When something is done, it becomes a trend. This is the story of RAY, a member of the 'MZ wannabe' group IVE.
Idol culture and fandom are at the center of Generation Z trends. Fans tend to actively follow the actions or styles of their favorite idols, and at the core of this is IVE, which has caused a syndrome and stands at the center of the fifth generation.
Among them, RAY is truly famous for her cuteness, with nicknames like 'Kongsooni' and 'RAYomi' (RAY + cutie). With her round cute face, smiling eyes, and a foreigner's unique pronunciation, RAY triggers fans' attraction. The video where RAY brought down Producer Na Young-seok, saying 'Kkaeguul' on the Starship Entertainment segment of 'Business Trip 15' is still a representative video for attracting fans. Her harmless and cute charm disarms viewers, broadening RAY's fan base.
A representative trend initiated by RAY is the 'Gyaru Peace.' The pose of making a 'V' with the hands, with the palm facing up and then flipped down, was popular in the 2000s, but waned as the gyaru culture declined. However, in 2022, RAY revived the Gyaru Peace pose, attracting attention again. This pose, often shown by RAY when taking pictures, became the starting point for various poses like Cherry Peace.
'Ribon Heart' is another pose that RAY has popularized. It is said to have started with the message 'I will show you my ribbon every day.' RAY's 'Ribon Part' spread quickly alongside IVE's activities and became a trend. Many idols, not just RAY, have been following this pose, which has brought RAY into the spotlight. Other representative poses include the 'Kongsooni Pose,' where both fists are brought to the cheeks.
Recently, in 'Attitude,' the 'Bokju Guinea' part of RAY has gained more popularity than the point choreography of washing windows. With movements that swing the arms powerfully to a strong beat, her explosive energy is noticeable. Some have nicknamed her 'Bokju Guinea' as she resembles a guinea pig going wild. The dynamic choreography and RAY's cute smiling eyes and expressions create synergy, significantly contributing to the IVE syndrome.
RAY's 'MZ power' can also be confirmed in 'Try to Follow RAY by Celsius Shipdo,' in which she plays a role. She has transformed into a social media instructor, offering tips. Introducing herself as an idol, YouTuber, TikToker, and Instagrammer, RAY has held detailed lectures on 'communicating through short form,' 'communicating through photos,' 'communicating through reels & TikTok,' 'communicating through text,' and 'communicating through long form.'
Here, RAY noted, 'When selecting content, it should be something I can completely digest,' sharing her secret. While quickly grasping trends is important, reinterpreting them in her own way or presenting them more interestingly is key. RAY proves this by creating various short form challenges that draw attention.
Videos reflecting RAY's 'philosophy' boast significant views and popularity even within IVE. Among the videos posted on the official IVE TikTok account, RAY's videos record views in the millions. In particular, the recently spotlighted 'Bokju Guinea' video is recording high views.
The representative modifiers that precede the IVE group are 'MZ wannabe' and 'MZ icon.' IVE is receiving attention for having a distinct color that Generation Z, who love themselves and are confident anywhere and anytime, can aspire to. Among them, RAY shows exceptional talent in leading and discovering trends, significantly adding to the IVE syndrome. What will be the next item RAY initiates? This is why attention is focused on RAY.
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