Hamin-gi, the grandson of Shinjeon Tteokbokgi’s founder, addressed rumors ahead of his debut. A video titled “Chaebol Idol with News Sensation… Grandson of Shinjeon Tteokbokgi founder, first look” was posted on the YouTube channel One Mic on the 31st. In the video, Hamin-gi said that he received encouragement from his founder-grandmother and that he auditioned 200 times to become an idol trainee.

Earlier, Hamin-gi had been dubbed a “chaebol idol,” generating higher anticipation for his debut. Born in 2007, he is affiliated with Modern Berry Korea and was introduced when a new boy group was announced for launch in the second half of 2026; he is described as the founder’s grandson and Ha Seong-ho’s nephew.