[15] Most Popular Queendom Puzzle Contestants ( Profile)

Queendom Puzzle transformed 24 talented K-pop idols into fierce competitors, all vying for a coveted spot in a 7-member project group.

Initially airing on June 13, 2023, the survival show captivated audiences with its unique format, combining both global and Korean votes to determine the final lineup. The competition was intense, with contestants battling through multiple rounds including Up-Down Battles, Team Battles, and All-Rounder challenges. In fact, the show's most popular contestant, Nana, garnered 323 votes in pre-show polls, setting the stage for an exciting series.

From unexpected champions to veteran performers, this article profiles the 15 most memorable contestants who shaped Queendom Puzzle's compelling narrative, including the seven talented idols who ultimately formed EL7Z UP through their determination and skill.

1. Hwiseo (H1-KEY) - The Unexpected Champion

A former trainee at FNC Entertainment, The Black Label, and Source Music, Hwiseo joined H1-KEY in June 2022 after nearly a decade of training. Her journey on Queendom Puzzle began on May 26, when she was officially revealed as a contestant.

Hwiseo's Journey on Queendom Puzzle

Starting as an underdog, Hwiseo quickly established herself as a formidable competitor. Throughout the competition, she secured the MVP position and maintained consistent high rankings. Her versatility shone through multiple rounds, particularly excelling in team battles where she demonstrated remarkable stage presence.

Memorable Performances and Turning Points

Hwiseo's standout performances included a powerful cover of "Tomboy" and her original song "i DGA (I Don't Give A)" which garnered 564,400 votes plus an additional 30,000 bonus points. Her participation in the "Shut Down" performance, although placing 6th, showcased her adaptability. Subsequently, her final piece "Last Piece" secured 444,495 votes.

Impact on H1-KEY's Popularity

The show significantly boosted H1-KEY's popularity, with their album sales skyrocketing from less than 7,000 to over 70,000 in first-week sales. Hwiseo's success on the show brought unprecedented attention to the group, particularly after securing her position in the final lineup of EL7Z UP.

Post-Show Success and Activities

Following her victory, Hwiseo has been actively participating in H1-KEY's comeback preparations. The group released "Seoul Dreaming," where they focused on solidifying their musical identity. Moreover, Hwiseo expressed ambitious goals for the group's future, specifically aiming to achieve first place on music shows and expand their reach through fan meetings, concerts, and global tours.

Her fellow member Riina acknowledged the positive impact of the show, noting significant improvements in their performance preparation and execution. This growth has translated into tangible success, as evidenced by their first win on "The Show Choice!" where Hwiseo's emotional reaction captured viewers' hearts.

2. Nana (Woo!ah!) - Runner-Up Sensation

As a member of woo!ah! since their 2020 debut, Nana emerged as one of the standout competitors on Queendom Puzzle, securing second place and a coveted position in the project group EL7Z UP.

Pre-Show Recognition

Before joining the competition, Nana established herself as woo!ah!'s leader and demonstrated her versatility through various activities. She served as an MC on MBC's Show Champion alongside Billlie's Moon Sua and Tsuki. Furthermore, her group secured notable brand endorsements, becoming models for Panasonic Korea and Eye Closet contact lenses.

Viral Moments on Queendom Puzzle

Throughout the competition, Nana consistently delivered remarkable performances. Her rendition of "MOVE" during the Up Down Battle garnered widespread attention. Additionally, she led her team "Nxde" to claim first place in the second competition, earning an additional 30,000 points. Her total score reached an impressive 530,960 votes during the semifinals.

Fan Engagement Statistics

Nana's popularity soared during the show, maintaining top positions throughout various rounds. She secured first place with 530,960 votes—surpassing second place by nearly 130,000 votes. Her consistent performance resulted in multiple MVP titles and an overall second-place finish.

Current Activities with Woo!ah!

After Queendom Puzzle, Nana balanced her commitments between EL7Z UP and woo!ah!. The group made their comeback in April 2024 with "BLUSH" after a 17-month hiatus. During an interview, Nana expressed her aspirations for woo!ah!'s future, stating, "I want to release more albums, do more promotions, and hold our solo concert". Under her leadership, the group continues to expand their presence, recently becoming brand ambassadors for the British fashion brand Kangol in the Japanese market.

3. Yuki (Purple Kiss) - Japanese Powerhouse

Originally falling in love with K-pop while living in Japan, Yuki made the bold decision to move to South Korea to pursue her dream of becoming a K-pop idol. Her determination paid off as she secured third place in Queendom Puzzle, earning a spot in the project group EL7Z UP.

Breaking Language Barriers

Despite being the sole Japanese member of Purple Kiss, Yuki consistently demonstrated her versatility throughout the competition. Her exceptional performance in the "i DGA" team, co-composed by iKON's Bobby, highlighted her dedication. Remarkably, she became the only contestant among the 14 finalists to collaborate with every member at least once throughout the show.

Dance Battle Highlights

Yuki's dance prowess shone brightly in the "WEB" performance, where her stage presence captivated both judges and viewers. Her team secured second place with an impressive 209 points, merely 12 points behind the winning team. Nevertheless, her self-written rap segments, especially in the "Fighting" performance, showcased her multifaceted talents.

Purple Kiss Career Impact

As a member of Purple Kiss, Yuki contributed to the group's significant achievements, including their Japanese debut with the EP "Dear Violet". The group's fifth EP "Cabin Fever" debuted at number 18 on South Korea's Circle Album Chart, accumulating 18,290 sales. Their success extended internationally as they reached the top 10 of iTunes Top Albums chart in 16 regions.

International Fan Following

Yuki's presence in Purple Kiss helped strengthen the group's connection with international fans, as they regularly communicate in English with their global fanbase PLORYs. The group's first tour, "2023 The Festa Tour in USA," spanning 17 cities, marked a significant milestone in their international reach. Through her participation in both Purple Kiss and EL7Z UP, Yuki continues to bridge cultural gaps while showcasing her artistic growth.

4. Kei (Former Lovelyz) - Vocal Queen

Debuting as the main vocalist of Lovelyz in November 2014, Kei brought nearly a decade of experience to Queendom Puzzle. At 28, she emerged as the most seasoned contestant among the competitors.

Vocal Battle Performances

Kei's exceptional vocal prowess became evident through her rendition of Lovelyz's "Destiny". As part of Team Puzzle, she delivered a compelling performance of "BAD BLOOD" alongside five other contestants. Throughout the competition, she consistently demonstrated her vocal expertise across multiple rounds, including the vocal-rap songs battle where teams competed in three distinct rounds.

Experience Advantage

Prior to joining Queendom Puzzle, Kei accumulated substantial industry experience through various ventures. She recorded "Love Is Like That" for the drama Oh My Venus and participated in JTBC's main vocal competition Girls Spirit. Her versatility extended beyond singing, as she served as an MC for Music Bank alongside actor Choi Won-myeong starting June 15, 2018.

Solo Career Development

After departing from Woollim Entertainment in November 2021, Kei signed with Palm Tree Island in January 2022, marking her transition into musical theater. She released her first EP "Over and Over" under her real name Kim Ji-yeon in October 2019. In December 2022, she joined A2Z Entertainment with plans for a solo music album.

Her journey on Queendom Puzzle proved remarkably successful as she consistently ranked in the Top 7 throughout the show. Ultimately securing 4th place, Kei earned her position in EL7Z UP. Her experience proved invaluable within the group, as she mentored younger members while maintaining a supportive environment. Rather than treating EL7Z UP as a temporary project, Kei emphasized the group's potential for producing high-quality albums and performances.

5. Yeoreum (WJSN) - All-Rounder

Born as Lee Jin-sook and later legally changing her name to Lee Yeoreum, this 26-year-old Seoul native brought unique experience to Queendom Puzzle as a previous winner of Queendom 2.

WJSN Background

As a sub-vocalist and sub-rapper of WJSN (Cosmic Girls), Yeoreum debuted on February 25, 2016, with the mini-album "Would You Like?". Throughout her career, she demonstrated versatility through multiple roles, including membership in WJSN CHOCOME and participation in various project groups.

Competition Strategy

Drawing from her previous Queendom experience, Yeoreum showcased remarkable strategic acumen. She cleverly concealed her votes using cloth from her outfit to avoid potential negative editing. Her solo performance covering EXO Kai's "Mmmh" demonstrated her exceptional vocal abilities and stage presence.

Standout Moments

Yeoreum's journey through Queendom Puzzle featured several notable achievements:

Team Battle performances including "Snap" as part of PICK-CAT and "Web" with Puzzle Team

Her consistent performance throughout the competition reflected in her voting statistics:

Second round: 402,964 votes
Fourth round: 505,236 votes
Fifth round: 371,096 votes

Currently, Yeoreum balances her commitments between WJSN and individual activities. As she mentioned, "The members are going through a period where we focus on expanding our individual scopes. That's why I took part in Queendom Puzzle". Her fellow WJSN member Dayoung demonstrated unwavering support, actively promoting Yeoreum's performances even when her phone battery was nearly depleted.

Ultimately, Yeoreum secured fifth place in the competition, proving her capabilities as an all-rounder through consistent high-ranking performances and versatile stage presence.

6. Yeonhee (Rocket Punch) - Visual Center

Debuting with Rocket Punch in August 2019, Yeonhee quickly established herself as a standout visual with her distinctive desert fox-like features and bright, expressive eyes.

Visual Impact

Under Woollim Entertainment, Yeonhee's visual evolution became apparent through her diverse hair transformations. Starting with light brown at debut, she experimented with various colors including black, pink, and blonde throughout her career. Her innocent charm, confirmed by staff members during her trainee days, perfectly complemented her role as the group's visual center.

Performance Evolution

On Queendom Puzzle, Yeonhee demonstrated remarkable growth through multiple challenges. Her rendition of Taeyeon's "Weekend" in the VOCAL & RAP battle showcased her versatility. Notably, she excelled in the dance battle with "Glow-up," where she displayed leadership qualities during practice sessions.

Throughout the competition, Yeonhee maintained consistent performance levels:

Secured 11th place in semi-finals with 275,565 points
Advanced to 7th place with 461,327 points in later rounds
Ultimately finished in 6th place, becoming an EL7Z UP member

Group Synergy

Yeonhee's natural leadership abilities extended beyond performances. As the team's aegyo specialist, she created "Yeonhee School," successfully teaching other members cute expressions and gestures. Her considerate nature manifested in her interactions with fellow contestants, particularly evident when she consoled eliminated participants.

Her mild personality and unique speaking style fostered strong connections with both teammates and fans. After joining EL7Z UP, Yeonhee expressed confidence in the group's potential, stating, "As we were picked as the best combination, I'm confident that together, we'll give the best performances possible".

In the final performance, Yeonhee participated in "Billionaire," where she secured the Rapper 2 position through Nana's selection. Her journey from consistent performances to securing sixth place with 358,059 votes exemplified her growth throughout the competition.

7. Yeeun (Former CLC) - Rap Specialist

Known for her powerful rap skills and charismatic stage presence, Yeeun first captured hearts as CLC's main rapper in 2015. After signing with SuperBell Company in August 2022, she embarked on a remarkable journey through Queendom Puzzle.

Rap Battle Highlights

Yeeun's exceptional rap prowess shone through multiple performances on the show. Her collaboration with Purple Kiss's Yuki for their "Rush Hour" cover demonstrated remarkable chemistry. In the Up Down Battle, her solo performance of "Cherry Coke" garnered 19 upvotes and 8 downvotes.

Throughout the competition, Yeeun showcased versatility across various challenges:

PICK-CAT team performance of "SNAP"
Re-mix Battle cover of SHINee's "Don't Call Me" alongside Miru, Yeoreum, Wooyeon, and Zoa
Victory in the All-Rounder Battle with a creative entrance suggestion involving a car

Solo Artist Journey

After departing from Cube Entertainment in March 2022, Yeeun launched her solo career with "Strange Way To Love" in March 2023. Her debut EP "The Beginning" followed on April 13, featuring the title track "Cherry Coke". Consequently, she celebrated her first anniversary as a soloist with a special event in Japan.

Fan Support Statistics

Throughout Queendom Puzzle, Yeeun maintained steady support:

Secured 7th place with 350,517 points in the final episode
Received 94 votes in preliminary fan voting
Won two major rounds: All-Rounder Battle and Semifinal Round

Her journey culminated in joining EL7Z UP, which debuted in September 2023 with their first EP "7+UP". The group's success extended internationally, performing at KCON Saudi Arabia 2023 and the 2023 MAMA Awards. Presently, Yeeun balances her solo endeavors with group activities, demonstrating her ability to excel in multiple musical pursuits.

8. Suyun (Rocket Punch) - Dance Machine

A former Produce 48 contestant, Suyun brought her extensive dance expertise to Queendom Puzzle, ultimately securing eighth place in the competition. Her journey through the show demonstrated remarkable versatility across multiple performance categories.

Dance Battle Excellence

Suyun's exceptional dance abilities shone through several standout performances. As part of the Puzzle Team, she delivered a powerful rendition of "BAD BLOOD," which ranked among LACHICA's top five choreography creations. The performance incorporated innovative elements, namely the strategic use of lighters to create dramatic visual effects.

Throughout the competition, Suyun participated in multiple high-stakes battles:

"Rush Hour" cover alongside Nana, Yeoreum, Yeeun, Yuki, Zoa, and Ji Won
"Bad Blood" collaboration with Nana, Yeeun, Wooyeon, and Kei
"Charismatic" performance as part of DROP The Beat team

Growth Throughout Show

Suyun's development became apparent through her diverse performances. In order to showcase new artistic dimensions, she participated in Rocket Punch's color-themed mini-album series, including PINK, RED, BLUE, and YELLOW punch albums. Additionally, she contributed to single albums such as Ring Ring, Flash, and BOOM, demonstrating her adaptability across various concepts.

Popularity Rise

Even though Suyun entered the competition with moderate recognition, her exceptional performances garnered substantial attention. Her rendition of Taemin's song earned widespread praise, with viewers noting her complete mastery of both vocal and dance elements. Remarkably, she maintained consistent support throughout the competition, receiving 92 votes.

Her journey on Queendom Puzzle coincided with significant achievements for Rocket Punch, including their Japanese debut under Yoshimoto Kogyo. The group's expanding international presence, coupled with Suyun's impressive performances, contributed to their growing fanbase. Notably, fellow contestants acknowledged her influence, with KETCHY expressing how Suyun's performances served as a source of inspiration.

9. Wooyeon (Woo!ah!) - Rising Star

Making her debut with woo!ah! on May 15, 2020, Wooyeon entered Queendom Puzzle alongside her teammate Nana, determined to showcase her talents.

Show Highlights

Wooyeon's journey through the competition featured remarkable growth. Her rendition of Taeyeon's "INVU" received mixed reactions, with 4 upvotes and 23 downvotes. However, this initial setback fueled her determination. As part of Team Nxde, she demonstrated significant improvement, helping secure third place in the second competition. Her transformation became apparent through her powerful dance skills and main vocalist capabilities.

Group Dynamic Impact

Upon returning to woo!ah! after a 17-month hiatus, Wooyeon reflected on her Queendom Puzzle experience: "I think it helped me improve my skills significantly. Throughout the break, we focused on practicing and preparing for our new album". Her participation alongside Nana strengthened woo!ah!'s visibility, as both members reached the final stages of the competition.

Future Prospects

Currently, Wooyeon balances multiple career paths. Beyond her musical endeavors, she ventured into acting, appearing in Disney+'s "Revenge of Others" (2022) and web drama "Snap and Spark" (2023). Her artistic evolution continues with woo!ah!'s latest release "Blush," which represents a shift in the group's sound.

The experience gained from Queendom Puzzle influenced her approach to performance preparation. "Because it's our first music release in a while, I couldn't just go on stage mindlessly. We prepared thoroughly and spent time making up our minds to match fan expectations". Her dedication paid off as she secured ninth place in the final rankings.

Wooyeon maintains ambitious goals for woo!ah!'s future, expressing interest in performing B-side tracks like "Straight Up" for fans. The group's partnership with renowned choreographers from Street Woman Fighter 2 and Street Dance Girls Fighter signals their commitment to delivering high-impact performances.

10. Jihan (Weeekly) - Teen Crush

Born on July 12, 2004, Han Ji Hyo, better known as Jihan, brought fresh energy to Queendom Puzzle as Weeekly's representative. Her journey through the competition showcased remarkable growth, ultimately securing tenth place in the final rankings.

Age Advantage

As one of the younger contestants, Jihan's youthful charm resonated strongly with viewers. Her performances consistently demonstrated high energy levels, earning her the nickname "Heaven's Idol" among fans. Throughout the competition, she maintained steady support, receiving 293,904 votes in the final global voting.

Performance Style

Jihan's versatility shone through multiple rounds:

Nayeon's "Pop!" cover garnered 17 upvotes and 10 down votes
Victory in the Remix Battle with (G)I-DLE's "Nxde"
Successful participation in the All-Rounder Battle

Her MBTI type INFJ influenced her thoughtful approach to performances, particularly evident in her facial expressions and stage presence. As part of PICK Team, she contributed to their victory in the 7 vs 7 Team Battle, where her charismatic performance style earned widespread recognition.

Fan Demographics

Jihan's appeal transcended age groups, attracting both younger and mature audiences. Her consistent ranking among the top performers demonstrated broad demographic support:

First Global Voting: Secured position in Top 7
Semi-finals: Achieved 3rd place with "I DO"
Second Global Voting: Placed 11th with 339,485 votes

Her journey through Queendom Puzzle reflected steady improvement, moving from initial rankings of 9th to 6th, then 11th, finally settling at 10th place. This progression demonstrated her ability to maintain consistent support while showcasing growth throughout the competition.

Alongside her musical talents, Jihan impressed viewers with her guitar skills, performing a funky rock version of ITZY's "WANNABE" that highlighted her instrumental abilities. Her EPIC skills, particularly in development potential and facial expressions, earned her the keywords #Energy, #MultiTalent, and #HeavenlyIdol from both judges and fans.

11. Elly (Weki Meki) - Versatile Performer

Jung Haerim, professionally known as Elly, brought extensive experience to Queendom Puzzle through her previous appearances on Produce 101 and GIRL'S RE:VERSE. As a former member of Weki Meki, she entered the competition determined to showcase her artistic evolution.

Multi-Talented Showcase

Throughout the competition, Elly demonstrated remarkable versatility across multiple challenges. Her standout performance in Team Athena's rendition of "Snap" secured victory, establishing her as a formidable competitor. Alongside her primary role as a vocalist, she successfully tackled rap segments, proving her adaptability in various musical styles.

Competition Journey

Elly's path through Queendom Puzzle reflected steady improvement:

First Global Voting: Placed 19th with 181,822 votes
Second Global Voting: Advanced to 8th position with 377,416 votes
Final Global Voting: Secured 11th place with 292,486 votes

Her participation in key performances shaped her journey:
"i DGA" team victory in semi-finals
"Fighting" performance securing second place with 209 points
"Last Piece" finale showcase

Career Impact

After nearly reaching elimination in the first round, Elly orchestrated one of the most impressive climbs in survival show history. Her consistent vocal delivery earned praise, as she maintained clear, live singing throughout all performances. As a result, she gained recognition for her potential in variety shows, with fans noting her memorable moments from previous reality series appearances.

In an unexpected turn of events, Elly's journey coincided with significant changes in her career trajectory. After participating in Queendom Puzzle, she continued to pursue individual opportunities. Her experience on the show highlighted her ability to adapt and thrive under pressure, earning respect from both fellow contestants and viewers alike.

12. Juri (Rocket Punch) - J-Pop Connection

Takahashi Juri's remarkable journey from AKB48 to Queendom Puzzle exemplifies her dedication to cross-cultural musical excellence. After securing 12th place in the competition, she continued to inspire audiences with her versatile performances.

AKB48 Background

Starting her career in AKB48's 12th generation auditions on February 20, 2011, Juri quickly ascended through various team positions. Her leadership capabilities emerged as she captained Team 4 and Team B. Throughout her tenure, she participated in 16 A-side and 30 B-side songs, steadily climbing the ranks in AKB48's General Elections:

2014: Ranked 28th
2015: Ranked 25th
2016: Entered Senbatsu at 15th place
2017: Achieved career-best rank of 11th
2018: Maintained strong position at 12th

K-pop Transition

After participating in Produce 48 and ranking 16th, Juri made a bold career move by signing with Woollim Entertainment. Her transition to K-pop materialized through Rocket Punch's debut on August 7, 2019. On Queendom Puzzle, she demonstrated her adaptability through multiple performances:

Participated in SEVENTEEN's BSS's "Fighting" remix battle, securing second place
Contributed to "I Do" team performance in semifinals
Showcased consistent improvement throughout the competition

Global Appeal

Juri's multilingual abilities and cross-cultural experience enhanced her appeal across borders. Her journey through Japanese and Korean entertainment industries positioned her uniquely among contestants. After graduating from AKB48 in May 2019, she successfully bridged cultural gaps through her performances.

In May 2023, alongside Rocket Punch members Yeonhee and Suyun, Juri joined Queendom Puzzle. Her participation concluded with the announcement of her departure from Rocket Punch in May 2024, following the expiration of her exclusive contract. Throughout her career transitions, Juri maintained strong connections with both Japanese and Korean audiences, establishing herself as a truly international performer.

13. Jiwoo (TripleS) - Fresh Face

As the youngest contestant on Queendom Puzzle, Lee Jiwoo of tripleS brought fresh perspective and remarkable potential to the competition. After debuting with tripleS on February 13, 2023, she quickly established herself as a formidable competitor, ultimately securing 13th place in the finals.

Rookie Impact

Upon joining the show, Jiwoo immediately demonstrated her versatility through multiple sub-unit activities. She participated in +(KR)ystal Eyes, EVOLution, Aria, and ACID EYES, showcasing her adaptability across different musical styles. Her performance in the "Overwater" stage, inspired by Disney's The Little Mermaid, incorporated intricate choreography including wavy hand gestures and diving actions.

Performance Growth

Throughout the competition, Jiwoo's journey reflected steady improvement:

Advanced to semifinals with 207,166 votes, ranking 16th
Progressed to finals with 306,475 votes, securing 14th place
Concluded with 274,403 votes in the final global voting

Her participation in "Charismatic" alongside fellow contestants garnered widespread attention, as she masterfully executed complex choreography while maintaining stable vocals. As part of the PICK team, Jiwoo contributed to their victory in the 7 vs 7 Team Battle, demonstrating her ability to excel in collaborative performances.

Future Potential

Standing at 172 cm, Jiwoo's commanding stage presence earned her recognition for multiple talents. Her previous experience on survival show "My Teenage Girl" provided valuable insights, enabling her to navigate Queendom Puzzle's challenges effectively. Currently, she continues to expand her artistic horizons through tripleS's innovative sub-unit system, participating in various musical projects.

Jiwoo's journey through Queendom Puzzle coincided with significant milestones for tripleS, accordingly their first world tour announcement. Her MBTI type INFP influences her thoughtful approach to performances, whereas her athletic background contributes to her sharp dance execution. Undoubtedly, her experience on the show strengthened her position within tripleS, as she continues to participate in the group's expanding discography and international activities.

14. Dohwa (Former AOA) - Veteran Presence

With over a decade of experience in the K-pop industry, Im Do Hwa, formerly known as Chan Mi, brought seasoned expertise to Queendom Puzzle. As AOA's maknae, she debuted on August 9, 2012, through the group's first single album "Angels' Story".

Industry Experience

Throughout her career, Do Hwa demonstrated remarkable versatility. After participating in AOA's second subunit AOA Cream with "I'm Jelly Baby" in 2016, she ventured into acting through web dramas. Her estimated net worth reached USD 1.00 million in 2025, reflecting her successful career trajectory.

Show Strategy

On Queendom Puzzle, Do Hwa's strategic approach yielded impressive results. As part of Team Puzzle alongside Moon Byul, Jeong Ye In, Soojin, YooA, and Eunji, she secured victories in three crucial rounds:

7 vs 7 Team Battle
Re-mix Battle
Semifinal Round

Her initial placement in Tier One, based on previous career achievements, underscored her competitive advantage. Indeed, her performance statistics revealed consistent improvement:

11 upvotes and 16 downvotes in preliminary evaluations
Advanced through multiple rounds maintaining stable rankings
Secured 14th place in the final episode

Career Revival

After departing from FNC Entertainment in May 2024, Do Hwa embarked on an exciting new chapter. Her stage name transformation from Chan Mi to Do Hwa, meaning "achieve beauty" or "strive for beauty", symbolized this fresh start. Currently, she collaborates with Weki Meki's Elly on a YouTube series, expanding her creative horizons.

Do Hwa's journey through Queendom Puzzle proved transformative. In team missions, she consistently demonstrated leadership qualities, earning recognition as an indispensable member. Her experience on GIRL'S RE:VERSE in 2022, where she initially used the name 'Dohwa', provided valuable insights for navigating survival show dynamics effectively.

15. Fye (Former BNK48) - International Appeal

Stepping into Queendom Puzzle as a former member of BNK48, Fyeqoodgurl, professionally known as Fye, brought unique perspectives from Thailand's entertainment industry. After departing from BNK48's Team BIII in 2018, she ventured into a solo career under D.U.M.B. Recordings.

Thai Market Impact

Upon joining Queendom Puzzle on May 26, 2023, Fye's participation generated substantial buzz among Thai audiences. Her previous experience with BNK48 provided valuable insights into the Thai music market. After leaving the group, she launched her solo career with the digital single "Gone Gurl" on June 10, 2022, establishing herself as an independent artist.

Cross-Cultural Performance

Throughout the competition, Fye demonstrated her adaptability across various challenges:

Her journey through the show reflected steady determination, yet faced elimination during Episode 9. As one of the contestants with previous experience in a sister group of AKB48, Fye brought unique perspectives to team collaborations. Her viral NewJeans cover caught attention in Korea, showcasing her ability to interpret different musical styles.

Global Recognition

Fye's participation in Queendom Puzzle marked a significant milestone in her career transition. As part of the show's diverse lineup featuring members from various K-pop groups, she represented international talent alongside contestants from Purple Kiss, Rocket Punch, and other prominent groups. Unfortunately, her journey concluded with a 16th place finish, yet her presence highlighted the show's commitment to showcasing global talent.

Currently signed with D.U.M.B. Recordings, Fye continues to pursue her musical aspirations. Her experience on Queendom Puzzle, alongside veterans from groups like Cherry Bullet, Rocket Punch, and Weki Meki, demonstrated the evolving landscape of K-pop's international reach. Through her participation, she contributed to bridging cultural gaps between Thai and Korean entertainment industries.

FAQS

Mnet's groundbreaking survival show premiered on June 13, 2023, at 22:00 (KST), introducing an innovative format distinct from previous Queendom seasons. Girls' Generation's Taeyeon hosted this unique competition, steering clear of traditional survival show elements.

Q: What made Queendom Puzzle different from other seasons? Unlike its predecessors, Queendom Puzzle adopted a fresh approach, focusing on individual talents instead of group performances. The show divided contestants into four teams: Pick on the top, Pick-Cat, Drop The Beat, and Athena.

Q: How did the show maintain viewer engagement? Mnet strategically released content through multiple phases:

First teaser video: April 10, 2023
Second teaser announcing premiere: May 9, 2023
Contestant reveal: May 18-25, 2023
Behind-the-scenes footage: June 6, 2023

Q: What factors influenced contestant success? Based on viewer discussions, several elements shaped outcomes:

Skill demonstration across singing, dancing, and rapping
Previous industry experience
Strategic team collaborations
Global fan engagement

Q: Did age impact contestant performance? Interestingly, age diversity sparked meaningful discussions. Seasoned performers demonstrated superior technical skills through extensive industry experience. Yet, younger contestants brought fresh perspectives, creating dynamic performance variations.

Q: How did voting patterns evolve? The show combined Korean and global votes, revealing interesting trends. Contestants from relatively unknown groups often garnered substantial support, challenging preconceptions about popularity advantages.

Q: What role did experience play? Experience proved valuable but not decisive. While seasoned performers like Kei showcased superior vocal abilities, newer talents demonstrated remarkable growth throughout the competition. This balance maintained competitive tension across episodes.

Q: How did international contestants impact the show? Cross-cultural representation enriched performances, with contestants from Japan and Thailand bringing unique perspectives. This diversity fostered cultural exchange and expanded the show's global appeal.