The direction of idol evolution is becoming more diverse. HUH GAYOON, a member of second-generation representative idol group 4MINUTE, is beginning to train idols as a rookie group director. Drawing from her experience and career, she is stepping into nurturing junior artists.

 

On the 15th, Cube Entertainment told Hanteo News, “It is true that HUH GAYOON is preparing a new group, but it is not yet at a stage where we can share specific details.”

 

She debuted in 2009 as a member of 4MINUTE and has been actively working as both a singer and actress for over 15 years. With experience in both music and acting, HUH GAYOON is expected to spend meaningful time developing idols.


 

Photo = HUH GAYOON social media

 

Previously, idol-turned creative directors such as JAY PARK, KIM JAE JOONG, ZICO, and LEE HAEIN have successfully launched idol groups in the pop music industry.

 

 

Photo = MORE VISION

 

Singer JAY PARK debuted in 2008 as a member of 2PM and later left the group the following year. He re-debuted as a solo artist under SidusHQ, and subsequently founded AOMG and H1GHER MUSIC. In 2021, he stepped down from both labels and established MORE VISION, an entertainment company with a different direction.

 

Currently, JAY PARK has introduced MORE VISION’s first boy group LNGSHOT. As a team personally produced by JAY PARK, who has built his career in hip-hop and R&B, LNGSHOT has drawn industry attention even before debut. Their debut EP ‘SHOT PLUS’ surpassed 100 million streams on Spotify within 59 days of release and recorded 5.9 million monthly listeners, receiving strong support from global fans. This demonstrates JAY PARK’s outstanding directing ability.
 

Photo = iNKODE

 

KIM JAE JOONG debuted under SM Entertainment as a member of TVXQ and gained widespread love as a main vocalist. He currently runs iNKODE as CSO (Chief Strategy Officer), producing idols. After debuting the girl group SAY MY NAME in 2024, he recently introduced the boy group KEYVITUP. iNKODE has announced plans to debut two boy groups this year, with another group, BEYON, scheduled for June.

 

Photo = KOZ ENTERTAINMENT

 

ZICO debuted under KQ Entertainment as the leader and rapper of Block B. He wrote, composed, and produced most of the group’s songs and founded KOZ Entertainment in 2018. Under ZICO’s production, BOYNEXTDOOR has grown successfully and continues to show rapid growth according to Hanteo Rewind.

 

 

Photo = ALL MY ANECDOTES

 

Lastly, LEE HAEIN gained recognition through appearances on I.O.I and Idol School and debuted in the project group I.B.I. She later pursued acting and recently worked as a creative director for the girl group KISS OF LIFE and as a producer for CLOSE YOUR EYES. In early 2026, she founded ALL MY ANECDOTES and soon debuted OWIS in March, currently serving as CCO (Chief Content Officer).

 

As mentioned, these figures now stand in positions where they must both manage as executives and offer guidance as seniors. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. Their firsthand experience allows them to understand fast and efficient paths, but it can also lead to decisions shaped by past success. Moreover, the K-pop market has long been saturated, requiring both ambition and courage.

 

Their status as well-known figures who have shaped K-pop can give their artists both confidence and pressure. The label “___’s idol” may create preconceived perceptions, yet it can also serve as a strategic asset to elevate brand value. Ultimately, whether this label becomes a limitation or a set of wings depends on the music and artists they create.

 

As senior artists, producers, and executives, attention is focused on what paths they will take moving forward.