Wonder Girls: 20 Years On - From K-Pop Icons to Diverse CareersIn the era of content overload, TenAsia's Tae Yuna serves as your 'entertainment guide,' delving into the hottest issues, key figures, and behind-the-scenes stories to enhance your viewing experience.
Wonder Girls: 20 Years On - From K-Pop Icons to Diverse Careers
The Wonder Girls, who led the golden era of K-pop, are celebrating their 20th debut anniversary this year. It's been nine years since their disbandment in 2017. Each member has since pursued different paths, expanding their careers in acting, music, production, and more.
Wonder Girls: 20 Years On - From K-Pop Icons to Diverse Careers
Recently, Ahn Sohee appeared on the YouTube channel 'Insaeng84' and announced her retirement from singing. She stated, "I have now transitioned to acting and am focusing solely on it." Although she misses the energy of performing on stage, she explained that she has fulfilled that desire through theater. Having steadily built her filmography since transitioning to acting, she is determined to focus exclusively on her acting career.
Wonder Girls: 20 Years On - From K-Pop Icons to Diverse Careers
In contrast, Sunye successfully returned to the entertainment industry by overcoming past controversies with her talent. She faced criticism for her 'irresponsible departure' when she left the group after announcing her marriage, becoming the first active idol to do so. Even when news broke of her participation in tvN's 'Mama the Idol' in 2021, she faced skepticism. However, Sunye proved her skills with stable vocals and performances, and she is now expanding her career with musicals and solo albums. Though they started in the same group, 20 years later, they are building their careers in different fields.
Wonder Girls: 20 Years On - From K-Pop Icons to Diverse Careers
Sunmi, known as the 'solo queen,' has established a unique niche for herself. With her distinctive musical style, 'Sunmi-pop,' she has solidified her position as a leading female solo artist. She has also showcased her expertise as a judge on variety shows like JTBC's 'Sing Again.'
Wonder Girls: 20 Years On - From K-Pop Icons to Diverse Careers
Yeeun (HA:TFELT) continues her journey as a singer-songwriter. She consistently releases songs with autobiographical themes, different from her Wonder Girls days, establishing her own musical world. She is also vocal about social issues like feminism and non-marriage, which sometimes elicit mixed reactions but have helped her solidify her position as an artist with a clear perspective.
Yubin and Hyerim are focusing on management and daily life, respectively. Yubin founded her own agency, rrr Entertainment, expanding her capabilities as a producer, while Hyerim is active in various fields, balancing marriage, motherhood, studies, translation, and broadcasting.
Wonder Girls: 20 Years On - From K-Pop Icons to Diverse Careers
Despite their different career paths, the members continue to support each other by appearing in each other's content. The trust built over 20 years serves as a psychological support system as they settle into their respective roles.
There is significant public anticipation for a Wonder Girls reunion. Recent reunions of contemporary girl groups like Kara and 2NE1 have generated considerable buzz. Although Ahn Sohee has mentioned her retirement from singing, drawing a line on returning to the stage, fans still yearn for special performances or commemorative projects.
Some have left the stage, while others have returned. Under the name Wonder Girls, they were once one, but now they are writing their second act under their own names, sparking excitement for what's to come.
