Home
GFRIEND

GFRIEND (여자친구)


In the dynamic world of K-pop, GFriend emerged as a significant force, captivating audiences with their unique blend of meticulous choreography and heartfelt melodies. They debuted with the track "Glass Bead" and quickly gained fame with hits such as "Me Gustas Tu," "Rough," and "Navillera," which not only showcased their vocal and dance prowess but also resonated deeply with a global fanbase. The disbandment of GFriend in 2021 marked the end of an era but also the beginning of new artistic journeys for the members. This article delves into the current endeavors of the former GFriend members—Sowon, Yerin, Eunha, Yuju, SinB, and Umji—each forging their own path in the entertainment industry, from acting to pursuing solo music careers and forming new groups like VIVIZ. Their ongoing activities illustrate not just a continuation of their talents but also an evolution, adapting to new challenges and opportunities in the ever-changing entertainment landscape.

GFRIEND Fandom Name: BUDDY
GFRIEND Official Fan Color: Cloud Dancer, Scuba Blue, and Ultra Violet

GFRIEND Official Accounts:
Official Website (Japan): gfriendofficial.jp
Twitter: gfrdofficial
Twitter (Japan): @GFRDofficialJP
Instagram: @gfriendofficial
Instagram (Japan): @gfriend_japan_official
Facebook: gfrdofficial
Fan Cafe: gfrdofficial
V LIVE: GFriend
Weverse: GFRIEND

A Look Back at GFriend’s Storied Past

Debut and Rise to Fame

GFriend, a South Korean girl group formed by Source Music, made a significant impact with their debut. They released their first mini-album, Season of Glass, on January 15, 2015, which included the hit track "Glass Bead". The group quickly gained attention, and their music video for "Glass Bead" was among the top ten Most Viewed K-Pop Videos globally in January 2015. Billboard recognized GFriend as one of the "Top 5 K-Pop Artists to Watch in 2015" , setting the stage for their rising fame.

Major Achievements

Throughout their career, GFriend accumulated numerous accolades, marking them as one of the most awarded groups in Korea. They won a total of 71 Music Show Awards, placing them eighth among all artists in the country. Their song "Rough" became their most awarded track, contributing significantly to their recognition at prestigious award ceremonies, including the Golden Disc Awards and Melon Music Awards. By 2016, they had achieved a Perfect All-Kill with "Rough" and had won several End-of-Year Awards.

Disbandment

GFriend's journey came to an unexpected end when they disbanded in May 2021. The disbandment followed the expiration of their contracts with Source Music, which had been acquired by HYBE Corporation. This sudden announcement left both the members and fans surprised and saddened, marking a poignant close to their six-year-long journey in the music industry. Despite the disbandment, the members have continued to pursue individual careers in music and acting, with some forming the new group VIVIZ.

Sowon – Paving a New Path

Transition to Acting

After GFriend's disbandment, Kim So-jung, formerly known as Sowon, embarked on a new career path in acting. She signed an exclusive contract with IOK Company on August 2, 2021, choosing to promote using her real name. This marked the beginning of her transition from a K-pop idol to an actress, showcasing her versatility and willingness to embrace new challenges in the entertainment industry.

Noteworthy Roles

Kim So-jung's acting debut was highly anticipated, and she landed the main role in the film-drama series "Chilling Together." This unique project featured Chanwoo from iKon as the main actor and was set to release in theaters in the first half of 2022. Following the theatrical release, the drama version was scheduled to air on various OTT platforms, offering fans a new way to experience her acting prowess.

Current Status

The initial contract with IOK Company lasted only a year, leading to her signing with OUI Entertainment on November 15, 2022. Under the name Kim Sowon, she continues to develop her acting career, exploring diverse roles and projects that highlight her growth as an actress.


Stage Name: Sowon (소원)
Birth Name: Kim So Jung (김소정)
Position: Leader, Vocalist, Visual
Birthday: December 7, 1995
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Height: 173 cm (5’8″)
Weight: 51 kg (112 lbs)
Blood Type: A
MBTI Type: INFP
Instagram: @onedayxne

Yerin – From Group Member to Solo Star

Early Life

Yerin, born on August 19, 1996, in Incheon, South Korea, embarked on her journey in the music industry as a member of GFriend. She trained at Fantagio before joining Source Music, where she debuted with GFriend's first extended play, Season of Glass, on January 16, 2015.

Solo Debut

After the disbandment of GFriend in May 2021, Yerin signed an exclusive contract with Sublime Artist Agency as a solo artist and actress . She made her solo debut with the extended play Aria in May 2022, marking a significant step in her career as a solo performer. Her debut was highlighted by the single "Aria," where she showcased her vocal prowess amidst vibrant, floral-themed sets.

Recent Updates

In 2023, Yerin continued to expand her solo career under Bill Entertainment. She released her second EP, Ready, Set, Love, in August 2023, which was preceded by the announcement of her first full-length album earlier in June. This phase of her career not only solidifies her position as a versatile artist but also showcases her growing influence in the K-pop industry.


Stage Name: Yerin (예린)
Birth Name: Jung Ye Rin (정예린)
Position: Lead Dancer, Vocalist, Center, Face of the Group
Birthday: August 19, 1996
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Official Height: 168 cm (5’6″)/Real Height: 167.4 cm (5’6″)
Weight: 49 kg (108 lbs)
Blood Type: O
MBTI Type: ENFJ
Instagram: @every__nn

Eunha – Expanding Horizons

GFriend Days

Eunha, originally Jung Eun-bi, made her debut in the K-pop scene with GFriend on January 15, 2015. Her early entry into the entertainment industry was marked by her role as a lead vocalist, contributing significantly to the group's acclaim with their first mini-album, "Season of Glass". Despite facing health challenges in her childhood, including a battle with langerhans cell histiocytosis, Eunha's resilience led her to a successful recovery and a flourishing career in music.

Formation of VIVIZ

The disbandment of GFriend in May 2021 led Eunha, alongside SinB and Umji, to sign with BPM Entertainment. They announced the formation of a new group, VIVIZ, which officially debuted on February 9, 2022, with their mini-album "Beam of Prism". This transition marked a significant shift in Eunha's career, allowing her to explore new musical directions and styles distinct from her previous work.

Current Status

In her current endeavors with VIVIZ, Eunha continues to captivate the audience with her versatile vocal skills. The group's debut was a testament to their ability to redefine their musical identity, receiving positive responses for their fresh and vibrant performances. Eunha's journey from a beloved GFriend member to a pivotal figure in VIVIZ highlights her adaptability and commitment to her craft in the ever-evolving K-pop industry.


Stage Name: Eunha (은하)
Birth Name: Jung Eun Bi (정은비)
Position: Lead Vocalist
Birthday: May 30, 1997
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Height: 162.7 cm (5’4″)
Weight: 45 kg (99 lbs)
Blood Type: O
MBTI Type: ISTP
Instagram: @rlo.ldl
SoundCloud: rlo.ldl

Yuju – Crafting Her Solo Path

Contribution to GFriend

Yuju, known for her strong vocal abilities, was a standout member of GFriend. Despite the group's collective talent, Yuju's exceptional vocal skills sometimes went underappreciated due to the visual and performance dynamics within the group. Her dedication contributed significantly to the group's success, particularly through her memorable high notes in tracks like "Fingertip" and "Mago".

Solo Projects

Yuju embarked on her solo career with the release of her mini album Rec. in January 2022 under Konnect Entertainment . The album, symbolizing her new journey, featured a blend of angsty pop and retro vibes, with tracks like "Play" capturing the essence of her musical evolution . Her work on this album was a declaration of her independence in the music industry, showcasing her ability to craft a unique sound that distinguishes her from her GFriend era.

Current Pursuits

Continuing her solo career, Yuju has been active with several projects. In 2023, she released her second EP, O, and followed up with singles like "Dalala" and "Rewind". These releases have allowed Yuju to explore various musical styles and continue to engage her fanbase, now officially known as "LUVU". Her ongoing contributions to the music scene demonstrate her commitment to evolving as an artist and maintaining a connection with her audience.


Stage Name: Yuju (유주)
Birth Name: Choi Yu Na (최유나)
Position: Main Vocalist
Birthday: October 4, 1997
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Official Height: 170 cm (5’7″) / Real Height: 169.4 cm (5’7″)
Weight: 49 kg (108 lbs)
Blood Type: B
MBTI Type: ENFJ
Instagram: @yuuzth
Twitter: @konnect_YUJU
Youtube: 유주 YUJU

SinB – Dancing Through New Doors

GFriend Tenure

SinB was born on June 3, 1998, in Cheongju and embarked on her musical journey with GFriend when the group debuted on January 15, 2015, with their album Season of Glass.

VIVIZ Journey

After GFriend's disbandment, SinB, alongside Eunha and Umji, signed with BPM Entertainment on October 6, 2021 . They announced their new group name, Viviz, on October 8, 2021, and debuted with the extended play Beam of Prism on February 9, 2022.

Current Work

In addition to her music career, SinB expanded her role in the entertainment industry by becoming an MC for the beauty and style program Style Me Season 2, which premiered on Dong-A TV on January 9, 2022.


Stage Name: SinB (신비)
Birth Name: Hwang Eun Bi (황은비)
Position: Main Dancer, Vocalist, Center
Birthday: June 3, 1998
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Height: 166 cm (5’5″)
Weight: 47 kg (103 lbs)
Blood Type: AB
MBTI Type: ISFJ
Instagram: @bscenez

Umji – Embracing New Challenges

Umji, born in Yeonsu-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, South Korea, embarked on her musical journey with GFriend on January 15, 2015. She debuted with the release of the extended play Season of Glass, and her first live performance with the group took place the following day on KBS2's Music Bank . Known for her calm and composed demeanor, she often provided a balance to the high-energy performances of her group.

GFriend Era

During her time with GFriend, Umji released her first solo soundtrack for the drama Shopping King Louie in September 2016, titled "The Way". However, she faced a setback in October 2016 when she was diagnosed with a twist in the sarus muscle, halting her activities with the group temporarily. She made a comeback a month later, appearing at the Melon Music Awards.

Life with VIVIZ

After GFriend's disbandment in May 2021, Umji transitioned to a new phase in her career by forming the group VIVIZ with Eunha and SinB. They signed with BPM Entertainment and debuted on February 9, 2022, with the mini album Beam of Prism. This marked a significant shift in her musical style and presence.

Recent Developments

In early 2022, Umji faced health challenges when she was diagnosed with COVID-19, but she recovered quickly and was out of quarantine by February 6, 2022. She continues to explore new musical styles and concepts with VIVIZ, demonstrating her adaptability and resilience in the evolving K-pop industry.


Stage Name: Umji (엄지)
Birth Name: Kim Ye Won (김예원)
Position: Vocalist, Maknae
Birthday: August 19, 1998
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Height: 164.5 cm (5’5″)
Weight: 48 kg (106 lbs)
Blood Type: O
MBTI Type: INFJ / INFP
Instagram: @ummmmm_j.i

Conclusion

The journeys of the former GFriend members illustrate a vibrant spectrum of growth and exploration in their post-disbandment careers. Each member, from Sowon's transition into acting to Yerin's evolution as a solo artist, and from Eunha, SinB, and Umji's new beginnings with VIVIZ, showcases resilience and adaptability. Their diverse paths in the entertainment industry highlight their enduring commitment to their crafts and their fans.

The potential for future collaborations and projects continues to keep the spirit of GFriend alive. Fans remain hopeful for new musical explorations and possibly even a reunion, which would celebrate the legacy and the bonds formed over their years together. As these artists continue to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry, their ongoing endeavors will likely provide new and engaging content that will resonate with both old and new audiences worldwide.

Post a Comment

Close