Throwback Thursday: Female Idol Solos

At a certain point during their professional tenure, many idols undertake a solo project after, or alongside, their main group activities. Here, they get the opportunity to be hands-on in the creative process or simply present another side of themselves to their fans. 

This week, we’ll look at the female idols that took the chance and undertook solo projects, and give them some well-deserved love.  

“Free Somebody” - LUNA

For casual f(x) fans and MeU alike, LUNA’s solo debut was an unexpected yet refreshing turn for the vocally-inclined idol. Released in May of 2016, Free Somebody was LUNA’s first step into the solo realm with six tracks featuring a variety of genres, ranging from electronic and house inspirations to pure R&B. The title, “Free Somebody,” is a fun party anthem, encouraging everyone listening to shed their fears and anxieties, and be free. 

“숙녀 (淑女) Lady” - Yubin

The city-pop wave took the K-Pop scene by storm, reflected by the many inspired tracks that exist today. Former Wonder Girls rapper Yubin, following the conclusion of the group’s activities, made her solo debut in style with the city-pop track “숙녀 (淑女) Lady.” This song has a perfect balance of elegant maturity and feisty playfulness as reflected in the lyrics and choreography, making it a track fitting of its title. The complete dedication to city-pop aesthetics makes this video all the more fun to view, considering its many colorful sets and recreations of scenes straight out of an ‘80s film. 

“Yes No Maybe” - SUZY

Former miss A member SUZY made her debut with the creative and expertly executed “Yes No Maybe,” which took heavy influences from iconic director Wong Kar Wai and his films Fallen Angels and Chungking Express. This song again leaned into the experimental realm, reversing SUZY’s sweetheart image to engage with the themes of a femme fatale. The flute melody is distinct and engaging, complementing the airy tones of SUZY’s voice and tying together the mysterious energy of the entire song. 

“Twenty-Five (예쁜 나이 25살)” - Song Jieun

Beloved girl group SECRET was responsible for more than just their own iconic titles, with the respective members having some notable solo releases under their belts as well. Song Jieun of SECRET began her solo endeavors with a few single tracks prior to the release of 25, but the EP and title track “Twenty-Five (예쁜 나이 25살)” would be the first mini-album for the idol. The chorus, “Beautiful, young, and free,” is truly memorable, confidently embracing maturity and the beauty of aging gracefully.

Edited by Kelly Sipko