The vibrant K-pop landscape is currently humming with the ascent of fourth-generation idols, who have swept audiences off their feet with their mesmerizing vocals, electrifying performances, and commanding stage presence. Intriguingly, a significant number of these idols, despite not launching their careers under the banner of YG Entertainment, share a compelling connection with the renowned company. They were once YG trainees, honing their skills and talents before finding success elsewhere.
Let's look at some of the fourth-generation female K-pop idols who were once trainees under YG Entertainment.
1. (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon
Miyeon is a soloist, actress, and member of the popular K-pop girl group (G)I-DLE. Her journey began when she became a trainee at YG Entertainment in 2010. Initially, she was supposed to debut as a member of BLACKPINK, but she left the agency in 2015.
2. PURPLE K!SS’ Chaein and Ireh
Chaein and Ireh are talented members of PURPLE K!SS. They were previously trainees at YG Entertainment. Chaein was a trainee under the agency from 2014 to 2019 and was a part of “Future 2NE1.” Ireh was a part of one of YG’s unofficial teams of trainees, known as “GirlB” and “Team B.”
3. SECRET NUMBER’s Jinny
Jinny Park is an American rapper and a member of Secret Number. She was once a part of the vibrant trainee culture at YG Entertainment. Jinny joined the company in 2013 and was a pre-debut member of BLACKPINK but was cut from the final lineup. After five years, she left in 2018.
4. Denise
Denise is a South Korean-American singer-songwriter who used to be a member of Secret Number. She was a contestant on “K-pop Star 5.” After the competition ended, she became a trainee under YG Entertainment in 2016. However, she left the company after being there for two years.
5. H1-KEY’s Seoi
Seoi, the leader of the rookie girl group H1-KEY, is a former YG Entertainment trainee. She was a part of YG Trainee Team 2. Although her journey as a YG trainee didn't lead to a debut under the agency, Seoi's determination pushed her to pursue her dreams further.
6. Billlie’s Moon Sua
Moon Sua is a member of Billlie who has captivated audiences with her talent and stage presence. She joined YG in 2009 and spent almost a decade as a trainee, honing her talents. She was a part of “Future 2NE1” and appeared in the music video for GD&TOP's song "Knock Out.".
7. fromis_9’s Seoyeon
Seoyeon, a talented member of fromis_9, was a trainee under YG Entertainment for six years and left the agency in 2016. Her journey at YG served as a stepping stone for her current success. Seoyeon appeared in GD&TOP’s “Knock Out” MV and used to be a part of “Future 2NE1.”
8. Youha
Youha is a South Korean singer-songwriter and producer who debuted as a soloist in 2020 with the digital single “Island.” Prior to that, she was a trainee at YG Entertainment and was also a part of “FUTURE 2NE1.” In 2019, it was reported that she left the agency after being a nine-year trainee.
These fourth-generation female K-pop idols may have started their journey at YG Entertainment, but they found their homes in different agencies, showcasing their talents and captivating fans worldwide.
Great list! I'll add a few more obscure or close-to-debut names:
-Roya Park: joined Produce 48 as an independent trainee along with previously mentioned Jinny Park as former YG trainees. Ended up ranking 34th and not debuting with IZ*ONE. 2020 solo debut with the digital single "Butterfly" under no representative agency under the stage name Roya.
-Julie Han: will debut next month as a member of KISS OF LIFE (alongside Natty who had her own complicated history with JYP). Left YG in 2020 so was likely to have been in the running for BABYMONS7ER.
-Minju: will participate in Hybe's R U Next? survival show at the end of the month. Also tight with BABYMONS7ER members.