From CLC to Kep1er: Yujin's Inspiring Career Evolution Story

Choi Yujin of Kep1er stands as a remarkable example of resilience and reinvention in the competitive K-pop industry. Before becoming the leader of multinational project girl group Kep1er, she spent years as a member of CLC under Cube Entertainment, training for over 4 years prior to her initial debut. Born on August 12, 1996, in Jeonju, South Korea, Yujin's journey through the K-pop landscape showcases her determination and adaptability.

After CLC's activities concluded in May 2022, Yujin boldly participated in the Mnet survival show Girls Planet 999, finishing in third place and securing her position as a Kep1er member. This career transition marks a significant evolution for the South Korean singer and dancer, who now leads a group that achieved commercial success both domestically and internationally with their debut mini album "First Impact" and lead track "WA DA DA". Currently signed to WAKEONE, Yujin has successfully transformed from being the longest-serving CLC member to becoming an inspirational leader for a new generation of K-pop idols.

Early Life and First Steps in Entertainment

Born on August 12, 1996, in Wansan District, Jeonju, North Jeolla province, South Korea, Choi Yujin's journey to becoming a celebrated K-pop idol began long before her time with Kep1er or CLC. The oldest child in her family, Yujin grew up with her parents and a younger brother born in 1998. Her hometown of Jeonju, known for its rich cultural heritage, would serve as the foundation for her future artistic endeavors.

Birthplace and family background

Yujin's early years in Jeonju shaped her personality and ambitions. Growing up in North Jeolla province, she experienced a childhood that balanced traditional Korean values with her developing interest in performance arts. Her family, consisting of her mother, father, and younger brother, provided the supportive environment necessary for pursuing her eventual career in entertainment. Unlike many idol stories of moving to Seoul at a very young age, Yujin spent her formative years in Jeonju before embarking on her path to becoming an idol.

Education and early interests

Yujin's educational journey began at Jeonju Seomun Elementary School, followed by attendance at both Kijeon and Sinsa Middle Schools. Her academic path took a significant turn when she transferred from Chungdam High School to Hanlim Multi Art High School during her third year. This strategic move aligned with her growing interest in performing arts.

At Hanlim, a prestigious institution known for educating future entertainment industry professionals, she specialized in the Department of Broadcasting and Entertainment, graduating in February 2015. Following high school graduation, Yujin continued her education at Seoul Arts College, where she majored in acting, demonstrating her interest in expanding her performance capabilities beyond singing and dancing.

Outside of her academic pursuits, Yujin developed personal interests that complemented her career aspirations, including Pilates and watching movies. These hobbies reflected both her dedication to physical fitness—essential for the demanding choreography of K-pop—and her appreciation for visual storytelling.

Initial exposure to K-pop industry

Yujin holds the distinction of being the longest-serving trainee among CLC members, having trained for over four years before her 2015 debut. During this extensive training period, she made several notable pre-debut appearances that hinted at her future success.

In 2013, Yujin created a significant cultural phenomenon when she developed the 'Gwiyomi Player' aegyo (cute gesture), which she taught to BtoB's Ilhoon. The gesture subsequently gained nationwide popularity after being showcased on the variety show Weekly Idol. So impactful was this creation that South Korean singer Hari released the 'Gwiyomi Song' in 2013, directly inspired by Yujin's gesture.

Additionally, Yujin collaborated with Yang Yo-seob, then a member of Beast under Cube Entertainment, on the song 'Perfume,' released on April 30, 2013, as part of Cube Entertainment's first 'Voice Project'. During this period, she was credited as a member of the pre-debut group "Cube Girls".

In 2014, Yujin appeared alongside future CLC members Sorn, Seungyeon, and Yeeun in BtoB's 'Beep Beep' music video. Furthermore, all five original CLC members participated in G.NA's 'G.NA's Secret' music video and served as backing dancers during promotional activities, gaining valuable performance experience before their official debut.

Becoming a Trainee at Cube Entertainment

May 2011 marked a pivotal moment in Choi Yujin's career when she officially joined Cube Entertainment as a trainee. This decision would ultimately shape her path through the K-pop industry for over a decade.

Joining Cube and training period

Despite passing auditions for both Cube Entertainment and the prestigious JYP Entertainment, Yujin specifically chose Cube because she was an admirer of 4minute's HyunA. This decision began what would become an extensive training period, as she spent more than four years honing her skills before eventually debuting with CLC in 2015. This distinction made her the longest-serving trainee among all CLC members, demonstrating her exceptional perseverance and dedication to her craft.

Throughout these formative years, Yujin developed the performance abilities that would later define her career across multiple groups. Her training encompassed vocal techniques, dance choreography, and the personality development necessary for success in the competitive K-pop landscape.

Pre-debut activities and performances

Even before her official debut, Yujin participated in several notable projects that showcased her talents. In 2013, she collaborated with then-Cube artist and Beast member Yang Yo-seob on the song "Perfume," which was released on April 30 as part of Cube Entertainment's first "Voice Project". For this project, she was credited as a member of the pre-debut group "Cube Girls", giving fans an early glimpse of her potential.

As her training progressed, Yujin's public appearances increased. In 2014, alongside three future CLC members—Sorn, Seungyeon, and Yeeun—she appeared in BtoB's "Beep Beep" music video. That same year, all five original CLC members participated in G.NA's "G.NA's Secret" music video and promotional activities as backing dancers, gaining valuable experience before their official debut.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of CLC's pre-debut journey occurred in 2015, when the group conducted voluntary street busking performances to raise money for children with developmental disabilities. These performances earned them recognition as the compassionate "Hongdae idols". Moreover, the group released a self-composed song titled "You're My Love" (유어 마이 러브) on March 13, 2013, through Melon and Cube's official YouTube channel, demonstrating their musical capabilities well before their formal introduction to the industry.

Creating the 'Gwiyomi Player' trend

Perhaps Yujin's most significant cultural contribution during her trainee days was creating the 'Gwiyomi Player' aegyo (cute gesture) that would become a nationwide phenomenon. She taught this adorable sequence of hand gestures to BtoB member Ilhoon, who later popularized it during an appearance on the South Korean variety show Weekly Idol.

Although Ilhoon was often credited with inventing the gesture, he consistently acknowledged that a Cube Entertainment trainee—later revealed to be Yujin—was the true creator. The impact of this simple yet charming gesture was so profound that South Korean singer Hari released the "Gwiyomi Song" on February 18, 2013, directly inspired by Yujin's creation. The song gained such popularity that Ilhoon himself recorded a cover version featuring his own lyrics, which was uploaded to Cube Entertainment's YouTube channel.

This cultural phenomenon exemplifies how Yujin's creativity and influence extended beyond her performing abilities, establishing her as an innovator in K-pop culture years before she would achieve fame as a member of CLC or later with Kep1er.

Debut and Rise with CLC

After years of training, March 19, 2015 marked a significant milestone in Choi Yujin's career as she officially debuted as a member of CLC with their first EP First Love and title track "Pepe". The group's name, short for "CrystaL Clear," reflected their aspiration to shine brightly in the competitive K-pop landscape.

CLC debut and first album

One day before their official debut, CLC held their showcase at the Acts Hotel in Seoul, where they performed their debut song for the first time. Their formal introduction to the public came through their debut performance on M Countdown. "Pepe," the lead single from their debut EP, was a retro dance number written by renowned producers Duble Sidekick and Yang Geng, with part of the choreography created by K-pop legend Rain.

The initial CLC lineup consisted of five members: Seunghee, Yujin, Seungyeon, Sorn, and Yeeun. Following their debut, the group quickly released a digital single titled "Eighteen" on April 16, described as a song about teenage love influenced by 1960s/70s motown and 1980s synthpop. Just two months after their debut, on May 28, CLC released their second EP Question with the lead single "Curious (Like)".

Notably, CLC expanded their reach early in their career by holding their first overseas promotional tour in Malaysia titled "First Love Promo Tour in Malaysia" in October 2015. For this tour, Universal Music Malaysia released an "Asia Special Edition" version of their Question EP.

Yujin's role and image in the group

Within CLC, Yujin was positioned as the lead dancer and visual, showcasing her remarkable dancing abilities. According to Cube Entertainment, she was introduced as a vocalist and dancer capable of mastering various dance genres including belly dance, popping, rocking, and house dance, demonstrating her high understanding and expressiveness in dance performance.

Together with Seungyeon, Yujin was considered one of CLC's "top two dancers", establishing her as a performance powerhouse within the group. Her physical attributes also contributed to her visual role, with Cube Entertainment describing her as having "all the visual elements to be called a 'heavenly idol'" and aiming to become the "strongest idol's 'proportioner' with an unusual physical condition".

Beyond her official positions, Yujin gained recognition for her versatility. She stood out for her fresh image and charming personality, which complemented her dance skills and stage presence. Her ability to adapt to CLC's evolving concepts—from the innocent style of "Pepe" to the more charismatic approach of later releases—demonstrated her versatility as a performer.

Notable performances and public appearances

Throughout their career, CLC underwent several concept changes that showcased their versatility. A particularly significant shift occurred on January 17, 2017, when they released their fifth Korean EP Crystyle, marking a revamped image with a more charismatic, hip-hop based concept. This included the EDM/trap lead single "Hobgoblin," co-written by former labelmate HyunA.

The group's dedication to connecting with fans was evident when they held their first fan-meeting, "2017 Cheshire Entrance Ceremony," for their fanclub (named Cheshire) on May 27, 2017, at the Olympic Hall Muse Live in Seoul.

A major achievement came on January 30, 2019, when CLC released their eighth EP No.1 with the title track "No," co-produced and co-written by labelmate Jeon So-yeon. This EP marked their international breakthrough, debuting at No. 5 on Billboard's World Albums chart. Shortly after, on February 12, 2019, CLC earned their first music show win on The Show with "No", a significant milestone for the group after four years of hard work.

At the end of 2015, Yujin shared the stage with cast members Jessi and Kim Hyun-sook, performing S.E.S's "I'm Your Girl" at the 2015 MBC Entertainment Awards, further establishing her presence in the broader entertainment landscape.

On May 20, 2022, Cube Entertainment announced that CLC had officially disbanded, concluding Yujin's seven-year journey with the group that launched her career.

Expanding Horizons: Acting and Variety Shows

While building her music career with CLC, Yujin simultaneously explored opportunities in acting and variety television, demonstrating her versatility as an all-around entertainer. These ventures outside the idol sphere allowed her to showcase different facets of her personality and talents to a broader audience.

Acting debut in 'Nightmare Teacher'

In 2016, Yujin took her first step into acting with a guest role in the Naver TV web drama Nightmare High (also known as Nightmare Teacher), portraying the character Cheon Yoo-na. This appearance in episode 10 marked her formal entry into the acting world, even as she continued her idol activities with CLC. The web drama format provided an ideal platform for her acting debut, allowing her to gain screen experience in a controlled environment while maintaining her primary commitments as an idol.

Roles in web dramas and cameos

Following her debut role, Yujin expanded her acting portfolio by accepting a more substantial part in Green Fever, a prequel to the 2015 series Lily Fever. Her character in this production was particularly noteworthy—she portrayed a rookie actress who had emerged as "the nation's little sister" and held the distinction of being the only actress affiliated with Jin Entertainment. This role perhaps mirrored aspects of her own journey as a rising star in the entertainment industry.

Years later, in 2021, Yujin made a brief but meaningful appearance with a cameo in the Netflix drama So Not Worth It as the character Han Hyun-ah. That same year, as her career was transitioning toward Kep1er, she portrayed the supporting role of Han Soo-ji in the fantasy romance drama Pumpkin Time. Interestingly, though Pumpkin Time premiered after she became associated with Kep1er, the filming actually occurred before her participation in Girls Planet 999.

Breakthrough on 'Real Man'

Nevertheless, Yujin's most significant expansion beyond music came on August 17, 2015, when she joined the cast of MBC's variety show Real Man for its third season's female soldier special. At just 19 years old, she was the youngest participant among ten female entertainers, including established stars like rapper Jessi and Japanese broadcaster Sayuri Fujita.

Real Man, a popular South Korean variety show that began airing in 2013, featured celebrities experiencing military life—a mandatory service for South Korean men. Yujin's participation proved transformative for her public image. On the show, she captured attention with her slender physique (162 cm tall and weighing just 42 kg) yet demonstrated remarkable physical capability by taking first place in push-ups despite her frame being so slight that it initially couldn't even register for blood pressure measurements.

Ultimately, Yujin went viral with what fans called her "3-stage transformation into a female soldier"—evolving from a "pretty and fresh girl" to a "dignified baby soldier". This memorable appearance earned her the affectionate nicknames "Baby Soldier" and "Patriotic Idol" from both military personnel and viewers, significantly boosting her recognition beyond the K-pop fandom.

A New Chapter: Girls Planet 999

In June 2021, Yujin made a pivotal career move by joining Mnet's survival show Girls Planet 999 as one of the 33 Korean contestants. This decision came at a critical juncture in her career journey, following revelations about CLC's future.

Why she joined the survival show

In a candid moment on the show, Yujin revealed the difficult circumstances behind her participation: "The company said the team was dismissed. I had worked very hard during that time. I want to continue to sing and show my charisma to the people who have been following me". This heartfelt confession highlighted her determination to continue performing despite CLC's uncertain status. Even before her appearance was officially confirmed, an article by reporter Jang Jin Ri sparked rumors, with her mother and old school friend ultimately confirming her participation.

Performance highlights and fan support

Throughout the competition, Yujin showcased her polished skills from years as an idol. Her initial evaluation stage featuring HYUNA's "Bubble Pop!" earned praise from judges and contestants alike. In one memorable moment, fellow contestant Fu Yaning commented, "She looks so cool when she dares to take off her heels on stage. Not too many people dare to go barefoot to perform".

As the show progressed, Yujin participated in several notable performances, including BLACKPINK's "How You Like That," Lee Sun-hee's "Fate," and "Shoot!" during the Creation Mission. Her consistent excellence kept her firmly in the running, as she became one of the few contestants to never leave the Planet Top 9 throughout the entire season.

Behind the scenes, contrary to the show's edited portrayal of rivalry between contestants, Yujin formed genuine friendships with her competitors. Most notably, despite Mnet's attempt to create drama between Yujin and Fu Yaning through selective editing, the two actually developed a close bond, with Fu Yaning later stating: "Yujin unnie is a girl I really really treasure and like... I miss you".

Finishing 3rd and earning a spot in Kep1er

The live finale on October 22, 2021, saw Yujin secure third place with precisely 915,722 points and 428,967 votes. This impressive result guaranteed her position in the newly formed group Kep1er. The final lineup included nine members from Korea, China, and Japan who would debut under this name, announced by host Yeo Jin-goo during the broadcast.

Given her experience and seniority, Yujin was designated as Kep1er's leader, beginning a new chapter in her already distinguished career. Her journey through Girls Planet 999 demonstrated not only her resilience but her enduring appeal to fans worldwide.

Leading Kep1er into the Spotlight

After finishing third in Girls Planet 999, Yujin embarked on an exciting new chapter with Kep1er. The group, formed through Mnet's reality survival show, officially launched her into a position of responsibility and renewed prominence in the K-pop landscape.

Debut with Kep1er and leadership role

Upon Kep1er's formation, the members unanimously selected Yujin as their leader, with Mashiro appointed as co-leader. This decision highlighted the trust her groupmates placed in her experience and judgment. During the selection process, Xiaoting explicitly acknowledged Yujin's seniority, stating "Our group's eldest member, Choi Yujin, please come out!". Her leadership style soon became known for its supportive and encouraging nature, balanced by Mashiro's more detail-oriented approach.

First album and international success

On January 3, 2022, Kep1er officially debuted with their first mini-album First Impact featuring the title track "Wa Da Da". The EP achieved remarkable commercial success, selling approximately 400,000 copies and receiving platinum certification in South Korea. Their debut single likewise made waves internationally, charting on the Billboard Global 200 and receiving platinum certification for streaming in Japan.

The group's Japanese debut followed in September 2022 with the single "Fly-Up" released under Sony Music Entertainment Japan. Their subsequent Japanese album Kep1going performed exceptionally well, reaching number 2 on Billboard Japan's Hot Albums chart and number 3 on the Oricon Albums Chart. This release earned gold certification after selling approximately 100,000 copies.

Contract renewal and group evolution

In a groundbreaking development for K-pop project groups, on May 30, 2024, WakeOne Entertainment announced that seven of Kep1er's nine members had renewed their contracts. Choi Yujin, Xiaoting, Kim Chaehyun, Kim Dayeon, Hikaru, Huening Bahiyyih, and Seo Youngeun elected to continue as Kep1er. This renewal marked the first time a project group formed through Mnet had successfully extended beyond their initial contract period.

Conversely, Mashiro and Kang Yeseo chose not to renew, concluding their activities with the group after the release of their first full-length album "Kep1going On" on June 3 and a Japanese concert in July 2024. The album debuted at number 5 on the Circle Album Chart, serving as the final project featuring all nine original members.

Yujin’s Growth as an Artist and Leader

Throughout her remarkable journey from CLC to Kep1er, Yujin has demonstrated extraordinary growth as both an artist and leader. Her evolution showcases how experience, resilience, and dedication can transform an idol's career path.

Dance and vocal development

Yujin's dance capabilities have long been recognized since her CLC days, where she held the position of lead dancer. As she transitioned to Kep1er, her performance skills reached new heights. Her technical precision combined with enhanced expressiveness created memorable moments in choreographies for tracks like "WA DA DA" and "Fly-Up."

Her vocal abilities have similarly matured over time. From her early performances with CLC to her current work with Kep1er, Yujin has refined her singing technique, developing greater control and emotional delivery. This evolution is especially evident in her stable live performances, where she consistently demonstrates reliability and professionalism honed through years of stage experience.

Her leadership style in Kep1er

As Kep1er's leader, Yujin has cultivated a nurturing approach that draws from her own experiences as a junior idol. Rather than imposing strict authority, she fosters an environment where each member feels valued and heard. Her leadership philosophy centers on mutual respect and open communication.

Yujin's mentorship particularly benefits the group's younger members who benefit from her industry knowledge. Nonetheless, she maintains humility by acknowledging areas where other members excel, creating a collaborative leadership dynamic that strengthens the group's cohesion.

Balancing group and personal goals

Perhaps most impressively, Yujin has mastered the delicate art of balancing collective success with personal growth. After experiencing setbacks with CLC, she approached Kep1er with both renewed determination and wisdom.

Instead of viewing her second debut as merely a career continuation, Yujin embraced it as an opportunity for reinvention. This perspective allows her to simultaneously nurture her groupmates' development while pursuing her own artistic evolution, demonstrating how personal ambition and group harmony can mutually reinforce each other in K-pop's challenging landscape.

Recognition and Impact in K-pop

Yujin's remarkable journey through K-pop has garnered widespread recognition, establishing her as one of the industry's most versatile and respected figures. Her evolution from CLC member to Kep1er leader exemplifies perseverance in an industry known for its volatility.

Awards and nominations

As part of Kep1er, Yujin contributed to the group's impressive collection of accolades. Their early success earned them the New Wave of the Year award at prestigious ceremonies including the Asia Artist Awards and Seoul Music Awards. In 2023, Kep1er received the Best Icon Award at the Asia Artist Awards and won the Japan Gold Disc Award for Best 3 New Artists (Asia). Their debut hit "Wa Da Da" claimed Song of the Year for January at the Circle Chart Music Awards and Song of the Year by Streaming (Asia) at the Japan Gold Disc Award.

Influence on fans and younger idols

Beyond her musical achievements, Yujin has established herself as a role model in the industry. Her responsible approach to performance sets an important precedent—once modifying choreography after realizing many audience members were children, stating: "Do I really need to show such a bold appearance to these young kids?". In Korea, she represents what fans describe as "the pretty, funny, girl next door" archetype that resonates deeply with the public.

Public image and media presence

Yujin has cultivated an exceptionally diverse portfolio of endorsements, unusual even by K-pop standards. One fan noted: "I've been a kpop fan since 2009... YJ's portfolio/endorsements is one of the most diverse I've seen". Her partnerships include major brands like Lacoste, who celebrated her as "both a K-POP artist and a rising fashion icon" with "vibrant energy and unique sense of style".

Her variety show appearances, particularly "Earth Arcade," significantly expanded her public recognition. As one observer explained: "Earth Arcade put her on the GP [general public] map the same way other variety shows used to do for 2nd gen idols". Her positive image extends beyond borders, with Lacoste noting her influence "captures the attention of fans worldwide".