Alicia Wong Lingling, 19 years old from Selangor’s Klang has officially entered history books as Malaysia’s first-ever female K-pop idol. Simply referred to as Lingling, she stole the hearts of international fans after appearing on Mnet’s survival show I-LAND 2: N/a. Her natural talent, confidence and ability to communicate in multiple languages such as English, Malay, Chinese and Korean distinguished her from the beginning and secured her a warm nickname as PolyglotGenius from her fans.
Lingling took second place in the show’s initial voting rounds, earning her a spot in Leanbranding’s first-ever global girl group. The actual debut name and exact debut date of the group have yet to be announced but the group is expected to debut sometime by the end of May 2025. Lean Branding, the company overseeing her performance, confirmed the reports and since has received an increase in interest, particularly from Malaysian K-pop enthusiasts who are making this momentous occasion a celebratory milestone.
LingLing will become the first Malaysian K-POP girl group member.#린브랜딩 #LeanBranding #LeanBrandingGirls #링링 #LingLing pic.twitter.com/5tz6uykMS3
— LEAN BRANDING GIRLS (@LeanBrandGirls) April 18, 2025
Her K-pop journey started years ago, with initial training at YG Entertainment, one of the strongest entertainment firms in South Korea. That groundwork served her well as a performer and set her up for the heavy competition on I-LAND 2. During the show, Lingling was complimented not only on her dancing and singing, but also on her reflective personality and collaboration.
The importance of Lingling’s success extends beyond personal celebrity it is a significant leap forward for Malaysian representation in the Korean entertainment world. Fans are eager to show their support as she starts her career on the global stage. Her debut also inspires other hopeful idols from Southeast Asia.
