Yoojung's Journey: From I.O.I to Weki Meki [Story]

Yoojung captivated audiences when she ranked 3rd place in the 2016 survival show Produce 101, launching her multifaceted K-pop career. Initially debuting as a member of the project group I.O.I in May 2016 with their mini album "Chrysalis," her time with the group was impactful but brief.

Following I.O.I's disbandment in January 2017 after eleven months of promotion, Choi Yoojung returned to Fantagio Entertainment. She eventually debuted with Weki Meki in August 2017, where she serves as the main rapper, main dancer, lead vocalist, and face of the group. Notably, Yoojung expanded her artistic horizons by making her solo debut on September 14, 2022, with the single album "Sunflower".

Early Life and Training Years

Born on November 12, 1999, Choi Yoojung grew up as an only child in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Her early childhood was spent in this city located east of Seoul, where she attended Inchang Elementary School before later enrolling at Guri Girls' High School.

Growing up in Guri, South Korea

During her formative years in Guri, Yoojung developed the foundation of her personality and interests that would later shape her career path. As a young student, she displayed the bright energy and charisma that would later captivate fans across South Korea. Her early education proceeded normally until her passion for performing arts began to emerge.

After beginning her journey as an idol, Yoojung's academic path shifted significantly. Together with fellow trainee Kim Doyeon, she transferred from Guri Girls' High School to the prestigious School of Performing Arts Seoul. This transition marked an important step in balancing her education with her growing commitments as a performer.

Joining Fantagio and trainee life

Yoojung's path to stardom began at the remarkably young age of 13 when she first entered the trainee system. She joined Fantagio Entertainment's i-Teen program, where she would undergo intensive training for nearly five years before her big break. Throughout this period, Yoojung dedicated herself to honing her dancing, singing, and rapping skills.

The rigorous training schedule took a significant toll on her health. Her company director even nicknamed her the "walking hospital" due to her frequent medical issues. These health challenges included:

Persistent joint problems from intensive dance practice
Frequent colds and illnesses
Regular hospital visits that became routine

"Even now, my joints are not in the best condition," Yoojung has admitted in interviews, revealing the lasting physical impact of beginning training at such a young age. Despite these hardships, she persevered through an extensive training period of 4 years and 7 months before joining Produce 101.

Initial dreams before becoming an idol

Interestingly, pursuing a career in entertainment wasn't always Yoojung's dream. Before discovering her passion for performing, she harbored completely different career aspirations. As a child, Yoojung actually dreamed of becoming either a teacher or a police officer. These early career goals reflect her caring nature and sense of responsibility.

Her journey into the entertainment world began almost unexpectedly. As she stated in an interview, "I started because I loved dancing, but I didn't fully understand what being a celebrity entailed". This honest reflection shows how her initial interest in performance gradually evolved into a professional career path.

Throughout her trainee years, Yoojung sometimes questioned her chosen path. "I faced moments of doubt, wondering if I was suited for this career," she has revealed. These uncertainties are understandable given the pressures she faced at such a young age. Furthermore, she has described feeling "like glass, ready to shatter at any moment" during particularly challenging periods.

Nevertheless, Yoojung persisted through these difficulties. Her determination and natural talent would ultimately lead her to Produce 101, where her life would change dramatically as she captured the nation's attention with her exceptional performance skills and infectious personality.

Produce 101 and Rise to Fame

In January 2016, Choi Yoojung entered the competitive world of survival reality shows by joining Mnet's "Produce 101" alongside Kim Doyeon and three other Fantagio trainees. The show's premise was revolutionary: 101 female trainees competing for spots in an eleven-member project group that would promote for one year under YMC Entertainment.

Becoming the center of 'Pick Me'

Yoojung's journey to stardom began even before the first episode aired. Through a voting process among the 101 trainees, she was selected as the center for the show's iconic theme song "Pick Me". This pivotal position placed her front and center in the music video that premiered on December 17, 2015, during an episode of "M Countdown".

The preparation for this debut performance was extraordinarily demanding. As Yoojung herself revealed, "I'm not joking when I say that we practiced the choreography of 'Pick Me' over 100 times with all 101 girls". This intense training regimen became a defining experience, with Yoojung adding, "Once we got tired, we restored our energy levels by cheering together while dancing".

Her center position immediately drew attention from the show's evaluators. JeA rated Yoojung's vocals as being in the top 3 among her trainees, noting that her voice was "chewy" and matched perfectly with "Pick Me". Likewise, Kahi gave her rave reviews, promoting her to Class A and remarking that "she felt like she knew exactly what she was doing".

Ranking 3rd and debuting with I.O.I

Throughout the show, Yoojung consistently maintained high rankings. In episode 9, she received an impressive 1,286,447 votes, securing second place after Kim Sejeong with a difference of 187,238 votes.

The finale on April 1, 2016, proved to be a defining moment in her career. With a total of 392,773 votes, Yoojung secured third place behind Kim Sejeong and Jeon Somi. This achievement guaranteed her a spot in the final lineup of I.O.I.

Subsequently, on May 4, 2016, Yoojung made her official debut as part of I.O.I with their first release "Dream Girls". Her talent extended beyond performing—she also contributed as a songwriter, penning rap parts for "Dream Girls" alongside Im Nayoung. Moreover, both members wrote lyrics for the EP's intro track "I.O.I".

Notable performances and fan reception

Among her many standout moments on "Produce 101," the "Bang Bang" team performance (nicknamed the "Avengers 2 team") is widely regarded as one of the show's best stages ever. Although Jeon Somi was the center and Kim Chungha the leader, Yoojung managed to capture attention with her exceptional execution of the choreography and expressive facials.

Another memorable moment occurred during a dance battle with trainee Lim Jung-min. The performance became instantly iconic when Lim Jung-min pinched Yoojung's nose while performing a sexy dance, resulting in Yoojung's wide-eyed, mouth-covered reaction that charmed viewers.

As her popularity soared, the production team increased her screen time, recognizing her growing fan base. Her charm extended beyond the main show—she collaborated with fellow I.O.I members Chungha, Jeon Somi, and former "Produce 101" contestant Ki Hui-hyeon for the digital single "Flower, Wind and You," which impressively charted at number 42 on the Gaon Digital Chart.

Yoojung's impact on "Produce 101" set a precedent for future seasons. Her role as the first center for "Pick Me" established a tradition—subsequent centers like Lee Dae Hwi and Miyawaki Sakura in later seasons also successfully debuted in their respective final groups.

Life as an I.O.I Member

After securing her place in I.O.I, Choi Yoojung quickly established herself as a vital member of the project group. The 11-member ensemble, formed through Produce 101, embarked on a whirlwind promotional period that would last just under a year but leave an indelible mark on K-pop history.

Debut with 'Dream Girls'

On May 4, 2016, I.O.I officially debuted with their first mini-album, Chrysalis, featuring the title track "Dream Girls". This trap pop dance track showcased Yoojung's talents beyond performing—she co-wrote the rap lyrics alongside fellow member Lim Nayoung. Indeed, both members also contributed to writing the EP's intro track "I.O.I".

The music video for "Dream Girls" premiered on May 3, 2016, featuring distinct storylines for each member pursuing different dreams. The song's message resonated with fans as it delivered an encouraging theme about perseverance in chasing one's ambitions.

Commercially, "Dream Girls" proved successful, entering the Gaon Digital Chart at number 9 during its first week with 142,106 downloads and 1,741,763 streams. In its second week, the song peaked at number 7 with an additional 81,376 downloads and 2,453,059 streams. Overall, the track charted for three consecutive months, demonstrating I.O.I's immediate impact on the K-pop landscape.

The group held their debut stage on May 5 on Mnet's M Countdown, followed by a debut showcase and fan meeting at Jangchung Gymnasium in Seoul. This venue would later become significant in their journey, bookending their time together.

Sub-unit promotions and collaborations

On June 10, 2016, YMC Entertainment announced the formation of a seven-member I.O.I sub-unit including Yoojung alongside Lim Nayoung, Chungha, Zhou Jieqiong, Kim Sohye, Kim Doyeon, and Jeon Somi. This strategic move allowed for diverse promotional activities within the group's limited timeframe.

The sub-unit released "Whatta Man (Good Man)" on August 9, 2016—a song inspired by Linda Lyndell's "What a Man" and produced by Ryan S. Jhun. This release showcased a more mature concept compared to their debut's bright and cheerful image.

Subsequently, the full group released "Hand in Hand" on August 15, 2016—a digital single remaking the Seoul 1988 Summer Olympics theme song originally performed by Koreana. Throughout this period, Yoojung continued to demonstrate her versatility, participating in various collaborations including a digital single "Flower, Wind and You" with fellow I.O.I members Chungha, Jeon Somi, and former Produce 101 contestant Ki Huihyeon.

Disbandment and farewell single 'Downpour'

As I.O.I's predetermined contract period approached its conclusion, YMC Entertainment confirmed on November 5, 2016, that the group would disband on January 31, 2017. Nevertheless, the members remained active until their contracts expired, appearing on variety shows including Immortal Songs: Singing the Legend, Yang and Nam Show, and Knowing Bros.

From January 20-22, 2017, I.O.I held their final concert titled Time Slip – I.O.I at Jangchung Gymnasium—the same venue where they held their debut showcase. This symbolic return created a poignant full-circle moment for the members and fans alike.

Their farewell single "Downpour," written and co-produced by Seventeen's Woozi, was released on January 17, 2017. This heartfelt ballad was personally selected and recorded by all eleven members, expressing their feelings toward supporters and hopes to reunite in the future. The song quickly rose up Korean music charts following its release.

I.O.I officially disbanded on January 29, 2017, with their final television appearance on MBC's Section TV. Remarkably, even without a live broadcast due to Lunar New Year's Day, "Downpour" won Inkigayo's final January 2017 trophy—a testament to the group's enduring popularity.

Throughout her time with I.O.I, Yoojung's talents in rapping, dancing, and performing solidified her position as one of K-pop's rising stars, setting the stage for her future endeavors.

Debut and Growth with Weki Meki

Following I.O.I's disbandment, Choi Yoojung's career entered a pivotal new chapter as she prepared to debut again with a permanent group under her home agency.

Forming Weki Meki with Kim Doyeon

Once I.O.I officially ended their activities on January 29, 2017, Yoojung and fellow I.O.I member Kim Doyeon returned to Fantagio Entertainment. The pair immediately began filming "Dodaeng's Diary in LA," a reality show documenting their experiences in the United States. This program, which aired on TVING, offered fans a glimpse of their personalities outside the intense competition environment.

In March 2017, Yoojung greeted fans through a newly created VLIVE channel under the temporary name "i-Teen Girls". This marked the first official step toward introducing what would become her permanent group. Throughout the next several months, additional members joined the broadcasts as Fantagio strategically built anticipation for their upcoming debut.

On July 6, 2017, Fantagio officially announced the group's name as "Weki Meki". The name carried dual meanings—"MeKi" represented eight unique girls each holding keys to identify one another, whereas "WeKi" symbolized the group collectively possessing another key to open a new world. Additionally, the name incorporated "we" and "me" to form "WEME," reflecting the eight members coming together.

First album 'Weme' and early success

Weki Meki made their official debut on August 8, 2017, with the release of their first extended play titled "Weme". The six-track mini-album featured the title track "I Don't Like Your Girlfriend," arranged by Devine Channel. Notably, some of the lyrics were written by Yoojung herself, showcasing her creative talents beyond performing.

The album achieved immediate commercial success, debuting at number 7 on the Gaon Album Chart. In its second week, it maintained this position before briefly leaving the chart, then re-entering at number 13 in its fourth week. According to Gaon Music Chart, "Weme" sold over 47,000 physical copies, making it the highest-selling album by any girl group that debuted in 2017.

The group's debut showcase proved extraordinarily popular—tickets sold out in less than a minute after becoming available. Their promotional activities began with performances on music shows, including M Countdown alongside established acts such as Girls' Generation and EXO.

Yoojung's role in the group

Within Weki Meki's eight-member lineup, Yoojung occupied multiple crucial positions that highlighted her versatility. She was officially designated as the main rapper, main dancer, lead vocalist, and face of the group. These roles reflected the comprehensive skill set she had demonstrated throughout her Produce 101 and I.O.I days.

Beyond her performance responsibilities, Yoojung contributed significantly to the group's creative output. She participated in writing rap portions for several Weki Meki songs, including "Stay With Me," "Pretty Boy," and "Crush". This songwriting involvement demonstrated her growth as an artist since her initial debut.

Throughout Weki Meki's early development, Yoojung's experience as a former I.O.I member proved invaluable. Along with Kim Doyeon, she brought established name recognition and performance expertise that helped the rookie group stand out in Korea's competitive music industry.

Exploring New Avenues: WJMK and Variety Shows

Beyond her activities with Weki Meki, Choi Yoojung expanded her career through special collaborations and television appearances that showcased different facets of her personality and talents.

WJMK collaboration with Cosmic Girls

On May 2, 2018, Starship Entertainment and Fantagio announced plans to form a special four-member unit combining members from their respective girl groups. This project group, named WJMK, featured Weki Meki's Choi Yoojung and Kim Doyeon alongside Cosmic Girls' Seola and Luda.

The collaboration generated considerable buzz when a teaser image was released on WJSN's social media accounts on May 1 with the hashtags "WJMK" and the members' names. Throughout May, the companies steadily built anticipation by releasing individual and group teaser photos showcasing the members in striking blue outfits.

On June 1, 2018, WJMK officially released their single "Strong" along with its accompanying music video. The project represented a unique cross-group collaboration that allowed Yoojung to showcase her talents in a fresh context outside her permanent group.

Reality shows and variety appearances

Simultaneously, Yoojung began establishing herself as a versatile entertainment personality through various television appearances. After I.O.I disbanded, she and Kim Doyeon filmed "Dodaeng's Diary in LA," a reality show documenting their experiences in the United States.

Her variety show portfolio continued to expand as she joined JTBC's "Secret Unnie" with EXID's Hani on August 8, 2018. Yoojung further demonstrated her range by participating in "My Mad Beauty 3" alongside established entertainers Park Na-rae, Mijoo, and Han Hye-jin. She likewise became a cast member on the variety program "The Gashinas".

In September 2019, Yoojung took on a new challenge by competing in the survival program "V-1," which aimed to select the Vocal Queen among various girl group members. Yet her journey on the show was brief—she was eliminated in the first episode after losing to her bandmate Suyeon.

Becoming a fan-favorite personality

Most recently, Yoojung joined the panelist lineup for TVING's new dating reality program "Blossom with Love". As the only panelist with an arts high school background, she brings unique insights into the high school contestants' experiences. The show, which premiered on October 5, centers around the theme of first love among eight high school students.

Throughout these appearances, Yoojung consistently endeared herself to viewers with her natural charm and relatability. On "Blossom with Love," both she and fellow young panelist Sung Han Bin connect well with contestants due to their similar ages and offer generous support to the participants. Her ability to provide thoughtful commentary while maintaining her bright personality has helped establish her as more than just an idol—but as an entertainer with staying power across multiple platforms.

Solo Debut and Artistic Identity

After years of performing with groups, August 2022 marked a significant milestone in Choi Yoojung's career when Fantagio announced her upcoming solo debut. The news broke on August 23, with the company confirming on August 26 that she would release her first single album titled "Sunflower" on September 14, 2022.

Release of 'Sunflower' and concept

The debut single album contained three tracks: the title track "Sunflower (P.E.L)," along with "Tip Tip Toes" and "Owl". For Yoojung, the title held profound personal significance, as she explained during her press showcase: "Before my grandpa passed away, he once drew a sunflower and said it symbolized me because of my bright smile".

In essence, the album embodied her artistic identity, with the title track's abbreviation "P.E.L" standing for "power, energy and love" - qualities she aimed to convey to listeners. The promotional rollout included a prologue film released on August 29, followed by concept photos, a highlight medley, and finally the music video teaser on September 13.

Songwriting and creative input

Importantly, Yoojung participated in writing lyrics for both "Sunflower (P.E.L)" and "Tip Tip Toes". This creative involvement distinguished her solo work from her group activities, as she revealed to NME: "I don't think I spoke out a lot during the album-making process of Weki Meki... But this time, I shared a lot of opinions because I felt more responsible doing it alone".

The album showcased her musical preferences, reflecting the hip-hop and R&B genres she had "loved and excelled in since she was a trainee". Each track offered something distinct - "Tip Tip Toes" featured vintage hip-hop elements, whereas "Owl" highlighted her vocals against dreamy synth riffs.

Reception and chart performance

Upon release, "Sunflower" reached number 14 on the South Korean Albums Chart (Circle). The album sold approximately 13,700 copies in South Korea and peaked at number 54 on the monthly Circle Album Chart.

Critical reception was mixed - some reviewers praised the song's "sparse production and subdued, vibey groove" that showcased Yoojung's voice, yet others found it "boring" and lacking the "engaging vocal arrangement" of contemporaries. Nevertheless, most agreed that Yoojung's skills as a performer elevated the material, especially in the choreography.

Following this initial solo venture, Yoojung expressed interest in exploring more musical genres, including "jazz and bossa nova" for future releases.

Acting Career and Web Dramas

Parallel to her musical career, Yoojung ventured into acting, gradually building a diverse portfolio across digital platforms and traditional media. Her acting journey demonstrates her evolution from idol to multifaceted performer.

First roles in web series

Yoojung made her official acting debut as the female lead in the 2020 web drama "Cast: The Golden Age of Insiders". In this series, she portrayed Lim Yoo Kyung, an ordinary young woman determined to transform herself from an "outsider" to an "insider". The drama authentically depicted the lives of young people working as cast members at an amusement park. Prior to this lead role, she had made a brief appearance in "Idol Fever" and reportedly appeared in "To Be Continued" before her K-pop debut.

Notable performances in 'Sound Candy' and more

In July 2023, Yoojung starred in the web drama "Sound Candy" alongside former NU'EST member Kim Jong-hyeon. She played Go Chae Rin, the owner of a Jeju guesthouse who returns home after being diagnosed with burnout and sound sensitivity. Her character experiences healing through mysterious "sound candy" given by her grandmother. The fantasy romance drama featured multiple love interests, including a narcissistic top idol star and a longtime trainee.

Consequently, Yoojung expanded her digital presence with "Single and Ready to Mingle" alongside Weki Meki teammate Kim Doyeon in 2020. Thereafter, she starred in her first solo web show "Yoodaeng's Work Work" in August 2023 and participated in the web show "Blossom with Love" later that year.

Transitioning into film and theater

Yoojung made her film debut in "The Noisy Mansion" (alternatively titled "Jobless Apartment"), playing the character Saet-byeol. The film tackles relatable challenges of apartment living, particularly noise disturbances. Full-scale filming began in December 2023, with the movie featuring established actor Ma Dong-seok.

Henceforth, Yoojung continued expanding her performing arts repertoire through theater. In 2024, she made her first musical performance in "Hero", impressing audiences with her "wide range of emotional acting". Looking ahead, she secured the lead role of Peggy Sawyer in the Broadway musical "42nd Street" for 2025, confirming her successful transition into theatrical performance.

Recent Updates and Future Outlook

The summer of 2024 brought a significant turning point in Choi Yoojung's career path when her long-standing group faced a major change.

Weki Meki disbandment and contract renewal

On August 16, 2024, Fantagio announced that Weki Meki had effectively disbanded on August 8 after five members departed the agency. Unlike her fellow members, Yoojung remained in discussions about her future with the company. On November 18, Fantagio confirmed that she had renewed her exclusive contract. In the meantime, Yoojung processed this transition, posting a handwritten letter to fans expressing mixed emotions about the group's end.

Alongside Kim Doyeon, who also renewed her Fantagio contract, Yoojung now focuses on solo endeavors rather than group activities. This shift marks a new chapter after seven years of promoting with Weki Meki since their 2017 debut.

Special DJ roles and musical theater

On the same day as her contract renewal announcement, Yoojung was selected as a special DJ for KBS Cool FM radio show "Volume Up". In addition, she made her musical theater debut in May 2024, performing as LingLing in the musical "Hero" at Sejong Center's Grand Theater.

As LingLing, a supporter of independence activist Ahn Jung-geun, she impressed audiences with "delicate emotional acting and clear, flawless vocals". After her first performance, Yoojung shared, "I was nervous and excited to be on stage after a long time, but I felt great gratitude and pride working with the esteemed staff and actors".

What's next for Choi Yoojung?

Besides her musical theater work, Yoojung expanded her portfolio with her film debut in "The Noisy Mansion," playing the character Saet-byeol. Full-scale filming began in December 2023. As of 2023, she also launched her solo web show "Yoodaeng's Work Work" and participated in the web show "Blossom with Love".

Now in her 10th year in the entertainment industry, Yoojung reflects with mixed emotions: "It's been a long road, but I feel grateful. I want to live a life where I can love myself without regrets". Even as she continues exploring songwriting and learning guitar, her focus remains on enjoying the creative process. "Sometimes, even after all the preparation, being on stage feels completely free. I don't want to lose that feeling".