From watching idols on TV to becoming one himself, member of P-pop boy group PLUUS JL Gaspar is turning a childhood dream into reality as he gears up to debut with the global group AHOF.
More than chasing his dream, JL is also proudly bringing the Filipino pride to the global K-pop stage, proving that local talent can shine anywhere in the world.
“Ever since I was a kid, it’s really been my dream to become, specifically, a K-pop idol. Back then, I would just admire idols on TV. Now, I get to live that life and influence other people. It’s such a good feeling,” said JL.
The trainee-turned-idol also shared that he and his fellow AHOF members have been training hard in Korea, pushing through the physical and emotional demands of idol life.
“We’re giving our blood, sweat, and tears to this. We really want to deliver great results. For me, not just as an AHOF member but also as a Filipino, too,” he continued, noting that preparation goes beyond skills.
“The most important thing, for me, has been mind conditioning. It’s a whole new world for us. We come from different countries, and we have to adjust to each other—our languages, personalities, everything,” JL shared.
“We’re not just matching in terms of talent. We’re learning to match in how we connect with each other,” he added.
During the survival series Universe League, the P-pop artist finished first in the group’s final ranking. He then admitted he didn’t see it coming.
“Honestly, I never thought I’d be ranked number one. I just wanted to make sure I could debut with the whole group. It wouldn’t mean as much if I debuted alone. My dream was to do this with members I could share the experience with,” he said.
JL also expressed excitement about returning to the Philippines and introducing the group to local fans.
“I’m super excited to bring the members here. I know how excited they are too. We really want to meet our fans in the Philippines,” JL shared.
Adding to his milestones, ahead of his debut, JL was recently tapped as the ambassador for “I Like It, Korea Milk – Philippines.”
“When I found out that I would be the ambassador to promote their products, i was so shocked. It’s like, wow, I was just drinking this almost every day, and now, I’m going to promote it. It’s really fulfilling,” the AHOF member said.
With all the blessings that he is receiving, JL said that he remains grounded.
“To be honest, nothing has really changed. I’m still the same JL. I just found a new family to walk this journey with,” he stated.
