Son Na-eun
Son Na-eun (Korean: 손나은; born February 10, 1994) is a South Korean actress and singer best known as a former member of the girl group Apink.[1][2] Born in Seoul, she attended Seoul Performing Arts High School and later graduated from Dongguk University with a degree in theater.[1][3] Son Na-eun debuted as Apink's visual and center on April 21, 2011, with the single album Snow Pink, contributing to the group's rise with hits like "NoNoNo" and "Mr. Chu," which solidified their innocent, bubbly image in K-pop.[4][5] After 11 years, she announced her departure from Apink on April 8, 2022, to pursue acting full-time, though she expressed gratitude for her time with the group.[6] Transitioning to acting, Son Na-eun made her debut in 2012 with a supporting role as young Hae-in in the historical drama The Great Seer.[7] She gained wider recognition for lead roles in romantic comedies such as Cinderella and the Four Knights (2016), where she played the optimistic Eun Ha-won, and Second 20s (2015), portraying a housewife rediscovering her youth.[5] Her film work includes the horror thriller The Wrath (2018), in which she starred as the vengeful Ok-boon, earning praise for her intense performance.[8] More recent television roles include Dinner Mate (2020) as the social media influencer Jin No-eul, Ghost Doctor (2022) as the skilled surgeon intern Oh Soo-jung, Agency (2023) as the ambitious executive Kang Han-na, and Romance in the House (2024) as Byeon Mi-rae, showcasing her versatility in romantic, medical, and workplace genres.[9]) In 2024, she made a special appearance in the historical drama The Tale of Lady Ok.[10] Son Na-eun signed with YG Entertainment as an actress in May 2021 but departed in May 2025 to join J,WIDE-COMPANY, marking a new chapter in her solo career focused on diverse acting projects.[5][2] Throughout her career, she has been noted for her elegant visuals and has appeared in numerous advertisements, contributing to her status as a prominent figure in South Korean entertainment.[11]Early life and education
Childhood and family background
Son Na-eun was born on February 10, 1994, in Seoul, South Korea.[1] She grew up in a family with a strong connection to the arts; her mother serves as an art museum director, fostering an environment rich in cultural influences.[12] Son Na-eun is the elder sister of Son Sae-eun, a professional golfer competing in the KLPGA Tour, who is three years her junior and notably taller at 175 cm.[13][14] Little public information is available about her father, whose name and occupation remain private.Schooling and pre-debut training
Son Na-eun attended the School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA), a prestigious institution specializing in performing arts education, where she focused on stage arts. She transferred to SOPA after initially attending Chungdam High School and graduated in February 2013, though she was unable to attend the ceremony due to her professional commitments.[15][16] She was accepted into Dongguk University's Department of Theatre and Film in 2013, began attending as a freshman in 2014 majoring in acting, and graduated with a bachelor's degree in theatre.[17] Following her success in auditions, Na-eun joined Cube Entertainment as a trainee in 2009. She underwent approximately two years of rigorous pre-debut training emphasizing vocals, dance, and overall performance skills. This period prepared her for her eventual role in a girl group, honing her abilities in a competitive entertainment environment.[18][19]Career
2011–2022: Debut with Apink and acting beginnings
Son Na-eun debuted as a member of the South Korean girl group Apink on April 21, 2011, during their first stage on Mnet's M! Countdown with the title track "I Don't Know" (몰라요) from the mini-album Seven Springs of Apink, released two days earlier on April 19 under A Cube Entertainment, a subsidiary of Cube Entertainment.[20] The seven-member group, including Son as one of the original lineup, introduced a bright, innocent concept that resonated with audiences, marking the start of her music career after years of training.[21] Within Apink, Son Na-eun was positioned as the lead dancer, sub-vocalist, center, and visual, often taking the forefront in choreography and serving as the group's representative face in promotions and variety appearances.[22] The group rose to prominence through a series of hit releases, including the upbeat "NoNoNo" from their third mini-album in July 2013, the playful "Luv" from Pink Luv in November 2014, and the emotional "Remember" from their first studio album Pink Revolution in July 2015, which collectively drove millions of streams and topped charts.[23] These successes earned Apink accolades such as the Disk Bonsang at the 30th Golden Disc Awards in January 2016, recognizing their album sales and performance impact.[24] Son began acting while active in Apink, making her debut in 2012 with a supporting role as young Hae-in in the historical drama The Great Seer.[25] She continued with roles in dramas such as Jang Ok-jung, Living by Love (2013) and the film Salut d'Amour (2014), before gaining recognition for her lead role as young housewife Lee Seo-hyun in Second 20s (2015). In 2016, she achieved a breakthrough with the role of ambitious chaebol heiress Park Hye-ji in the tvN romantic comedy Cinderella and Four Knights, where she portrayed a rival to the protagonist and received praise for her natural screen presence alongside her ongoing group commitments.[9] She followed this with a supporting role as Kim Jae-young in the family drama The Most Beautiful Goodbye in the World in 2017, further establishing her versatility. Her film work included the lead in the horror thriller The Wrath (2018) as vengeful Ok-boon. Later roles encompassed the romantic comedy Dinner Mate (2020) as Woo Do-hee and the medical drama Ghost Doctor (2022) as surgeon Oh Soo-jung. Balancing Apink's rigorous schedules—including album releases, tours, and fan events—with her burgeoning acting pursuits, Son continued dual activities until challenges in coordination arose. In late April 2021, she did not renew her contract with Play M Entertainment (formerly A Cube), though she remained an Apink member for group promotions.[26] That May, she signed an exclusive acting contract with YG Entertainment's acting division to prioritize her solo endeavors.[4] On April 8, 2022, Son announced her official departure from Apink after 11 years, expressing gratitude to fans and a desire to focus fully on acting while wishing the group continued success.[27]2023–present: Full-time acting and agency transitions
Following her departure from Apink in April 2022, Son Na-eun transitioned to a full-time acting career, building on the performance skills she had honed during her idol years.[28] Her acting endeavors in this period emphasized diverse roles across television dramas, marking a clear shift from group music activities to individual projects. While she has occasionally supported Apink's endeavors from afar, her primary focus has been on solo acting opportunities, with limited direct involvement in group reunions.[29] In 2023, Son starred as Kang Han-na in the JTBC drama Agency, portraying an ambitious executive in the advertising industry, which highlighted her growth as a lead actress.[30] The following year, she took on the role of Byeon Mi-rae in the JTBC series Romance in the House, exploring complex family dynamics in a romantic comedy setting.[31] Additionally, in late 2024, she made a cameo appearance as Ok Tae-young in the historical drama The Tale of Lady Ok on JTBC.[25] On May 12, 2025, after her contract with YG Entertainment expired, Son signed an exclusive deal with J,WIDE-COMPANY to further her acting pursuits.[2] The agency expressed commitment to supporting her versatility across genres. In July 2025, J,WIDE-COMPANY launched a new profile for Son, featuring photos that showcased her multifaceted charms—from elegant cosmopolitan looks to vibrant, dynamic expressions—aimed at underscoring her acting range.[32] That same month, rumors of discord within Apink resurfaced when group photos from a promotional event excluded Son, prompting fan speculation about strained relationships post her departure. Fans largely dismissed the claims as overreactions, attributing her absence to her busy acting schedule rather than any conflict.[33] In October 2025, Son was confirmed for the female lead in the upcoming SBS drama Manager Kim, starring opposite So Ji-sub in an action series based on a popular webtoon, slated to air in 2026.[34] This casting represents a significant milestone in her ongoing transition, positioning her alongside established stars in a high-profile production.Artistry
Musical influences and style
Son Na-eun's vocal contributions to Apink highlight a clear and emotive tone that complements the group's bubblegum pop sound and tender ballads, often delivering harmonious sub-vocals with growing confidence over the years. As a sub-vocalist, her voice adds emotional depth to the ensemble, supporting the main lines while maintaining a bright, accessible quality typical of the group's youthful aesthetic. This style evolved noticeably during live performances, where her steady delivery helped sustain Apink's reputation for vocal stability on stage. In terms of performance style, Son Na-eun excelled as Apink's lead dancer and visual center, emphasizing precision in synchronized choreography and exuding natural stage charisma that captivated audiences. Her dance execution was marked by fluid movements and sharp formations, contributing to the group's polished, high-energy presentations that blended cute concepts with dynamic routines. This role allowed her to shine in visually driven tracks, where her poised presence enhanced the overall visual appeal and fan engagement. Son Na-eun has cited admiration for senior idols like BoA, drawing inspiration from the veteran's versatility in singing and dancing, which influenced her approach to multifaceted performances in Apink. Additionally, her personal interest in ballet, practiced consistently since at least 2024, subtly informed her graceful movements and ongoing refinement of dance techniques.Acting approach and development
Son Na-eun's transition from idol singer to actress presented significant challenges, particularly in shifting public perception from her physical appeal and stage presence to delivering nuanced emotional depth in roles. Early in her acting career, she faced criticism for perceived stiffness and unnatural expressions, with detractors arguing that her idol background limited her range despite over a decade of experience.[35][36] In interviews, Na-eun has acknowledged the pressure, noting that the scrutiny was upsetting but motivated her to focus on authentic emotional expression rather than superficial charm.[37] Her acting approach draws from formal education and professional training, emphasizing character immersion to build natural performances. Na-eun studied theater at Dongguk University, where she developed foundational skills in emotional layering and narrative interpretation.[38] This led to an immersion-based method, where she immerses herself in characters' psychological states to achieve more organic emotional delivery, as seen in her evolving portrayals of ambitious professionals.[39] Key development milestones highlight her growth toward versatility. In the 2020 romantic comedy Dinner Mate, Na-eun achieved a breakthrough by portraying a vibrant food columnist, earning praise for her relatable charm and comedic timing that marked a step beyond cameo roles. By 2023, in the intense office drama Agency, she demonstrated expanded range through a ruthless executive character, tackling ambition and vulnerability despite initial backlash, which she later reflected on as a pivotal learning experience in handling complex interpersonal dynamics.[35] This progression continued into subsequent projects, where her immersion techniques yielded more consistent critical acclaim for emotional authenticity.[40]Public image and impact
Media recognition and reputation
Son Na-eun's early years with Apink positioned her as a relatable figure in K-pop, emphasizing her approachable demeanor amid the group's rise to prominence. Following her departure from Apink in 2022 to pursue acting full-time, Na-eun's public persona evolved into that of an "acting idol," reflecting her shift toward dramatic roles while leveraging her idol background.[41] Media outlets have noted this transition as a deliberate career pivot, with her signing to YG Entertainment in 2021 marking an initial phase focused on screen presence rather than group activities.[5] In May 2025, she departed YG to join J,WIDE-COMPANY, continuing her emphasis on diverse acting projects.[2] Throughout her career, Na-eun has received extensive media coverage, particularly through frequent features in fashion magazines like Elle, Vogue, and Ceci, where she is showcased for her elegant styling and poise.[42] In 2025, speculation about discord with her former Apink members resurfaced after her absence from a group birthday gathering, but fans quickly dismissed the rumors as unfounded overreactions, citing her busy acting schedule.[33] Na-eun has consistently been praised in interviews for her natural beauty, often highlighted in pictorials and on-screen appearances that emphasize her effortless glow without heavy reliance on enhancements.[43] Additionally, industry professionals and media have commended her strong work ethic, particularly her rigorous preparation for roles, as evidenced by her reflections on the transformative demands of acting.[44] This reputation has bolstered her endorsement deals, tying her wholesome image to brand ambassadorships.Cultural and fashion influence
Son Na-eun has established herself as a prominent fashion icon within the Korean entertainment industry, particularly noted for her ability to seamlessly blend timeless classic elements with sporty and street-style influences in her outfits. This distinctive approach has garnered recognition from international sources, highlighting her as one of the top K-pop idols with exceptional fashion sense. Her style during the Apink era often featured elegant yet accessible looks that resonated with fans, contributing to her enduring influence on youth fashion trends.[45] In 2025, Na-eun's public appearances and campaigns continued to shape contemporary streetwear, emphasizing chic, urban aesthetics that mix neutral tones with relaxed silhouettes, inspiring a broader adoption of versatile, everyday luxury among young audiences. Media outlets have praised her visuals for maintaining a polished yet approachable appeal, further solidifying her role in setting seasonal trends. Beyond fashion, Na-eun's career trajectory exemplifies the successful idol-to-actress transition in K-pop culture, a path that has become a benchmark for performers navigating multifaceted careers. Her shift from group activities with Apink to leading roles in dramas and films represents a model of professional evolution that motivates aspiring idols and actresses to pursue acting ambitions post-group commitments. This representation underscores the viability of diversifying within the industry, encouraging a new generation of entertainers to balance musical roots with dramatic pursuits. Na-eun's personal hobbies have also extended her cultural footprint, notably through her dedication to ballet, which she has practiced for over a year as of 2025. Her Instagram posts showcasing ballet routines in elegant leotards and demonstrating impressive flexibility and poise drew widespread fan admiration, contributing to the rising "chwi-baller" trend—where adults take up ballet as a hobby for fitness and grace. This visibility has sparked increased interest in adult ballet classes among her followers, aligning with a growing movement led by celebrities like Na-eun, Son Dam-bi, and Suzy, who promote it as a beauty and wellness secret.[46]Other ventures
Endorsements and ambassadorships
Son Na-eun began securing major commercial endorsements during her early career with Apink, leveraging her rising popularity as a model and brand representative. In 2018, she was selected as a model for Adidas Korea, appearing in campaigns alongside athletes like Gareth Bale and Son Heung-min to promote sportswear lines such as the ZNE collection. Her involvement highlighted her appeal in the athleisure and lifestyle sectors, contributing to the brand's visibility in the Korean market. Following her debut acting roles and amid her transition to full-time acting, Na-eun expanded her portfolio with luxury and beauty brands. In 2022, she became Jimmy Choo's first Korean ambassador, starring in promotional visuals that emphasized elegant footwear and accessories tailored for the local audience.[47] This role marked a significant milestone, positioning her as a key figure in high-end fashion endorsements. The following year, after signing an exclusive acting contract with YG Entertainment in May 2021, she was appointed as the face of Neutrogena, promoting the skincare brand's hydro boost line through advertisements focused on youthful, radiant skin. In 2022, she launched Puma's women's "Stay Fearless" campaign, showcasing activewear designed to empower modern women.[48][49] In 2023, Na-eun continued her momentum with outdoor and sportswear partnerships, becoming an ambassador for The North Face alongside celebrities like Cha Eun-woo and IVE's Leeseo, featuring in campaigns for apparel and gear aimed at urban explorers. By early 2025, under YG, she was chosen as the new face of DescenTE, a Japanese sportswear brand, where her trendy style was highlighted in promotions emphasizing fashion-forward athletic wear. After departing YG in May 2025 and signing with J,WIDE-Company, her endorsement activities saw further expansion; in August 2025, she starred in JJ JIGOTT's fall campaign titled "Playful Sequence," presenting a chic, playful aesthetic through pictorials for the fashion label's seasonal collection. These partnerships underscore her versatility across beauty, luxury, and sportswear categories, with J,WIDE facilitating broader commercial opportunities in her post-Apink phase.[50][51][52][2]Philanthropy and social causes
Son Na-eun has participated in philanthropic efforts centered on disaster relief and support for vulnerable populations. In February 2020, she donated 50 million Korean won (approximately US$41,000 at the time) to the Daegu Community Chest of Korea to aid those affected by the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in Daegu, one of the hardest-hit areas.[53] This contribution was part of a broader wave of celebrity support for national relief initiatives during the pandemic.[54] In recognition of her birthday on February 10, 2018, Son Na-eun organized a volunteer event with her fans at Kkottongnae, a social welfare facility in North Chungcheong Province dedicated to serving the disabled, elderly, and impoverished children.[55] The group engaged in hands-on activities to provide direct assistance, reflecting her commitment to community service. Complementing this, her fan club made a donation to the Korea Childhood Leukemia Foundation in her honor, underscoring her indirect role in advancing child health causes.[55] These activities highlight Son Na-eun's dedication to social causes beyond her entertainment career, contributing to her reputation as a compassionate public figure.Discography
Apink discography contributions
Son Na-eun served as a sub-vocalist, lead dancer, and occasional rapper in Apink, contributing her vocals to the group's releases from their 2011 debut until her departure in 2022.[38] Her role typically involved supporting harmonies and featured lines in title tracks and album cuts, enhancing Apink's bright, melodic sound.[56] On the 2014 EP Pink Blossom, Na-eun received vocal credits for the lead single "Mr. Chu," where she delivered key supporting lines alongside the main vocalists.[57] The album marked one of her prominent early contributions, showcasing her clear tone in upbeat pop tracks like "Short Hair." Similarly, in the 2016 full-length album Pink Revolution, she performed notable singing parts in songs such as "Only One" and "High Tension," adding to the record's energetic vibe. For her final major involvement, Na-eun participated in recording the 2022 EP HORN, including vocals on the hit single "Dilemma," though scheduling conflicts prevented her from joining promotions.[58] This track became a landmark for Apink, peaking at number 55 on the Gaon Digital Chart and highlighting her lasting vocal legacy despite her limited participation. Na-eun also featured in Apink's sub-unit Y.O.S. (with Yoon Bo-mi and Oh Ha-young), which debuted with the digital single "Love Is Blind" in April 2020, blending their vocals in a playful R&B track.[59] Following her 2022 departure from the group, she has made no further musical contributions to Apink's discography.Composition credits
Son Na-eun's involvement in songwriting has been limited, focusing on lyric contributions for Apink's group albums during her time as a member, rather than full composition or solo works. Her credits highlight collaborative efforts with fellow members and external writers, aligning with her primary role as a performer in the idol industry. No documented solo demos or independent songwriting projects exist, and she has not pursued further credits since departing the group in 2022 to concentrate on acting. As of 2025, she has not released any solo music or further composition credits outside of Apink. The following table summarizes her verified lyricist credits:| Year | Song Title | Album | Role | Collaborators |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | "Dear (Whisper)" | Dear | Co-lyricist | Oh Hayoung, Kim Namjoo, Jeong Eunji [60] |
| 2016 | "Cliché" (흔한 일) | Dear | Co-lyricist | Park Chorong [61] |
| 2022 | "Holy Moly" (홀리 몰리) | HORN | Co-lyricist | Kenzie [62] |
Filmography
Films
Son Na-eun made her film debut in the 2012 comedy Marrying the Mafia 5: Return of the Family, where she portrayed Eun Hee-jae, a college student entangled in the chaotic world of a mafia family.[63] Her performance marked her transition from idol activities to acting, showcasing her in a supporting role alongside established actors.[64] In 2018, she starred as the lead in the period thriller The Wrath, playing Ok-boon, a resilient woman in the Joseon era driven by vengeance after personal tragedy.[65] The role highlighted her ability to handle intense dramatic scenes, earning praise for her emotional depth in the film's exploration of betrayal and retribution. Additionally, in 2022, Son Na-eun appeared in the short promotional film Apink Special Movie: Horn, a main role that intertwined narrative elements with behind-the-scenes footage of Apink's album preparations and performances. This project served as a creative tribute to the group's 10th anniversary, blending fiction and documentary styles.[66]| Year | Title | Role | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Marrying the Mafia 5: Return of the Family | Eun Hee-jae | Supporting role as a student drawn into mafia antics.[63] |
| 2018 | The Wrath | Ok-boon | Lead role as a vengeful woman in historical setting.[65] |
| 2022 | Apink Special Movie: Horn | Herself / Main character | Featured in group-centric story tied to album release. |
Television dramas
Son Na-eun debuted in television in 2012 with supporting roles in historical and family dramas, gradually transitioning to more prominent parts in romantic comedies, fantasy series, and thrillers, often portraying strong-willed young women navigating personal and relational challenges. Her performances have earned praise for their emotional depth and natural charm, contributing to the success of ensemble casts in popular broadcasts.[25] She began with a supporting role as young Hae-in in the historical drama The Great Seer (SBS, 2012). Subsequent early roles included Oh Soo-mi in the family series Childless Comfort (JTBC, 2012–2013) and a guest appearance in Salamander Guru and the Gang (SBS, 2012). In 2014, she appeared in supporting capacity in Glorious Day (SBS), followed by Oh Hye-mi, a college student, in the romantic comedy Second 20s (tvN, 2015). In 2016, she gained prominence as Park Hye-ji, a fashion design student and childhood friend entangled in romantic rivalries, in the romantic comedy Cinderella and Four Knights (tvN, 16 episodes).[67] Guest appearances continued with Jae-young in The Most Beautiful Goodbye (KBS2, 2017) and a cameo in YG Future Strategy Office (YouTube, 2018). She returned to main roles in 2020 with Dinner Mate (Channel A), portraying Jin No-eul, a charismatic fitness trainer and social media influencer entangled in a love quadrangle as the ex-girlfriend of psychiatrist Kim Hae-kyung; the 32-episode series explored modern dating dynamics through shared meals and unexpected connections.[68] In the 2021 mystery thriller Lost (tvN), she played supporting role Kang Min-jung, a lawyer's wife. The following year, in the fantasy medical drama Ghost Doctor (tvN, 2022), Son Na-eun took on the role of Oh Soo-jeong, a dedicated emergency room intern who embraces supernatural beliefs amid a ghostly possession storyline involving genius surgeon Cha Young-min; broadcast for 16 episodes, her character added layers of optimism and vulnerability to the high-stakes narrative.[69] In 2023, she starred as ambitious rookie executive Kang Han-na in the workplace drama Agency (JTBC, 16 episodes). Marking her 2024 appearance, Son Na-eun made a special guest role as young Ok Tae-young in episode 1 of the historical drama The Tale of Lady Ok (JTBC), and starred as the protective adult daughter Byeon Mi-rae in the family romance Romance in the House (also known as Gajok X Melo, JTBC, 12 episodes), delving into themes of forgiveness and second chances within a blended family dynamic.[70] Looking ahead, she is set to co-lead in the 2026 action drama Manager Kim (SBS), filming as of 2025, playing Sang-ah, a sharp colleague at the titular character's company in a production centered on corporate intrigue and revenge; this marks her entry into thriller territory alongside So Ji-sub.[34]| Year | Title | Role | Network | Episodes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | The Great Seer | Hae-in (young) | SBS | 35 | Supporting role[71] |
| 2012 | Salamander Guru and the Gang | Tae-eun | SBS | 10 | Guest role (Ep. 4) |
| 2012–2013 | Childless Comfort | Oh Soo-mi | JTBC | 40 | Supporting role |
| 2014 | Glorious Day | Joo Da-in | SBS | 44 | Supporting role |
| 2015 | Second 20s | Oh Hye-mi | tvN | 16 | Supporting role |
| 2016 | Cinderella and Four Knights | Park Hye-ji | tvN | 16 | Main role[67] |
| 2017 | The Most Beautiful Goodbye | Jae-young | KBS2 | 4 | Guest role |
| 2018 | YG Future Strategy Office | N/A | YouTube | 8 | Guest role (Ep. 7) |
| 2020 | Dinner Mate | Jin No-eul | Channel A | 32 | Main role[68] |
| 2021 | Lost | Kang Min-jung | tvN | 12 | Supporting role |
| 2022 | Ghost Doctor | Oh Soo-jeong | tvN | 16 | Main role[69] |
| 2023 | Agency | Kang Han-na | JTBC | 16 | Main role |
| 2024 | The Tale of Lady Ok | Ok Tae-young (young) | JTBC | 16 | Guest role (Ep. 1) |
| 2024 | Romance in the House | Byeon Mi-rae | JTBC | 12 | Main role[70] |
| 2026 | Manager Kim | Sang-ah | SBS | 10 (planned) | Co-lead role, filming 2025[34] |
Variety and reality shows
Son Na-eun began her variety show career as the Apink representative on the KBS2 reality program Invincible Youth 2 in 2013, where she joined other idol members in rural lifestyle challenges and activities such as self-defense training.[72] The show, a sequel to the original Invincible Youth, featured her alongside participants like Suzy of miss A and Bora of Sistar, highlighting her adaptability in unscripted group dynamics and contributing to her early public image as a versatile idol.[72] During 2014 to 2016, Son Na-eun also engaged in radio broadcasting, hosting the KBS Cool FM program Son Na-eun's Volume Up, where she selected music tracks, shared personal anecdotes, and interacted with listeners to build a more relatable persona beyond her group activities.[73] Her radio tenure allowed for candid discussions on topics like variety show experiences, helping to address perceptions of her reserved on-air presence.[73] Following her departure from Apink in 2022, Son Na-eun continued guest appearances on major variety formats, including SBS's Running Man in 2023, where she participated in high-energy games and missions that highlighted her agility and charm as a solo artist and actress.[74] In 2024, she joined the cast of her drama Romance in the House for a promotional episode on JTBC's Knowing Bros (Episode 445), engaging in humorous class skits and sharing behind-the-scenes stories that emphasized her acting evolution and group chemistry with co-stars like Choi Min-ho. These post-group outings reinforced her transition to individual entertainment pursuits while maintaining her appeal in non-scripted settings.[75]Music video appearances
Son Na-eun appeared in several music videos as a trainee prior to her debut with Apink in 2011, often taking on lead female roles that showcased her early acting and visual appeal.[76] In 2010, she starred as the female lead in BEAST's "Breath," a promotional video that highlighted her poised presence alongside the group's performance.[77] Later that year, she reprised a similar role in BEAST's "Beautiful," contributing to the track's narrative of youthful romance and street dance elements.[78] The following year, Son featured prominently in the full version of BEAST's "I Like You the Best," the second part of the "Beautiful" storyline, where her character interacted closely with the members in a continuation of the dramatic plot.[76] After debuting, she continued guest appearances, including in Huh Gak's 2012 ballad "The Person Who Once Loved Me," portraying a heartfelt romantic interest in the emotional storyline.[79] That same year, Son appeared in Huh Gak's "Sick," emphasizing themes of heartbreak through her subtle yet expressive performance.[80] In 2013, she had a supporting role in SPEED's "It's Over" (Drama Version), part of a high-budget narrative MV featuring multiple actors and drawing attention to social issues.[81] Son supported her labelmates VICTON in 2016 by starring in their debut track "I'm Fine," appearing as a mysterious figure in white to add intrigue to the video's concept.[82] Her collaboration with PSY in the 2017 hit "New Face" became one of her most notable cameos, where she performed energetic dance sequences that complemented the song's playful vibe and contributed to its viral success.[83] In 2018, Son reunited with Huh Gak for "Empty Words," playing a college student in a poignant campus romance narrative that underscored the song's reflective lyrics on post-breakup emotions.[84]Awards and nominations
Major awards
Son Na-eun has garnered recognition through her contributions to Apink and her individual endeavors in variety entertainment, modeling, and acting, with notable wins and nominations at prominent ceremonies.Group awards with Apink
In 2013, Apink received the Next Generation Global Star award at the Mnet Asian Music Awards, highlighting the group's rising international presence following the release of their EP Nonono.[85]Solo awards and nominations
Son Na-eun won the Star of the Year award at the 2014 MBC Entertainment Awards for her role in We Got Married Season 4, where she was paired with SHINee's Taemin.[86] In 2019, she was awarded Female CF Model at the Korea First Brand Awards, acknowledging her prominence in commercial endorsements.[87] For her acting breakthrough in the 2020 romantic comedy Dinner Mate, Son Na-eun earned a nomination for Best New Actress at the MBC Drama Awards.[88]| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Mnet Asian Music Awards | Next Generation Global Star | Apink | Won (group)[85] |
| 2014 | MBC Entertainment Awards | Star of the Year | We Got Married Season 4 | Won[86] |
| 2019 | Korea First Brand Awards | Female CF Model | N/A | Won[87] |
| 2020 | MBC Drama Awards | Best New Actress | Dinner Mate | Nominated[88] |
| 2024 | Korea Drama Awards | Hot Star Award (female) | N/A | Nominated[89] |