Yuqi (Song Yu Qi) (G)I-DLE

Everything About Song Yuqi ((G)I-DLE): Profile and Career Highlights

Song Yuqi, a name that resonates well within the halls of K-pop, signifies talent, charisma, and versatility. Rising from Beijing to global fame, Yuqi made an indelible mark as a key member of the sensational girl group (G)I-DLE. Her multilingual capabilities, distinctive voice, and proficiency in traditional instruments like the guzheng, have established her not just as a Chinese singer but as a global music icon. Her contributions to hits such as "LATATA" and "FIRE!" have won hearts worldwide, making 'yuqi gidle' a common search term among fans eager to delve into her artistic journey.

This article aims to explore every facet of Song Yuqi’s career, from her early days in Beijing to her meteoric rise with (G)I-DLE and her explorations as a solo artist. It will touch upon her collaborations with band members like Soyeon, Minnie, Miyeon, and Shuhua, her participation in variety shows like 'Keep Running', and her solo hits like 'Giant' and 'Bonnie & Clyde'. Additionally, it will shed light on her public image, personal endeavours outside music, and her impact on (G)I-DLE’s fanbase, Neverland. A deep dive into her discography, videography, and notable moments in her career will provide a comprehensive look at the multifaceted talent of Song Yuqi.

Stage Name: Yuqi (우기)

Birth Name: Song Yu Qi (宋雨琦/송우기)

Korean Name: Song Woo Gi (송우기)

Position: Main Dancer, Sub Vocalist, Sub Rapper, Face of the Group

Birthday: September 23, 1999

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Height: 163 cm (5’4″)

Weight: 47 kg (103 lbs)

Blood Type: O

MBTI Type: ESFJ (Her previous result was ENFJ)

Nationality: Chinese

Represenative Animal: Giraffe 🦒

Instagram: @yuqisong.923

Early Life and Background

Birthplace and Family

Song Yuqi was born on September 23, 1999, in Beijing, China. She is an only child, cherished deeply by her parents. From a young age, her family recognized her affinity for music. Even during pregnancy, her mother played various music genres to her through MP3 players, fostering Yuqi's early interest in music.

Education

Yuqi attended the prestigious Beijing 101 Middle School, a nurturing ground for many of China's future leaders and intellectuals. Her academic prowess was evident as she consistently ranked among the top of her class, even securing the second-highest scores in her cohort. Alongside her academic achievements, Yuqi was also deeply involved in extracurricular activities. She practiced Daizu dance, a traditional Chinese dance form, and was profoundly influenced by K-pop culture during her secondary school years. Her passion for music and dance was complemented by her dedication to learning, which saw her spending considerable time mastering K-pop choreographies.

Her journey into the world of K-pop began in earnest when she attended the Cube Star World Audition Beijing Station in 2015. Performing songs by CLC and G.E.M., she impressed the judges and secured a place as a trainee with Cube Entertainment. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her path towards becoming a global music icon.

Journey to Stardom

Song Yuqi's path to stardom began with her participation in the 2015 Cube Star World Audition in Beijing. At just 16 years old, she showcased her talents by performing CLC's "High Heels" and G.E.M.'s "Bubble," which led to a callback from Cube Entertainment. Despite initial resistance from her parents, Yuqi's persistence in pursuing her dream of becoming an idol eventually won their approval. This marked a significant turning point, as she moved to South Korea to embark on her trainee life under Cube Entertainment.

Initial Auditions

Yuqi's auditions were a testament to her dedication and talent. Her performances not only secured her a position as a trainee but also set the stage for her future successes in the K-pop industry. The challenge of convincing her parents highlighted her determination, as she engaged in daily persuasions, ultimately gaining their support to follow her passion.

Trainee Life at Cube Entertainment

Once in South Korea, Yuqi faced the challenges of trainee life, which were compounded by cultural and language barriers. However, her journey was eased by the presence of future group mates and fellow trainees at Cube Entertainment. Notably, her interactions with Soyeon, Minnie, Soojin, and later Shuhua and Miyeon, helped her adjust and forge important relationships that would benefit her career. Her rapid acquisition of the Korean language, aided by her love for Korean dramas, particularly "My Love From The Star," exemplifies her adaptability and eagerness to integrate into the K-pop world.

During this period, Yuqi also participated in promotional activities, such as a video for Rising Star Cosmetics in June 2017, and a notable appearance in a street performance video in February 2018, which was uploaded by Dingo Story on YouTube. These experiences not only honed her performance skills but also increased her visibility and connected her with a broader audience.

Debut with (G)I-DLE

On April 5, 2018, Cube Entertainment announced their new girl group, (G)I-DLE, setting the stage for a new era in K-pop. The group's lineup was gradually revealed, starting with Miyeon and Yuqi on April 8, followed by Shuhua and Soojin, and finally Soyeon and Minnie. This strategic reveal built significant anticipation and buzz around the group's debut.

Group Formation

The formation of (G)I-DLE was marked by a series of announcements and teasers that introduced the members in pairs, highlighting their unique talents and personalities. The careful selection and pairing of members like Yuqi with Miyeon showcased the diverse skills and international appeal of the group, setting them apart in the competitive K-pop industry.

Debut EP and Title Song

(G)I-DLE's debut EP, I Am, was released digitally on May 2, 2018, and physically the following day. The EP features six tracks, including the lead single "Latata," which was composed by member Soyeon and Big Sancho. "Latata" is a dynamic blend of various musical genres, reflecting the group's versatile style and Soyeon's creative vision for the album. The group held a live showcase at the Blue Square iMarket Hall on their debut day, performing "Latata" along with other tracks like "Maze".

The promotional strategy for I Am included a series of concept images, an audio snippet video, and individual music video teasers, culminating in a group teaser that heightened fan excitement. Following their debut, (G)I-DLE quickly commenced promotions, performing "Latata" on major music shows such as Mnet's M Countdown and KBS' Music Bank. Their efforts were met with immediate success, as they clinched their first music show win on May 22, 2018, on SBS MTV's The Show, followed by a second win on M Countdown two days later.

The strategic release of teasers, the composition of engaging music, and the effective showcase of each member's talents contributed significantly to the successful launch of (G)I-DLE's career, establishing them as a formidable presence in the global music scene.

Solo Career

First Solo Debut

Song Yuqi made a significant move in her career by stepping into the solo spotlight in 2021. On May 6, 2021, Cube Entertainment announced that she would debut as a solo artist with her single album A Page, which was released on May 13. This album features the lead singles "Giant" and "Bonnie & Clyde". These singles marked her initial journey as a soloist, primarily focusing on promoting in China throughout most of 2021.

Latest Solo Comeback

Yuqi's solo career took another major step forward in 2024, with Cube Entertainment announcing on March 22 that she would be making her Korean solo debut in April. The anticipation built up until April 2, when it was officially confirmed that her first EP, titled Yuq1, would be released on April 23, with the pre-release single "Could It Be" launched on April 5. This EP includes the lead single "Freak," which, along with its music video, was released simultaneously with the EP. The release was well-received, showcasing her evolution as an artist and solidifying her position in the music industry.

Public Image and Personal Life

Personality and Interests

Song Yuqi's personality resonates with confidence and authenticity, as she emphasizes living confidently regardless of external opinions. Her interests span across music and fashion, where she actively participates in designing her albums and exploring various music genres. Yuqi's unique voice, initially a point of insecurity, has become her signature, cherished by fans and colleagues alike. Her ability to relate to others through shared experiences highlights her empathetic nature, making her a beloved figure among her peers.

Public Perception

Yuqi's public image is shaped by her stance on political issues, where she is perceived to support the one-China policy. This aspect of her public life is complex, influenced by the broader political expectations for celebrities in her home country. Despite potential tensions arising from differing national identities within her group, Yuqi maintains close relationships with her bandmates, including Shuhua from Taiwan, showcasing her ability to navigate sensitive interpersonal dynamics. Her approachability and the genuine connections she forms with fellow artists, like Red Velvet's Seulgi and Dreamcatcher's Handong, further cement her positive image in the public eye.

Filmography and Videography

TV Shows and Hosting

Song Yuqi has been actively involved in a variety of television shows, significantly enhancing her visibility and connection with audiences. She joined the cast of the seventh season of the Chinese TV show Keep Running in 2019. Her participation extended to the variety show The Gashinas, which premiered its pilot episode in May 2019. That same year, she ventured into the wilderness as part of the Law of the Jungle in Myanmar cast.

Yuqi's engaging presence was also seen in reality shows like I'm a Survivor where entertainers undergo survival training for natural disasters, aired in October. She further expanded her reach by participating in G-Star 2020 with Krafton, an e-sports reality show, and the travel show Seoul Connects U, which was jointly planned and produced by MBC and the Seoul Tourism Foundation.

Acting Debut

2023 marked a significant year as Yuqi made her acting debut in the Netflix original series Celebrity, portraying the role of Zhang Wei, a Chinese influencer. This role allowed her to showcase her acting skills to a global audience. Additionally, she appeared in the entertainment show Star of Star Girls alongside other notable artists. This role further solidified her versatility as an entertainer, engaging with a broader audience through diverse media appearances.

Discography

Albums and Singles

Song Yuqi's solo discography features a blend of extended plays and single albums, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Her extended play "Yuq1," released on April 23, 2024, by Cube and Kakao, includes formats such as CD, digital download, and streaming. It achieved significant success, peaking at number 2 in Korea and 42 in Japan, with sales reaching 627,781 in Korea and 1,389 in Japan. This EP earned a 2× Platinum certification from KMCA.

Her single albums include "A Page," released on May 13, 2021, and "Grey Track," with a release date of November 15, 2023, in China and November 28, 2023, worldwide. Both albums were made available through digital download and streaming, reflecting her international appeal.

Collaborations and Features

Yuqi has also made notable appearances as a lead artist and featured artist in various singles. Her singles as a lead artist include "Giant" (2021), "Bonnie & Clyde," "Could It Be" (2024), and "Freak," which charted at 44 in China and 153 in Korea. As a featured artist, she collaborated with Choi Ye-na on "Hate Rodrigo" in 2023, which reached 117 on the Korean charts, and with Alan Walker and Jvke on "Fire!" in the same year.

Her soundtrack contributions are equally impressive, featuring in OSTs such as "Keep Running" and "Please Pay Attention Visitors" in 2019, "Stage Boom" in 2021, and more recent works like "Love to Hate You" and "I Wasn't the Cinderella" in 2023, as well as "Marry My Husband" in 2024.

Yuqi's role in the composition of music is highlighted by her credits in tracks like the Chinese version of "(G)I-dle's" "Dumdi Dumdi" and her solo tracks "Giant" and "Freak," showcasing her skills not only as a performer but also as a creative force behind the music.

Fun Facts

Interesting

Song Yuqi's dedication to her career is evident from her multiple auditions for SM Entertainment, but she ultimately chose Cube Entertainment, believing it better suited her vocal style and offered a quicker debut. Her love for K-pop was influenced by her admiration for SUPER JUNIOR, particularly Ryeowook. Yuqi's unique hobbies include playing the guzheng, a traditional Chinese string instrument, showcasing her deep connection to her cultural roots.

Despite her strong on-screen presence, Yuqi has some surprising dislikes and preferences. She is not fond of cheese and espresso coffee, and prefers sour foods, enjoying pickled radish and unripe, bitter fruits. Interestingly, she has a high tolerance for sour tastes but dislikes savory zongzi, preferring the sweet variety typical of Northern China. Her physical strength is notable, as she once carried 139kg of grit on her shoulders during a challenge on the Chinese version of Running Man.

Popular Quotes

Yuqi's public statements often reflect her determination and cultural pride. She has expressed a desire to emulate the success of Victoria from f(x), highlighting her aspirations and dedication to her craft as she navigates the K-pop industry as a Chinese artist in South Korea. This sentiment is a testament to her strong will and the challenges she has overcome, from language barriers to cultural adjustments.

Her approachability and relatable nature are further encapsulated in her self-introduction as "(G)I-DLE's cutie" during the group's debut showcase, a title that endears her to fans and underscores her charming personality.

Talent and Skills

Musical Talents

Song Yuqi's journey in music composition and songwriting is well-documented through her contributions to (G)I-DLE's discography. She debuted as a songwriter with the track "I'm the Trend" in 2020, a song dedicated to the group's fanbase. Her role expanded as she co-wrote and co-composed tracks like "Lost" from the EP I Burn and "Polaroid" and "Liar" from the album I Never Die. Notably, Yuqi also penned the Chinese lyrics for the group's single "Hwaa". Her musical creativity continued to flourish with contributions to the tracks "Reset" and "Dark (X-File)" from the EP I Love, and more recently, "All Night" and "Peter Pan" from the EP I Feel. Additionally, her solo EP Yuq1 in 2024 features her as the lead artist and co-composer of the track "Freak".

Other Skills and Abilities

Beyond her musical talents, Yuqi has showcased a diverse range of skills that contribute to her dynamic public persona. Her early interest in music was influenced by her mother, who played various genres of music during pregnancy. Yuqi's proficiency in dance, particularly the traditional Chinese Daizu dance, was honed from a young age, alongside her self-taught K-pop choreographies. This blend of traditional and modern influences is a testament to her versatile performance skills. Furthermore, Yuqi's registered membership with KOMCA, with 19 songs to her name, underscores her recognized capabilities in music composition and rights.

Influence and Impact

Awards and Nominations

Since their debut in 2018, (G)I-DLE, with Song Yuqi as a standout member, has garnered significant recognition in the music industry. Their first lead single "Latata" led them to win several rookie awards at prestigious year-end award shows in South Korea, including the Asia Artist Awards, Gaon Chart Music Awards, and Melon Music Awards. The group has also been recognized internationally, receiving nominations and awards across various categories at the APAN Music Awards, Asia Artist Awards, and Brand of the Year Awards, reflecting their broad appeal and impact.

The group's success is further highlighted by their wins at the Asian Pop Music Awards and the Circle Chart Music Awards, where they were honored for their artistic contributions and popularity. These accolades not only underscore their popularity but also their role in shaping contemporary K-pop music.

Cultural Impact

(G)I-DLE's influence extends beyond awards, as they have significantly impacted global music trends and fan engagement. Their consistent recognition at major music awards, such as the Genie Music Awards and Golden Disc Awards, demonstrates their ongoing relevance and influence in the music scene. The group's ability to secure top spots in various categories, including Best Female Group and Song of the Year, speaks volumes about their widespread acclaim and the strong support of their fanbase, Neverland.

Moreover, their music has led to notable achievements like charting in the top positions at the Japan Gold Disc Award and receiving multiple nominations at the MTV Europe Music Awards, highlighting their international appeal and the global reach of their music. This cross-cultural resonance is a testament to their innovative musical style and the universal relatability of their songs, making them a significant cultural force in the global music industry.

Fashion and Endorsements

Fashion Brands

Song Yuqi has been a prominent figure in the fashion industry, collaborating with several high-profile brands. Her early modeling work included representing Rising Star Cosmetics during her trainee years. Her popularity soared in 2021 as she engaged with Chinese brands like Momenten, a sugar-free sparkling alcohol brand, and Limeflare, a fashion and jewelry brand. Additionally, she represented Carslan, a cosmetics brand, enhancing her visibility in the fashion and beauty sectors.

Ambassador Roles

Yuqi's role as a brand ambassador has been pivotal in expanding her influence beyond music. In 2024, she was announced as a brand ambassador for Fendi, joining their global team alongside celebrities like Kim Da-Mi and Greg Han. This partnership began with her attendance at Milan Fashion Week and promoting Fendi's upcoming collection, which was a strategic move to leverage her image as a fashion-forward K-pop idol.

Her ambassadorship extends to other significant brands as well. On August 6, she was named the face of Ray-Ban in Greater China, recognized for her authenticity and positive energy. Additionally, in 2024, she took on roles with Dekavv, an online clothing brand, and Anessa, a Japanese sunscreen brand by Shiseido, further cementing her status in the fashion world.

Yuqi's fashion endorsements not only showcase her style but also align with her public persona, supporting brands that resonate with her image and values. This strategic alignment helps in enhancing the brands' reach across diverse markets, particularly in Korea and China, where her influence as a Chinese K-pop idol is substantial.

Public and Media Perception

Fan Base

Song Yuqi's unique voice and distinctive style have not only defined her role within (G)I-DLE but have also carved out a niche fan base that appreciates her mezzo-soprano voice, akin to Lee Hi's. Despite being less highlighted compared to some other members, her compelling voice brings authentic emotion and grit, especially notable in her solo track "Giant". Her fans appreciate the depth and the raw emotion she brings to her performances, setting her apart in the vibrant K-pop scene.

Media Coverage

Yuqi's talents and unique attributes have received varied media coverage. While her husky voice and emotional delivery in songs like "Giant" have been praised, there has been an acknowledgment that she does not receive as much attention as some of her bandmates. However, her ability to hold her own against powerful instrumentals and her potential for diverse musical styles, such as a Marina and the Diamonds "Electra Heart"-esque repertoire, suggest that she could excel in different musical genres, expanding her media presence. This blend of talent and potential makes her an intriguing figure for both fans and critics alike.

Conclusion

Through this comprehensive exploration of Song Yuqi's journey from a young, ambitious girl in Beijing to a major force in the global music scene, we've seen her remarkable evolution as an artist and an individual. Her multi-faceted career, spanning (G)I-DLE's sensational group success to her impactful solo ventures, reveals a talent that refuses to be pigeonholed. Yuqi's collaborations, public image, and personal narratives intertwine to present a figure who is as authentic as she is talented, resonating deeply with fans worldwide. Her influence, marked by both critical acclaim and fan adoration, underscores her role as a bridge between cultures and an emblem of modern K-pop's diverse and dynamic nature.

Looking ahead, Song Yuqi's narrative is far from complete. As she continues to chart her path in music, fashion, and public representation, her story invites us to consider the broader implications of her work on cultural exchanges and the evolving landscape of global popular music. Her achievements prompt us to reflect on the power of perseverance, the importance of authentic self-expression, and the impact of art in bridging disparate worlds. In the ever-changing world of K-pop, Yuqi stands out as a luminary, lighting the way for future generations of artists who dare to dream big and tread their unique paths.