Who is Sohee ALICE? The Untold Story Behind Her Rise to Stardom

Sohee ALICE first captured Korea's attention as the runner-up on "K-Pop Star 6," before embarking on a remarkable journey in the entertainment industry. Subsequently launching her solo career with "Spotlight" in May 2017, she quickly established herself as a versatile performer, joining the girl group ELRIS (now known as ALICE) just weeks later.

As the main vocalist and lead dancer of ALICE, Sohee has demonstrated her multifaceted talents through various projects, including solo releases and drama soundtracks. However, her story takes an unexpected turn as she prepares to bid farewell to the entertainment industry, with her marriage and contract expiration both scheduled for May 2024.

The Making of a K-pop Star

Long before joining ALICE, Sohee's journey in entertainment began with a deep-rooted passion for performing arts. From her earliest years, she demonstrated exceptional vocal abilities and a natural inclination toward performing, ultimately leading to her participation in "K-pop Star 6: The Last Chance".

Natural Talents and Abilities

Sohee's distinctive talents extend far beyond conventional singing and dancing. Her remarkable vocal versatility shines through in several unique abilities:

Mimicking APink's Bomi with precision
Creating authentic train sound effects
Mastering voice alterations and impressions

Furthermore, her athletic prowess played a significant role in her development, consistently earning top grades in physical education during her school years.

Early Musical Influences

During her initial auditions, Sohee showcased her potential through powerful renditions of "Byul (Yumi)" and "Ma Boy (Sistar 19)". Following an intensive three-year training period, she emerged as a well-rounded performer ready to make her mark in the industry.

Performance Style Development

Sohee's journey to stardom involved a methodical approach to skill enhancement. Initially gaining recognition through her participation in the KWIN unit during K-pop Star 6, she steadily developed her performance style through various stages. Her dedication to improvement manifested in multiple ways:

Main vocalist position in ALICE
Regular participation in OST recordings
Consistent vocal training

Lead dancer role
Signature 4-walls themed dance
Center position performances

Additionally, her commitment to physical fitness became integral to her performance style, incorporating various exercise routines including pilates and strength training. This comprehensive approach to performance development helped establish her as a versatile artist capable of handling both vocal and dance responsibilities effectively.

Notably, Sohee's evolution as a performer culminated in her appointment as ALICE's leader in February 2020, a position earned through member votes, demonstrating both her technical abilities and leadership qualities.

Behind the ALICE Profile

Within ALICE's dynamic structure, Sohee's role underwent significant evolution throughout her tenure. In February 2020, she ascended to the position of group leader through member votes, demonstrating the trust her colleagues placed in her leadership abilities. Nevertheless, this responsibility shifted in April 2022, when Chaejeong took over the leadership position.

Group Dynamic Role

As a cornerstone member of ALICE, Sohee held multiple crucial positions, specifically as the main vocalist, lead dancer, visual, and center. Her presence in the group extended beyond formal roles, as she became known for maintaining cleanliness in their shared living space and often took charge of vacuuming the dorm.

Performance Specialties

In terms of artistic contributions, Sohee's capabilities encompassed:

Main vocal responsibilities
Lead dance performances
Center position execution
Visual representation

Moreover, her versatility extended into acting, as evidenced by her role in "Duty After School" in 2023. This multifaceted approach to entertainment showcased her adaptability as a performer.

Public Persona

Throughout her career, Sohee maintained a distinctive public image characterized by professionalism and authenticity. Certainly, her decision to retire from the entertainment industry came as a significant announcement to fans. In April 2024, she shared a heartfelt message stating, "Now I am going to live my second life as So-hee, not Alice So-hee".

Her connection with fans, known as BLRIS, remained strong until the end of her career. Altogether, her journey with ALICE culminated in a personal milestone as she announced her upcoming marriage to a businessman. This decision marked a new chapter in her life, leading to the conclusion of her contract with IOK Company in May 2024.

The impact of her departure resonated throughout the K-pop community, with fans expressing both support for her personal happiness and nostalgia for her contributions to the industry. Specifically, her presence in ALICE helped shape the group's identity and musical direction until their final single "Milky Way" in May 2024.

Artistic Identity Development

Throughout her entertainment career, Sohee's artistic identity underwent significant transformations, shaped by diverse experiences and creative opportunities. Her journey exemplifies the evolution of a multifaceted performer in the modern K-pop landscape.

Musical Style Evolution

After placing as runner-up on K-pop Star 6, Sohee's musical journey blossomed through several milestone releases:

"Spotlight" - Solo debut single (May 2017)
"Hurry Up" - Digital single featuring Bol4 (October 2018)
"Lady Monster" - Solo release
"Tears" - Emotional ballad showcase

Notably, her musical versatility shines through her unique vocal tone, which particularly stands out in chorus segments. Her ability to adapt between solo work and group performances demonstrates her range as an artist.

Performance Philosophy

Sohee's approach to performance artistry centers on authenticity and continuous growth. Throughout her career, she maintained a distinctive balance between vocal prowess and dance excellence. Accordingly, while she initially gained recognition for her dance abilities prior to debut, her vocal capabilities eventually became equally prominent.

Creative Input in Projects

Beyond her musical endeavors, Sohee expanded her creative horizons through various entertainment ventures. In March 2022, she made her acting debut in "Idol Recipe", followed by a role in the TVING drama "Duty After School". This diversification showcased her commitment to artistic growth across multiple platforms.

Her creative journey reached a pivotal moment in April 2022 when the leadership position within ALICE transferred to Chaejeong. Therefore, this transition allowed Sohee to focus more intensely on her individual artistic development. Consequently, her transformation became most visible in 2022, particularly after adopting a shorter hairstyle that coincided with increased popularity and recognition.

The culmination of Sohee's artistic journey in the entertainment industry arrives with her decision to pursue personal happiness, as expressed in her heartfelt letter to fans: "Now I am going to live my second life as So-hee, not Alice So-hee". This statement reflects both her growth as an artist and her courage to embrace new chapters in life.

Life as an ALICE Member

The daily life of ALICE members underwent significant changes throughout 2023, as health concerns prompted adjustments within the group. Notably, Do-A and Yeonje temporarily halted their activities due to health issues, leading to a modified lineup for their "Show Down" comeback.

Daily Routines

Physical fitness remained a cornerstone of the group's daily schedule, with members maintaining rigorous workout regimens. Simultaneously, their commitment to health extended beyond performance preparation, incorporating various exercise disciplines:

Group Chemistry

The bond among ALICE members faced its ultimate test in early 2024, as significant changes reshaped the group's dynamic. After Sohee's retirement announcement in April 2024, other members gradually revealed their own departures. Undoubtedly, this period marked a pivotal moment in their collective journey, leading to their final release as a complete unit.

Fan Interactions

The relationship between ALICE members and their dedicated fanbase, known as BLRIS, remained particularly touching until the end. In her farewell letter, Sohee expressed profound gratitude to fans:

"I will live happily, cherishing the memories with BLRIS, colleagues and friends who were by my side for every moment"

The group's connection with fans manifested through various channels, including social media platforms and personal messages. Indeed, their final single "Milky Way," released on May 13, 2024, served as a heartfelt goodbye to their loyal supporters.

Throughout their time together, the members maintained an open dialogue with fans, sharing both triumphs and challenges. Korean fans, especially, showed unwavering support, leaving encouraging comments and wishing for their success. This genuine connection between ALICE and their supporters created a lasting impact that extended beyond their professional achievements.

Career Evolution and Growth

From her debut as a solo artist to her final days with ALICE, Sohee's career trajectory showcased remarkable versatility and growth. Starting with her solo release "Spotlight" in May 2017, she quickly transitioned into group activities, marking the beginning of a multifaceted career in entertainment.

Artistic Development

Throughout her journey, Sohee's artistic evolution encompassed both group and solo endeavors:

Professional Challenges

Notwithstanding her success, Sohee faced significant professional transitions. The group underwent a major transformation in December 2021 with their transfer to IOK Company. Meanwhile, April 2022 brought another pivotal change as ELRIS rebranded to ALICE, requiring adaptability and resilience from all members.

A notable shift occurred in her leadership role. After serving as the group's leader since February 2020, she passed the position to Chaejeong in April 2022. This transition allowed her to focus more intensely on expanding her artistic horizons.

Industry Recognition

Throughout her career, Sohee garnered recognition for her contributions to the entertainment industry:

Earned runner-up position in K-pop Star 6

Contributed to ALICE's success through multiple comebacks:

Her versatility extended beyond music as she ventured into acting, appearing in "Idol Recipe" and "Duty After School". Hence, her career culminated in a comprehensive portfolio spanning music, dance, and acting.

Ultimately, after seven years in the entertainment industry, Sohee announced her retirement in April 2024, choosing to conclude her professional journey on her own terms. Her final contribution to ALICE came with their last single "Milky Way" in May 2024, marking the end of an era in K-pop history.

Off-Stage Personality

Behind the spotlight, Sohee ALICE's personality shines through her everyday activities and interactions. Known as the "dad" of the group, her nurturing nature and responsible demeanor shape her off-stage presence.

Hobbies and Interests

Besides her professional commitments, Sohee maintains diverse personal interests that reflect her personality:

Drama watching and shopping top her leisure activities
Maintaining cleanliness, often taking charge of vacuuming the dorm
Enjoying specific treats like shaved watermelon ice and green tea ice cream

Her organized nature extends to her personal space, as she keeps her bed meticulously arranged, treating it as a sanctuary for treasured belongings.

Relationship with Fans

Basically, Sohee's connection with fans stems from her natural ability to remember faces and maintain meaningful interactions. Her role as the group's most talkative member allows her to forge genuine connections with BLRIS, their dedicated fanbase.

In her farewell letter to fans, she expressed profound gratitude:

Personal Values

Generally, Sohee's ESTJ personality type manifests in her structured approach to life and relationships. Her values are evident through several key characteristics:

Rather than conforming to typical idol expectations, she maintains authenticity in her interactions. Still, her dedication to fans remains unwavering, as demonstrated by her thoughtful approach to announcing her retirement.

Her commitment to personal growth shows through her multilingual abilities, as she speaks Korean and basic English. Albeit retiring from entertainment, her values of gratitude and sincerity shine through her final messages to fans, promising to "live gratefully" for the rest of her life.

FAQS

Fans often have questions about Sohee's career decisions and future plans. Here are the most frequently asked questions about her journey:

Why did Sohee decide to leave ALICE? Essentially, Sohee announced her retirement from the entertainment industry in April 2024 to pursue marriage and personal happiness. Her decision coincides with the expiration of her contract with IOK Company.

Who is Sohee marrying? Primarily, Sohee's future husband is a non-celebrity businessman who is 15 years her senior. The couple dated for approximately one year before deciding to marry.

When will the marriage take place? According to reports, the couple plans to register their marriage in May 2024, with a small ceremony planned for close friends and acquaintances.

What are Sohee's plans after marriage? In her own words, "Now I am going to live my second life as So-hee, not Alice So-hee". She has expressed her intention to focus on her personal life and marriage, stepping away from the entertainment industry.

Timeline of Recent Developments:

How did fans react to her announcement? Notably, while fans expressed surprise at the sudden announcement, many showed support for her decision. In response to their concern, Sohee assured them, "I will live happily without worrying".

Will Sohee continue any entertainment activities? According to IOK Company's statement, Sohee has chosen not to renew her contract and will completely retire from the entertainment industry.

What was Sohee's final message to fans? In her heartfelt letter, she expressed:

Gratitude for fans' continuous support
Appreciation for memories created during her career
Promise to live a happy life

Is there a possibility of her returning to entertainment? Currently, Sohee has indicated her intention to focus entirely on her new life chapter, though she maintains deep appreciation for her time in the industry.