In a bold and unprecedented move within the K-Pop industry, HYBE's subsidiary label BELIFT LAB ventured into uncharted territory with the survival show "R U Next?" in 2023.

The objective was clear — to scout and select the exceptional talents that would comprise the much-anticipated girl group, I’LL-IT.

The show captivated audiences with its intense competition, showcasing the arduous journey that aspiring idols embarked on to secure their place in the upcoming sensation.

Silent Anticipation Ends: Final Six Members Chosen in Secrecy

After weeks of anticipation and suspense, the climax of "R U Next?" finally arrived as the curtains closed on the show, revealing the chosen six members of I’LL-IT.

The selection process, shrouded in secrecy, added an element of mystery to the group's formation. Despite the show concluding last year, I’LL-IT managed to maintain an air of secrecy, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the group's official debut.

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Paris Fashion Week Debut: I’LL-IT Sets a New Milestone

Breaking traditional norms and setting a pioneering precedent, BELIFT LAB dropped a bombshell announcement on February 22.

BELIFT LAB confirms I'LL-IT was invited and will be attending Paris Fashion Week on the 28th. https://t.co/21PqU7IITV pic.twitter.com/HWFwOOSCes

— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) February 22, 2024

I’LL-IT, the nascent girl group, received an exclusive invitation from the esteemed Swedish brand Acne Studios to attend Paris Fashion Week.

This announcement etches a historic moment in K-Pop history, as I’LL-IT becomes the first-ever K-Pop group with all pre-debut members gracing the prestigious runway of a major global fashion event.

Mixed Reactions Online: "HYBE Privilege" Controversy Ignites

As the news of I’LL-IT's Paris Fashion Week debut circulated, the online realm became a battleground of contrasting opinions.

Netizens, representing a diverse spectrum of the K-Pop fandom, expressed a myriad of emotions. Shock and disbelief echoed through negative reactions, with some fans arguing that a pre-debut group should not overshadow established stars at an international fashion extravaganza.

KNETZ' REACTIONS

Whatta, hasn't debuted and already booked. Slay

They want us to believe a group that didn't even debuted and only K-pop stans know about got invited to PFW..?

hybe spending all their money on shoving their artists on our faces

do u think its easy to secure a debut spot in hybe? these girls work so hard to achieve their dream. ppl in qrts can keep on shading them but it wont change the fact that our girls working extra hard to show their best to the world and how sincere they are towards their fans

Haters just proving us right bruh the girls WILL BE FAMOUS and u cant do ANYTHING about it lmfao suck on a lollipop. "Hybe payola" they're obviously gonna promote one of their NEWEST and very TALENTED new gg.

The hybe payola is crazy

They didn't debuted LMAOO, nepotism

Tbh, BELIFT LAB don't really know how to manange their idol well, like how do u invite them to a fashion show before debut?? Huh??

Now if people say hybe is not payola nd organic then they are blind lol

Anyways yall in the qrts can STAY mad and bothered they're attending a fashion show pre debut, the more hate yall give them the more they'll succeed at the end of the day 

What has happened to kpop? They don't even have any music out yet but we are supposed to believe they have made an impact outside their primary field? https://t.co/2mq8hWEmEI

— ‿ (@elsedonda) February 22, 2024

The way that fashion brands and fashion weeks became promotions for those companies especially hybe it's crazy lmao. Lisa and her members were criticized and called "models" but now every kpop idol is going to the fw even the groups that didn't debut yet https://t.co/HHJCcbZTyW pic.twitter.com/JDGx6PLW4B

— LLOUD³²⁷🇨🇲🇨🇲 (@BihinaPaula) February 22, 2024

 
The term "HYBE privilege" began trending as critics pointed to the group's limited exposure beyond the reality show, questioning their eligibility for such a prestigious event.

I’LL-IT Faces Criticism Amidst Praise: Shining in the Fashion Capital

In the face of mounting criticism, staunch supporters rallied behind I’LL-IT. Defenders of the group emphasized the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication displayed by the members to secure their coveted spots under the HYBE banner.

With the controversy as a backdrop, I’LL-IT is poised to make an indelible mark on the fashion capital of the world, Paris.

As the group prepares to grace the runway before their official debut, all eyes are on I’LL-IT to see how they navigate the intricacies of fame and criticism while basking in the spotlight of a global fashion spectacle.

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Written by Cassidy Jones.