Jeon Somin (Somin - KARD)

Somin KARD, a rising star in the K-pop scene, has made waves as a member of the co-ed group KARD. Born Jeon Somin in Dongjak-Gu Seoul, this talented Korean singer has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with her powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence. As KARD's main vocalist, Somin has played a crucial role in shaping the group's unique blend of HipHop and R&B, contributing to their success since their debut with "Hola Hola."

From her early days in PURETTY to her current status as a key member of KARD, Somin's journey in the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable. This article delves into Somin's life, exploring her pre-KARD experiences, artistic growth, and personal interests. We'll also take a look at her behind-the-scenes work, future aspirations, and the impact she's had on the K-pop landscape as part of DSP Media's groundbreaking co-ed group.

Somin's Early Years

Jeon Somin, born on August 22, 1996, in Seongdong District, Seoul, South Korea, began her journey in the entertainment industry at a young age. Growing up in a family with two older sisters, Somin's early life laid the foundation for her future success as a member of KARD.

Childhood

As a child, Somin was known for her timid nature. However, she took steps to overcome this shyness by enrolling in a dance school. This decision not only helped her develop her artistic skills but also played a crucial role in shaping her personality. The dance school became a stepping stone for Somin, as it was through this institution that she auditioned for her current label, DSP Media.

Discovering Music

Somin's passion for music and performance began to blossom during her elementary school years. She learned ballet, which helped her develop grace and discipline - qualities that would later prove invaluable in her career as an idol. This early exposure to dance and movement laid the groundwork for her future as a performer.

Initial Training

Somin's formal training in the entertainment industry began when she joined DSP Media. Her talent and dedication quickly became apparent, leading to her debut in the Japanese girl group PURETTY on September 5, 2012. This group, while based in Japan, had plans to debut in South Korea as well. However, PURETTY disbanded in January 2014 without making their Korean debut.

Despite this setback, Somin's determination remained unwavering. In 2014, she participated in the KARA Project, a show aimed at finding new members for the established girl group KARA. Somin's skills and charisma shone through, earning her a second-place finish in the competition. Although she was ultimately eliminated, this experience provided her with valuable exposure and helped refine her abilities as a performer.

Somin's early years in the industry were marked by both challenges and opportunities. Her experiences with PURETTY and the KARA Project helped shape her into the versatile artist she is today. These formative experiences prepared her for her future role as the main vocalist of KARD, where she would showcase her powerful vocals and contribute to the group's unique blend of HipHop and R&B.

Throughout her journey, Somin has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. From her initial steps into the world of dance to her participation in various projects, she has consistently worked to improve her skills and overcome obstacles. These early experiences laid the groundwork for her eventual success as a member of KARD, where she continues to captivate audiences with her talent and charisma.

Pre-KARD Experiences

PURETTY Era

Somin's journey in the K-pop industry began with her debut in PURETTY, a South Korean girl group based in Japan, on September 5, 2012. This group, formed by DSP Media, had a unique concept as they were introduced through the anime series "Pretty Rhythm: Dear My Future". PURETTY's songs, including "Check it Love" and "Shuwa Shuwa Baby," were featured as ending themes for the anime.

The group's first official performance took place at the Tokyo Toy Show 2012, where they promoted their debut Japanese single "Check it Love". PURETTY also had the opportunity to perform at A-Nation in August 2012, showcasing their talents to a wider audience. Despite their initial success in Japan, the group's plans for a Korean debut never materialized. In January 2014, DSP Media announced the disbandment of PURETTY.

KARA Project Journey

Following the disbandment of PURETTY, Somin, along with fellow members Yoon Chae-kyung and Cho Shi-yoon, participated in the KARA Project. This reality show, which aired on MBC Music from May 27 to July 1, 2014, was designed to find a new member for the established girl group KARA.

The competition was fierce, with seven trainees from DSP Media vying for a spot in KARA. Somin's talent and charisma shone through during the show, earning her a second-place finish. Although she ultimately didn't secure a place in KARA, the experience provided valuable exposure and helped refine her skills as a performer.

APRIL Leadership

Somin's journey in the K-pop industry took another turn when she debuted as the leader of DSP Media's new girl group, APRIL, on August 24, 2015. The group's debut EP, "Dreaming," featured the title track "Dream Candy". As the leader, Somin had the responsibility to guide and support her fellow members.

However, Somin's time with APRIL was short-lived. On November 9, 2015, just a few months after the group's debut, she announced her departure. Somin cited discomfort with the group's concept as the reason for her decision to leave. This departure marked the end of her brief stint as APRIL's leader and paved the way for her future endeavors in the music industry.

Throughout these pre-KARD experiences, Somin demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Each opportunity, from PURETTY to the KARA Project and her leadership in APRIL, contributed to her growth as an artist. These experiences would ultimately prepare her for her role as the main vocalist of KARD, where she would showcase her powerful vocals and contribute to the group's unique blend of HipHop and R&B.

KARD Formation and Debut

Joining KARD

After her departure from APRIL, Somin found a new opportunity with DSP Media's innovative project: KARD. This co-ed group was a rare concept in the K-pop industry, which typically adheres to single-gender formations. KARD's unique setup aimed to bring a fresh perspective to the music scene, blending the talents of both male and female artists.

Somin's inclusion in KARD was announced on December 3, 2016, when her photo was released as the third member of the mixed group. Her experience from previous projects made her a valuable addition to the lineup, which also included J.Seph, BM, and Jiwoo. Each member was assigned a card-themed role, with Somin taking on the "Black Joker" card.

Pre-debut Projects

Before their official debut, KARD embarked on a series of pre-debut projects to build anticipation and showcase their talents. The group released three singles as part of the "KARD Project," each featuring a "hidden card" member. Their first project single, "Oh NaNa," was released on December 13, 2016, and featured labelmate Heo Youngji as the hidden card.

The success of "Oh NaNa" was immediate, with the music video accumulating over 1.25 million views in just three days. This impressive start led to KARD being included in Billboard's list of "10 Best New K-pop Groups in 2016," ranking at number 8. The song also marked KARD's first entry into the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart, peaking at number 5.

Following the success of their first single, KARD released "Don't Recall" on February 16, 2017, which charted at number 22 on the UK Singles Chart and number 34 on the Brazilian Song Chart. Their final pre-debut single, "Rumor," was released on April 24, 2017, in collaboration with LG Electronics G6.

Official Debut

KARD's official debut came on July 19, 2017, with the release of their first EP, "Hola Hola". The six-track EP included their previous project singles along with the title track "Hola Hola." The group held their debut showcase at Ilji Art Hall in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

The debut was met with significant success, with the album charting on several Billboard charts. It debuted at number 3 on World Albums, number 25 on Heatseekers Albums, and number 46 on the Independent Album Chart. The title track "Hola Hola" also entered the Billboard World Digital Song Sales Chart at number 4.

KARD's formation and debut marked a significant moment in K-pop history, introducing a co-ed group that would go on to captivate audiences worldwide with their unique blend of talents and musical styles.

Somin's Artistic Growth

Vocal Development

Somin's journey as a vocalist has been marked by significant growth and versatility. Her light and fragile tone has become a distinctive feature of KARD's sound, particularly in their high notes and airier parts. Somin's ability to adapt her voice to different styles has been evident in KARD's evolving musical direction. In their album following "ICKY," Somin demonstrated her vocal flexibility by exploring new sounds and tones. Her range has expanded considerably, allowing her to deliver performances that span from deeper registers to higher pitches with equal proficiency.

Dance Progression

As one of KARD's strongest dancers, Somin has shown remarkable progress in her dance skills. Her style is a unique blend of powerful and feminine movements, often mixing the two to create a captivating performance. Somin's dance abilities have been particularly highlighted in choreographies that showcase her fluid movements and body control. Her expertise in hip and knee movements, coupled with her shoulder fluidity, has made her a standout performer. This versatility has allowed her to excel in both masculine and feminine parts of KARD's choreographies.

Stage Presence

Somin's stage presence has evolved significantly since her debut with KARD. Her ability to command attention, even when not in the center, has become one of her strongest assets. During performances, it's often difficult for audiences to look away from her, regardless of her position on stage. This magnetic quality has contributed greatly to KARD's overall performance impact.

Somin's artistic growth has also been evident in the group's changing musical style. With the release of "Tell My Momma," KARD showcased a more relaxed vibe, different from their previous charismatic bass sound. Somin expressed that this shift allowed them to explore new musical territories and expand their artistic range. She noted, "There were so many changes in singing, dancing and visuals, so fans could be surprised a lot".

The group's evolution has also been reflected in their choreography. As BM, KARD's main dancer, explained, "The choreography is easier to follow this time, and we focused a lot on removing unnecessary movements to make it simple". This change has allowed Somin to showcase her improved dance skills and stage presence in a new light.

Somin's artistic journey has been one of continuous improvement and exploration. From her vocal development to her dance progression and enhanced stage presence, she has consistently pushed her boundaries as an artist. Her growth has not only contributed to her individual success but has also played a crucial role in KARD's evolution as a group.

Behind the Scenes

Practice Routine

KARD's dedication to their craft is evident in their rigorous practice routine. The group spends significant time together during dance practices, vocal training, and preparation for performances, which helps build camaraderie. This intense schedule often involves more than eight hours a day in the practice room, allowing the members to hone their skills and perfect their performances.

Group Dynamics

Despite not living together in a dormitory setting, which is common for many K-pop groups, KARD has developed strong bonds through various activities. The members typically have their own individual living spaces, which allows them more personal freedom. BM and J.seph used to share an apartment but now have their own, while Somin and Jiwoo live with their parents. This arrangement reflects a balance between personal space and collective teamwork, contributing to their unique dynamic as a group.

KARD fosters their relationships through group outings, events, and promotional activities. When on tour, they spend extended periods together, which strengthens their connections. The group also maintains their bond through social media and content creation, sharing their experiences and daily lives with fans. This approach allows them to respect each other's personal space while still maintaining a strong group identity.

Creative Input

KARD's creative process involves intense discussions and collaborative efforts. During the preparation for their 7th EP, 'Where To Now? (Part. 1: Yellow Light)', the group engaged in debates about whether to stick with their signature sound or explore something different. This led to a decision to create a more approachable sound, influenced by feedback from fans and listeners who found their previous tracks challenging to engage with.

The members actively participate in the creative process, with all four co-writing songs like 'CAKE'. BM, who also produces, emphasizes the importance of involving the entire group in the creative process. This collaborative approach allows for a unique blend of ideas and styles, reflecting each member's individuality within KARD's collective sound.

Somin KARD and her fellow members continue to push boundaries in their artistic expression, both musically and visually. Their commitment to showcasing something different in each release, coupled with their status as a co-ed group, allows them to maximize their uniqueness in the K-pop industry. This behind-the-scenes dedication and creativity contribute significantly to KARD's distinctive place in the music scene.

Personal Interests and Lifestyle

Fashion Sense

Somin KARD, known for her role as the main vocalist and visual of the co-ed K-pop group, has a keen eye for fashion. Her style is versatile, ranging from chic and elegant to casual and comfortable. Somin's fashion choices often accentuate her natural beauty, and she knows how to play her fashion game well. She has even been a content creator for Style-Ade, where she shared her insights on beauty and fashion.

Somin's wardrobe includes a mix of crop tops, denim, and elegant dresses. She effortlessly pulls off both street-style looks and more formal attire. Her outfits often highlight her figure, with crop tops and high-rise jeans being a favorite combination. Somin also knows how to accessorize, though she admits to sometimes forgetting or getting too lazy to wear her accessories despite buying many.

When it comes to makeup, Somin prefers a natural look. She often opts for minimal makeup when not working, believing it's best for her skin. However, she does enjoy a glowing look and uses strobe cream to achieve this effect. Somin also pays attention to her brows, considering a brow pencil one of her must-have beauty products.

Hobbies

Outside of her busy schedule with KARD, Somin enjoys various activities that reflect her personality and interests. She has a passion for singing and watching movies, which aligns with her career in the entertainment industry. Somin also has a keen interest in beauty and skincare, as evidenced by her involvement in Style-Ade videos about beauty, primarily focusing on makeup.

One of Somin's unique interests is watching spicy food challenge videos. She finds it entertaining to watch foreigners attempt to eat spicy Korean dishes, often thinking she could handle the heat herself. This hobby reflects her love for Korean cuisine and her pride in Korean culture's ability to handle spicy food.

Daily Life

Somin's daily life revolves around her career as a member of KARD, but she maintains a balance between her professional and personal life. Unlike some K-pop groups, KARD members don't live together in a dormitory. Somin lives with her parents, which allows her to have personal space while still maintaining strong bonds with her group members.

When it comes to her diet, Somin enjoys eating a variety of foods. Her favorite food is tteokbokki, a popular Korean dish, and she generally enjoys spicy cuisine. Interestingly, Somin has mentioned that she eats a lot in a healthy way when dieting, suggesting a balanced approach to nutrition.

In her free time, Somin enjoys simple pleasures like indulging in her favorite fruit, strawberries. She also maintains an active presence on social media, sharing glimpses of her daily life with fans and interacting with them through various platforms.

Future Aspirations

Musical Goals

As KARD continues to evolve, Somin and her fellow members have set their sights on ambitious musical goals. The group aims to make a lasting impact in the industry, with BM expressing their desire to become Billboard-charting and Melon-charting artists. This aspiration reflects KARD's determination to expand their reach both internationally and domestically.

J.seph echoes this sentiment, stating his desire to earn the title of a "#1 winning artist". This goal underscores the group's commitment to achieving recognition for their musical talents and hard work. KARD's ambition extends beyond mere survival in the competitive K-pop scene; they aim to thrive and leave a lasting legacy.

Personal Development

Somin KARD, like her fellow members, places great importance on personal growth. The group's recent contract renewal with DSP Media has provided an opportunity for reflection and goal-setting. Somin has expressed her commitment to expanding her horizons within the industry, as evidenced by her past collaborations and ventures outside of KARD.

The main vocalist of KARD has shown interest in various aspects of the entertainment industry. Her participation in shows like "Next Beauty Creator" and the creation of her YouTube channel, "Mini J," demonstrate her desire to showcase different facets of her personality and talents. These endeavors allow Somin to explore her interests beyond music and connect with fans on a more personal level.

Group Ambitions

KARD's collective aspirations are centered around longevity and continued growth in the industry. BM articulated this sentiment, stating, "We want to be in this for the long run". The group's focus is on steady improvement and maintaining their unique position in the K-pop landscape.

The release of their EP "Where To Now? (Part. 1: Yellow Light)" marks a significant milestone in KARD's journey. Jiwoo expressed hope that their seventh year and seventh album would be their "lucky seven," potentially ushering in a golden era for the group. This optimism reflects KARD's determination to evolve and captivate audiences with their music.

KARD's future aspirations extend beyond commercial success. The group aims to use their influence positively, hoping to inspire and support their fans. As BM eloquently put it, "If they can help someone to breathe a little easier, then KARD has done their job right". This commitment to making a meaningful impact underscores KARD's dedication to their artistry and their fans.

Conclusion

Somin KARD's journey in the K-pop industry showcases her resilience and growth as an artist. From her early days with PURETTY to her current role as the main vocalist of KARD, Somin has demonstrated her versatility and dedication to her craft. Her contributions to KARD's unique sound and her individual pursuits reflect her commitment to artistic exploration and personal development.

As KARD continues to make waves in the music scene, Somin's future looks promising. Her aspirations, along with those of her fellow members, point towards a continued evolution of their sound and style. With their determination to leave a lasting impact on the industry and their fans, KARD and Somin are poised to further cement their place in the dynamic world of K-pop.

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