I-DLE leader Jeon Soyeon is officially back in office Not very cute rap star franchise, but this time not as a contestant, but as lead producer and solo host of the brand new season, Not Pretty Rapstar: The Princess of Hip Hop.
At the production press conference held on October 15, Jeon Soyeon reflected on her journey, saying: “It’s been nine years since I first appeared on Not very cute rap star as a high school student. It’s an honor to return as an adult and be a part of this project in such a meaningful way.” Once a contestant who made a name for herself on the show, she now takes center stage as a mentor trying to discover the next generation of female rap stars.
Princess of hip-hop is a Korea-Japan collaboration project that aims to create a global hip-hop girl group. Contestants from both countries, representing different musical identities such as hip-hop, K-pop and J-pop, will come together to develop their own music, choreography, style and video production, participating in every aspect of their group’s creative process.
Jeon pointed out that its judging criteria are much stricter than those of other survival programs. “Because it is so Not very cute rap starskill is everything,” he stated firmly, distinguishing the show from other talent competitions that often prioritize charm or popularity.
He also highlighted creativity and self-production as key elements that create Princess of hip-hop unique. “What sets this show apart is that participants can create everything themselves, from rap styles to stage outfits. It’s about becoming a true artist,” Jeon explained.
Sharing his heartfelt motivation, he added, “I really love music and hope this show inspires more people to pursue it seriously. I will do my best to discover a hip-hop girl group that combines skill and originality.”
The show brings together an impressive lineup of mentors, including rapper Gaeko, dancer Riehata and Japanese artist Iwata Takanori, along with Jeon Soyeon. Not Pretty Rapstar: The Princess of Hip Hop will premiere on October 16 via Mnet in Korea and U-NEXT in Japan simultaneously.
Sources: Daum
