{
  "id": 2023819,
  "title": "LingLing embraces leadership role in KIIRAS",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/19/lingling-embraces-leadership-role-in-kiiras",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-19T22:10:15.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2026/08/1514848/lingling-embraces-leadership-role-kiiras"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Kiiras performer LingLing, born Alicia Wong Ling Ling, has opened up about her journey as a Malaysian artiste in Korea's competitive music scene. At 21, she is the eldest member of the group and, consequently, has taken on the role of leader. This position, while not burdensome, is a testament to the strong bond and cooperation among her bandmates. LingLing emphasizes the close dynamic, describing her group as \"extremely close, just like siblings.\" She notes that while they play around, work always comes first for them. LingLing also expressed her joy in returning to Malaysia, finding it feels like a vacation, especially when she can reunite with her family. Despite her elimination from the K-pop reality show I-Land 2, LingLing persisted, signing with LeanBranding and debuting as a KIIRAS member last year.",
  "summary": "Your browser does not support the audio element.",
  "key_points": [
    "LingLing, 21, leads KIIRAS as eldest member.",
    "Bandmates describe group as \"extremely close\".",
    "LingLing returns to Malaysia, feels like vacation."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}