UNCHILD Makes a Bold Debut with 'We Are UNCHILD': A New Era in K-Pop

"Our new song has the lyrics 'Put an exclamation mark, bang!' Please call us 'UNCHILD who put an exclamation mark on the world.'"

The new girl group UNCHILD is making a bold entrance into the music industry with aspirations to make a significant impact.

UNCHILD (comprising Park Ye-eun, Hiki, Tina, Ako, Yvonne, and Na Ha-eun) held a media showcase on the 21st at the Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their debut single 'We Are UNCHILD.'

UNCHILD is the first new girl group introduced by High Up Entertainment in six years since STAYC. The group's name, using the prefix 'UN-', signifies their determination to break free from conventional molds and channel their unique energy.

The group has garnered attention even before their debut, with members like Na Ha-eun, known as a 'dance prodigy,' and Park Ye-eun, a former contestant on Mnet's survival program. Na Ha-eun introduced herself as "not just the dance prodigy Na Ha-eun, but UNCHILD's Na Ha-eun." She expressed her excitement, saying, "The six of us have worked hard for this day, and it feels like a dream come true."

Having dreamed of becoming an idol for a long time, the decision to debut was particularly emotional. Na Ha-eun recalled, "I remember receiving the UNCHILD name tag. It was touching to receive a name tag like the ones worn by idol seniors in rehearsal videos. I've received many name tags as 'dance prodigy Na Ha-eun' from shows like 'K-Pop Star' and 'Star King,' but receiving the 'UNCHILD Na Ha-eun' name tag felt like reaching a destination."

Park Ye-eun also introduced herself energetically, saying, "You may not remember me, but I've grown a lot. I'm UNCHILD's Park Ye-eun." She shared her debut sentiments, "After being eliminated from 'I-LAND 2,' I had many worries, but standing here with the six members for our debut showcase is overwhelming and emotional."

The choreography for the title track 'UNCHILD' involved contributions from Hiki and Na Ha-eun. Na Ha-eun explained, "There are two key points. There's a dance move that looks like opening a door, symbolizing us opening a new door. The dance break created by Hiki and me is also a highlight, where we bend down and then lift our heads. I'm glad my favorite part was chosen."

Given Na Ha-eun's early fame, the group has been dubbed 'Na Ha-eun's group.' While this could be uncomfortable for other members, they expressed concern for Na Ha-eun instead. Yvonne said, "We worried that Ha-eun might feel burdened. Our team's strength is our six distinct personalities. We aim to break through as a unique team." Na Ha-eun admitted, "It would be a lie to say there was no pressure, but I embraced it positively and practiced hard to show a great side of idol Na Ha-eun to the public."

The group is stepping into the music scene with support from their agency family. Tina shared, "During the music video shoot, STAYC's Yoon sent a coffee truck and wrote us a letter. It was a huge support." Park Ye-eun added, "STAYC seniors said they had no seniors to advise them during their debut, so they encouraged us to rely on them."

Producer Rado wrote letters to each member. Park Ye-eun shared, "Rado PD gave each of us a letter. He advised me to take care of my health due to my weak constitution and said he was initially worried but now only has expectations."

UNCHILD has many aspirations for the future. Yvonne expressed, "We've talked a lot about what we want to try. Our dream is to do a challenge with our proud seniors, STAYC. As rookies, we also aim to win the Rookie of the Year award."

UNCHILD's debut single 'We Are UNCHILD' will be released on various music platforms at 6 PM today.

Reporter Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia one@tenasia.co.kr