"I Won't Write Songs for Wonder Girls": Park Jin-young's Declaration Gives Rise to 'Why So Lonely' [Choi Hye-jin's Latte]

*This content was translated by AI.

[Editor’s Note] Reporter Choi Hye-jin introduces hit songs she used to enjoy during her "Latte" days 10 years ago.

Ten years ago, the group Wonder Girls (Yeeun, Sunmi, Hyelim, Yubin) broke away from JYP producer and singer Park Jin-young to embark on a new chapter with their own music.

On July 5, 2016, Wonder Girls released their single album "Why So Lonely." The title track of the same name is a reggae pop song characterized by its lively rhythm and mature sensibility. It harmoniously blends band sounds with a refined emotional depth. While expanding on the retro concept previously showcased by Wonder Girls, the track successfully captured a unique summer vibe, earning widespread acclaim.

Notably, this song held special significance as it was the first self-composed title track ever presented by Wonder Girls, who had consistently relied on songs produced by Park Jin-yeong (CEO) since their 2007 debut. Sunmi and Hyelim collaborated with composer Hong Ji-sang on composition, while Yubin, Sunmi, and Hyelim contributed to the lyrics, fully reflecting the members' musical capabilities.

At the time, Wonder Girls shared the story behind "Why So Lonely" through a Naver V App live broadcast. Yeeun revealed, "(Park Jin-young) declared he wouldn't write songs for you, so we formed a team to create our own music. We loved our self-composed song that it became the title track," offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes journey. As news spread that Wonder Girls had completed their title track with music they created themselves after years of working under Park Jin-young's production, fan interest surged.

Park Jin-young also genuinely supported his juniors and students in their new challenges. After the song's release, he posted on his personal account: "I taught them hoping for a day when they would bring out songs they created themselves as title tracks instead of mine. Now that such a day has arrived, I feel proud yet slightly bittersweet."

He added, "Congratulations on 'Talpak' (escaping Park Jin-young)! So proud~♡," conveying his affection and support for Wonder Girls.

The song's performance on music charts was equally impressive. "Why So Lonely" topped Melon's comprehensive weekly chart for the first week of July (the 4th–10) and secured second place in the following week (the 11th–17), maintaining steady popularity.

This achievement carried even greater significance as it was accomplished through a self-composed track. Recognized as one of the defining songs that established Wonder Girls as an "artist-type girl group," the song is now regarded as one of their most iconic hits.

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*This content was translated by AI.