Singer IU has praised Anton, a member of the boy group RIIZE that debuted last September.

On the 25th, IU shared a challenge video of RIIZE's Anton on her social networking service.

In the video, Anton is dancing to 'I Stan U', a track from IU's new album 'The Winning'. IU praised Anton, saying, "A total pro. RAISE's Anton."

Anton posted the video on RAISE's official social networking service on the 24th. He mentioned IU's account, saying, "Sis! Congratulations on your comeback" as a greeting.

IU and Anton have known each other as siblings since they were young, seemingly connected by producer and singer Yoon Sang.

Yoon Sang, Anton's father, is known to have a close relationship with IU. IU often referred to Yoon Sang as 'father', and he composed 'The Story Only I Didn't Know' (2011), known as one of IU's hit songs.

In the past, Anton mentioned IU on his personal social networking service. He posted a photo of Louis Vuitton shoes with the caption, "Walked up to the top of Namsan to eat a hamburger. Thanks for the shoes, IU #iu".

IU also commented on the post, "What's with that capture", showcasing their unique friendship. Anton was even following IU's account at the time. Although the post is no longer available, it was highlighted by fans after Anton's debut.

The post, written in 2017, shows that Anton and IU have been friends for at least 8 years. Anton often shared photos wearing the Louis Vuitton shoes he received as a gift.

Anton has impressively maintained the cleanliness of the shoes IU gave him for over 8 years, showcasing his neat personality known for keeping his belongings clean.

RIIZE has been a trending boy group since their debut song 'Get A Guitar' and recently 'Love 119', raising expectations for the day Anton might share the stage with his close friend IU.

Meanwhile, IU made a comeback to her music career on the 20th, 2 years and 2 months after her last album 'Piece' (2021). Her new album 'The Winning' is her first album released in her thirties, showcasing her matured and emotionally rich voice.

'The Winning' includes a total of 5 songs, including 'I Stan U', all of which ranked on the Melon TOP100 chart as of 4 PM on the 25th, demonstrating IU's enduring power. In this album, IU expressed, "Rather than with hatred, I want to respect and support everyone who lives loving in various ways with love."