12 Iconic Female Solo Artists in Kpop of All Time

Kpop is more than just groups; there’s a world of solo artists making waves in the industry. Some rose as individual talents from the onset, while others branched out from famed groups. Here’s a dive into the stories of some iconic female solo artists in Kpop.

Table of Contents

Iconic Female Solo Artists in Kpop

BoA (Kwon Bo-ah)

– Born: November 5, 1986
– Hometown: Guri, South Korea

BoA’s talent was evident early on; she was scouted at just 11 years old. By 13, she had already released her first album. Her historic achievement came when she became the first Korean artist to debut at the pinnacle of Japan’s Oricon chart. No wonder that BoA is dubbed as one of the most iconic female solo artists in Kpop industry of all time. Additionally, she showcased her acting chops in 2013 with the movie “Make Your Move.”

IU (Lee Ji-eun)

– Born: May 16, 1993
– Hometown: Songjeong-dong, Seoul

Starting her journey at the tender age of 15, IU became a household name with the release of “Good Day” in 2011. Now commonly referred to as the “Digital Queen”, she also ventured into acting, gracing screens with acclaimed dramas such as “Hotel del Luna,” “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo,” and some movies like “My Mister,” and “Dream.”

Taeyeon (Kim Taeyeon)

– Born: March 9, 1989
– Hometown: Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, South Korea

As the charismatic leader of the iconic Girl’s Generation, Taeyeon’s transition into a solo career was seamless. Her mini album “I”, released in 2015, was met with widespread acclaim, solidifying her position as a solo powerhouse in the industry.

Sunmi

– Born: May 2, 1992
– Hometown: Iksan, North Jeolla, South Korea.

Former Wonder Girls sensation, Sunmi, ventured into a solo career in 2013. Despite a brief reunion with the group, she chose a solo path, releasing massive hits like “Gashina” and further cementing her legacy in Kpop.

HyunA

– Born: June 6, 1992
– Hometown: Hongje-dong, Seoul

HyunA, with a storied history in various major girl groups, unleashed a tidal wave in the industry with the release of “Bubble Pop”. Her collaborative effort with Psy for “Gangnam Style” amplified her global reputation.

Chungha (Kim Chan Mi)

– Born: February 9, 1996
– Hometown: Songpa-gu, Seoul

After the disbandment of IOI, Chungha emerged stronger, launching her solo career with popular tracks like “Gotta Go.” Her growing discography and accolades are a testament to her evolving artistry.

JESSI (Jessica Ho)

– Born: December 17, 1988
– Birth place: Queens, New York City, United States (moved back to South Korea at the age of 15)

JESSI’s breakthrough moment came with her appearance on “Unpretty Rapstar”. Subsequently, under Psy’s label, she released the chart-topping “Nunu Nana”, which echoed across global dance floors.

Jeon Somi

– Born: March 9, 2001
– Birth place: Windsor, Ontario

Emerging as the winner of Produce 101’s inaugural season, Somi became the heart of IOI. Later, she ventured solo, showcasing her diverse talents beyond group performances.

Suzy (Bae Su-ji)

– Born: October 10, 1994
– Hometown: Buk District, Gwangju, South Korea

While Suzy’s rise to fame began with Miss A, she morphed into a solo sensation, releasing hits and proving her mettle in acting, becoming a multi-faceted talent in the entertainment world.

Ailee (Amy Lee)

– Born: May 30, 1989
– Hometown: Denver, Colorado

Moving from Colorado to South Korea in 2010, Ailee’s rendition of Beyonce’s “Halo” set her on the path to stardom. With her powerful vocals, she soon became recognized as the “Korean Beyonce” and dubbed as the most iconic female Kpop solo artists.

CL (Lee Chae-rin)

– Born: February 26, 1991
– Hometown: Seoul, South Korea

As 2NE1’s dynamo, CL’s solo pursuits have been just as vibrant. Her track “The Baddest Female” received numerous accolades, and rose her as one of the most iconic Kpop female solo artists. Furthermore, her distinctive style makes her a trailblazer in the industry, with aspirations to charm the American market.

Heize (Jang Da Hye)

– Born: August 9, 1991
– Hometown: Daegu, South Korea

Heize’s spotlight moment came not from her debut EP but from her stint on “Unpretty Rapstar.” Inspired by American rapper Angel Haze, she adopted her unique stage name and has since risen as a prominent figure in Kpop.

Kpop Female Solo Artists Playlist

This list highlights the unparalleled talent and determination of iconic female solo artists in Kpop industry that often dominated by groups. Listen to their songs in our Spotify playlist, and let s know who your favorite is.

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