Recently, entertainment company MBK Entertainment (or Moden Berry Korea) attracted attention when introducing trainee Ha Min Gi, who will debut in a new Kpop group in the second half of 2026.
Immediately, the background of this trainee became a topic of discussion. Ha Min Gi was born in 2007, the nephew of the founder and first CEO of the famous Korean chain of tokbokki franchises - Sinjeon Tteokbokki, Ha Seong Ho.
The Sinjeon Tteokbokki brand is currently leading in the number of franchises with more than 800 branches nationwide.
Management company MBK Entertainment told the media: "We are very grateful for the active support from Sinjeon Tteokbokki's family during Ha Min Gi's preparation for his debut. We are actively training a new boy band with the goal of debuting in the second half of 2026.
This has caused the keyword "idols hold a golden spoon", and rumors that Sinjeon Tteokbokki invested in MBK company so that their third-generation successor could become a Kpop idol to spread.
In a new video posted on YouTube, Ha Min Gi frankly shared about her origin, responding to rumors about her "talented idol" before her debut.
Ha Min Gi said: At first, even the management company did not know about my familys circumstances. They were surprised but also said that they were looking forward to what I could do. That made me want to try harder.
When asked about being labeled as "actor", he honestly replied: "I am not actor (chaebol). My parents could, but I didn't think so. Our house is quite spacious, but my parents have never been addicted to luxury cars. They just like Mercedes cars, thats all.
Ha Min Gi emphasized that his career path was built entirely on his own efforts, not thanks to money or the influence of his family.
People commented that I was an idol of a tycoon, so I had to spend money to join the company, but that was completely untrue. I submitted an application, met with management companies and auditioned myself. I have never paid for this industry, except for tuition fees at the academy to practice, said Ha Min Gi.
In particular, he revealed that he had participated in about 200 auditions before having the opportunity to become a trainee of MBK Entertainment and about to debut in a new music group.
According to Ha Min Gi, convincing my parents requires perseverance: Since high school, I spent a month convincing my father. They were worried because this was a very difficult industry, but I told them, Even if it didnt work, I didnt regret it, and in the end, they supported me.
Ha Min Gi still remembers what her grandmother taught: This world is very harsh, everything is difficult. So don't give up."
He added: "Because my origin has been made public, I have to be even more careful not to harm my brand. I know there will be criticism and jealousy, but I am focusing on those who support me and working harder.
