It was revealed that Kim Jiwoong of ZEROBASEONE had been entertainer Hong Seok-chun's "pick" even before his debut.

On February 11, Kim Jiwoong and another ZEROBASEONE member Kim Gyuvin appeared on Hong Seok-chun's YouTube show "Jewel Box." 

In this episode of "Jewel Box," Kim Jiwoong and Kim Gyuvin engaged in discussions on various topics with the hosts, Hong Seok-chun and YouTuber Kim Ddolddol, both of whom are openly gay public figures.

At one point, Kim Ddolddol asked Kim Jiwoong, "How did you feel when Hong Seok-chun gave you a shoutout on Instagram, asking you to come on 'Jewel Box'?"

Kim Jiwoong then shared a surprising story, saying, "Actually, about five or six years ago, when I was chasing my dream of becoming an actor, I worked as an extra on a project. Hong Seok-chun was part of the project too, and he took a picture of my face at that time." 

Looking at Hong Seok-chun, he added, "If you check your phone, a photo of my face might still be there. You even told me, 'I feel like we'll cross paths again someday in the industry.' So, I really wanted to come on 'Jewel Box.' I wanted to see you again." 
Kim Jiwoong then dropped another bombshell—Hong Seok-chun had even saved his phone number on his phone at the time.

Hong Seok-chun, who had no memory of this, quickly checked his contacts. Sure enough, Kim Jiwoong's number was still there.

Completely shocked, Hong Seok-chun grabbed Kim Jiwoong's hands and said, "Wow, I can't believe we were connected like this all along!" 
 
(Credit= '홍석천의 보석함' YouTube) 

(SBS Star)