Singer IU has been selected as the representative of South Korea in the Billboard 'Global Number 1 Artist Series'.
Billboard has selected IU as the representative "Global No. 1 Artist" from Korea, calling her an "irreplaceable presence." The publication explained, "There are many figures who excel in different fields—idol stars, talented musicians, skilled actors, and hosts who shine in variety shows. But no one else manages to excel in all these areas simultaneously like IU."
They further praised IU's fanbase, noting that her popularity spans across various age groups and is clearly reflected in her musical achievements and live performances.
Billboard also highlighted IU's exceptional accomplishments in music this year, including her album achievements and world tour. They mentioned that her song "Love Wins All" reached the No. 1 spot on Korea's Melon Top 100 chart just an hour after release, and went on to dominate the weekly and monthly charts for four consecutive weeks. Additionally, IU achieved the impressive "iChart Perfect All-Kill" 339 times.
IU’s world tour, which included 31 concerts in 12 countries, attracted approximately 500,000 fans, marking the largest-ever world tour by a Korean female solo artist. She also became the first female singer to perform in all major stadiums across Korea, earning a unique and unprecedented title.
In an interview with Billboard, IU shared her thoughts: "Global, Billboard, No. 1—these terms feel strange but also honorable and truly rewarding."
Meanwhile, IU is set to release her new drama 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' in the first half of next year.
On December 2, Kakao Entertainment confirmed that IU and Byeon Woo-seok have been cast in the upcoming MBC drama Wife of a 21st Century Prince (working title).
Set in a modern-day South Korea with a constitutional monarchy, Wife of a 21st Century Prince follows the story of a privileged, beautiful, and intelligent woman born into a wealthy family, who is frustrated by her commoner status, and a prince’s son who has nothing but his royal blood, creating a tragic but transcendent love story.
The drama is based on the winning script from MBC’s drama script competition, with production handled by both MBC and Kakao Entertainment.
In the drama, IU will portray Seong Hee-joo, the second daughter of Korea’s wealthiest family, who is born with beauty and intelligence. She finds herself entangled with Ian Daegun, whose commoner status becomes a barrier in her life.
Byeon Woo-seok will take on the role of Ian Daegun, the second son of the king, who, despite being born into the royal family, has little to his name. Meeting Seong Hee-joo brings profound changes to his life.
Wife of a 21st Century Prince is set to air in the second half of next year.