While they are also popular as members of top K-pop groups, these five idols are also successful as solo artists like EXO Baekhyun and Girls' Generation Taeyeon.
In K-pop, a certain position is usually given to each member, such as main vocalist, main dancer, main rapper, lead vocalist, lead dancer, etc.
In some cases, other idols are given the modifier "all-rounder" for their versatility and ability to play all roles. And with such calibre, this leads them to debut as solos for them to be able to show their full potential and individuality.
However, being a soloist is not always easy. There is also a vast competition among singers in the music industry.
Nevertheless, these five idols proved their infinite talents that earned them their status as top soloists.
Here Are 5 Idol Group Members Who Are Successful Soloists:
1. Girls' Generation Taeyeon
Taeyeon initially debuted as the main vocalist and leader of Girls' Generation in 2007. Throughout her career, she earned the title of one of the best vocalists in K-pop.
After eight years as an idol, she finally expanded her career and debuted as a solo artist in 2014. Her first Ep "I" experienced commercial success at the top of Korean charts.
Since then, Taeyeon rose as "Korea's Representative Singer." She is notable for her hit solo tracks, "Fine," "11:11," "Dear Me," more.
On January 10, Taeyeon was hailed as the best-selling female artist in the past 10 years with cumulative sales of 1.05 million!
2. SHINee Taemin
Known as the "Ace of K-pop," Taemin started his career as the main dancer of SHINee. With his impeccable skills in dancing and singing, he became the first SM Entertainment artist to debut as a soloist under an actively promoting group.
ALSO READ: These 12 K-Pop Idols are Known as the Aces of Their Group
In August 2014, his debut EP, "ACE" sat at No. 1 in the Gaon Album Chart. This started a strong impact in the K-pop scene. He established his solo image following the release of his iconic song, "Move." This became one of the proprietors of androgynous concepts in K-pop – remaining legendary to date.
3. MAMAMOO Hwasa
Despite being the maknae of MAMAMOO, Hwasa showcased her strength and influence as a solo artist. She debuted in 2019 with a digital single, "TWIT." This gained her a "Triple Crown" from Gaon.
READ MORE: MAMAMOO Hwasa Reveals Story Behind Rebellious Song 'Maria'
Aside from her achievements on the charts and views, Hwasa particularly established a strong fandom with her empowering tracks such as "Maria." She particularly co-wrote and produced this song.
Hwasa also broke the Korean beauty standard and idol concept with her provocative yet unconventional look and music.
4. EXO Baekhyun
Starting as one of the main vocalists of EXO, Baekhyun climbed as a "One Top Soloist."
In 2019, Baekhyun with his solo debut EP, "City Light" showed off a strong start. He sold half a million copies and became the best-selling album by a soloist in the 2010s.
In 2020, he released his second EP, "Delight." He created new history as the first solo artist to sell over 1 million album copies. He is the first soloist in Korea to do so in 19 years.
Based on Gaon Chart, "Genius Idol" Baekhyun is crowned as the best-selling male artist with cumulative album sales of 2.66 million in the past 10 years.
5. BLACKPINK Jennie
Last but not the least, Jennie who debuted as the main rapper of BLACKPINK in 2016 also became a solo artist after her debut in 2018.
With the release of her single, "SOLO," Jennie made a new record in history. She is the first solo female idol to surpass 700 million views for a YouTube MV.
She also became the holder of a two-platinum certification. Her song sold 2.5 million digital units and it surpassed 100 million streams in the Gaon Digital Chart.
On top of this, Jennie also made a fashion trend in Korea with her stage outfits and hair clips.
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Written by Eunice Dawson
