If you’re even mildly into the world of K-pop, chances are you’ve at least heard whispers of I-LAND, the high-stakes idol survival show that launched global acts like ENHYPEN. When I-LAND 2 premiered in 2024 on South Korea’s Mnet, all eyes were on the 24 female trainees vying for a spot in WAKEONE Entertainment’s next powerhouse girl group. But one K-pop trainee, Lingling, quickly captured attention in Malaysia, not just for her talent, but for representing the country on such a high-profile stage.
View this post on Instagram
Lingling became a fan favourite throughout the season, standing out as the only Southeast Asian contestant among a lineup of mostly Korean and Japanese trainees. Though she narrowly missed making the final debut lineup for the group izna, her journey was far from over. On 18 April 2025, South Korean entertainment company Lean Branding confirmed that Lingling will debut in its first-ever global girl group this coming May—a major milestone for Malaysian representation in the K-pop industry.
Known for her unique blend of charm, discipline, and multicultural flair, Lingling has already made waves with her appearance on I-LAND 2. But beyond that, she’s got a colourful personality and endearing quirks that make her even more lovable.
As Lingling prepares to break new ground as the first female K-pop idol from Malaysia, here’s everything we know about her personal life and journey as an upcoming idol, from her beginnings and rise through the reality competition show, to what lies ahead in this exciting new chapter.
Fun facts you didn’t know about Lingling, the first female K-pop idol from Malaysia
She was born in Klang, Selangor
Lingling, whose real name is Alicia Wong Lingling, hails from Klang—a bustling royal town in Selangor. Born and raised there, her journey from a Malaysian suburb to the glittering world of K-pop is nothing short of inspiring. Her roots make her achievement even more significant, as she’s set to become a cultural milestone for Malaysian representation in the K-pop industry.
A former trainee under K-pop giant YG Entertainment
Before stepping into the spotlight on I-LAND 2, Lingling trained under YG Entertainment, one of the most prestigious and competitive agencies in South Korea. This early exposure to the demanding world of K-pop grooming has helped shape her into a polished performer which undeniably gave her a head start in mastering everything from stage presence to vocal technique.
She speaks four languages fluently
Lingling’s linguistic skills are nothing short of remarkable. She’s fluent in Malay, Mandarin, English, and Korean – a feat that not only makes her incredibly versatile as a K-pop idol but also positions her as a cultural bridge between her Malaysian roots and the global K-pop audience. Her fluency was even acknowledged during I-LAND 2, where she often helped other trainees communicate.
She’s obsessed with cushions
She has a lifelong obsession with cushions. Ever since she was a child, cushions have brought her a deep sense of comfort. During her time on I-LAND 2, she revealed that she can’t fall asleep without cuddling her favourite panda cushion, which she brought with her to the dorm.
She keeps a diary as part of her daily routine
In a candid moment from Mnet’s What’s in My Teencase video series, Lingling shared that one of her must-have items is a diary. More than just a habit, journaling is her way of staying grounded. She writes daily entries to better understand herself—her thoughts, emotions, and growth.
She has a signature silver ring she wears every day
Fashion may be her passion, but one accessory holds special meaning for Lingling: a simple silver ring that she wears religiously. According to her, the ring makes her feel mature, almost like a rite of passage into adulthood.
A trailblazer for Malaysia in K-pop
View this post on Instagram
With her upcoming debut, Lingling is set to become the first-ever female K-pop idol from Malaysia, marking a historic moment for the country. She follows in the footsteps of Isaac Voo (formerly of IN2IT, now part of SKYE), making her only the second Malaysian to debut in a K-pop group overall.
(Hero and feature images credit: Instagram/ @alicia__lingling)
