Before performing her first live showcase in Japan on January 24^th, solo singer IU received some wise advice from a fellow star, KARA’s Nicole. In a recent interview IU shared, "Nicole-unni advised me to improve my Japanese and be cute, so I told her I would work even hard on my Japanese." Sage words indeed. After all, girl groups KARA and SNSD succeeded in the Japanese market last year.

Despite her solo act, the singer maintains cool confidence and is taking the new adventure in stride. "I think its fine to enjoy myself and not aspire too much," the performer said.

IU has a few Japanese idols of her own to look to as well. "I would like to meet Utada Hikaru,” she said. “Yui Arakagi is pretty too and I really admire her."

IU’s debut single “Good Day” is slated for a March 21^st release in Japan. With all the excitement, she’s staying even-keeled. “I am happy to meet all my fans and I'm feeling optimistic.”