History Of K-Pop: ITZY
Amidst the many bright stars of K-Pop, ITZY separates itself from other groups by not being afraid to try new things, being experimental in their sound, and having fun trying new concepts. With the recent announcement of the BORN TO BE world tour, this month we will be looking into the history of ITZY.
Forming ITZY
ITZY was formed by JYP Entertainment. Their debut was highly anticipated as they would be JYP's first girl group after debuting the icon TWICE, building up anticipation and expectations set for the rookie group. Each member had a unique story of joining ITZY demonstrating their resilience and patience.
Lee Chaeryeong grew her following after going viral in 2013 with her sister, Lee Chaeyeon for their audition on K-pop Star 3. The sisters were praised for their incredible dancing skills and charisma. After failing the auditions, Chaeryeong and her sister participated in JYP's survival show Sixteen in 2015, but unfortunately, neither sister made the final lineup forming TWICE. Chaeryeong decided to continue training at JYP and became the first member of ITZY.
Shin Ryujin became a trainee at JYP in 2015, after being scouted at a GOT7 concert by a staff member in the bathroom. In 2017, Ryujin participated in the survival show MixNine, where
she was ranked first, but unfortunately eliminated when the boy's group won against the girls. She was constantly praised for her dancing, singing, visuals, and stage presence while on the show. Later that year, Ryujin would then make her acting debut by appearing in BTS's “LOVE YOURSELF Highlight Reel" and with a small part in the Korean film The King, ultimately debuting in ITZY in 2019.
Shin Yuna joined JYP in 2016, after being scouted at a music festival she attended with her sister the year prior. She would join Ryujin by being featured in BTS's "LOVE YOURSELF Highlight Reel” in 2017 before debuting in ITZY in 2019.
Hwang Yeji joined JYP in 2016 after passing her auditions. In 2018, she was nicknamed "JYP's Secret Weapon" by 2PM's Junho on the SBS competition show The Fan. Yeji's performance of “It ain't my fault” by Zara Larson went viral online. Unfortunately, Yeji would be eliminated by the fifth episode despite being popular among viewers. Yeji would become the leader of ITZY the next year.
Choi Jisu aka Lia was the final member of ITZY to join JYP in 2017. Lia originally passed her auditions at SM Entertainment and nearly became a trainee, however, she did not sign with them due to her parents' request. She trained for two years before debuting in ITZY.
Monster Rookies
ITZY is a South Korean girl group that debuted on February 11, 2019, with their single album titled IT'z Different. The album included two tracks, "DALLA DALLA" and "WANT IT?". The title track "DALLA DALLA" was an instant hit, breaking the record for the most-viewed K-Pop music video in the first 24 hours of release. The song's lyrics and music video conveyed a powerful message of self-love and confidence, resonating with fans worldwide.
ITZY's debut was a massive success, and they became the first K-Pop girl group to achieve a "Rookie Grand Slam" by winning all the “Rookie of the Year” awards in their debut year, including the prestigious “Golden Disc New Artist Award” and the “Seoul Music Award” for “Best New Female Artist.”
Continuing Success
The group's unique style and experimental music have garnered them a massive following, both in South Korea and internationally. Members Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna are all incredibly talented performers, with each member bringing a distinct flair to the group's performances. They have continued to impress fans with their dynamic choreography, catchy songs, and striking visuals, making them one of the most exciting girl groups in K-Pop. On September 18, 2023, JYP Entertainment came out announcing member Lia going on a temporary hiatus for health reasons. ITZY and MIDZY’s have since sent Lia so much love and wishes for a speedy recovery while the other members continue with group activities. Although fans are sad to not see Lia perform with the girls on tour this year, they are glad Lia is able to take the time to heal and be back to performing in no time.
Edited by Vivian N.