FIFTY FIFTY's Athena draws buzz for her visuals and unique upbringing in Sweden

AKP STAFF

FIFTY FIFTY's Athena is already turning heads with her striking visuals and intriguing background.

On an online forum, netizens reacted to the final unveiling of FIFTY FIFTY's newly formed lineup, where member Athena made her debut appearance. While some of the other members had been speculated by fans, Athena had not appeared in any previous audition programs or platforms, making her introduction all the more surprising.

Athena’s name and background have also sparked curiosity. Her full name is Athena Yang, and "Athena" is indeed her real given name. She grew up in Stockholm, Sweden, and is the first K-pop star ever to hail from the country. Athena is reported to be fluent in both Korean and Swedish and speaks English at a working level.

At age 11, she competed in a piano competition in Sweden in 2018. By 2021, at age 15, she began attending an academy for K-pop dance. Just 11 months ago, she participated in a K-pop festival in Sweden, which garnered attention in Korean media.

In a news segment, she expressed that there’s a strong love for K-pop and Korean culture in Sweden, noting that some of her passionate friends "even speak better Korean" than she does.

Netizens have been quick to compare Athena’s looks to those of IVE's Wonyoung and Leeseo, aespa's Ningning, and actress Lee Sung Kyung. Many are speculating that she will be the visual center of FIFTY FIFTY.

Her name, "Athena," also seems fitting, as her stunning appearance is reminding fans of a "divine goddess."

Reactions include:

"She gives off a vibe that's a mix of Nana, Shin Se Kyung, and Ningning. She's beautiful."

"It seems like the visual team here is doing a great job. They nailed the teaser too."

"Wow, how is her real name Athena?"

"Whoa, she totally looks like a cat."

"Swedish!? That's really unique. But it makes sense, since 'Cupid' was also by a Swedish composer, so the language connection is cool!"

"Having Athena as her real name is so unique. Yang Athena sounds so cool."

"Her name is so beautiful, and she's soooo pretty!"

"My type of visuals... omg."

Meanwhile, more details about her nationality, ethnic origins, and family history have yet to be confirmed.

FIFTY FIFTY's re-debut album is set to release on September 20 at 1 PM KST.