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BTS is so awesome because of Jimin. No, maybe ASTRO because of Cha Eun-woo. Or no, maybe GOT7 because of Jackson Wang? It is so hard to pick your favorite member in a group, let alone a soloist. Disregarding the factors we usually focus on, like appearance, personality, and visuals, this list was hard to come by, and I had to think of the top factors when selecting solo K-Pop artists to share with you all.
The two qualities that mattered most were:
- Talent: This was the top factor when selecting solo K-Pop artists because of their music, music videos, and social media uploads.
- Personality: Most of the selected solo K-Pop artists were chosen based on their personality, which is showcased through their music and social media posts. Only one of them I actually saw in concert.
So let's take a look at 5 solo K-Pop artists that you will fall for!
1. Eric Nam
This is the "Nation's Boyfriend," Eric Nam. Creator of his own podcast called the K-Pop Daebak Show, this American-born and raised, multilingual speaker completes the package as a well-rounded K-Pop artist. I had first-hand experience with this artist after going to two of his concerts, and every time I cracked up at the light-hearted "mom" jokes he had about his experience growing up as an Asian-American. Among all the concerts I went to, he was by far the most inexpensive, being in the double-digit range, which shows how accommodating he is to the average income earner. Will you be going to his next World Tour?
Song Recommendation: "Honestly"
Daebak Pairing: Like his bubbly personality, his music pairs perfectly with a refreshing K-beauty pick-me-up. Who doesn't want perfect skin while feeling bubbly fresh?
2. Ailee
Are you a "room shaker" like Ailee? With her astounding range as "Korea's Beyoncé," Ailee definitely shakes up the room whenever one of her songs plays. In terms of her genre of music, while I am not one to listen to ballad songs frequently, every time I hear her voice in her song "Heaven," I immediately take to the song. Her headstrong personality is highlighted through her major comeback, after being blacklisted by entertainment companies and after having an issue with weight fluctuations.
Song Recommendation: "Mind Your Business"
Daebak Pairing: If you love powerhouse vocals, dive deeper into her discography. Her later albums showcase even more of her range and personality.
3. Taemin
Would you take SHINee, SuperM, and soloist Taemin's advice? Even though there is the running joke of his "sketchy" magic hand and a tendency to lose things, I would take it. Immediately, when I think of Taemin, I think of choreography because of his extreme body control and graceful movements. "MOVE" by Taemin is selected by dance professionals to be one of the hardest choreographies in K-Pop. Showcased throughout his music videos is his effortless charisma and unique sense of fashion that no other artist can compare to.
Song Recommendation: "Advice"
Daebak Pairing: Dive into his solo discography. If you want to truly understand his artistry, his albums are the perfect place to start.
4. oceanfromtheblue
K-Indie singer-songwriter oceanfromtheblue is definitely an up-and-coming artist who debuted in 2018. I was introduced to him when I was scrolling on Spotify and listened to one of his songs that I have on repeat all the time. I immediately fell in love with his music because of his activeness on Instagram and other social media outlets. He even has his own Discord and talks with his fans on it, and he shares his pet on his Instagram Story.
Song Recommendation: "Say Yes" (feat. unofficialboyy)
Daebak Pairing: His music video for the song "Icy Girl" reminds me of the K-Drama, It's Okay to Not Be Okay. The concept of one person seeking a relationship with another person that is "icy" is the theme for both.
5. Hoody
All her songs are so good! This K-R&B artist was the first female artist under Jay Park's record label AOMG starting in 2015, but she debuted in 2013. I actually made a Zumba dance to her song "Hangang" because I was so addicted to it. In terms of Korean standards, she is considered tall, standing at 5 feet 8 inches. You will see her all around in the K-R&B field, with collaborations with popular artists like Jay Park, Gray, Loco, Crush, and more.
Song Recommendation: "Sunshine"
Daebak Pairing: Hoodies are the perfect cozy fit for Hoody's smooth R&B vibe. Throw one on, press play, and let her voice carry you away.
Bonus Picks
Some runner-up solo K-Pop artists to check out: Jessi, CL, DPR Live, and Sultan of the Disco. What are your favorite songs? I am always on the hunt for new music. Drop them in the comments and I will give them a listen!
Want More K-Culture Goodness?
If these artists made you want to dive deeper into Korean culture, music, and lifestyle, The Daebak Box brings hand-picked Korean snacks, beauty, lifestyle goods, and exclusive merch straight to your door each month. It is the easiest way to keep the hallyu wave rolling year-round.
