Yuqi
Song Yuqi (born September 23, 1999), known mononymously as Yuqi, is a Chinese singer, songwriter, rapper, dancer, and television personality best known as a member of the South Korean girl group (G)I-DLE.[1][2] Yuqi was born in Beijing, China, where she attended Beijing 101 Middle School before moving to South Korea in 2015 after passing an audition for Cube Entertainment.[3] She trained as a trainee for nearly three years and debuted with (G)I-DLE on May 2, 2018, with the mini-album I Am and its lead single "Latata," serving as the group's lead vocalist, lead dancer, and sub-rapper.[2] The group quickly rose to prominence with self-produced hits, earning multiple awards and establishing (G)I-DLE as one of K-pop's leading acts, with Yuqi contributing to songwriting and production on several tracks.[4] In addition to her group activities, Yuqi launched her solo career in 2021 with the single album A Page, featuring the Mandarin track "Giant," which marked her debut as a soloist in China amid travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.[5] She expanded her solo endeavors in 2024 with the Korean-language mini-album YUQ1, released on April 23, which included collaborations with artists like PH-1, Minnie, and Lexie Liu and debuted at number 2 on the Circle Album Chart (formerly Gaon), earning her the Best Solo Artist award at the 2024 Korea Grand Music Awards.[6][7] In 2025, she released the digital single "Radio (Dum-Dum)" in March and "Motivation" in September, with the latter securing her first music show win on MBC M's Show Champion.[8] Beyond music, Yuqi has gained recognition for her vibrant personality and multilingual skills (fluent in Mandarin, Korean, and English), appearing on variety shows such as Knowing Bros.[6] Her charismatic presence and contributions to (G)I-DLE's global success, including sold-out world tours and chart-topping releases, have solidified her as a prominent figure in the K-pop industry as of November 2025.[4]Life and career
1999–2017: Early life, education, and pre-debut training
Song Yuqi was born on September 23, 1999, in Beijing, China, as the only child in her family.[9][3] From a young age, she showed a strong interest in music and dance, learning traditional Chinese folk dances such as daizu and participating in street dance activities during her school years.[9][10] Her exposure to K-pop began early, as she became a fan of groups like Super Junior and HyunA, often teaching herself their choreographies at home.[11][9] Yuqi attended Beijing 101 Middle School, an elite institution where she honed her multilingual abilities, with Mandarin as her native language and basic proficiency in English.[9][12] During her time there, her passion for performance grew, leading her to serve as president of the school's street dance club and experiment with local talent opportunities to showcase her skills.[9] At the age of 16 in 2015, Yuqi decided to pursue a career in K-pop and auditioned for Cube Entertainment at their Star World Audition in Beijing, performing covers of CLC's "High Heels" and G.E.M.'s "Bubble."[13][12] She passed the initial round and was invited for a final audition in South Korea, after which she relocated alone to Seoul to begin her training.[11] From 2015 to 2017, Yuqi underwent rigorous pre-debut training at Cube Entertainment, focusing intensely on vocal techniques, dance routines, and language immersion to overcome her initial barriers as a non-native Korean speaker.[11][14] She achieved conversational fluency in Korean by the end of this period, relying on self-study and support from fellow trainees to adapt to the demanding schedule of daily classes and evaluations.[3][14] This foundational training period prepared her for her eventual role in the formation of (G)I-DLE.[11]2018–2020: Debut with (G)I-DLE and early solo ventures
Song Yuqi, known professionally as Yuqi, made her official debut as a member of the South Korean girl group (G)I-DLE on May 2, 2018, under Cube Entertainment, with the release of the group's debut extended play I Am and its lead single "Latata."[15][16] As the group's Chinese member, Yuqi served as the lead dancer, lead vocalist, and lead rapper, contributing her versatile skills to the multicultural lineup.[17][18] The debut EP I Am showcased (G)I-DLE's self-produced style, with "Latata" achieving rapid success by exceeding 5.9 million views on its music video within the first week of release.[16] Following their debut, (G)I-DLE engaged in extensive group activities, including the release of their second EP I Made on February 26, 2019, which peaked at number five on the Billboard World Albums chart, marking their growing international presence.[16] In 2020, the group issued their third EP I Trust on April 6, which debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart— their first chart-topping album in South Korea— and reached number four on the Billboard World Albums chart, their highest position at the time.[19][20] These releases were complemented by promotional world tours, such as the planned 2020 (G)I-DLE World Tour 'I-Land: Who Am I', intended as their first global outing but ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[21] Yuqi's early solo ventures began in 2019 when she joined the cast of the Chinese variety show Keep Running for its seventh season, where her energetic personality and performances helped her gain significant popularity among Chinese audiences.[22] Her regular appearances on the show, starting in April 2019, marked her first individual foray outside the group, broadening her appeal in her home market.[12] In early 2020, amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Yuqi actively participated in promotions for (G)I-DLE's single album Dumdi Dumdi, released on August 3, which featured summer-themed tracks adapted with her input for international fans, including a Chinese version. During this period, she also received her first songwriting credit for the fan-dedicated track "I'm the Trend," released in May 2020, highlighting her emerging role as a composer within the group.[23] Throughout this era, Yuqi faced challenges related to cultural adaptation as the sole Chinese member of (G)I-DLE, including initial struggles with the Korean writing system Hanja upon moving to South Korea.[24] Additionally, rising anti-Chinese sentiment in Korea during 2020, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and the pandemic, placed added pressure on Chinese K-pop idols like Yuqi, who were often caught in the crossfire of nationalistic backlash.[25]2021–2023: Solo debut, Chinese market expansion, and group milestones
In May 2021, Yuqi made her solo debut with the digital single album A Page, featuring the lead single "Giant" and B-side "Bonnie & Clyde". The release marked her transition to solo artistry, with "Giant" exploring themes of self-empowerment through its lyrics about overcoming personal doubts and embracing inner strength. The track charted on the Gaon Download Chart, peaking at number 27.[26][27] During this period, Yuqi expanded her presence in the Chinese market, building on her ongoing role as a cast member on the variety show Keep Running since 2019. In 2021, she hosted the KakaoTV reality program Learn Way and appeared on several Chinese variety shows, including guest spots on Ace vs Ace and The Next Innovation, which helped establish her as a prominent crossover artist between Korean and Chinese entertainment. These activities highlighted her versatility as a host and performer, attracting a broader audience in China.[28] With (G)I-DLE, Yuqi contributed to the group's creative process on their first full-length album I Never Die, released in March 2022, where she co-wrote and produced tracks alongside members Soyeon and Minnie. The album's lead single "Tomboy" became a major hit, topping charts in South Korea and earning the group their first performance at Coachella in April 2022, where they delivered a rock-infused set including the track. The group followed with their second EP I Love in October 2023, with Yuqi participating in its promotion, and embarked on world tours, including the Just Me A-DDA tour in 2022 and I am FREE-TY tour starting in June 2023, performing in multiple countries across Asia and North America.[29][30] Yuqi's additional solo endeavors included releasing the digital single "Freak" in 2022, though it was later re-released in her 2024 EP, and beginning a hosting stint on MBC's Show! Music Core in October 2022, where she served as an MC alongside other idols, showcasing her charismatic on-screen presence. Her growing recognition culminated in first solo-related accolades, such as contributions to (G)I-DLE's wins at the 2022 MAMA Awards for Best Dance Performance with "Tomboy", and her Weibo following surpassing 10 million as of 2025, reflecting her rising popularity in China.2024–present: Advanced solo releases, international engagements, and recent accolades
In 2024, Yuqi marked a significant milestone in her solo career with the release of her debut extended play, YUQ1, on April 23. The EP featured seven tracks, including the lead single "FREAK," alongside "MINE" and "Stand Up," showcasing her versatility in pop, dance, and R&B genres. Yuqi contributed to the production of several tracks, emphasizing her growing role as a self-composed artist. The album achieved commercial success, topping international iTunes charts in multiple regions and entering Melon's daily Hot 100 with all tracks.[31] Building on this momentum into 2025, Yuqi continued her solo trajectory with the digital single "Radio (Dum-Dum)" on March 17, a self-composed track likened to tuning a radio to process emotions post-breakup. Later that year, she released her first single album, Motivation, on September 16, comprising three tracks led by the title song "M.O.," which explores themes of self-empowerment and boundary-setting. The pre-release track "It Hurts" debuted with a music video on September 10, featuring Chinese actor Wang Anyu and marking Yuqi's acting debut in a narrative of emotional vulnerability. To promote Motivation, Cube Entertainment launched pop-up stores in seven Asian cities, including Seoul, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, Nanjing, Hong Kong, and Tokyo, from September 19 onward, offering interactive fan experiences and merchandise.[32][33][34] Yuqi expanded her international presence through high-profile performances in 2025. She took the stage at KCON LA on August 2–3, delivering solo sets of "Radio" and collaborating with ZEROBASEONE's Zhang Hao on a cover of Trouble Maker's "Now." As part of (G)I-DLE, the group performed at SUMMER SONIC 2025 in Tokyo on August 16 and Osaka on August 17, blending hits like "TOMBOY" with Japanese versions of tracks such as "Fate." Yuqi further connected with fans via her solo fan-concert, "YUQI FAN-CON SUPERSTAR 琦妙夜," held on September 27 at Guangzhou's Asian Games City Gymnasium, where she performed a mix of solo and group songs, including "Freak" and "Radio."[35][36][37] Her achievements garnered recognition at the 2025 Tencent Music Entertainment Awards (TMEA) on August 24 in Macau, where Yuqi won "Most Influential Dance Singer of the Year" and "Mandarin Digital EP of the Year" for YUQ1. She attended the ceremony, performing live and solidifying her influence in the Chinese music market. Throughout this period, Yuqi balanced her solo endeavors with (G)I-DLE commitments, co-writing tracks like "Doll" and "Rollie" on the group's 2024 album 2 and contributing vocals and choreography to their i-DOL World Tour, which spanned 22 shows across 14 countries from August to November 2024, followed by a 2025 Japan tour announcement. This dual focus highlighted her ability to nurture both individual artistry and group synergy.[38][39]Personal life
Song Yuqi is an only child. Her parents initially opposed her pursuit of an entertainment career but later became supportive of her endeavors. She maintains a close relationship with her family.[11]Public image and ventures
Media presence and artistry
Yuqi has garnered significant media attention for her charismatic and humorous persona on variety shows, where she is often highlighted as a "scene stealer" due to her quick wit and multilingual fluency in Korean, Mandarin, and English. Outlets such as the South China Morning Post have noted her ability to captivate audiences across platforms, positioning her as a key figure in bridging cultural narratives in entertainment. Coverage in Billboard and Soompi frequently emphasizes her versatility, from lively interactions that showcase her playful energy to more introspective moments that reveal her adaptability as a performer.[9][4][40] Her artistry embodies a bold, empowering aesthetic that fuses K-pop's polished production with C-pop's emotive lyricism, often exploring themes of self-confidence and resilience in her solo works. Yuqi draws inspiration from global icons like Beyoncé, whose concert she attended in 2023 and described as mesmerizing for its stage presence and vocal prowess, influencing her own dynamic performances. Her vocal delivery and adept sub-rapper skills add rhythmic edge to tracks, as seen in (G)I-DLE's self-produced hits and her solo EP YUQ1. This blend allows her to navigate genres from pop-rock to R&B with confidence, earning acclaim for her growth in vocal delivery and creative control.[41] As a Chinese artist thriving in the K-pop industry, Yuqi has contributed to cultural exchange between South Korea and China, enhancing K-pop's accessibility amid post-2020 geopolitical strains on cross-border entertainment. Her prominence as (G)I-DLE's "face" has helped sustain the group's fanbase in China, where she promotes bilingual content and participates in local events, fostering goodwill and interest in multicultural idols. This role underscores her impact in diversifying K-pop's global narrative.[9] Critical reception of Yuqi's solo endeavors, particularly YUQ1 (2024), highlights her artistic maturation, with reviewers commending the EP's eclectic tracks and collaborative features for showcasing refined production and personal storytelling. NME described the lead single "Freak" as a haunting, genre-bending visual that captures her quirky yet fierce persona, marking a confident step in her solo trajectory. Her work is seen as an evolution toward more introspective and versatile soundscapes, solidifying her as a multifaceted talent beyond group dynamics.[42][43] Yuqi maintains a robust social media presence, amassing over 9 million Instagram followers by late 2025, where she actively engages fans through behind-the-scenes updates, live sessions, and candid posts. On Weibo, she has seen notable follower growth, ranking in the top 10 for net increases among female artists in the first half of 2025 as the only K-pop idol on the list, using the platform to share motivational content and advocate for mental health awareness in the high-pressure idol world, encouraging open discussions on well-being. This digital influence amplifies her role as a relatable advocate, connecting with global and Chinese audiences alike. In November 2025, she was announced as part of the lineup for Waterbomb Macao 2025, further showcasing her international appeal.[44][45][46]Fashion, endorsements, and ambassadorships
Yuqi has developed a distinctive fashion style that blends streetwear with high fashion elements, often incorporating playful, trendy outfits that highlight her versatile persona. Her looks frequently feature bold accessories, edgy silhouettes, and a mix of casual and luxurious pieces, as seen in her attendance at major fashion events. For instance, she was featured in Vogue China's February 2023 issue, showcasing her ability to embody both youthful energy and sophisticated elegance.[47] In 2023, Yuqi participated in Milan Fashion Week as a representative for Fendi, attending the Fall/Winter show and further solidifying her presence in the international fashion scene. By 2025, she walked the runway at the Vogue Forces of Fashion Gala in Shanghai, wearing a custom Vera Wang Haute gown, which underscored her growing influence in Chinese fashion circles. Her style evolution reflects a shift toward more experimental and confident expressions, aligning with her solo career trajectory.[48][49] Yuqi's endorsement portfolio has expanded significantly since her group debut, with a focus on luxury and lifestyle brands. She became Fendi's China brand ambassador in January 2024, participating in campaigns and events that highlight the brand's ready-to-wear collections. In November 2024, she was appointed as Tory Burch's ambassador for handbags and footwear, starring in the Holiday 2024 campaign and attending New York Fashion Week. Other notable endorsements include Adidas for sportswear promotions, OPPO for technology tie-ins, and Kiehl's for skincare lines, demonstrating her appeal across diverse sectors.[50][51][52] Her ambassadorships extend to audio and beauty brands, with Yuqi named BOSE's Asia Pacific ambassador in April 2025, promoting wireless headphones through regional campaigns. She has also collaborated with Tiffany & Co. and Ray-Ban on eyewear and jewelry endorsements, often tying into her music releases like the 2025 album Motivation, which featured pop-up events with brand integrations. These roles have marked a transition from group-oriented promotions to individualized deals, particularly targeting the Chinese market post-2021.[53][52][54] On the philanthropic front, Yuqi has leveraged her endorsements for charitable causes, including participation in a 2024 charity event for disabled children organized by the variety show Keep Running, where brand partnerships supported fundraising efforts. Her involvement in such initiatives, often linked to beauty and lifestyle brands, has helped raise awareness for youth programs. By 2025, her endorsement activities in China are reported to generate substantial revenue, exceeding group royalties and contributing to an estimated annual income of around $1 million from commercial deals alone.[55][56][57]Discography
Extended plays
Yuqi released her debut extended play, Yuq1, on April 23, 2024, through Cube Entertainment, marking her first major solo project outside of (G)I-DLE activities. The EP comprises seven tracks, blending electronic-pop elements with personal introspection, and features collaborations with artists such as pH-1 on "Drink It Up" and Lexie Liu on "On Clap," alongside a guest appearance by bandmate Minnie on "Everytime."[58] Yuqi took an active role in the creative process, co-writing and co-composing the majority of the songs, including the self-reflective closer "Could It Be," which serves as an emotional outro akin to a personal poem.[59] The production of Yuq1 emphasized an electronic-pop sound, drawing on collaborations with various producers to craft upbeat yet empowering tracks that explore themes of independence, self-acceptance, and personal growth.[59] The title track "FREAK" embodies this ethos, celebrating individuality with its bold lyrics and infectious energy, while tracks like "My Way" and "Red Rover" highlight resilience and forward momentum in relationships and self-discovery.[60] Commercially, Yuq1 achieved significant success, topping iTunes album charts in multiple regions, including Russia and Chile.[61] In South Korea, it sold over 500,000 copies in its first week according to Hanteo Chart data, earning a 2x Platinum certification from the Korea Music Content Association (KMCA).[62] The EP also performed strongly in China, where it was awarded Chinese Digital EP of the Year at the 2025 Tencent Music Entertainment Awards, reflecting Yuqi's appeal in her home market.[63] By late 2025, the album had amassed over 50 million streams on Spotify, driven by the viral traction of "FREAK," which alone surpassed 32 million streams.[64] Critically, Yuq1 received positive acclaim for its cohesive sound and Yuqi's vocal range, with "FREAK" earning a nomination for Best Dance Performance - Female Solo at the 2024 Mnet Asian Music Awards, though it ultimately won Album of the Year (Overseas) at the Asia Pop Music Awards.[65]Track listing
| No. | Title | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | "FREAK" (title track) | 2:51 |
| 2. | "My Way" | 2:48 |
| 3. | "Drink It Up" (feat. pH-1) | 3:16 |
| 4. | "Red Rover" | 2:03 |
| 5. | "On Clap" (feat. Lexie Liu) | 1:58 |
| 6. | "Everytime" (with Minnie) | 3:11 |
| 7. | "Could It Be" | 3:09 |
Single albums
Yuqi's single albums represent concise, focused releases in her solo discography, emphasizing powerful title tracks and complementary B-sides that showcase her vocal range and songwriting versatility. These projects differ from her extended plays by prioritizing streamlined narratives and immediate impact, often tied to thematic explorations of personal growth and resilience. Her debut single album, A Page, was released digitally on May 13, 2021, marking her initial foray into solo music with two tracks: the lead single "Giant" and B-side "Bonnie & Clyde".[66] The album encapsulates Yuqi's autobiographical journey of musical evolution, blending rock-infused pop elements to convey themes of overcoming adversity and self-empowerment.[67] "Giant" features an animated music video highlighting her rise to prominence, while "Bonnie & Clyde" delivers a dynamic, narrative-driven sound that underscores partnership and rebellion.[68] Building on this foundation, Yuqi's second single album, Motivation, arrived on September 16, 2025, as a digital release followed by physical copies on September 17.[69] Comprising three tracks—"M.O." as the title track, the pre-released B-side "It Hurts" (dropped on September 10), and "Gone"—the album adopts a motivational theme drawn from reflections on a challenging friendship breakup, incorporating dance-heavy production across genres like pop and R&B.[70] The "M.O." music video marks Yuqi's acting debut, featuring dramatic storytelling and choreography that amplifies the song's energetic call to self-motivation.[71] Release strategies for Motivation included extensive teaser campaigns with concept photos evoking vibrant retro pop aesthetics and immersive pre-release content, such as the cinematic video for "It Hurts" co-starring actor Wang Anyu.[72] The rollout extended to promotional pop-up stores in seven Asian cities from September 19 to 28, 2025, enhancing fan engagement through themed merchandise and interactive experiences.[34] Commercially, Motivation achieved significant success, topping charts on platforms like QQ Music and Kugou Music while selling over 414,000 physical units in its first week according to Hanteo data.[73] In contrast, A Page garnered steady digital streams but focused more on establishing her solo identity without physical sales metrics.[74]Lead singles
Yuqi's lead singles as a solo artist demonstrate her evolving style, from empowering anthems to genre-blending pop tracks, often involving her contributions to lyrics and composition. "Giant", released on May 13, 2021, served as the primary title track for her debut single album A Page. Co-written by Yuqi alongside BOYTOY, Young Sky, Peter Hyun, and ChaTone, the song features dynamic production with rock-infused elements and Yuqi's signature raspy vocals conveying themes of self-empowerment and resilience. The official music video, showcasing animated visuals and high-energy choreography, marked her initial foray into solo promotions under Cube Entertainment.[75][76][77] In 2024, "Freak" debuted on April 23 as the lead single from her first mini album YUQ1. The track blends trap beats with electronic influences, exploring infatuation and bold self-expression through its catchy chorus and horror-themed narrative. Produced by a team including Librel, it was promoted with a music video featuring eerie, cinematic aesthetics inspired by classic horror films. Upon release, "Freak" and the accompanying EP tracks entered Melon's daily Hot 100 chart, reflecting strong initial streaming performance in South Korea.[78][61][79] "Radio (Dum-Dum)", her third digital single, was issued on March 17, 2025. This retro-synth pop song, with its nostalgic 80s-inspired sound and playful lyrics, built hype through a special clip released on September 23, 2024. The full release included a music video emphasizing vibrant visuals and dance elements, debuting at number 138 on the Worldwide iTunes Song Chart.[32][80][81] Yuqi's most recent lead single, "M.O.", arrived on September 16, 2025, as the title track of her single album Motivation. An upbeat dance-pop anthem centered on motivation and perseverance, it features infectious hooks and energetic choreography tailored for fan challenges. The song's music video highlights dynamic staging and Yuqi's charismatic performance, while the album topped QQ Music's daily best-selling digital albums chart in China upon release, alongside strong placements for its music video on the platform's trending lists. Promotional efforts included live TV performances, amplifying its international reach.[82][54][83]Featured singles and soundtracks
Yuqi has made notable contributions to collaborative singles and soundtracks, often in guest or supporting roles that highlight her vocal range and adaptability across genres. In 2023, she featured on Choi Yena's "Hate Rodrigo," a dynamic pop-rap track that incorporated English lyrics and showcased Yuqi's energetic delivery in the chorus and bridge. This collaboration marked one of her early solo-era features outside (G)I-DLE activities. Similarly, in 2023, Yuqi appeared on Alan Walker's "Fire!," featuring JVKE, a high-energy electronic pop song where her powerful vocals added depth to the pre-chorus and ad-libs, helping the track gain international traction on streaming platforms. Her soundtrack work has further expanded her visibility in both Korean and Chinese media. In February 2023, Yuqi teamed up with (G)I-DLE bandmate Miyeon for "Sweet Dream," a dreamy ballad serving as the OST for the Netflix romantic comedy series Love to Hate You; the song's soft harmonies and emotional lyrics complemented the drama's themes of romance and conflict. In 2024, she released "Bad Liar" (titled "연극" in Korean) as a special track for the tvN drama Marry My Husband, reinterpreting the original by LYn with a more introspective vocal performance that captured the series' themes of deception and revenge.[84] These OST contributions not only aligned with her growing acting endeavors but also introduced her music to broader audiences through drama tie-ins. Yuqi's involvement in Chinese variety show soundtracks underscores her expansion into the mainland market. She participated in theme songs for multiple seasons of the popular program Keep Running (奔跑吧), including "Happy Seasoning" in 2019 with cast members like Angelababy and Zheng Kai, a upbeat track blending pop and dance elements to energize the show's adventurous format. More recently, in 2025, she contributed to the vibrant theme song for Keep Running Season 13 alongside Bai Lu, Zhou Shen, and others, infusing the ensemble piece with her distinctive bright tone.[85] In 2025, Yuqi's pre-release single "It Hurts" (아프다) from her upcoming album Motivation incorporated duet-style elements through its music video, which featured Chinese actor Wang Anyu in a narrative portraying an emotional couple's story; while primarily a solo track composed and written by Yuqi, the cinematic collaboration evoked a shared vocal intimacy and boosted anticipation for her advanced solo releases.[86]Songwriting and production credits
Yuqi has established herself as a multifaceted artist beyond performing, contributing significantly to songwriting and production across her solo work and (G)I-DLE's discography. Registered with the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA), she amassed 19 credits by mid-2024, encompassing lyrics, composition, and arrangement roles.[10] By late 2025, her portfolio exceeded 20 credits, reflecting her growing influence in crafting introspective and bold tracks that blend pop, hip-hop, and R&B elements.[87] In her solo endeavors, Yuqi demonstrated early creative control with her debut digital single "A Page" in 2021, where she co-wrote and co-composed the lead track "Giant" alongside collaborators like Boytoy and Young Sky. The song's empowering lyrics, emphasizing resilience and self-assertion, showcased her ability to infuse personal narratives into upbeat production.[88] Her 2024 debut EP Yuq1 further highlighted her hands-on involvement, with full lyric-writing credits for the title track "Freak," which she also co-composed, exploring themes of unapologetic individuality through a funky, genre-blurring sound. Additionally, Yuqi produced the introductory elements for the EP, including atmospheric segments in pre-release tracks like "Could It Be," setting a thematic tone of self-discovery.[89][59] For (G)I-DLE, Yuqi's contributions began prominently in 2020 and expanded through subsequent releases. She provided lyrics, composition, and arrangement for tracks like "Lost" from I Burn (2021), adding emotional depth to the group's experimental soundscapes. In 2022's I Never Die, she co-wrote and arranged "Polaroid," contributing to its nostalgic vibe, while also handling composition for "Liar." Her work extended to I Feel (2023) with co-writing and composing duties on "All Night" and "Peter Pan," emphasizing empowering motifs. By 2024's 2, Yuqi earned credits for "Doll" and "Rollie," both involving lyrics and composition that amplified the album's confident energy. Although she did not pen full tracks like "Tomboy" or "Super Lady," her rap verses in select group songs, such as those in I Never Die, often incorporated ad-libbed or co-developed lines that enhanced the group's dynamic delivery.[90] Beyond her primary projects, Yuqi ventured into production for her 2025 single "M.O." from the digital release Motivation, where she led composition and beat creation, drawing from 90s hip-hop influences to craft a motivational anthem about personal growth post-heartbreak. This self-produced effort marked a milestone in her production evolution, blending raspy vocals with boom-bap rhythms. Her lyricist talents have garnered recognition, including nods at industry awards for contributions to (G)I-DLE's self-produced ethos, underscoring her role in the group's reputation for artistic autonomy.[91][70]| Year | Song | Album/Release | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Giant | A Page | Lyrics, Composition |
| 2024 | Freak | Yuq1 | Lyrics, Composition |
| 2024 | All Night | I Feel ((G)I-DLE) | Lyrics, Composition |
| 2025 | M.O. | Motivation | Production, Composition |
Videography
Music videos
Yuqi's music videos for her solo releases emphasize thematic depth, visual innovation, and her personal involvement in creative direction, often blending narrative storytelling with striking aesthetics to complement the songs' messages. The music video for "Giant", released in 2021 as the lead single from her debut digital single A Page, was directed by Tezo Don Lee and features an empowering narrative centered on resilience and self-growth, incorporating CGI elements to depict a protagonist confronting and overcoming metaphorical giants in her path.[75] The video's dynamic animation and symbolic imagery underscore the track's motivational lyrics, earning praise for its inspirational tone. As of November 2025, it had approximately 13.7 million views on YouTube.[75] In 2024, the music video for "Freak" from her mini-album YUQ1 was directed by Samson, infusing the video with a vibrant neon aesthetic evoking urban nightlife and unapologetic self-expression. The visuals align with the song's exploration of embracing one's quirks, using bold lighting and surreal scenes to create an immersive, edgy atmosphere. As of November 2025, it had garnered approximately 33 million views on YouTube.[78] "Radio (Dum-Dum)", released as a promotional single in 2024 with a special clip and full music video in 2025, adopts a retro theme inspired by vintage radio broadcasts and '80s pop culture, with colorful costumes and nostalgic filters that evoke playful escapism tied to the song's catchy, upbeat vibe. The special clip amassed approximately 24 million views as of late 2024.[80] Also in 2025, "M.O." marked Yuqi's acting debut in a music video format, co-starring Chinese actor Wang Anyu in a motivational storyline about pursuing personal motivations amid life's hurdles, blending dramatic scenes with performance elements for emotional impact. Premiered at 6 PM KST on September 16, it reached approximately 22 million views as of November 2025, highlighting her expanding multimedia presence.[82]Other appearances
Yuqi has made notable appearances in live performances, showcasing her dynamic stage presence both solo and with (G)I-DLE. At KCON LA 2025 on August 2, she delivered a special stage collaboration with ZEROBASEONE's Zhang Hao, performing a medley-inspired rendition of "Now" by Trouble Maker, blending sultry vocals and synchronized choreography that highlighted their chemistry.[92] Later that day, as part of (G)I-DLE's set on Day 2 at Crypto.com Arena, Yuqi contributed to the group's high-energy medley, including tracks like "M.O.," captivating over 20,000 attendees with her powerful dance breaks and ad-libs.[93] In August 2025, she joined (G)I-DLE for their SUMMER SONIC 2025 appearances, performing on August 16 at Makuhari Messe in Tokyo and August 17 at Expo '70 Commemorative Park in Osaka; standout moments included her fierce delivery during "Super Lady" and "WIPE," where her rap verses and fluid movements energized the festival crowds of tens of thousands.[36][94] Promotional videos have further amplified Yuqi's solo endeavors, particularly around her 2025 releases. Teasers for the Motivation pop-up events, held from September 19 to 28 across seven Asian cities including Seoul and Shanghai, featured short clips of Yuqi interacting with interactive installations and merchandise displays, teasing the single's energetic theme through vibrant, behind-the-scenes footage shared on official channels.[34] Highlights from her Guangzhou fan-con on September 27, 2025, titled 2025 YUQI FAN-CON SUPERSTAR Qi Miaoyai, circulated widely via fan-cams and official edits, capturing intimate segments like her acoustic "Motivation" performance and fan Q&A, drawing over 7,500 attendees to the venue.[95][96] Dance practice videos remain a staple in Yuqi's online presence, offering fans glimpses into her rigorous preparation. More recently, the "M.O." dance practice video, uploaded on September 22, 2025, to Cube Entertainment's YouTube channel, showcased her solo choreography in a mirrored format, highlighting sharp isolations and charismatic expressions that quickly amassed millions of views and inspired global cover challenges.[97] Yuqi's collaborations extend to guest spots on Chinese variety shows, where her dance segments have become fan favorites. On Keep Running (Season 12 and beyond), she featured in energetic dance challenges, such as the synchronized "Freak" routine with actress Bai Lu in 2024, which blended K-pop flair with the show's playful format, and a 2023 "Queencard" group performance leading cast members through intricate steps during outdoor episodes.[98] These appearances, often edited into highlight reels, underscore her role as a regular contributor since Season 7, using dance to bridge cultural entertainment styles.[99]Filmography
Television dramas and series
Yuqi made her acting debut in scripted television with a guest role as Zhang Wei, a Chinese influencer, in episodes 8 and 9 of the Netflix K-drama Celebrity (2023). In the series, which explores the cutthroat world of social media influencers, her character participates in a livestream session and an airport arrival scene, interacting with the protagonists to highlight themes of fame and authenticity.[100] In September 2025, Yuqi starred in a lead role within the music video for her solo single "It Hurts," formatted as an MV-integrated short drama that portrays a tearful breakup storyline. Co-starring Chinese actor Wang Anyu, the production follows Yuqi's character ending a relationship to focus on her career, blending musical performance with dramatic elements to emphasize themes of personal loss and resilience.[33] This marked her first leading acting endeavor and was commended for her emotive acting that enhanced the song's heartfelt lyrics.[101] Critics noted her growth in music-related roles, transitioning from cameos to more substantial narratives without prior major leads.[102]Variety shows and hosting
Song Yuqi has established herself as a prominent figure in Chinese variety programming through her regular participation in Keep Running, a high-energy reality competition show adapted from the South Korean format Running Man. She joined as a fixed cast member starting with season 7 in 2019, alongside WayV's Lucas, and has continued appearing across subsequent seasons, including a return for season 11 in 2023 and special editions up to season 13 in 2025.[103][22] Her contributions, marked by athletic challenges, comedic interactions, and multilingual banter, have helped maintain the show's status as one of China's top-rated variety programs, often achieving peak viewership in the competitive Saturday night slot on Zhejiang Television.[104] Yuqi also made guest appearances on Ace vs. Ace, a popular indoor game show featuring celebrity teams in trivia, performances, and promotional segments. She participated in episodes from season 7 in 2022, showcasing her quick wit and stage presence alongside hosts like Shen Teng and Jia Ling, which aligned with her promotional activities for (G)I-DLE and solo projects during 2021–2023.[105] These appearances highlighted her versatility in blending entertainment with subtle cross-promotion, contributing to the show's appeal as a staple Zhejiang Television variety format. In South Korea, Yuqi expanded her hosting portfolio by serving as the main MC for Mnet's Mad Zenius in 2022, a short-form survival variety show focused on intellectual and creative challenges among idols.[106] Her role emphasized her sharp humor and leadership, drawing on her fluency in Korean and English to guide contestants through puzzles and games. Earlier, she guested on Running Man in episode 513 in July 2020, where her energetic participation in missions, including a memorable giraffe-riding confession segment, endeared her to Korean audiences.[107] More recently, Yuqi served as a fixed MC for the food and travel variety Please Eat, Sisters (Qing Chi Fan De Jie Jie) in 2021, facilitating discussions and activities with female celebrities. She also hosted the KakaoTV reality show Learn Way from 2020 to 2021 and appeared as a contestant on King of Mask Singer (MBC) in 2020. In 2025, she made a special appearance at the Tencent Music Entertainment Awards (TMEA) Ceremony in Macau on August 24, performing her single "Radio (Dum-Dum)" and winning awards for Influential Dance Singer of the Year and Chinese Digital EP of the Year.[38] Her consistent presence across these platforms has solidified her reputation as a "Variety Queen," a moniker reflecting her natural charisma and adaptability in unscripted formats.[104]Awards and nominations
Awards won
Yuqi has garnered recognition for her innovative solo endeavors, particularly in dance and performance, earning accolades that highlight her impact as a multifaceted artist. Her wins emphasize her contributions to K-pop and C-pop fusion, with a focus on dynamic choreography and digital releases.| Year | Award | Ceremony | Reason/Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Best Solo Artist | Korean Grand Music Awards | Recognized for her standout solo debut and performances.[108][7] |
| 2025 | Best Solo Artist | Golden Disc Awards | Honored for exceptional solo artistry and influence.[109] |
| 2025 | Influential Dance Singer of the Year | Tencent Music Entertainment Awards | Awarded for her pioneering dance innovations and stage presence.[39][38] |
| 2025 | Chinese Digital EP of the Year | Tencent Music Entertainment Awards | For her debut EP Yuq1, celebrated for its digital success and creative production.[39][38] |
| 2025 | Female Solo Popularity Award | Asia Artist Awards | Fan-voted honor for her popularity as a solo singer.[110] |
| 2025 | Fan Favorite Artist (Female) | Korean Grand Music Awards | Fan-voted award recognizing her popularity as a solo artist.[111] |