The group izna explained the reason why they do not have an official leader.

izna (Mai, Bang Ji-min, Yoon Ji-yoon, Coco, Yoo Sa-rang, Choi Jeong-eun, Jeong Se-bi) is a girl group that was formed through the debut survival show 'I-land 2', and the team name embodies a bold confidence and assurance that they can be defined as 'me' anytime, anywhere, for anything. They faced new challenges and broke their limits and fears through their mini album 'N/a', released on Nov. 25 last year.

As their debut album entered the top 10 of the iTunes Top Albums chart in 14 countries worldwide, and reached number one on the Apple Music K-pop album ranking and Rakuten Music ranking in Japan, izna made a rapid comeback with the release of their first digital single 'SIGN' on the 31st of last month, just four months after their debut.

There was confidence behind izna's rapid comeback. The new song 'SIGN' is a dance genre track characterized by its captivating lyrics and addictive melody, singing about the courage and assurance to convey love as a clear signal. It carries the meaning that when one listens to the signals within themselves instead of waiting, they can finally face the moments of achieving love and dreams on their own.

Proving their limitless musical potential, izna displayed a varied concept unlike before, showcasing their growth, and immediately upon release, they ranked high on major domestic music sites such as Melon and Genie, as well as achieving second place on Spotify Japan's Rising chart, second place in Amazon Digital Music's single popularity, and third place on iTunes K-Pop Top Songs. They not only secured their first music show win on SBS M's 'The Show', but also took first place on the 'ENA K-Pop Up Chart Show.'

We met izna, who wrapped up their 'SIGN' activities while achieving musical growth, individual member capabilities, and success.

Q&A following izna's activities

Q. If the debut song 'IZNA' was hip, the comeback song 'SIGN' feels nostalgic. Wasn't it difficult to have such contrasting concepts?

Bang Ji-min: While preparing this song, we practiced thinking that our fans would really like it. Unlike our debut song, it has a dreamy and nostalgic characteristic, so we discussed a lot about what kind of emotional line we should express. It’s not a song that we can just smile brightly and sing; it needs to mix sad emotions and nostalgic feelings, and we studied how to capture that well on camera. We referred to dramas and had many conversations to align ourselves. During that process, I had the confidence that we would do well, and I felt that we were doing well while performing.

Q. What did you want to show through this activity?

Bang Ji-min: I wanted to show our chemistry a lot, and we were able to do that in this 'SIGN'. For example, there are parts where Yoo Sa-rang and Choi Jeong-eun sing harmonies together, and there are many sections where we face each other while dancing. I was very proud that the chemistry coming from that was well captured and liked.

Choi Jeong-eun: I wanted to get closer and strengthen our bonds as a team, not just in terms of appearance. While preparing for this activity, we shared a lot of conversations, and there were more days when we could have dinner together and share small things, so I think this aspect was well reflected on stage.

Q. By the way, izna does not have a leader. Is there a reason for that?

Bang Ji-min: We all have different strengths, and rather than having one person lead, we thought it would be better for each of us to engage in team activities with a sense of responsibility equal to that of a leader, so we did not designate a leader. Therefore, we take the lead in our respective strong areas and rely on each other.

Q. Then, what kind of 'leaders' do you think each member is within izna?

Mai: I am the eldest sister, and I would like to say I am the cleaning leader because I take care of the tidying up well.

Se-bi: I’m the aegyo leader. I have the most aegyo in the group, and I also teach aegyo. Recently, I was surprised to see Ji-min unnie's aegyo increase.

Yoo Sa-rang: I’m the balance leader. Our positions aren’t strictly defined, but I believe I play a role in balancing the members in dance and singing.

Coco: I am the mood leader and the dance leader. I have a bright personality, so I lift the mood when it’s dark, and I’m confident in dancing since I’ve been dancing since I was 3 years old.

Bang Ji-min: I’m also responsible for communications in izna and often take the lead in gathering members' opinions.

Choi Jeong-eun: Members often come to me when they find the vocal parts difficult, and I help them. I also assist with choreography during the final touches, so I would like to say I’m an all-rounder who helps the members whether it’s singing or dancing.

Q. Then who is the mood maker in izna?

Yoo Sa-rang: The usual mood maker is Coco. She has a bright and positive personality, and when she speaks Korean, her cute tone is charming. She tells tired members to 'cheer up' in that cute tone, which lifts the team’s spirits. And when we finish work, if she says, 'Shall we all hang out today?' we play games or chat together.

Choi Jeong-eun: Nowadays, I am into Rummikub. The best player is (Bang) Ji-min unnie. I have never beaten Ji-min unnie even once, so it might get boring since I always lose, but my competitive spirit has risen, and I keep challenging her.

Q. The team atmosphere is very warm and impressive; what do you think is the secret to inza's teamwork?

Bang Ji-min: We talk a lot and make time to honestly express our thoughts. I think this honest communication is the reason for our teamwork. We also give each other honest feedback on the stage, and when we feel slighted about trivial things, we speak honestly and keep each other grounded on the good aspects, thus naturally drawing closer.

<To be continued in Interview Part ②>

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