11 I.O.I Members Profile: Hidden Facts You Never Knew (2024 Update)

From 101 trainees representing 46 entertainment companies emerged the groundbreaking ioi members, a group that would forever change the K-pop landscape. Despite promoting for less than a year, these 11 talented individuals achieved an impressive 9 music show wins and set numerous industry firsts.

While their official journey together lasted from May 2016 to January 2017, each member's story continued to unfold in fascinating ways. From Chungha's rise as a solo artist to Sejeong's success in acting, and Somi's global breakthrough, their paths have diverged yet remained equally compelling. Their final single "Downpour," which achieved an all-kill on music charts, proved to be a fitting farewell to their brief but impactful era. Even years later, their influence resonates through K-pop, as demonstrated by their heartwarming 5th anniversary reunion in May 2021.

Lim Nayoung: The Natural-Born Leader

Ranking tenth in Produce 101 with 138,726 votes, Lim Nayoung emerged as IOI's natural-born leader. Her calm demeanor and careful approach to responsibilities shaped the group's dynamic during their promotional period.

Nayoung's Leadership Journey in IOI

As IOI's leader, Nayoung guided the group through their debut with "Dream Girls" and the successful release of their EP "Chrysalis". Her respectful attitude and ability to maintain composure under pressure earned her the nickname "Stone Nayoung".

Hidden Talents Beyond Leadership

Beyond her leadership role, Nayoung showcases multiple talents:

Main rapper and lead dancer positions
Specializes in dance choreography and manicure art
Drawing skills and music appreciation

Post-IOI Career Evolution

Subsequently, Nayoung's career took significant turns. Following IOI's disbandment in January 2017, she debuted as a member of Pristin. Furthermore, she participated in Pristin V, a sub-unit formation, before the group's eventual disbandment in 2019.

Current Activities and Projects

Primarily focusing on acting, Nayoung made her drama debut in "Flower of Evil" as young Do Hae-soo. Notably, she secured her first main role in "Summer Guys" alongside former IOI member Kang Mina. Her recent career moves include signing with Mask Studio in February 2024, marking a new chapter in her entertainment journey. She also appeared in the family drama "Unpredictable Family", showcasing her growing versatility as an actress.

Kim Chungha: From Main Dancer to Solo Star

Born as Kim Chan-mi in Seoul, Chungha's journey began with a unique twist as she spent eight years in Dallas, Texas, mastering both English and Korean. Initially training at prestigious companies like YG and JYP Entertainment, she ultimately joined MNH Entertainment after three years of rigorous preparation.

Early Struggles and Determination

Financial constraints almost derailed Chungha's dancing career, yet her unwavering passion prevailed. At Seoul's NY Dance Studio, she honed her skills alongside fellow dancers who would become future stage companions. Specifically, her early involvement with the waacking dance crew X-Fever shaped her distinctive performance style.

Breakthrough Moments in IOI

Securing fourth place on Produce 101, Chungha's exceptional choreography skills earned recognition when her dance routine was chosen for IOI's hit single "Whatta Man". Moreover, her contributions as main dancer and lead vocalist solidified her position as a standout performer in the group.

Solo Career Milestones

After IOI's disbandment, Chungha emerged as one of K-pop's most promising soloists. Her debut EP Hands on Me reached No. 8 on the Gaon Album Chart, consequently establishing her solo presence. Her breakthrough continued with "Roller Coaster," which peaked at No. 6 on the Weekly K-Pop Hot 100 Chart. Presently, her discography includes multiple chart-topping releases:

"Gotta Go" achieved seven music show wins and topped the Weekly K-Pop Hot 100 Chart
"Snapping" demonstrated her evolving artistry
Querencia, her first full-length album, showcased her musical versatility

International Recognition

In March 2020, Chungha signed with ICM Partners for global promotions. Simultaneously, she collaborated with international artists, including Rich Brian on "These Nights". Her partnership with 88rising in late 2020 and work with R3hab on "Dream of You" further cemented her global presence.

Kim Sejeong: The Vocal Powerhouse

At age 15, Kim Sejeong discovered her passion for singing, practicing diligently in her school playground. Her unique vocal style, often compared to IU's light and airy technique, showcases exceptional range and dynamic control.

Pre-IOI Musical Background

Sejeong's journey began with K-Pop Star 2, where she reached the final casting round. Nevertheless, this early setback only strengthened her resolve. Accordingly, she continued her training, drawing inspiration from acclaimed artists like IU and Taeyeon, particularly using Taeyeon's songs for her daily vocal warm-ups.

Notable Performances in IOI

Securing second place in Produce 101 with 525,352 votes, Sejeong's powerful vocals earned her the nickname "God Sejeong". Her performances throughout the show demonstrated exceptional vocal control and emotional delivery.

Acting Career Development

Eventually transitioning to acting, Sejeong achieved remarkable success. Her breakthrough role in Business Proposal earned her the top excellence award for comedy/romance miniseries at the 2022 SBS Drama Awards. The drama undoubtedly marked a turning point, ranking as the fourth most-watched drama on National TV.

Recent Musical Achievements

Sejeong's musical journey has evolved significantly, as demonstrated by her recent accomplishments:

Released her first full album Door with 11 new tracks
Composed nine tracks and wrote lyrics for all songs
Incorporated diverse genres including pop, rock, and jazz

Her artistic growth reflects in her songwriting, particularly evident in tracks like "Top or Cliff," which showcases her powerful R&B vocals. The album explores both challenging and optimistic aspects of venturing into unfamiliar territories, demonstrating her maturity as an artist.

Jung Chaeyeon: Visual Queen's Journey

Demonstrating remarkable versatility, Jung Chaeyeon carved her path through the entertainment industry after finishing seventh in Produce 101 with 215,338 votes.

Balancing DIA and IOI Activities

After IOI's debut with "Chrysalis," MBK Entertainment confirmed Chaeyeon's return to DIA for their June 2016 comeback. Additionally, she rejoined IOI for their second promotional cycle, participating in the release of "Very Very Very" in October 2016. Her dedication to both groups showcased exceptional time management skills, since she maintained active presence in performances and promotional activities.

Evolution as an Actress

After her idol career, Chaeyeon transitioned into acting, marking her debut in the 2016 drama "Drinking Solo". Her acting portfolio expanded steadily with these notable roles:

"My First First Love" (2019) as Han Song-yi
"The King's Affection" (2021) as No Ha-kyeong
"The Golden Spoon" (2022) as Na Ju-hee
"Family by Choice" (2024) as Yoon Joo-won

Current Entertainment Projects

Currently, Chaeyeon is exploring new horizons in her acting career. After signing with BH Entertainment, she received an offer to star in the upcoming legal drama "Esquire". The series, scheduled to air in the latter half of 2025, focuses on real-life legal cases. Her potential collaboration with Lee Jin Wook in this project has generated considerable excitement among drama enthusiasts. Throughout her journey, Chaeyeon has maintained a strong connection with her roles, particularly resonating with Yoon Joo-won's simplicity and directness in "Family By Choice".

Zhou Jieqiong: Breaking International Barriers

Street-casted in Shanghai at age 11, Zhou Jieqiong embarked on a remarkable journey that would cross cultural boundaries.

Cultural Adaptation in IOI

After moving to Korea alone, Zhou dedicated herself to mastering the Korean language and culture. Her determination paid off when she secured sixth place in Produce 101 with 218,338 votes. Throughout her time in IOI, she served as the group's lead dancer and vocalist.

Rise to Fame in China

Upon returning to China, Zhou's career soared to new heights. In January 2018, she joined Idol Producer as a dance mentor. Her solo debut in September 2018 with the digital single "Why" marked a significant milestone, as she actively participated in writing, concept development, and choreography.

Current Chinese Entertainment Activities

Zhou has primarily focused on acting since 2020, making her debut in the historical medical drama Miss Truth. Her performance garnered substantial recognition as the drama:

Topped romance and suspense drama rankings across major platforms
Successfully aired in South Korea, Japan, and Thailand
Became a finalist for the 5th Weibo Drama Awards

In essence, her versatility extended to other notable productions including Legend of Fei (2020), To Be With You (2021), and Be My Princess (2022). Operating under Zhou Jieqiong Studio, she continues to expand her presence in the Chinese entertainment industry. Therefore, her journey exemplifies successful cultural adaptation and career evolution, ultimately establishing herself as a respected figure in both Korean and Chinese entertainment sectors.

Kim Sohye: Unexpected Idol to Actress

Securing fifth place in Produce 101 with remarkable determination, Kim Sohye emerged as one of the most unexpected success stories among ioi members.

Transformation During IOI

As a trainee with minimal experience, Sohye's dedication to improvement became evident throughout her IOI journey. After debuting with the group's first EP "Chrysalis" in May 2016, she established S&P Entertainment to manage her activities. Her time with IOI, which concluded in January 2017, primarily shaped her foundation in the entertainment industry.

Acting Career Highlights

After IOI's disbandment, Sohye ultimately chose acting as her career path. Her acting journey began with the web series "Poetry Story", where she portrayed Lee Ah Chim. Her breakthrough came with "Moonlit Winter" in 2019, playing the role of Sae Bom. This performance certainly garnered recognition, earning her several Best New Actress nominations and wins.

Recent Projects and Achievements

In 2023, Sohye marked her return to television after a three-year hiatus with "My Lovely Boxer". The 12-episode series showcases her as Lee Kwon Sook, a talented boxer who becomes a kindergarten teacher. Her recent accomplishments include:

Signing with Noon Company in August 2024
Achieving a 2% viewership rating for "My Lovely Boxer" premiere
Joining the cast of tvN's "O'PENing 2024 - Our Beautiful Summer"

At the drama's press conference, Sohye reflected on her character choice: "The choices Kwon Sook makes in adversity and how she grows from them felt quite similar to my own". Hence, her journey from an unexpected idol to a respected actress demonstrates her remarkable evolution in the entertainment industry.

Yoo Yeonjung: The Vocal Genius

Nicknamed "Cider Vocals" for her refreshing high notes, Yoo Yeonjung secured the final spot in IOI after her memorable performance of "Into the New World".

WJSN Integration Story

Altogether, Yeonjung's journey took an unexpected turn when Starship Entertainment announced her addition as WJSN's thirteenth member in July 2016. Rather than waiting for IOI's disbandment, she straightaway joined WJSN's comeback with "The Secret". The decision stemmed from her original training alongside WJSN members before Produce 101.

Musical Development

Her vocal prowess earned recognition through numerous collaborations and OSTs:

"I Will Be On Your Side" with Yoo Seung-woo
"Fire & Ice" featuring WJSN's Dawon
"You're Dazzling" for Queen for Seven Days
"Stay With You" for Where Stars Land

Primarily, her breakthrough came in September 2019 when she won the V-1 competition, a survival show designed to select the best vocalist among girl group members. This victory affirmed her status as an elite vocalist in the industry.

Recent Activities

In 2022, Yeonjung expanded her horizons by making her musical theater debut in "Lizzie". Her portrayal of Alice Russell showcased her four years of musical theater training at Dankook University. After successful runs in "Great Comet" and "Crash Landing on You," she returned to "Lizzie" in September 2024. Currently, she performs at Doosan Art Center's Yeonggang Hall, demonstrating her growing versatility as a performer.

Choi Yoojung: Dance Machine

Placing third in Produce 101 with remarkable dance skills, Choi Yoojung's journey began as IOI's center for their theme song "Pick Me". Her dedication shone through intense practice sessions, as she participated in over 100 choreography rehearsals alongside fellow contestants.

Dancing Evolution in IOI

Throughout IOI's promotional period, Yoojung contributed significantly to the group's success, primarily as lead dancer and lead rapper. She showcased her songwriting abilities by penning rap parts for "Dream Girls" and the EP's intro track "I.O.I".

Weki Meki Journey

After IOI's disbandment in January 2017, Yoojung filmed "Dodaeng's Diary in LA" with Kim Doyeon. Ultimately, she debuted with Weki Meki in August 2017, taking on the roles of main rapper, main dancer, and vocalist. Her versatility extended to project group WJMK, a collaboration between Weki Meki and WJSN members.

Solo Career Developments

In September 2022, Yoojung marked her solo debut with "Sunflower," an album holding deep personal significance:

Title track "Sunflower (P.E.L)" featured vibrant choreography across diverse settings
R&B-ballad "OWL" incorporated dance moves created by her father
Album production involved active participation in concept development

Current Projects

Finally, after renewing her contract with Fantagio, Yoojung expanded her horizons by starring in the web drama "Sound Candy". Currently, she hosts her first solo web show "Yoodaeng's Work Work" and appears in "Blossom with Love". Her film debut awaits in "The Noisy Mansion," where she portrays the character Saet-byeol.

Kang Mina: Multi-Talented Star

Finishing ninth in Produce 101, Kang Mina demonstrated her versatility by successfully balancing both singing and acting careers.

Variety Show Success

Throughout her early career, Mina showcased her hosting abilities on Show! Music Core. Her natural charm and engaging personality led to appearances on various shows, primarily focusing on entertainment and variety content. After gaining recognition, she participated in Law of the Jungle in Thailand, expanding her variety show portfolio.

Acting Career Growth

Mina's acting journey began in 2017 with Children of the 20th Century, where she portrayed the younger version of Han Ye-seul's character. Her dedication to craft became evident through these notable performances:

Hotel del Luna (2019) - Dual role as Jung Soo Jung and Kim Yoo Na
Moonshine (2021) - Han Ae Jin, a noble family's headstrong daughter
Café Minamdang (2022) - Nam Hye Jun, a former NIS hacker
Welcome to Samdal-ri (2023) - Jo Hae Dal, a young single mother

Recent Entertainment Activities

Currently, Mina continues to expand her acting portfolio with upcoming projects. In July 2023, she signed with Story J Company, marking a new chapter in her career. Her performance in Welcome to Samdal-ri earned particular praise for her portrayal of motherhood. Meanwhile, she's set to appear in the superhero K-drama Twelve alongside Ji Chang Wook and Seo In Guk. Her achievement at the 2022 KBS Drama Awards, winning Best New Actress, ultimately affirmed her growing status in the industry.

Kim Doyeon: From Visual to All-Rounder

Selected by Vogue as one of "Eight Teen Style Stars Set to Rule 2017," Kim Doyeon's journey exemplifies versatility in the entertainment industry.

Modeling Career Development

Primarily recognized for her sophisticated style, Doyeon became Maybelline New York's global muse, joining an elite roster alongside Gigi Hadid and Adriana Lima. Her natural talent for modeling shone through numerous magazine features, markedly establishing her presence in high fashion circles.

Acting Breakthrough

Formerly focusing on idol activities, Doyeon made her acting debut in 2018 through the web drama "Short," portraying Yoo Ji Na, a talented athlete pursuing short track speed skating. Her acting portfolio expanded with these notable achievements:

"My Roommate is a Gumiho"
"Pop Out Boy!"
"Single & Ready to Mingle"
"Amoeba Girls and School Ghost Stories: School Anniversary"

Current Projects and Goals

Currently pursuing acting studies in London since August 2023, Doyeon balances her international education with upcoming projects. Her latest ventures include:

The film "18 Youth," where she portrays an 18-year-old high school student. Ultimately, her artistic journey led to her musical theater debut in "Anna X" in January 2025, where she takes on the lead role of Anna. Nonetheless, her dedication to growth continues as she reviews English scripts and adapts to life abroad.

The Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival recognized "Amoeba Girls" as the Bucheon Discovery of the Year, affirming Doyeon's evolving presence in the industry. Her commitment to continuous learning manifests through regular academy attendance and intensive English studies.

Jeon Somi: The Global Icon

After winning first place in Produce 101, Ennik Somi Douma carved her path as a multicultural force in K-pop.

Post-IOI Solo Journey

After parting ways with JYP Entertainment, Somi signed with The Black Label, marking her solo debut with "Birthday" in June 2019. Primarily focusing on artistic growth, she actively participated in songwriting, composing her first self-written track "Outta My Head". Important to realize, her transition to The Black Label granted her greater creative control, allowing participation in everything from songwriting to music video production.

International Recognition

Coupled with her musical success, Somi's influence extends beyond entertainment. In October 2024, she became REVOLVE's first-ever global brand ambassador. Her massive fanbase of over 19 million Instagram followers reflects her global appeal. After all, her unique blend of boldness and sophistication resonates with international audiences, leading to collaborations with prestigious brands like Converse, Lacoste, The North Face, and Prada.

Recent Music Releases

In August 2024, Somi released "Ice Cream," an all-English brassy pop track produced by legendary producer Teddy and Canadian duo Banx & Ranx. Her recent achievements include:

First EP album "GAME PLAN" released digitally on August 7, 2024
Summer special single "Ice Cream" featuring Park Seojun
Active participation in songwriting and concept development

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Somi continues to push creative boundaries. In her recent interview, she hinted at innovative concepts for upcoming releases. Her artistic confidence has grown significantly, as she expressed, "As an artist, now I know what I want to show". Through her partnership with REVOLVE, she plans to infuse her music into creative marketing campaigns and special appearances, further solidifying her position as a global entertainment icon.

FAQS

Commonly asked questions about IOI members reveal fascinating insights into their journey and current endeavors. Here are the most frequently asked questions:

Q: How many music show wins did IOI achieve during their active period? The group secured 9 music show wins across various programs.

Q: What happened to IOI members after disbandment? Several members joined established groups, primarily focusing on solo careers or acting. Companies managing post-IOI groups learned valuable lessons from previous experiences.

Q: Which IOI member had the most successful transition to acting? Generally, multiple members found success in acting. Notably, Chaeyeon continues under WM Entertainment, appearing in various dramas while occasionally interacting with ONF members.

Q: Did any IOI members join existing groups? Evidently, some members integrated into new groups. For instance, Yena's addition to Everglow was anticipated due to multiple hints in their music videos.

Q: What makes IOI's story unique in K-pop history? Essentially, their impact stems from setting industry precedents. Some companies' decisions proved controversial - typically, Fantagio could have launched Doyeon and Yoojung as a duo, while Jellybean might have debuted Sejeong, Mina, and Nayoung as a group.

Q: How do IOI members maintain their connections? Usually, members interact through various channels and occasionally reunite for special events. Their bond remains strong, as demonstrated through social media interactions and public appearances.

Q: What factors contributed to IOI's lasting influence? Primarily, their success established a template for future project groups. Their achievements include chart-topping releases and pioneering the temporary group concept in K-pop.