12 Former IZ*ONE Members in 2024: Solo Careers & Success Stories Revealed

338,366 votes catapulted Jang Wonyoung to the top spot in Produce 48, marking the beginning of what would become one of K-pop's most influential groups. Following their debut in October 2018, the izone members now stand as testament to the show's ability to identify exceptional talent.

During their 2.5-year journey, IZ*ONE's 12 members achieved remarkable success with 26 music show wins and 11 album releases. The group, which brought together talents from both South Korea and Japan, showcased an unprecedented collaboration between the two countries' entertainment industries, featuring selected performers from a pool of 96 contestants.

After their disbandment in April 2021, these former members have carved out impressive individual paths in the entertainment industry. From chart-topping solo careers to successful debuts in new groups, each member has continued to make their mark in different aspects of the industry, proving that their time in IZ*ONE was just the beginning of their remarkable journeys.

Jang Wonyoung: IVE's Global Ambassador

Initially joining IVE in December 2021, Wonyoung quickly established herself as a central figure in the group's meteoric rise. Her commanding stage presence and versatility helped propel IVE's hits like "Eleven" and "Love Dive" to remarkable success.

Wonyoung's Rise in IVE

Subsequently becoming the group's center, Wonyoung's influence extends beyond performances. Her contribution to songwriting emerged with the track 'OTT' on IVE's extended play 'I've Mine'. Her natural charisma and stage presence have positioned her as a defining figure of Generation Z in the entertainment industry.

International Brand Deals

Wonyoung's impact in the fashion and beauty industry has been particularly noteworthy. Her Instagram following of over 12 million and unprecedented engagement on China's Xiaohongshu platform, with more than 3 billion mentions, showcase her global appeal. Notable partnerships include:

Miu Miu (Brand Ambassador)
Innisfree (Global Ambassador)
Fred Joaillier (First Korean Ambassador)
Kérastase (Brand Ambassador)
Tommy Jeans (Model)

Television and Media Presence

Moreover, Wonyoung's television career has flourished through significant hosting roles. She made history as the first MC to have her contract extended on Music Bank. Her hosting prowess led to multiple appearances at prestigious events, including four consecutive years at the Asia Artist Awards. Additionally, she maintained her presence at the KBS Music Bank Global Festival, showcasing her versatility as both host and performer.

An Yujin: IVE's Leadership Journey

Selected as IVE's leader in 2021, An Yujin transformed from being one of the youngest members in IZ*ONE to becoming a respected leader.

Yujin's Role in IVE

Primarily known for her excellent decision-making skills and quick judgment, Yujin earned recognition as one of the most active idols in the industry. Her leadership capabilities received validation when she won the prestigious Baeksang Popularity Award, becoming the first K-pop idol since Suzy to achieve this honor.

Dance Achievements

Her dance prowess emerged during Produce 48, where she earned an "A" grade in evaluations. The CHICKEN TERIYAKI performance video showcased her commanding presence and unique style, with choreography crafted by Simeez highlighting her exceptional movements. Her long limbs and distinctive style brought intensity to performances, while her energy perfectly matched complex choreographies.

MC Career Highlights

Yujin's hosting career soared through multiple prestigious roles:

Selected as MC for SBS Gayo Daejeon for three consecutive years (2022-2024)
Hosted the 28th Dream Concert in June 2022
Led Inkigayo alongside NCT's Sungchan and Treasure's Jihoon
Joined the cast of Crime Scene Returns for 2024

Her versatility extended to variety shows, where she became a regular cast member of Earth Arcade and Steel Troops. Therefore, her influence spans beyond group activities, as she balances multiple entertainment roles while maintaining her position as IVE's cornerstone.

Jo Yuri: Chart-Topping Soloist

Making her solo debut in October 2021, Jo Yuri captured attention with her first single album "Glassy," which sold 75,000 copies in its first week.

Yuri's Solo Discography

Her musical journey expanded with the release of her debut mini-album "Op.22 Y-Waltz: in Major" in June 2022, which peaked at number five on the Circle Album Chart. The lead single "Love Shhh!" earned her first music show win on SBS M's The Show. Her discography grew with notable releases:

"Op.22 Y-Waltz: in Minor" (October 2022)
"LOVE ALL" mini-album featuring "TAXI" (August 2023)
Multiple OST contributions for dramas through 2024

Concert Tours and Performances

After establishing her solo presence, Yuri graced numerous prestigious stages. Her performance schedule through 2024 included appearances at KCON LA, Seoul Park Music Festival, and university festivals across South Korea. Indeed, her setlists often featured fan-favorites like "Love Shhh!" and "GLASSY," which became her most performed songs with 24 and 23 performances respectively.

Acting Ventures

Meanwhile, Yuri's acting career soared with her breakthrough role as Player 222 (Kim Junhee) in Netflix's "Squid Game" Season 2. Before this major role, she demonstrated her acting skills in the 2022 teen drama "Mimicus" as Oh Roshi. Certainly, her performance in "Work Later, Drink Now" Season 2 received critical acclaim, with MT Star News praising her natural acting abilities.

Honda Hitomi: SAY MY NAME Success

Concluding her journey with AKB48 through a graduation concert at Pacifico Yokohama on January 26, 2024, Honda Hitomi embarked on a new chapter as the leader of SAY MY NAME under iNKODE Entertainment.

Hitomi's Group Debut

Primarily known for her sharp dancing skills, Hitomi joined SAY MY NAME as their seventh and final member on September 13, 2024. The group, produced by Kim Jaejoong, consists of members Dohee, Kanny, Mei, Junhwi, Soha, and Seungjoo. Their debut on October 16, 2024, featured an eponymous EP with "WaveWay" as the lead single.

Japanese Promotions

Throughout her career, Hitomi maintained a strong presence in Japan's entertainment industry. After graduating from AKB48, she expressed her desire to continue performing while young, aiming to reach international stages. Her dedication led to multiple achievements:

Held center position for AKB48's singles "Moto Kare desu" and "Sugar Night"
Maintained concurrent position in Team A
Secured center role in "Doushitemo Kimi ga Suki da"

Dance Achievements

Currently recognized for her exceptional dance skills, Hitomi earned the nickname "Honda Police" during her time in AKB48. Her meticulous approach to dance included reviewing recordings in slow motion to catch mistakes. Generally praised for her sharp movements and technical precision, she often assisted in teaching choreography to other members. Undoubtedly, these skills contributed to her selection as SAY MY NAME's leader, where she continues to showcase her dance expertise through their debut performances.

Nako Yabuki: Acting Sensation

After concluding her contract with HKT48 in April 2023, Nako Yabuki signed with Twin Planet Entertainment, marking her official transition into acting.

Transition to Acting

Primarily focusing on her childhood dream of becoming an actress, Nako made her first regular drama appearance in "Kao Dake Sensei". Her determination to establish herself in the acting industry led to her decision to graduate from HKT48, expressing a strong desire to break free from her idol image.

Notable Drama Roles

Throughout 2023 and 2024, Nako secured several significant roles in Japanese dramas:

"18-sai, Niizuma, Furin Shimasu" - Lead role as Sanjo Meika
"Subarashiki Kana, Kokosei!" - Main role as Kira Moeko
"Iyashi no Otonari-san ni wa Himitsu ga aru" - Supporting role as Tanabe Manami
"Renai no Susume" - Supporting role as Takada Hanako

Japanese Entertainment Impact

Evidently, Nako's influence extends beyond traditional acting roles. Her early film experience includes appearances in notable productions like "Touch" and "Gatchaman". Ultimately, her aspirations reach beyond Japanese entertainment, as she expressed interest in pursuing K-drama opportunities. Accordingly, she cited "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" and "Business Proposal" as inspirational works that have shaped her acting goals.

Essentially, her transition from idol to actress demonstrates her versatility, with her roles in both film and television establishing her as a rising star in Japanese entertainment. Her upcoming drama "Mikami Sensei," where she portrays Hareyama Nao, further solidifies her position in the industry.

Kim Minju: Rising Acting Star

Signing with Management SOOP in September 2022 marked a pivotal moment in Kim Minju's acting career.

Drama Breakthrough Roles

Her acting journey gained momentum with "The Forbidden Marriage," where she portrayed Crown Princess Ahn Ja-yeon, earning the Best New Actress Award at the 2022 MBC Drama Awards. Throughout 2024, she showcased her versatility in "Connection" as Oh Yun-jin, followed by a role in "Undercover High School" as Lee Ye-na, the student council president.

Movie Projects

Primarily focusing on challenging roles, Minju portrays Ga Eul, a hearing-impaired swimmer in "Hear Me: Our Summer". To prepare for this demanding role, she dedicated herself to learning sign language and swimming, overcoming her initial fear of water. Her commitment shines through her performance, especially in scenes requiring emotional depth without dialogue.

Brand Ambassador Work

Management SOOP's strong industry connections opened doors to numerous opportunities. Her brand portfolio includes:

Lead ambassador for prestigious beauty campaigns
Fashion partnerships with luxury brands
Television host for "Show! Music Core" and "Get It Beauty"

Ultimately, her upcoming project "Shining" alongside established actors demonstrates her growing prominence in the industry. Hence, her decision to focus on acting has proven successful, as she continues to receive praise for her natural acting abilities and expressive performances.

Kim Chaewon: LE SSERAFIM's Main Vocalist

Recognized for her distinctive "Disney-like" timbre, Kim Chaewon transformed from a trainee with limited experience to LE SSERAFIM's powerhouse vocalist.

Chaewon's Vocal Journey

Throughout her career, Chaewon focused on developing a more powerful vocal style, rather than relying solely on her naturally clear tone. Her dedication to exploring new vocal techniques became evident in LE SSERAFIM's releases, primarily through challenging lower registers and diverse musical styles. Although initially known for her lighter vocals, she expanded her range through intensive training.

Group Achievements

Under Chaewon's guidance, LE SSERAFIM achieved remarkable milestones:

First studio album "Unforgiven" topped Circle Album Chart
"Fearless" broke first-day sales records for K-pop girl group debuts
"Antifragile" became their first million-seller album
Extended Play "Easy" secured top-ten position on Billboard 200

Leadership Role

Primarily selected for leadership due to her Korean fluency and cultural understanding, Chaewon embraced this responsibility despite initial reservations about being the youngest in her family. Her leadership style emphasizes creating a comfortable environment where members can freely express themselves. Throughout their journey, she maintains a supportive approach, often collaborating with Sakura to guide younger members through live performances and stage preparations. In August 2024, her growing influence led to her appointment as Swarovski's ambassador in South Korea, marking her first solo luxury brand partnership.

Lee Chaeyeon: Dance Icon

Debuting as a soloist in October 2022, Lee Chaeyeon carved her path with the extended play "Hush Rush".

Solo Music Career

Her musical journey progressed steadily with the release of "Over the Moon" in April 2023, where the lead single "KNOCK" achieved remarkable success on South Korean music charts. The track's popularity soared through social media, primarily through dance challenges, with her collaboration featuring ITZY's Chaeryeong garnering over 15 million views. Currently, her discography includes "The Move: Street" and her third extended play "Showdown" released in July 2024.

Dance Competition Success

Throughout her career, Chaeyeon participated in multiple survival shows, ultimately joining the WANT dance crew on "Street Woman Fighter". Her participation sparked discussions about idol versus professional dancing, as she faced initial skepticism from professional dancers. Nonetheless, her dedication shone through performances, particularly in the K-POP Four Heavenly Kings mission and the Mega Crew mission.

Choreography Projects

Beyond performing, Chaeyeon contributed significantly to dance creation. She served as the performance director for "Hush Rush" choreography. Her versatility became apparent in "LET'S DANCE," where she seamlessly transitioned between ballet, tango, and hip-hop styles. Unfortunately, in December 2024, health concerns led to a temporary pause in her dance activities, though she plans to resume fully in 2025.

Choi Yena: Multi-Entertainment Star

Launching her solo career in January 2022, Yena captivated audiences with her debut EP "Smiley," which earned her first music show win on M Countdown.

Yena's Music Career

Her discography expanded notably through 2024 with three mini-albums and multiple single releases. The mini-album "SMARTPHONE" achieved remarkable success, securing second place on Bugs' real-time chart. Her musical versatility shines through releases:

"Love War" (January 2023)
"Hate XX" (June 2023)
"Good Morning" (January 2024)
"DNA" - Japanese Single (February 2024)

Variety Show Success

Simultaneously establishing herself in entertainment, Yena secured prominent roles across multiple shows. Her hosting abilities garnered attention as the main MC for "Bloody Game" and "Yena's Animal Detective". Altogether, her variety show portfolio expanded with regular appearances on "Girls High School Mystery Class" and "Idol Dictation Contest".

YouTube Channel Growth

Primarily focusing on content creation, Yena's YouTube presence has grown significantly. Her channel has amassed more than 180 million views, demonstrating her ability to connect with audiences beyond traditional platforms. Her upcoming first solo concert, "A New World Journey Starting from a Square," scheduled for January 2025 at Yonsei University Grand Auditorium, marks another milestone in her evolving career.

Kang Hyewon: Entertainment Triple Threat

Transitioning from idol to actress, Kang Hyewon secured the Rookie of the Year award at the 2024 Korea Drama Awards for her role in "Boyhood".

Acting Portfolio

Her acting journey began with the role of Jin Sehee in "Best Mistake 3" in 2021. The breakthrough came through her portrayal of Kang Seonhwa in "Boyhood," which experienced a remarkable 2,914% increase in viewership during its finale. Primarily focusing on dramatic roles, Hyewon landed a main role in the upcoming drama "Friendly Competition".

Variety Show Appearances

Throughout her career, Hyewon participated in numerous variety shows, including "Adola Travel Agency: Cheat-Ing Trip" and "We Became a Family". Similarly, her presence on "How A Family is Made" demonstrated her versatility in entertainment. Her variety show success led to multiple brand partnerships:

ROEM (2023 Spring/Summer Campaign) - increasing sales by 30%
New Balance (MBTI Concept Backpack)
Radley London (2022 Spring/Summer Collection)

Music Releases

Ultimately, Hyewon's musical journey includes the release of her special winter mini-album "W" in December 2021. The album featured tracks like "Winter Poem" and "First Love Letter". Likewise, she collaborated with Stella Jang for the digital single "Like a Diamond" in June 2022. Nevertheless, in a recent interview, she expressed her focus on acting while maintaining fond memories of her musical career.

Sakura: LE SSERAFIM's Power Vocalist

Beginning her journey in October 2011, Sakura Miyawaki established herself as a prominent figure in Japan's music industry through HKT48. Her consistent presence in the "Kami 7" ranking from 2015 to 2018, reaching her highest position at #3, demonstrated her growing influence.

Sakura's Journey from HKT48 to LE SSERAFIM

After securing second place in Produce 48, Sakura's path led her through multiple successful transitions. Her departure from HKT48 in June 2021 marked the end of a decade-long era, furthermore paving the way for her third debut with LE SSERAFIM in May 2022.

Musical Evolution

Presently, Sakura's dedication to vocal improvement stands out through her intensive training regimen. Despite facing initial challenges with the language barrier in Korean productions, she transformed these obstacles into opportunities for growth. Her remarkable progress became evident through notable performances, specifically at prestigious events such as NHK's Kohaku Utagassen, where she delivered a captivating rendition of "I See the Light".

Japanese Market Impact

Consequently, Sakura's influence spans both Korean and Japanese entertainment industries. Her significant presence helped LE SSERAFIM make a successful Japanese debut in January 2023 with "Fearless". The group's achievements in Japan hold particular significance, considering Japan's position as the world's second-largest music market. Notable milestones include:

Multiple brand partnerships with Louis Vuitton, Adidas, and MOLAK
Launch of KKUROCHET, her personal crochet line as official merchandise
Successful participation in tours across North America, South America, and Asia

Kwon Eunbi: Solo Artist Evolution

Marking her territory in the music industry, Kwon Eunbi released her latest digital single "눈이 와" featuring Coogie in January 2025, showcasing her evolution as an R&B artist.

Eunbi's Musical Style

Her musical journey primarily focuses on R&B influences, as demonstrated in her collaboration with producer GRAY. The release of "Sabotage" in June 2024 highlighted her powerful vocals, albeit challenging her comfortable range. Ultimately, her discography expanded with notable releases like "Please Summer!" and "Easy dance" in mid-2024.

Concert Tours

Her concert portfolio includes three major solo events. The "Secret Doors" concert series commenced her solo journey, followed by the successful "Next Door" concert at COEX ShinhanCard Artium. The setlist featured 20 diverse performances, ranging from original tracks to cover songs. Her performances extended internationally, with shows at Legacy TERA in Taipei and multiple university festivals across South Korea.

Producer Credits

Throughout her career, Eunbi has established herself as a songwriter and producer. Her notable contributions include:

Writing credits on "Spaceship" for IZ*ONE's first studio album
Co-production of "Let's Dance" for Rocket Punch's Japanese album
Composition credits on her debut EP "Open"
Collaboration with hip-hop artist Paul Blanco on "Like Heaven"

Her versatility extends beyond music, as she made her acting debut in the Japanese film series "Stolen Identity: Final hacking game", demonstrating her growing influence across multiple entertainment sectors.