In the K-pop scene, where group activities were the mainstream, solo singers have become increasingly active. Idol singers’ individual activities with the team have become more active, and through these solo activities, they receive a positive response by showing unique charms tailored to their tastes and colors.
BTS’s Jungkook | BIGHIT MUSIC
Starting with BTS’s Jungkook, he is showing off his golden talent through his first full-length album, GOLDEN. According to the U.S. Billboard preview chart article, his album ranked number two on the Billboard 200 chart, with the title track, “Standing Next To You,” ranking fifth on the Hot 100 chart.
With this, he became the first Korean solo artist to place three songs from an album in the top five on the Hot 100 chart. He also entered the UK Official chart at number three, setting the highest record for a K-Pop solo artist. Transformed into a pop star with a mature appearance, the charm of soloist Jungkook is sweeping the world.
Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon | SM Entertainment
Following this, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and INFINITE’s Nam Woo Hyun return as solo artists. Taeyeon will release her fifth mini album, To. X later this month. This will be her first comeback in about a year and nine months since her third full-length album, INVU. She heralds a completely different atmosphere from her previous work, raising expectations for the album.
INFINITE’s Woohyun | BLADE Entertainment
Celebrating his 13th debut anniversary this year, Nam Woo Hyun will release his solo album for the first time in about two years. The first full-length album, Whitree, heralds an album perfect for the winter season. Loved as the team’s main vocalist, expectations are growing for his solo release.
Chuu | ATRP
Some artists break away from the team to explore new charms. Chuu, a former member of LOONA, succeeded in standing on her own with her first mini album, Howl. After ending her long contract dispute, she honestly told her own story through her album, revealing sides of her she’s never shown before.
Bang Yedam | GF Entertainment
Bang Yedam, who left the group TREASURE, is ready to show his own style of music through his first mini album, Only One, at the end of this month. As he announced that he would begin a new journey as a producer and solo artist with his own musical style, attention is focused on his debut album.
Rocky | ONE FINE DAY Entertainment
Rocky, who left ASTRO earlier this year, will return with his first mini-album and reveal his soloist side for the first time since debuting eight years ago.
Whether its just taking a step aside from the group to showcase one’s own style, or leaving altogether for a new beginning, the K-Pop industry has grown to embrace change and individuality for artists.
Which solo artist are you most excited for?
