Last month, the new male group to debut from YG Entertainment was determined through the show “WIN: Who Is Next.” The group, which will debut with the name WINNER, consists of Kang Seung Yoon, Lee Seung Hoon, Kim Jin Woo, Nam Tae Hyun, and Song Min Ho. On November 1st, they said, “A really huge number of people congratulated us,” and they smiled from ear to ear.

Although their debut date is still undetermined, their fandom is growing rapidly. Kang Seung Yoon said, “My friends’ parents cheered me on as if I was their son.” He went on to thank his wide fanbase and said, “Since Lee Seung Hoon and I have appeared on audition programs, we were used to this kind of experience, but since the other members hadn’t been exposed to it before, they were really fascinated.” He also spoke about the burdensome part and said, “Although the burden will always be there, since we’ve been confirmed to debut, it’s greater than ever. Groups in our agency such as Big Bang and 2NE1 have become cultural icons. As the group that will hopefully follow in their footsteps, we will work hard and do our best.”

Lee Seung Hoon spoke sadly about Team B members who won’t be debuting. Before the winner was even announced at the final battle, Lee Seung Hoon was already shedding tears onstage. He shared how he felt when Team A was chosen as the winner to debut. He said, “A lot of thoughts were racing through my head. Right before the decision was made, the video of Team B’s celebratory performance was broadcast. As I saw that I noted how hard Team B had worked, and I was saddened that only one team would be able to see the light.”

They were then asked about whether they minded appearing on television across the country before their debut while they were yet trainees. Kang Seung Yoon energetically answered, “I felt good, and I was just thankful. Since we always practiced in the basement of our company building, it was nice to come out and meet a lot of people. I liked being able to show ourselves and what we’ve been up to.” Lee Seung Hoon responded a little differently and said, “At first I minded a little. I wondered to myself whether I would be able to handle the broadcast or not. But now that I look at it, it’s really fun.”

They even revealed a little about what Team B’s been up to. Team B is currently still practicing with Team A. Since their disbandment has not yet been determined, WINNER couldn’t give a clear answer on that matter. However Lee Seung Hoon did comment, “The public responded positively, so we’re expecting some good news as well.”

WINNER said, “We’ll greet you soon with a new album.” WINNER plans to join Big Bang on their Japan Dome Tour and build their stage experience, and plan to debut as early as sometime in December.

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