In the world of K-pop, it is not uncommon for idols to perform cover stages of their colleagues’ songs. These performances are often regarded as a special service for their fans but also attract the attention of all K-pop enthusiasts.
Therefore, idols often face significant pressure because the cover will become a topic of discussion and is frequently compared to the original version. If the performance is done well, it naturally receives a lot of praise, but even a small mistake can lead to a flood of negative comments.
Recently, ITZY’s Ryujin became the center of attention after performing a cover of Jungkook’s No.1 Billboard song “Standing Next to You” at the group’s 4th fan meeting titled “ITZY MIDZY, LET'S FLY! ON AIR” on September 20, 2025.
Although performing live on stage, Ryujin completed the performance smoothly with strong dance sкιℓℓs, showcasing her full energy and confidence. The idol’s image in a black suit, wнιтe shirt, and red tie—taking inspiration from Jungkook’s original look—also impressed fans.
The performance received a shower of praise and acclaim from netizens. Nevertheless, half a month after the special stage, the idol still felt nervous about her cover. In her latest sharing on Bubble, she revealed the reason why she decided to bring this song to the stage.
Specifically, she wrote: “I hesitated a lot about whether it is a right decision to perform Standing next to you. It would be cool if I did it well, but I thought if I couldn’t digest it well, even if it is just a little bit, it would be compared to Jungkook sunbae. But since I was really hooked listening to this song, I was like let's do it. It's going to work out somehow. If I fail, MIDZY won't upload it right? I had these thoughts”.
Surprisingly, she then revealed that she had only practiced three times before performing on the main stage: "It was a stage that was a bit of a pity (she thought it could have been done better). Please look forward to נαραи (fanmeeting) I will dance it better! *I only practiced about three times before performing, so I went up with a nervous heart, so I thought I would make mistakes. Thanks for all the huge praises!”
The honest sharing from the idol made fans even more amazed at her dancing ability. Despite not having much practice time beforehand, she completed the cover flawlessly. She not only recreated Jungkook’s performance but also added her own vibe.
The cover also demonstrated her great respect and admiration for senior Jungkook. Previously, she and Yuna had expressed their honor in working with BTS members on the Love Yourself Highlight Reel project in 2017, before ITZY’s debut.
On social media, numerous compliments were directed at the idol, and fans are eagerly anticipating similar performances from her in the future:
- going viral for a performance that she rehearsed three times oh ryujin no one is touching your performer crown
- only 3 times is crazy with how she absolutely devoured on d-day
- Practising just 3 times then slaying with a full body suit on while matching her energy with the back-up dancers is actually Crazy...Ryujin you're definitely a pro...salute to your hardwork..
- Omg she did amazing and Jungkook is actually the hero of idols
- She really did great...!! don't be afraid girl, keep going. I think Jungkook also gives you compliment when seeing this.
- Ryujin calling Jungkook sunbae and stressing over performing Standing Next To You is so real. Even idols feel the pressure of covering the hero of idols himself.
- A total queen, she practiced three times and had us watching her on loop for weeks
- yesssss part two for the japanese fan meeting let's fяєαкing go
- Ohh, you don’t have to worry about anything. You did more than great— even ARMYs and people outside the fandom are hooked on your stage performance.
