'The Genre of "Choi Yena"' [Kim Soo-jin's Star Commune]

*This content was translated by AI.

Always a bright smile on her lips, and a unique energetic vibe that brightens those around her. This is the story of "all-around entertainer" Choi Yena (YENA).

Just thinking of her brings a natural smile. Known as the "human vitamin" and an "icon of Gen-Z," she gives harmless laughter to her fans. The reason for Choi Yena's brilliant today is not simply because she is a born "happy virus." Behind that brightness lies a solid endurance and the growing pains of growth. We resonate more deeply with her smile and applaud her.

◆Positive Icon, the Miracle Girl◆

"If you do it, you do it, Choi Yena." Choi Yena shouted the slogan she has always chanted, "If you do it, you do it," during an interview with MC Jang Won-young at the AAA2025 (Asia Artist Awards) held at Kaohsiung Stadium last December. Choi Yena's unique brightness likely stems from a mature inner self formed by realizing and practicing the value of life.

As she revealed on a previous broadcast, Choi Yena went through life and death as a child, receiving hospital treatment for pediatric cancer (lymphoma). Even in difficult circumstances where her parents had to sell kimbap to earn hospital bills, Choi Yena did not lose hope.

The "little girl" Choi Yena, who dreamed of dancing and singing on stage after overcoming pain, turned her weakness into strength. She created her own miracle.

◆Proof of the 'All-Rounder', Rising as a Solo Artist from IZ*ONE◆

When she debuted as a member of the group IZ*ONE, born through the cable channel Mnet's 'Produce 48', Choi Yena was the team's variety character and mood maker. As a "solo" artist, Choi Yena stood out in various fields, including variety shows, drama appearances, and her main job as a singer. She is no less than a true "all-rounder" who can handle solid vocals, dance skills, and even rap.

After IZ*ONE's activities ended, Choi Yena's solo debut song 'SMILEY' was Choi Yena herself. The lyrics, which encourage smiling and letting go even in difficult situations, felt like her autobiographical story, and the public willingly responded to her "smile hero." The 'Catch Catch' (Catch catch) released on March 11 is currently ranking 10th on the Melon Top 100 chart as of 10 a.m. on May 6 (same standard across all platforms), 4th on the YouTube (Korea standard) Weekly Popular Songs chart (April 24–30), and 5th on YouTube's 'Daily Shorts Popular Songs'. Choi Yena, who has solidified her position as a solo artist, has proven herself as a talented artist.

◆The Genre of "Choi Yena"◆

Her growth is also ongoing off-stage. Her sharp variety sense and approachable friendliness shown in various variety programs are charm points that span all generations. Her three-dimensional appearance, which is not artificially made up but is quirky yet honest, and timid but courageous at decisive moments, made the public feel close to Choi Yena like a "younger sister" or a "friend." Music, variety, and acting—she does not lean toward any one area. She has now carved out her own unique genre, "Choi Yena."

◆A Smile That Makes You Look Forward to Tomorrow◆

Being able to be a source of laughter and comfort to someone is the greatest blessing and ability an entertainer can have. Choi Yena's growth is not a flower that blooms in an instant, but like a tree that withstands wind and rain and takes firm root. There is no doubt that her future endeavors will shine the world a little brighter with positive influence beyond simple popularity. Just thinking of Choi Yena, who always does her best no matter what she does, where, or when, brings a pleasant smile to one's face.

"If you do it, you do it, Choi Yena!!!" We will always cheer for you. ◆

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.