“ILLIT made history with their K-pop debut. The most incredible part? They’ve only just begun.” – Consequence of Sound

On March 25th KST, ILLIT (Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, Iroha) marked their first anniversary since debut. With their debut track "Magnetic", they achieved a groundbreaking feat by becoming the first K-pop group to enter both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Official Singles Chart Top 100 with a debut song—and in record time. The track also dominated global charts, propelling the group to win 13 awards, including seven rookie awards at major Korean and international music ceremonies.

Their success can be attributed to their vibrant teenage charm, bold spirit, and distinctive musical identity. ILLIT’s growing influence, matched with their relentless drive, continues to captivate audiences around the world. To commemorate the milestone, the members reflected on their journey in a statement through Belift Lab.

Q. How does it feel to reach your 1st anniversary?

Yunah: I can’t believe it’s already been a year. In some ways, it feels like just the beginning, but I don’t want to downplay it. So much has happened, and sharing it all with our fans, GLLITz, has made this year truly meaningful.

Minju: I’m grateful for everything we’ve experienced and learned over the past year—it’s been a time of real growth for me.

Moka: It’s been such a rich and intense year. Becoming the artist I dreamed of and performing on stage with our members made me incredibly happy. We’ve become even closer, too.

Wonhee: I still remember the nerves and excitement from preparing our debut album—it feels like yesterday. We received more love than I ever imagined, which gave me a strong sense of responsibility.

Iroha: Time has flown by. I’ve learned and experienced so much this past year—more than ever before. It was also the year I took the most flights in my life! Most of all, meeting GLLITz made it unforgettable.

Q. What moment stands out the most from your debut year?

Yunah: Seeing Magnetic hit No. 1 on the Melon chart. It all happened so fast that I didn’t even have time to properly celebrate. Looking back, I now realize just how incredible that love and support was.

Minju: Our fan showcase was especially memorable. It was just us and GLLITz, and hearing them cheer in unison made me feel euphoric.

Moka: Definitely our debut showcase. It was the moment we introduced ILLIT to the world, and I was so nervous but excited.

Wonhee: Our first music show stage. It was surreal standing on a stage I used to watch as a kid. I was nervous, but being with the members gave me strength.

Iroha: Every moment is special, but our comeback showcase stands out. Unlike our debut, I was able to focus and really feel the warmth of seeing GLLITz again.

Q. Why do you think ILLIT has received so much love?

Yunah: I think it’s the unique charms of each member, along with the freshness of our songs and concepts.

Minju: I’m thankful that people connected with our music and performances. The lyrics, which resonate with people our age, and the easy-to-follow finger point dance helped it spread on short-form platforms.

Moka: Good music crosses borders. From the start, fans from all over the world showed us love, and I was amazed by how our songs charted all year.

Wonhee: I think it’s the energy we bring—our songs, performances, and styling. Of course, we shine brighter thanks to everyone who supports and loves us.

Iroha: It’s all thanks to our team, staff, and GLLITz who work hard and cheer us on. That’s what makes ILLIT what it is.

Q. What do you focus on to keep growing?

Yunah: I pay close attention to demo tracks, practicing tone and pronunciation. I also monitor my performances often and ask for help when needed to improve.

Minju: I repeat the parts I struggle with and film myself for review. Monitoring is key for me.

Moka: I try to perform at 100% without getting nervous. To avoid mistakes, I practice until everything becomes muscle memory. I’ve been upping my practice time.

Wonhee: I constantly rehearse to improve our group’s synchronization. Since our choreography is detailed, I focus on perfecting every movement.

Iroha: I want to excel in both vocals and performance. I keep practicing until I’m fully satisfied and aim to sing live naturally while expressing emotions on stage.

Q. What are your goals and dreams for this year?

Yunah: I hope we stay healthy and meet the expectations of GLLITz through our hard work.

Minju: I want our music to be loved once again by both GLLITz and the public.

Moka: I dream of holding our own concert. I’d love to perform all our songs and create happy memories with GLLITz.

Wonhee: I hope we can meet even more GLLITz this year.

Iroha: I want to see a dome concert packed with GLLITz holding our lightsticks. That’s my dream.

Q. Any words for your fellow members?

Yunah: Thank you all for working so hard this past year. It’s been meaningful and fulfilling. Let’s keep going strong and healthy this year. Love you!

Minju: I’m grateful and happy because of you all. We’ve accomplished things that would’ve been impossible alone. Let’s keep leaning on each other!

Moka: We’ve done great. It’s only the beginning, so let’s keep improving and showing the world our best selves.

Wonhee: You’ve all done an amazing job. Keep it up—let’s keep fighting together!

Iroha: There were fun and tough times, but I got through them thanks to you all. Thank you—let’s keep going strong!

Q. And to your fans, GLLITz?

Yunah: GLLITz, you’re more precious than anyone. Thank you and sorry for all you’ve endured for us. Please stay healthy and eat well. I love you!

Minju: I always feel both grateful and sorry. We’ll repay you with good energy and stay by your side forever. You’re precious to us and we love you.

Moka: We’ll keep showing you new sides of us, so please look forward to it!

Wonhee: You mean so much to us. We’ll never forget your love and support. Let’s stay together!

Iroha: I’m so happy to celebrate our 1st anniversary with you. Your love made my year full of joy. I’ll work hard to give you even more love in return.

SEE ALSO: ILLIT announces 2025 'GLITTER DAY' fanmeet in Seoul and Japan