finally been partially fulfilled. It's worth celebrating and enjoying these past few years. Today, let her off the hook.
"Hee hee, not bad."
However, this aloof reply made Chi Jingyuan unable to hold back. He rolled his eyes and tapped the screen: "Do you have to grin so wide when you type"
"Not at all... Hahaha."
Zhou Tzuyu was clearly very happy, her tone brimming with unconcealed excitement and vivacity. After chatting happily for a few moments, she suddenly changed the subject: "Oh, by the way, did you watch the show yesterday My mom came again, right She asked me to ask if you're free today. She wants to treat you to a meal and has some things she wants to ask you."
"Excuse me Why are you being so polite..."
Chi Jingyuan laughed and replied first, then thinking about the filming that was about to begin immediately, he followed up with: "There's a program to be recorded later, estimated to be filming until evening. If it's confirmed to be today, it might be a bit late."
"Okay, then that's it for today. Remember to tell me when you're done..."
Alright, so it's tonight. After patiently letting the girl vent her smugness and delight, Ji-seong ended the call and went to his music room to wait for a few moments. IU and Jung Hyeong-don arrived with their respective assistants.
Today, we're recording a new episode of "Infinite Challenge Music Festival." The content remains the same: they'll be discussing inside their group about this time's song creation. This time, they really need to come up with some concrete plans and decide on a theme. They can't afford to make no progress like last time.
Although some segments and lines in the program are pre-set by the writers, these writers have no say in what songs to choose or the overall style of the theme. Ultimately, it still relies on the discussion and selection of the three guests: Ji Sungwon, IU, and Jung Hyungdon.
This communication and discussion doesn't just happen during the recording of the show, after all, creating a song isn't something that can be finished in just a few hours of recording time each week. So after the last recording session, they actually exchanged messages many times through their phones or the internet privately.
"Wow! Even though I've been here before, Jingyuan, your place is still really nice."
Zheng Hengdun took a look around before sitting down, taking the disposable cup filled with drinks handed to him by Ji Kyeong-won. After taking a sip, he put it on the table and said seriously, "This time we have to speed up the pace, you know I heard that at Shige's place and haha's side, they are almost done with de already, and we are lagging far behind."
After being divided into groups, the three people had much more private contact. After a period of communication, their interactions now seemed more familiar and relaxed. You could tell just by looking at their posture.
"Don't worry, bro. It's not about how fast it is right now."
Ji Jingyuan seemed pretty relaxed, smiling as he took a cup of drink and handed it to IU before sitting down beside her.
"Ha ha."
iu let out a laugh and didn't retort. Looking at her expression, she seemed quite confident. She also took the drink, thanked him, and took a sip before putting it down. She looked at Ji Park-won beside her and said, "Have you been listening to music"
Today, iu tied her hair up in a ponytail. She was wearing a loose pink short-sleeved shirt with a slightly low neckline. Her lower body was a black form-fitting skirt, which added a hint of sexiness to her natural pure image.
At this moment, she was holding a pillow in front of her lap, not even calling his name. Instead, she called out to Chi Jingyuan in a familiar tone as naturally as ever.
Of course.
Chi Jingyuan nodded slightly.
This collaboration with Ji-won through the song festival seems to have ignited a competitive spirit within IU. She has put a lot of thought and effort into this collaboration and songwriting, showing how much she values it.
After finishing the last episode, IU spent some time privately writing several song demos and playing them on guitar. She even recorded a few demos to send to him for his opinion, as if wanting to convey the charm of her beloved ballads while also showcasing her powerful musical skills.
"That's really thoughtful," he nodded sincerely, looking at the other person. "In order for me to feel the true charm of a summer slow song, you even layered three or four backing vocals..."
"Haha…"
As soon as she heard it, she couldn't help but burst into laughter. However, her laughter was a little different from when she was in front of the camera. It lacked a bit of softness and had an extra touch of cheerfulness.
"How do you feel" she smiled, her eyes twinkling as they met his.
"They're all good, there's one I really like."
The display showed recognition of the other party's abilities. Then, Ji Jingyuan’s expression changed, he pursed his lips and pondered for two seconds: “But I always feel it's lacking in impact. I think our combination, when we partner up to create songs, should have a stronger sense of impact and shock. Pure summery ballads are a bit too flat.”
"When it comes to a song festival, because there's a lot of stage time and the audience has high expectations, I think it's better to go with a slightly faster tempo. Popular dance music, EDM, or R&B might all work well."
After expressing his suggestion, Ji Jingyuan smiled again and added in a matter-of-fact tone: "Of course, a lyrical style also has a high probability of achieving unexpected results, after all, it is a song made by IU senior."
"...
" Let me know if you have any other text you'd like me to translate!
iu listened very seriously, and seemed to nod in agreement at times. However, when she heard the last obvious compliment, she couldn't help but glance at him and smile.
After locking eyes and winking to show his sincerity, Ji Jingyuan turned to Zheng Hengdun on the side: "Brother, what do you think Don't be so quiet, you are our core, your opinion is very important."
"Is it important"
Zheng Hengdun looked at the two of them with some suspicion and asked a question in return. After receiving a clear and affirmative answer, he let out a breath of relief, nodded slightly with a hint of self-importance, pondered for a moment, and then earnestly began to speak:
"Actually, style and theme aren't that complicated. After all, our group isn't doing two songs You two could just each do one... But I've heard your opinions, and I understand them. My preference leans a little towards Jingyuan's direction. I also feel that for an event like the Song Festival, it needs a slightly more energetic song, preferably one with dancing or instruments."
Zheng Hengdun didn't mince words and straightforwardly expressed his advice.
Ji Jingyuan and IU were also listening seriously. Since everyone had taken on this case, they were all hoping to make the song better and gain what they wanted from it. Everyone wanted to do a good job.
I have an idea, what do you think
Hearing what Zheng Hengdun said, both of them nodded and looked at him.
Zheng Hengdun obviously had thought about this beforehand and directly stated, "Because there are three of us, some songs would sound a bit awkward if the three of us sang them on stage together. I was thinking, should we form a band for one song and create a band song to perform in that form This way, it satisfies the number requirement, and the effect will definitely be very high."
And I've always been really interested in the band, they're really cool... what do you thinkards me.""EXO-K!""You're looking at me smile, you must be drawn to me too.""exo-!"This song is a full-on singalong from the first word "sexy." Every line's ending makes all the fans enthusiastically c...