Shannon Williams, who is also sometimes referred to as the "Second IU," gained attention in the music scene as one of the few K-pop idols who came from Europe. With her excellent singing skills, she captured fans' hearts and enjoyed domestic and international success.

However, in 2019, the female star suddenly completely disappeared in the K-pop industry following the expiration of her contract with MBK.

Where is she now?

Shannon Williams: Pre-Debut Story

Shannon, born into Korean and Welsh parents, discovered her passion for music when she was at the age of 7, wherein she landed on her first singing role at their school's play in London when she played Cosette from "Les Miserables."

Later on, Shannon transferred to Korea, where she had her first exposure in the country through SBS's "Star King in 2010.

With her lovely vocals, the British singer didn't only amaze viewers but MBK Entertainment (formerly known as Core Contents Media) as well and signed an exclusive contract to become their trainee.

In the following year, Shannon's fame increased after she impersonated IU at JTBC's " Hidden Singer" and gained the unofficial title, "Second IU."

To commemorate her graduation as a trainee, she released her solo track, "Remember You," feat. Jongkook (Speed) which gained impressive reactions from K-pop listeners.

Shannon William's Debut, Achievements & Activities as a K-pop Idol

As she continuously attracts interest, Shannon officially debuted as a solo artist with her digital single, "Daybreak Rain," that peaked at No. 32 on Gaon Chart upon its release in 2014.

In particular, she was initially set to debut as a member of the girl group Five Dolls but chose to pursue her own path as a singer.

The K-pop idol enjoyed domestic success, and even debuted as an actress through the Korean drama, "Moorim School," but after five years, Shannon announced retirement as a K-pop idol following the expiration of a contract with MBK. She left the K-pop industry with her third and last track, "Hatred Farewell" in 2018.

ALSO READ: Asian K-pop Idols Who Resided/Came From Europe + Watch Them Speak European Language

Why Did Shannon Leave MBK? Former Idol Reveals Mistreatment from Agency

In 2019, the former K-pop idol hinted at the mistreatment she received from MBK, which she referred to as a "dungeon."

Based on her revelation, Shannon wasn't paid accordingly and her supposedly tracks were given to other artists, "manipulated" her and didn't give her credits for her written lyrics for the company, as well as forbade her from going overseas.

Using her popularity, Shannon also revealed that she was forced to go to shows to promote her co-labelmates. Although she retired as a K-pop idol, the female singer avowed then that she would still do musicals and release her own music as well.

Current Status of Shannon in 2021, the Voice Behind 'Valorant' Character, Jett

Since Shannon Williams left the K-pop industry in 2019, the female singer pursued her career as a musical actress wherein she acted as Scaramouche in the musical, "We Will Rock You."

In the same year, Shannon also launched her YouTube channel, where she uploaded song covers.

In 2021, the "Why Why" singer is then actively communicating with her fans through social media sites such as Twitter and Instagram.

Surprisingly, Shannon also discovered her new career as a gamer, wherein she was given the opportunity to become the official voice actress of Jett, one of the most popular agents in Riot's FPS "Valorant."

Regularly, Shannon will take to the Twitch platform to have a live broadcast, where she showcased her awesome skills as a celebrity gamer in the metaverse.

READ MORE: These 6 K-pop Idols Are Also The Best Online Gamers

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Written by Eunice Dawson