Published 2026.03.27
By Cely Editor
K-pop idols who were previously recognized as visual members within their groups are increasingly pursuing solo careers to establish themselves as independent artists with distinct musical identities. These idols are actively breaking free from the 'visual member' stereotype by showcasing their musical talents. ITZY's youngest member Yuna kicked off her solo journey by releasing the mini album 'Ice Cream' on the 23rd at 6 PM, marking her debut as a solo artist approximately 7 years and 1 month after ITZY's group debut. This makes her the second member in ITZY to release a solo mini album, following Yeji's 'AIR' released in March of the previous year. Yuna had been recognized as one of the representative visuals of the fourth generation of K-pop, even becoming part of the coined term 'Jang-Ka-Seol-Yu (Jang Won-young, Karina, Seol-yun, Yuna).' During a press conference on the 23rd, Yuna expressed her determination to demonstrate her capabilities as a solo artist while expressing gratitude for her visual recognition. The album contains four tracks including the bubble gum pop title track 'Ice Cream,' along with 'B-Boy,' 'Blue Maze,' and 'Hyper Dream,' conveying messages of enjoying sweet moments. Red Velvet members Irene and Wendy are also preparing their first solo comebacks, demonstrating how visual members' independent musical activities are diversifying the K-pop landscape.
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