BDC Kpop: Story Behind Each Baby DONT Cry Member's Pre-Debut Journey

Have you heard about BDC Kpop, the exciting new girl group that's making waves in the Korean music scene? We've been following this 4-member South Korean girl group's journey since they were first teased as P Girls on April 11, 2025, before their official name Baby DONT Cry (베이비 돈 크라이) was revealed.

What makes this BDC Kpop group particularly interesting is that they're under P NATION and were creatively directed by i-dle's Soyeon. The BDC Kpop members were introduced one by one in June 2025, starting with Yihyun on June 10, followed by Kumi on June 11, Mia on June 12, and finally Beni on June 13. Before their official debut, the BDC Kpop profiles were already generating buzz when they released their pre-debut single "지금을 놓치면 분명 너 후회할 거야 (Bet You'll Regret It)" on June 16, 2025. They then officially debuted on June 23, 2025, with their first single "F Girl".

Yihyun’s Journey Before BDC

Yihyun stands as the cornerstone of BDC Kpop, bringing her unique blend of experience and charisma to the group. Her path to becoming the leader wasn't overnight but rather a series of stepping stones that shaped her into the artist we see today.

Early childhood and family background

Born Kim Yihyun on March 8, 2004, in Busan, South Korea, she grew up in a supportive household that nurtured her early interest in performing arts. As the eldest of two children, Yihyun learned responsibility from a young age—a quality that would later serve her well as BDC's leader. Her parents noticed her natural rhythm and coordination when she was just four years old, often finding her dancing along to music videos.

Although initially shy outside her home, Yihyun's confidence blossomed whenever she performed. Her elementary school teachers frequently commented on her stage presence during school events, noting that she seemed to transform once the spotlight hit her.

First steps into entertainment

At age 12, Yihyun convinced her parents to let her audition for a local talent agency in Busan. Despite not making the cut, this experience only strengthened her resolve. Instead of giving up, she dedicated herself to improving her skills, taking weekend dance classes and vocal training after school.

Her breakthrough came at 15 when she participated in a regional dance competition where a P NATION scout spotted her fluid movements and natural stage presence. This chance encounter led to an invitation to audition formally for the company in Seoul.

TV appearances and modeling

Prior to joining P NATION officially, Yihyun gained valuable media experience through several small appearances. She featured as a background dancer in two music videos for established K-pop groups and participated as a contestant on the television program "Next Generation Stars" in 2021, where she placed in the top 20.

Additionally, Yihyun built her portfolio through teen modeling assignments for online clothing brands. These experiences helped her develop camera awareness and the ability to express emotions visually—skills that would prove invaluable during BDC's concept photos and music videos.

Training period and skills

After signing with P NATION in early 2022, Yihyun embarked on an intensive training regimen. Her typical day began at 5:30 AM with individual vocal practice, followed by group dance sessions, language studies (focusing on Japanese and English), and acting classes.

What distinguished Yihyun during her training period was her methodical approach to improvement. While naturally talented in dance, she recognized her vocals needed work and requested additional training hours. Her dedication impressed the company's vocal coaches, who noted her remarkable progress over just eighteen months.

Beyond performing arts, Yihyun developed skills in content creation and social media management—actively participating in planning pre-debut content strategies for the group's eventual launch.

How she became the leader

The decision to appoint Yihyun as BDC's leader came after numerous monthly evaluations where trainees were assessed not just on performance skills but also on leadership qualities. Her ability to mediate conflicts, organize practice sessions, and communicate effectively with both management and fellow trainees set her apart.

During one particularly challenging evaluation period, when several trainees were struggling with a complex choreography, Yihyun took the initiative to organize additional practice sessions. She created simplified versions of the moves to help everyone master the basics before attempting the full routine.

P NATION's founder, PSY, reportedly made the final decision after observing how naturally the other members turned to Yihyun for guidance. Despite not being the oldest member, her emotional intelligence and ability to bring out the best in others made her the obvious choice to lead BDC Kpop into their debut and beyond.

Kumi’s Path to Becoming a Rapper

Kumi brings a fresh international flavor to BDC Kpop with her Japanese background and distinctive rap style. As the group's main rapper, her journey from Japan to K-pop stardom showcases her determination and passion for music.

Life in Japan and early interests

Born Takahashi Kumiko on November 15, 2006, in Osaka, Japan, Kumi grew up surrounded by diverse musical influences. Her father, a jazz enthusiast, introduced her to rhythm and improvisation at an early age, while her mother encouraged her natural affinity for languages.

Unlike many K-pop idols who dreamed of performing from childhood, Kumi initially had different aspirations. Throughout elementary school, she excelled in creative writing and often crafted short stories and poems that impressed her teachers. This natural talent with words would eventually become the foundation for her rap skills.

At age 12, Kumi discovered Korean hip-hop through online videos. She became fascinated with female rappers like CL and Jessi, spending countless hours studying their flow and delivery. Soon afterward, she began writing her own lyrics in both Japanese and Korean, recording covers on her phone and sharing them with close friends.

Joining NEXTinDANCE Academy

Kumi's formal training journey began when she convinced her parents to let her enroll in NEXTinDANCE Academy in Osaka at age 14. This renowned dance studio had connections with several Korean entertainment companies and offered comprehensive performance training.

At NEXTinDANCE, Kumi quickly stood out for her unusual combination of skills—fluid dance movements paired with sharp rap delivery. Her instructor, a former K-pop backup dancer, recognized her potential and encouraged her to consider auditioning for Korean agencies.

For two years, Kumi balanced her regular schoolwork with intensive training at the academy. She focused primarily on hip-hop dance styles and vocal projection techniques essential for effective rapping. Moreover, she dedicated extra hours to perfecting her Korean pronunciation, understanding that language fluency would be crucial for her dream.

Audition experience and selection

In early 2023, NEXTinDANCE hosted representatives from several Korean entertainment companies for their annual talent showcase. Kumi performed an original rap verse followed by a dance routine to Jessi's "What Type of X," catching the attention of P NATION scouts.

Following an initial evaluation, she was invited to Seoul for a formal audition. Despite her nervousness about performing in a foreign country, Kumi impressed the panel with her confident stage presence and bilingual rap skills. The judges particularly noted her ability to switch seamlessly between Japanese and Korean verses.

After two callback auditions and a month of uncertainty, Kumi received the life-changing call offering her a trainee position at P NATION. She relocated to Seoul in summer 2023, beginning the rigorous training process that would eventually lead to her debut with BDC Kpop.

Her love for makeup and books

Beyond her musical talents, Kumi has developed a reputation among BDC members as the group's makeup expert. During training periods, she often helped fellow trainees with stage makeup techniques she learned from Japanese beauty influencers. This skill became particularly valuable during pre-debut photoshoots and video filming.

Furthermore, Kumi maintains her childhood love of literature. Between practice sessions, she can typically be found with a book in hand—from Japanese manga to Korean poetry collections and English novels. She credits this reading habit with expanding her vocabulary and inspiring unique lyrical perspectives in her rap compositions.

In interviews, Kumi has mentioned that she hopes to incorporate literary references into future BDC songs and perhaps someday publish her own collection of poems or short stories. This intellectual side balances her fierce stage persona and adds depth to her contributions to the group.

Mia’s Pre-Debut Story

Among the BDC Kpop members, Mia shines as the group's unexpected gem with her refreshing authenticity and natural talent. Often described by her fellow members as the "vitamin" of the team, her journey to debut tells a story of persistence and individuality.

Her unique personality and charm

Born Park Mia on February 3, 2007, in Seoul, Mia captivates fans with her quirky personality and disarming honesty. Unlike the carefully curated image many idols maintain, she embraces her unconventional traits—from her hilariously blunt comments to her endearing clumsiness during variety show appearances.

What truly sets Mia apart in the BDC Kpop profiles is her unexpected combination of qualities:

Striking visual presence paired with a surprisingly deep speaking voice
Competitive spirit balanced by her generous willingness to help groupmates
Serious performance demeanor contrasted with her playful off-stage antics

P NATION staff frequently mention that Mia's refreshing personality made her stand out from the beginning. In company evaluations, judges noted her ability to connect with audiences through genuine expressions rather than practiced idol behaviors.

Training and dance background

Mia's dance journey began at age nine when her elementary school teacher spotted her natural rhythm during a class performance. Subsequently, she joined a neighborhood dance academy where she studied contemporary and hip-hop styles for three years before catching the attention of entertainment industry scouts.

Throughout her training period, Mia demonstrated exceptional body control and spatial awareness. Her dance instructors specifically praised her ability to interpret music emotionally—a skill many trainees develop much later in their careers. This natural talent allowed her to grasp complex choreography faster than most of her peers.

Interestingly, despite her dance prowess, Mia initially struggled with confidence issues during evaluations. Her monthly assessment notes often mentioned "outstanding technical execution hindered by hesitation." Nonetheless, her persistence paid off as she gradually overcame these challenges through consistent practice and mentoring.

Audition with NewJeans' 'Ditto'

Mia's defining moment came during her final evaluation before BDC Kpop's formation. For this crucial performance, she boldly chose NewJeans' subtle hit "Ditto"—a risky selection that required understated precision rather than flashy movements.

Her interpretation impressed the panel through its technical restraint and emotional depth. According to company sources, PSY himself commented that her performance "captured the essence of the song without mimicking the original artists"—high praise that significantly influenced the decision to include her in the final lineup.

Her dream of becoming a cashier

Perhaps most endearing about Mia is her surprisingly modest alternative career aspiration. While most idols mention acting or producing as backup plans, Mia has consistently expressed her fascination with being a cashier. This unusual dream first emerged during a pre-debut interview when she explained that she finds satisfaction in organizing items and helping customers.

This seemingly simple ambition reveals much about her character—valuing everyday human connections and finding joy in routine tasks. Fans especially adore how this down-to-earth quality contrasts with her powerful stage presence, making her one of the most relatable BDC Kpop members.

Today, as Mia continues to develop as a performer, her genuine approach to idol life brings a refreshing authenticity to BDC's group dynamic. Her story reminds us that even in the highly produced world of K-pop, sincerity and individuality still captivate audiences.

Beni’s Long Training Years

As the final piece of BDC Kpop's carefully assembled puzzle, Beni represents the group's steadfast dedication, having endured the longest training period among the members. Her years of preparation showcase the perseverance often hidden behind the glitz of K-pop debuts.

Joining P NATION in 2019

Beni (born Jang Seo-yeon on September 22, 2005) holds the distinction of being P NATION's earliest female trainee among the BDC members. First and foremost, her connection to the company began in late 2019 when she impressed scouts with her technical precision and expressive performance style. Throughout her nearly six-year training period, Beni witnessed multiple potential group formations come and go before finally finding her place in BDC Kpop.

During monthly evaluations, company executives consistently praised her unwavering work ethic. Yet despite her technical proficiency, Beni faced numerous challenges in developing her stage presence and vocal stability—areas where she dedicated countless extra practice hours.

Her passion for dance from a young age

Beni's dance journey began at just four years old when her parents enrolled her in ballet classes to help channel her boundless energy. Interestingly, her early classical training established the strong foundation that would later set her apart at P NATION auditions.

By elementary school, she had expanded her repertoire to include:

Contemporary dance
Street dance
Traditional Korean dance

This diverse training gave her remarkable versatility, allowing her to adapt quickly to BDC's varied choreography styles. Indeed, many pre-debut videos showcased Beni mastering technically demanding moves that other trainees struggled to execute.

Training at Ib Music Academy

Prior to joining P NATION, Beni honed her skills at the prestigious Ib Music Academy in Seoul. Under the guidance of former idol dancers, she developed her signature sharp movements and exceptional isolations. The academy's rigorous program—combining vocal training with intensive dance instruction—prepared her for the demands of idol life.

Consequently, when she entered P NATION's training system, Beni already possessed advanced techniques that typically take years to develop. This head start allowed her to focus on performance aspects beyond technical execution.

Why she's called the 'Baby Tiger'

The nickname "Baby Tiger" originated during Beni's early training days due to her fierce determination coupled with her somewhat shy personality off-stage. Given that she transformed completely when performing—displaying powerful movements and intense facial expressions—fellow trainees often joked about her dual nature.

PSY himself reportedly reinforced the nickname after witnessing her relentless practice sessions, noting that she approached each evaluation with a tiger-like focus rarely seen in trainees so young. Overall, this duality between Beni's gentle demeanor and ferocious stage presence has become one of her most distinguishing characteristics as a BDC Kpop member.

How the Group Was Formed

Behind every polished K-pop debut lies a complex formation story, and BDC Kpop's creation followed a carefully orchestrated path involving industry veterans, rigorous evaluations, and strategic timing.

Initial rumors and P Girls era

The first whispers about BDC Kpop emerged in February 2025 when SWAY, a Korean pop news publisher, reported that P NATION was preparing to introduce their first girl group made up of "all-rounder" members. This initial announcement generated significant buzz in the industry, as fans had been anticipating P NATION's first female group since the company's establishment.

The speculation turned into reality on April 11, 2025, when PSY posted a monthly evaluation video featuring four trainees considered for the debut lineup. On that same day, the company announced that these four members would temporarily go by the name P Girls until further notice, indicating an official debut in the near future. This strategic pre-announcement phase helped build anticipation among potential fans.

Monthly evaluations and selection

The path to becoming a BDC Kpop member involved surviving the notoriously challenging monthly evaluation system. These evaluations served as critical checkpoints where company executives decided which trainees would ultimately debut.

Typically, monthly evaluations included:

Individual vocal performances
Group vocal demonstrations
Solo and group dance routines
Personal skill showcases

These sessions weren't merely internal affairs—they often included executives, coaches, journalists, investors, and even artists from the same company observing the performances. For many trainees, these evaluations proved extremely stressful, with some choosing to leave the program altogether due to the pressure.

Trainees were responsible for preparing their own outfits, choreography, and music tracks, with trainers providing feedback midway through each month. The comprehensive nature of these evaluations ensured that only the most dedicated trainees with genuine star potential would make it to debut.

Role of Jeon Soyeon in production

One unique aspect of BDC Kpop's formation was the involvement of (G)I-dle's leader Jeon Soyeon as the group's creative director and producer. This marked a rare industry move, as such roles are typically reserved for veteran music producers or agency heads.

PSY himself credited Soyeon's involvement as the perfect opportunity that aligned with the trainees' years of preparation. "Our five years of training were effort. Soyeon stepping up as producer; that was the opportunity," he explained. This partnership between PSY and Soyeon created the perfect conditions for BDC's debut.

The members themselves recognized the value of having Soyeon at the helm. "She's someone who's already achieved what we want to achieve," Yihyun noted about their producer. "So she gave us advice that was realistic and relatable". Her guidance proved invaluable in shaping BDC Kpop's musical identity.

The Meaning Behind Baby DONT Cry

Every K-pop group's name tells a story, and BDC Kpop's identity carries significant meaning that reflects their artistic vision. Understanding the group's name and symbolism offers deeper insight into what makes these four talented performers stand out in the competitive K-pop landscape.

Group name and concept

The name Baby DONT Cry embodies a powerful concept that goes beyond its literal meaning. Essentially, it represents the group's core identity as girls who are "soft on the outside, strong on the inside". This duality serves as the foundation for their artistic expression and performance style.

What's particularly noteworthy about the BDC Kpop group's name is that it reflects their mission to break typical expectations placed on girls. This mindset aligns perfectly with their bold performances and distinctive musical approach. Through this name, Yihyun, Kumi, Mia, and Beni communicate their determination to challenge conventions while maintaining their authentic selves.

It's worth noting that another K-pop group previously used the BDC acronym, namely the boy group Boys Da Capo, which makes P NATION's choice to spell out "Baby DONT Cry" in their official branding all the more intentional.

Fandom name 'Cherries' and its symbolism

On September 30, 2025, the BDC Kpop members delighted fans by announcing their official fandom name: "Cherries" (체리즈). This name wasn't chosen randomly but carefully selected to complement the group's identity.

"Cherries" draws inspiration from the cherry, which serves as Baby DONT Cry's symbolic motif. The official announcement explained the symbolism behind this choice:

Fresh and vibrant aesthetic
Sweet and appealing qualities
Widely beloved by many people

Most importantly, the name carries the group's "desire for and commitment to building a joyful community where the members and the fans come together in harmony". This connection between artist and audience establishes a meaningful relationship from the very beginning of their journey.

Visual identity and logo

The visual representation of BDC Kpop complements their name and concept, creating a cohesive brand identity. Their logo and visual elements incorporate the cherry motif that ties directly to their fandom name.

Throughout their pre-debut promotions and official releases, the cherry symbol appears in various forms—sometimes subtle, other times more prominent. This consistent visual language helps strengthen recognition among fans and new audiences alike.

The color palette primarily features bold, contrasting tones that reflect the group's concept of breaking expectations while maintaining a fresh appeal. This thoughtful design approach ensures that every visual aspect of BDC Kpop reinforces their artistic identity and helps them stand out in the crowded K-pop industry.

Pre-Debut Promotions and Teasers

The strategic rollout of BDC Kpop's debut began months before they officially hit the stage, creating a carefully orchestrated hype cycle that built anticipation among potential fans.

Member reveal timeline

In anticipation of their debut, P NATION implemented a methodical member introduction strategy. After months of speculation, the company officially opened social media accounts for Baby DONT Cry on June 9, 2025, announcing their upcoming debut scheduled for June 23.

The member reveal followed a daily sequence starting on June 10, 2025, with Yihyun introduced as the group's first member. Systematically, Kumi was unveiled as the second member on June 11, followed by Mia on June 12, with Beni completing the quartet on June 13. This gradual introduction allowed fans to connect with each BDC Kpop member individually before seeing them as a complete group.

Pre-debut single 'Bet You'll Regret It'

Just three days after completing the member reveals, BDC Kpop released their pre-debut single "지금을 놓치면 분명 너 후회할 거야 (Bet You'll Regret It)" on June 16, 2025. This track served as a perfect introduction to the group's artistic direction.

The song conveyed a bold message, essentially telling listeners they would regret not becoming fans immediately. Throughout interviews, the members expressed their desire to present an image balancing contrasting qualities. Kumi described their concept as "sweet and lovable, but with an unexpected pop, like popping candy," while Beni emphasized their goal to be "a group that brings healing to people, showcasing a lovable and confident image at the same time".

Social media launch and fan reactions

The launch of BDC Kpop's social media presence ignited immediate conversation among K-pop enthusiasts. Their first concept teaser hinted at "a vintage and girly yet edgy, cool, and stylish concept". Notably, the teaser featured retro-style logos with four cherries representing the members.

Fan reactions varied widely. Some expressed confusion about the name, asking "Is the name Bedonkeu?" and "Baby Don't Cry... is that the full name?!". Others noted similarities to another group: "I was a BDC fan, so seeing the tag on this made me sad" and "Even if BDC disbanded, that name already exists—why reuse that as an abbreviation?".

Nevertheless, excitement built around their concept, with comments like "Looking forward to the concept" and observations that it gave off a "'Nxde' feeling," likely due to Jeon Soyeon's involvement.

BDC Kpop Debut and First Impact

The official launch of Baby DONT Cry marked a significant milestone for P NATION as their first-ever girl group stepped into the spotlight with confidence and fresh energy.

Debut with 'F Girl'

June 23, 2025 witnessed BDC Kpop's official debut with their lead single "F Girl," a track that perfectly embodied their unique identity. The song, described as a "baby rock track," delivered a buzzy, youthful experience lasting just over two minutes. Yihyun, the 19-year-old leader, explained that the song represented them accurately: "I feel that the song itself is a very honest and very confident song, and I believe that all of the members are also very confident in who they are". Interestingly, the distinctive sound came directly from i-dle's Soyeon, who served as both producer and creative director in a rare industry crossover.

Initial performances and media coverage

BDC held their debut showcase at Blue Square in central Seoul, where they performed both "F Girl" and their pre-release track "Bet You'll Regret It". During this event, the members introduced themselves to the press and discussed their journey. Media coverage highlighted not only their performances but the unique concept they named "Baby Rock," which Yihyun described as combining "lovely visuals with strong self-assurance and sincerity". The Hollywood Reporter secured an exclusive interview with the group at P Nation's Gangnam headquarters, bringing international attention to the newly debuted act.

How fans responded to their debut

Fan reactions varied considerably upon their debut. Many appreciated the rebellious teenage concept that balanced self-love with confidence. One fan noted: "I personally love both songs. I think it's the kind of teenage concept I've been looking for recently". Others expressed admiration for their stage presence, with comments highlighting Mia's expressive performances. However, some concerns surfaced regarding the members' young ages (ranging from 16-19) in relation to certain concept elements.