WEKI MEKI (2017-2024)
8 Weki Meki Members Profile & Hidden Facts
Weki Meki's debut mini-album "WEME" made history as the highest-selling album among girl groups that debuted in 2017, with over 47,000 physical copies sold. This remarkable achievement set the tone for what would become a significant seven-year journey in K-pop.
The eight-member group, formed from talented contestants of "Produce 101," brought together unique personalities and skills that shaped their distinctive Weki Meki profile. Notably, members Yoojung and Doyeon first gained recognition through their success in I.O.I before joining the group. During their active years from August 2017 to August 2024, the members of Weki Meki released five EPs, two single albums, and built a strong connection with their fandom, known as "Ki-Ling."
As the group prepares for their final farewell with their last single "CoinciDestiny," this comprehensive guide explores the individual journeys, talents, and hidden facts about each member that made Weki Meki a unique presence in the K-pop industry.
Suyeon (Leader)
Ji Suyeon, born April 20, 1997, emerged as a multifaceted artist through her journey from a former CJ E&M and WM trainee to becoming Weki Meki's leader and main vocalist. Her educational foundation at Hanlim Multi Arts School and Baekseok Arts University shaped her artistic versatility.
Suyeon's Journey as Weki Meki's Leader
As the last member to be officially introduced, Suyeon quickly established herself as a capable leader. Her leadership style balanced soft-spoken guidance with decisive direction, specifically while managing group activities and vocal arrangements. Subsequently, she demonstrated her commitment through initiatives like the Star Books campaign in 2020, where she read children's books to support underprivileged youth.
Vocal Abilities and Performance Style
Suyeon's musical prowess extends beyond group performances. Her achievements include:
Participation in King of Masked Singer Episode 190 as "Belle"
Composition of "HEARTRIS" for NiziU's Korean debut
Musical theater debut in "Bungee Jumping of Their Own" (2022)
Production of original songs on SoundCloud
Furthermore, her versatility shines through collaborations, including a duet with ASTRO's Moonbin titled "Language" and the OST "Love Diamond" for "My ID is Gangnam Beauty". Her vocal range particularly stood out in Weki Meki's performances, where she showcased her ability to handle complex arrangements and high notes with precision.
Post-Disbandment Activities
Following thoughtful discussions, Suyeon concluded her exclusive contract with Fantagio in November 2023. Meanwhile, she has expanded her artistic portfolio through musical theater, appearing in productions like "Harlan County" and "The Three Musketeers" where she portrayed the character Constance. Additionally, her work as a producer and composer continues to evolve, demonstrating her growth beyond group activities.
Elly's Complete Profile
Jung Haerim, professionally known as Elly, initially joined Fantagio with aspirations to become an actress. Her journey in the entertainment industry began as a trainee under Fantagio i-Teen, a rookie talent development program.
Elly's Pre-debut Training Period
After three years of intensive training, Elly participated in several pre-debut activities. She made appearances in label mate ASTRO's "To Be Continued" web drama. Her first major exposure came through Mnet's survival show Produce 101, where she ranked 47th place and was eliminated in episode 8.
Notable Performances in Weki Meki
Throughout her tenure with Weki Meki, Elly served as the group's lead vocalist. Her musical versatility shone through various projects, primarily in the King of the Masked Singer appearance on December 27, 2020. She also contributed to the OST world, lending her voice to "My Only One" for the drama "Smile of Rose".
Current Projects and Activities
In 2023, Elly participated in two significant survival shows. She competed in KakaoTV's virtual survival show "GIRL'S RE:VERSE" as the character Watchiswatch. Subsequently, she joined Mnet's "Queendom Puzzle," advancing to the final episode but placing 11th with 292,486 votes. On August 8, 2024, alongside four other members, Elly concluded her exclusive contract with Fantagio.
Hidden Talents and Interests
Beyond her singing career, Elly possesses diverse skills and interests. She holds proficiency in both Korean and Japanese languages. Her athletic abilities extend to Taekwondo and various martial arts disciplines. Moreover, she developed an interest in volleyball and enjoys listening to music in her leisure time. Despite her dislike for skinship, she formed close bonds with groupmates, especially when Lua and Lucy would rest on her lap.
Yoojung's Career Evolution
First of all, as a standout trainee in Produce 101, Choi Yoojung secured her position as the show's first center, elected by peers to lead a hundred trainees in their debut television performance.
From Produce 101 to Weki Meki
After achieving third place in Produce 101, Yoojung debuted with I.O.I in May 2016. Her exceptional performance led to various opportunities, including appearances on shows like Golden Tambourine and Battle Trip. Consequently, she transitioned to Weki Meki in August 2017, where she assumed the roles of main rapper, main dancer, and lead vocalist.
Solo Activities and Achievements
Throughout her career, Yoojung has demonstrated remarkable versatility through various projects:
Musical theater debut in "Hero" as LingLing
Lead role in web drama "Sound Candy" (2023)
Film debut in "The Noisy Mansion" (2023)
Solo debut with "Sunflower" album (2022)
In fact, her solo debut held special significance as the album's title was inspired by her late grandfather, who once drew a sunflower symbolizing her bright smile. Similarly, she participated in penning lyrics for tracks like "Sunflower (P.E.L)" and "Tip Top Toes".
Recent Updates
After Weki Meki's disbandment in August 2024, Yoojung made a significant career decision by renewing her contract with Fantagio. Ultimately, she continues to pursue diverse endeavors, including acting projects and musical performances. Her appearance in the KBS1 series "A Bicycle Runs on Two Wheels" as part of the promotional video for Movement to Put People with Disabilities First marked another milestone in her evolving career.
Doyeon Weki Meki Journey
Kim Doyeon's versatility first emerged through her acting debut in the 2018 drama "Short". Throughout her artistic journey, she demonstrated remarkable growth across multiple entertainment domains.
Acting Career Highlights
Starting with supporting roles, Doyeon steadily built her acting portfolio. Her breakthrough came with the lead role in "Pop Out Boy!" where she portrayed Han Sun Nyeo, a character whose rational and confident nature aligned perfectly with her own personality. First time venturing into serious drama, she appeared in "Jirisan" as the teenage version of Jun Ji-hyun's character. Her acting credentials expanded with roles in "One the Woman" and "My Roommate Is a Gumiho".
Model Activities and Brand Endorsements
Doyeon's influence in fashion and beauty spheres solidified after being featured in Vogue's "8 Teen Style Stars Set to Rule 2017". Her modeling portfolio includes prestigious collaborations:
Global Beauty Brands: Maybelline New York (2018-2022), Bobbi Brown Korea (2022)
Luxury Fashion Houses: Burberry, Prada, Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, MulberryPresently, she stands as a prominent figure in luxury fashion, regularly attending digital collection unveilings for brands like Fendi, Max Mara, and Miu Miu. Her distinctive facial features and gripping gaze have made her a sought-after model in the industry.
Current Entertainment Projects
Ultimately, Doyeon's career trajectory led to significant developments in 2025. After renewing her exclusive contract with Fantagio, she secured her musical theater debut as 'Anna' in the production 'Anna X'. Additionally, she expanded her filmography with roles in "18 Youth" and "Amoeba Girls and School Ghost Stories: School Anniversary," where she portrays Ji-Yeon, a broadcasting club president with aspirations of becoming a film director.
Sei's Musical Journey
First time stepping into the K-pop scene with just one year of training, Sei quickly established herself as a versatile performer in Weki Meki.
Vocal Development in Weki Meki
Throughout her tenure, Sei refined her musical abilities beyond vocal performances. Her guitar skills added depth to the group's musical repertoire. Ultimately, she showcased her artistic growth through significant collaborations:
"FM201.8-10Hz: You and Me" with Ants (2018)
"Tonight" feature with Anandelight (2023)
Girls' Generation's "Into The New World" performance alongside members from (G)-IDLE and IZ*ONE (2021)
Personal Projects and Interests
Beyond group activities, Sei launched an environmental protection series titled "Sei Hello To 🌍" on Weki Meki's YouTube channel. Hence, she demonstrated her commitment to social causes while connecting with fans through digital content. First time venturing into acting, she secured the main role in "The Tale of Chunhyang" (2021), followed by "Our Love Triangle" (2024).
Latest Activities
Prior to the group's conclusion, Sei participated in their fifth EP "I Am Me." released on November 18, 2021. The final chapter of her journey with Weki Meki culminated in the release of "CoinciDestiny" on June 12, 2024. This electronic pop song expressed the deep affection among members and their fans, celebrating their shared journey. After thoughtful discussions, Sei, alongside four other members, concluded her exclusive contract with Fantagio as of August 8, 2024. The agency expressed gratitude for her contributions, encouraging fans to support her future endeavors as she embarks on new artistic ventures.
Lua's Dance Evolution
Recognized for her exceptional flexibility and dance prowess, Lua emerged as one of the standout performers among Weki Meki members. Her dedication to dance manifested through distinctive performances that showcased her unique style.
Main Dance Performances
Lua's versatility shone through various stage appearances, evidently demonstrated in her memorable performances. Her rendition of "Bohemian Rhapsody" at Idol Radio captured audiences with its upbeat energy. Certainly, her most notable achievement was mastering Michael Jackson's signature moves, particularly executing what many consider the most precise moonwalk performed by an idol.
The following performances highlight her artistic range:
Lotte World Fresh Concert with i-Teen Girls (December 28, 2014)
King of Coin Karaoke showcase on Idol Radio
Michael Jackson tribute performances featuring "Billie Jean" and "Bad"
Choreography Contributions
As a skilled dancer who could have been the main dancer if not for Yoojung's presence, Lua consistently delivered powerful performances throughout her tenure with Weki Meki. Her flexibility and technical precision added depth to the group's choreographies, accordingly enhancing their overall stage presence.
Recent Endeavors
Ultimately, Lua ventured into acting, making her debut in the play "Almost, Maine" in 2022. This transition marked a significant expansion of her artistic portfolio beyond dance performances. On August 8, 2024, alongside Elly, Sei, Rina, and Lucy, Lua concluded her exclusive contract with Fantagio. The agency expressed gratitude for her contributions, acknowledging how she "shone brightly" as a member of Weki Meki.
Before the group's disbandment, Lua participated in their final digital single "CoinciDestiny," an electronic pop song that celebrated the deep bonds formed between members and their fans. The track, featuring dreamy synth sounds and hopeful melodies, served as a fitting farewell to their journey together.
Rina's Artist Development
Beginning her journey at the School of Performing Arts Seoul, Kang So-eun, known professionally as Rina, graduated with a degree in Applied Music. Throughout her artistic development, she balanced academic excellence with rigorous training, ultimately emerging as a multifaceted performer.
Growth in Weki Meki
As a lead vocalist and rapper in Weki Meki, Rina's artistic evolution began with her participation in the dance group NYDANCE. Her pre-debut experience, though brief at one year, laid a strong foundation for her future performances. Throughout the group's tenure, she demonstrated remarkable versatility in both vocal arrangements and rap segments.
Personal Achievements
Rina's creative contributions to Weki Meki's discography showcase her artistic depth. Her accomplishments include:
Co-writing lyrics for "Just Us" alongside Yoojung and Lucy
Participating in the OST "Between Us Two" for the web drama "Miracle" with Suyeon, Elly, and Lucy
Contributing to the group's final single "CoinciDestiny" as a songwriter
Beyond her musical endeavors, Rina developed a distinctive artistic identity. Her passion for literature manifested through her appreciation of Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations'. Therefore, this intellectual pursuit complemented her artistic expressions, enriching her performances with deeper emotional resonance.
Current Focus
After concluding her exclusive contract with Fantagio on August 8, 2024, Rina embarked on an independent artistic path. Nevertheless, her diverse interests, ranging from Studio Ghibli films to culinary arts, continue to influence her creative direction.
Afterward, she expanded her artistic repertoire through various collaborations and solo projects. Although known for maintaining consistent facial expressions, her performances consistently delivered emotional depth. Her daily wearing of a ring gifted by Yoojung symbolizes the lasting bonds formed during her time with Weki Meki.
Lucy's Maknae Story
Born in Goyang, Gyeonggi, Noh Hyo Jung, professionally known as Lucy, completed her education at the School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA) in the Practical Dance department, graduating on February 5, 2021.
Journey as Youngest Member
As the sixth member introduced to Weki Meki on June 4, 2017, Lucy quickly established herself as an integral part of the group. Throughout her tenure, she formed particularly close bonds with fellow members, essentially becoming inseparable from Lua. Her natural talent for creating positive energy made her, alongside Elly and Yoojung, one of the group's primary mood makers.
Performance Highlights
Lucy's artistic contributions extended beyond her role as the group's maknae. Her notable achievements include:
Songwriting contribution to "Just Us" on Weki Meki's 4th mini album "NEW RULES"
Collaboration with ASTRO's MJ for "FM201.8-08Hz: Like Today" (2018)
Participation in the OST "Between Us Two" with Suyeon, Elly, and Rina
Her acting career simultaneously flourished with appearances in several productions. She portrayed Hyoyoung in the film "AI Her" (2021) and secured a role in "Asia" (2024). Additionally, she made memorable cameo appearances in "To Be Continued" (2015) and "Café Minamdang" (2022), where she portrayed Nam HaJun's past lover.
Post-Group Activities
Upon Weki Meki's disbandment announcement on August 16, 2024, Lucy, alongside four other members, concluded her exclusive contract with Fantagio. Throughout her career, she maintained a strong presence in brand endorsements, representing companies such as Aromatica, Targus Bags, and Project M Clothing. Currently, she continues to pursue various artistic endeavors, building upon her experience as both a performer and actress.
Lucy's versatility as an artist shines through her special talents, including exceptional flexibility and tap dancing skills. Her admiration for Girls' Generation's Taeyeon as a role model influenced her artistic development. Ultimately, her journey from the group's youngest member to a well-rounded entertainer exemplifies her growth in the entertainment industry.
FAQS
Fans frequently ask questions about Weki Meki's journey and member dynamics. Here are the most common queries answered:
Q: How many members were in Weki Meki? Weki Meki consisted of eight members: Ji Suyeon, Elly, Choi Yoojung, Kim Doyeon, Sei, Lua, Rina, and Lucy.
Q: When did Weki Meki officially debut? The group made their debut on August 8, 2017, with their extended play "Weme".
Q: Which member was considered the scariest when angry? Generally, members revealed through their TMI interview that despite their bright personalities, each member had unique ways of expressing frustration.
Q: What kind of merchandise did members want to create? Undoubtedly, this was a topic of excitement during their Soompi TMI interview, where members shared creative ideas for potential merchandise lines.
Q: How did Lua handle V app live broadcasts? Occasionally, Lua expressed concerns about live broadcasts, primarily focusing on improving her communication with fans.
Q: What acting roles interested Lucy? Actually, Lucy showed interest in diverse acting opportunities, which ultimately led to her appearances in productions like "AI Her" and "Café Minamdang."
Q: What were the members' favorite songs? Members shared their musical preferences during fan interactions, namely through their TMI Tell More Interview with Soompi.
Q: Which members stayed with Fantagio after disbandment? After thoughtful discussions, Ji Suyeon, Choi Yoojung, and Kim Doyeon remained in talks with Fantagio, while Elly, Sei, Lua, Rina, and Lucy concluded their contracts.
Q: How satisfied was Suyeon with her composing abilities? Anyway, Suyeon demonstrated her compositional skills through various projects, including writing "HEARTRIS" for NiziU's Korean debut.
Q: What genre would members choose for their life story? This question revealed interesting insights into how members viewed their journeys in the entertainment industry.
Q: What were the group's final activities? The group released their last digital single "CoinciDestiny" in June 2024, followed by the official end of their group activities on August 8, 2024.
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