Solar (singer)
Solar (singer)
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Solar (singer)

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Kim Yong-sun (Korean김용선, born February 21, 1991), known professionally as Solar (솔라), is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actress signed under RBW. She is the leader and main vocalist of girl group Mamamoo and its sub-unit Mamamoo+. She made her solo debut with the single "Spit It Out" on April 23, 2020. She released her first extended play 容: Face with its lead single "Honey" on March 16, 2022. Solar ventured into musical acting through the musical Mata Hari for its 2022 production. Solar will make her film debut with a role as Mi-yeon in horror film The Cursed. Solar also made her debut in Taiwan with Chinese Single "Floating Free" on June 11, 2025.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Kim Yong-sun was born in Gangseo District, Seoul, South Korea, on February 21, 1991,[1][2][unreliable source?] where she lived with her parents and elder sister. She went to Hanyang Women's University with a major in tourism.[citation needed]

Career

[edit]

2014–2018: Debut with Mamamoo and Solar Emotion project

[edit]
Solar performing in 2015

Solar debuted as a member and vocalist of Mamamoo on June 18, 2014, along with Moonbyul, Wheein, and Hwasa. She made a cameo appearance in the 2015 romance web drama Imaginary Cat as Jung Soo-In. On August 30, 2015, she participated in the television singing show King of Mask Singer.[3] On October 2, she released her first soundtrack "Star" with Kim Min-jae for the tvN drama Second 20s.[4] On October 16, she released the first part of the Solar Emotion project with the song "Lived Like a Fool".[5] On December 11, she released the second part of the musical project with the song "Only Longing Grows".[6]

On March 29, 2016, Solar featured in the single "Love Again" by Yang Da-il.[7] On April 2, Solar was announced to be a part of We Got Married with Eric Nam and appeared in episode 316.[8] The pair completed their last appearance on November 19, 2016, in episode 348.[9] On December 29, 2016, the pair won 'Best Couple Award' at the 2016 MBC Entertainment Awards, which was Solar's first variety show award as an entertainer. She was also nominated for 'Rookie Award (Female) in Variety Show' on the same night.[10]

On July 8, 2016, she released the third part of her project with the song "In My Dreams".[11] On February 21, 2017, Solar released the fourth part of the project with the song "Happy People".[12] On October 17, the fifth part was released, it consisted of two singles "Alone People" and "Autumn Letter".[13] On November 15, she was featured on "Cloudy" by Kiggen.[14]

On April 24, 2018, she released her first solo EP, Solar's Emotion, which included previously released covers of several Korean pop songs and her solo version of Mamamoo's "Star Wind Flower Sun," which she wrote herself.[15] To celebrate the release, she held concerts titled 'Solar Concert Blossom' from April 27 to 29 in Seoul and Busan.[16] On August 22, she featured on Ravi's single "Leopard". On October 13, she featured on Cosmic Girl's single "Lie Ya".[17][18]

2019–2021: Solarsido, solo debut and variety show appearances

[edit]
Solar on her way to film for Happy Together 4 in November 2019

On February 21, 2019, Solar launched her personal YouTube channel called "Solarsido" to celebrate her 29th birthday (Korean age). She gained 1 million subscribers in 9 months and revealed on the show Happy Together that her highest earning was approximately 100 million South Korean won in 1 month just from her channel revenue alone.[19] Solar has continued to upload weekly on her channel and gained over 320 million views.

She made her official solo debut with the single "Spit It Out" which was released with a music video on April 23, 2020. The same day, Solar had her debut stage on Mnet's M Countdown.[20] On April 28, she won her first music show award as a solo artist on SBS MTV's The Show.[21]

On November 8, 2020, Solar joined Boss in the Mirror as 'Idol Boss' in episode 81 to 85. She returned as a fixed guest star and panelist for episodes 107 on May 9, 2021, and would subsequently guest star in the following episodes (107 to 109, 115 to 120, and 124 to 126). She became the photoshoot model for Men's Health magazine alongside fellow boss Yang Chi-seung.[22] On May 12, 2021, it was announced that Solar joined Gummy, Lee Seung-chul, Bae Cheol-soo, Jung Jae-hyung, Kim Hyun-chul, and Kang Seung-yoon on KBS audition program The Song We Loved, New Singer show as a judge, her first time taking on such a role.[23] On July 20, 2021, it was announced that Solar joined JTBC's Poongryu – Battle Between the Vocalist as a judge alongside Song Ga-in, Lena Park, Sung Si-kyung, Kim Jong-jin, Lee Juck, and 2PM's Jang Wooyoung.[24]

On December 25, 2021, Solar won her second award as an entertainer and first solo award as an entertainer as 'Best Entertainer in Show and Variety' at the 2021 KBS Entertainment Awards for her work in The Legend, The New Singer and Boss in the Mirror.[25] During her time as a cast member and guest star, Solar recorded minute ratings of 9.7%,[26] 10.6%,[27] 10.8%,[28] and 12.7%.[29]

2022–2024: 容: Face, theatre debut and continued OST and competition judging appearances

[edit]
Solar during "Honey" promotions in 2022

On March 16, 2022, she released her first EP 容: Face and its lead single "Honey".[30] "Honey" was listed as one of the 'Best K-pop Track of 2022' by British magazine Dazed, who described it as a "sweet yet bright and bold song."[31]

On April 6, 2022, South Korean production company EMK Musical announced that Solar would be starring in the 3rd season of the musical Mata Hari as the titular character. The musical ran from May 28 to August 15, 2022,[32] with her performance receiving acclaim from critics. Yang Hyungmo reviewed the performance for Sports Donga, stating that her clear notes and drawn tones exceeded expectations, and she "tore up" the stage.[33] Jo Suhyun noted for Star Daily Korea that it was hard to believe it was her first musical, highlighting her strong presence and singing skills.[34] For her performance, she was nominated for the Best Female Newcomer Award at the 7th Korea Musical Awards on December 20.[35]

On June 1, 2022, Solar was announced to join as a cast member for Season 2 of the popular Korea's first ghost story storytelling program Midnight Ghost Story (also known as Late Night Ghost Talk). She joined actor Lee Yi-kyung, entertainer Kim Sook and Kim Gura as MC and storyteller. First broadcast aired on June 9, 2022, and the show concluded on February 23, 2023. Solar was known as Fully Paid Fairy for obtaining 44 candles in 3 different episodes, the first and only cast member to achieve this. Solar was regarded for her realistic acting, proper diction and ASMR like storytelling, capturing the hearts of viewers.[36]

On August 10, 2022, Solar was announced to join as a judge for JTBC's A Star Is Born alongside Jung Jae-hyung, Sung Si-kyung, Jang Min-ho, Defconn, Yoo Se-yoon, and Kim Feel.[37] On August 22, it was announced that Solar and Mamamoo groupmate Moonbyul would be debuting in the sub-unit group Mamamoo+.[38] The duo released their first single, "Better" featuring rapper Big Naughty, on August 30, 2022.[39]

In October 2022, Solar released the single "After Love" from the Casting in the Corner project with Yesung. The song was a remix of the 2006 version and was released on October 20.[40] On December 28, 2022, Solar released "Paradise" for Channel S' DJ Survival competition show Wet!: World EDM Trend.[41] On March 12, 2024, she released "Eternal" for the OST of Pandora: Beneath the Paradise.[42]

On June 6, Solar was announced as a judge for the show 2023 Veiled Musician alongside Paul Kim, Yang Yo-seob, Son Dong-woon, Yang Da-il, Jeong Dong-hwan, Sole, and Shin Yong jae.[43] On September 23, Solar released the song "Exit" for the OST of The Escape of the Seven.[44] On December 12, she was announced as one of the five judges for Mnet's boy group competition show Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survival alongside Wendy, Seo Eunkwang, Baekho, and Lee Seok-hoon.[45] On March 21, 2024, Solar was announced as one of the coaches for KBS's competition program Make Mate 1.[46]

Solar as Esmeralda in 2024

On November 15, 2023, Solar was cast in the Korean version of Notre-Dame de Paris, scheduled to run from January 24 to March 24, 2024. She would be playing the role of Esmeralda.[47] Solar again received positive reviews for her performance. MyDaily magazine reporter Lee Seung-gil wrote that "Solar's renowned singing ability and performance shines" and noted her dancing ability, stemming from her career as an idol.[48] Sports Q reporter Na Hyein described her casting a perfect due to her "unrivaled explosive vocal range, captivating dance skill, and enchanting eyes and gestures".[49] For her performance, she was nominated for the Female Rookie of the Year award at the 18th Daegu International Musical Awards held on July 8, 2024, her second nomination as a musical actress.[50] Notre-Dame de Paris went on a national tour, touring in cities outside Seoul, with Solar performing in Busan, Daegu, Jinju, Ulsan and Daejeon from April 6 to June 9, 2024.

2024–present: The Return of Solar Emotion, Colours, Musicals, Movie Debut, Expansion to Chinese Market and touring

[edit]

On January 10, 2024, Solar announced the return of her Solar Emotion Project after 5 years with Solar Emotion Part.7, remaking Kim Kwang-seok's "Love Has Gone" (사랑했지만). Solar Emotion Part.7 was released on January 18, 2023.[51][52] IZM critic Jang Junhwan reviewed the cover, regarding it as a "good example of a successful remake" and rated it three out of five stars.[53]

In March 2024, Solar launched her official fanclub called "Yongsoonie" (용순이) to support the release of her new album and concert.[citation needed] On April 8, Solar announced her second EP titled Colours. Colours was released on April 30.[54] On May 7, Solar won her second music show award as a solo artist on SBS MTV's The Show for "But I". On the same day, she announced her second solo concert titled "Colours", performing at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall on June 1 and 2, 2024.[55] The tour went on from June to October, with stops in Manila, Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Macau.[56]

On October 14, 2024, Solar announced the return of her Solar Emotion Project with a teaser of Solar Emotion Part. 8 drawing film that was posted on her official social media pages.[57] The project includes a remake of "First Love" by Hikaru Utada and "Love Letter" (나 그대에게 모두 드리리) by Lee Jang Hee. A mood sampler was released on October 20, 2024, with the sound of cassette tape and Solar's narration about her first love "To my first love, I will remember the love you taught me for the rest of my life". Solar then puts a letter in the mailbox after much thought. The video contains the unique loneliness and warmth of autumn, catches the eyes of fans.[58] On October 21, Solar announced her first talk concert "Know Your Place" for November 17.[59] "Colors" was listed as the "Top 50 best K-pop tracks of 2024" by British magazine Dazed, highlighting the song as a rare example of diverse LGBTQ+ representation in K-pop.[60]

On October 5, 2024, it was announced that Solar would be returning to acting in the supernatural thriller The Cursed directed by Hong Won-ki.[61] The movie was previewed on September 9 and officially released on September 17, 2025. Solar portrays Mi-yeon, who comes to a rural village to fulfill her dream of becoming a famous writer.[62]

On October 11, 2024, EMK Musical released a teaser featuring Solar's silhouette.[citation needed] Three days later, EMK Musical officially announced Solar as a returning cast member for the fourth season of Mata Hari, premiering on December 5, 2024, until March 2, 2025.[63][64]

On April 2, 2025, Solar released her second single album titled "Want" accompanied with a music video.[65] On June 11, she released her first Chinese language single, "Floating Free".[66][67] On June 22, she held her first solo concert titled Floating Free: Between, in Taipei, Taiwan.[68] On August 23, she held her first fan-meeting titled "Floating Free: My Heart is Beating at This Moment", in Chongqing, China, entirely in Chinese.[69] On October 11 and 12, 2025, Solar performed her third solo concert, titled Solaris, performing in Seoul, South Korea at Yonsei University Centennial Hall.[70][71] She went on to perform in Hong Kong, Kaohsiung, Singapore and Taipei from October 25 to November 30, 2025.[72]

On August 2, 2025, Solar appeared as a special cast member on Hangout with Yoo in the 80s MBC Seoul Song Festival. Solar performed songs such as Dear J. by Lee Sun-hee, I Still Don't Know Love by Lee Ji-yeon with Liz, and RalRal, and finally performed Beautiful Landscape by Lee Sun-hee on the finale episode of the Festival. Solar also performed "I Love You" by Go Eun Hui and Lee Jeong Ran with RalRal on the Chuseok special episode.

On September 23, 2025, Solar was cast as Sugar in the South Korean production of Sugar, scheduled to run from December 12, 2025 until February 22, 2026. Solar stars alongside Um Ki-joon, Yoo Yeon-jung, Lee Hong-gi, Nam Woo-hyun, Jung Taek-woon, Yang Seo-yoon, Kim Beom-rae, Kim Hyung-mook, Song Won-geun, Kim Na-hee, Ryubi, Kim Bong-hwan and Cho Nam-hee. Solar's character, Sugar Kane, is a pure-hearted vocalist yearning for love.[73] Sugar continued to go on a national musical tour to Cheongju and Busan on March 27-28, 2026, and April 10, 2026, respectively, marking her second national tour as a musical actress.

On March 9, 2026, Solar released her second Chinese single titled "總有一顆屬於的星球 (There's Always a Planet that Belongs to You)" (Official English Title: Your Own Star) a collaboration with Top Gen-Z band Accusefive. The song was released in digital format, alongside a music video and photobook. The song was number 1 on Taiwan iTunes chart and its music video was the number 1 trending video on Taiwan YouTube Chart, cementing her prominence in the Chinese music market.[74] Solar performed and attended 2026 Weibo GALA - Weibo Cultural Communication Night in Macau, China on April 11, 2026, where she won "Outstanding Vocal Artist of the Year", further showcasing her dedication and expansion in the Chinese and Greater China market.[75][76] On April 22, 2026, Solar released a solo version and special clip of "總有一顆屬於的星球 (There's Always a Planet that Belongs to You)" (Official English Title: Your Own Star).[77][78]

Impact and influence

[edit]

In 2016, Solar was ranked as the 18th and 10th most popular K-pop idol according to Women in the age range of 19–29 years old in annual surveys conducted by Gallup Korea. Additionally, in 2017, she ranked 19th most popular K-pop idol in the same surveys conducted by Gallup Korea.[79][80]

Other ventures

[edit]

Endorsements

[edit]

On April 27, 2019, Solar was selected as Lipton's 5th Lipton Girl for their 'Iced Tea' Campaign.[81] On April 22, 2020, Solar was selected as brand muse for beauty brand Blancow. She was chosen for her "clean skin" and "bright and lively energy" that go well with the brand image that pursues bare-faced confidence.[82] On April 15, 2021, Solar renewed her contract with Blancow as an exclusive model. Solar's candid charms to pursue "bare-faced confidence", matched well with the image pursued by Blancow. It was considered positively that it brought about a synergistic effect.[83] On May 14, 2021, Solar was selected as one of the musicians and content creator collaborating with Samsung to commemorate the launch of Samsung's Galaxy Book series with a 'Galaxy Live Quiz Show' (Gala Show), as well as promotional advertisements alongside fellow musician and content creator Gray.[84] On April 25, 2022, Solar was selected as the face for 'New Gyeonggi-do Song' titled "Relaxing in Gyeonggi-do" by the Gyeonggi Province to support residents who are exhausted from the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic.[85][86]

On September 16, 2025, Solar was selected as the promotional ambassador for Shin Kong Mitsukoshi SO LOVE anniversary celebration in Taiwan.[87] On October 21, 2025, Solar was announced as the promotional ambassador for Garena mobile game Arena of Valor's 9th anniversary, voicing the character "Yena". On October 25, 2025, Solar sang its new theme song titled "Come Away With Me (Just Waiting for You)".[88]

On March 25, 2026, Taiwanese game "Star 3 Missing 1" 《明星3缺1》 or better known as Celebrity Mahjong released multiple promotional commercial videos of Solar as their brand ambassador, making her their first Korean star to promote the game. This marks her third advertisement in Taiwan, ensuring her expansion to Chinese and Greater China markets.[89]

Philanthropy

[edit]

On September 27, 2021, Solar participated in World's Vision 'Girl's 60 Days' campaign. The campaign aimed to help girls of their rights to protection for matters such as early marriage, school interruption, and reproductive diseases. Specifically, the campaign aimed to protect the rights of girls daily lives of girls overseas who suffer unwanted pain during the average menstrual period of 60 days per year. Solar participated without hesitation, stating "I have always been interested in the problems that girls around the world are experiencing, and it is an honor to participate in spreading good influence."[90]

Discography

[edit]

Extended plays

[edit]
Title EP details Peak chart positions Sales
KOR
[91]
Solar Emotion N/A
容: Face
  • Released: March 16, 2022
  • Label: RBW
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
7
Colours
  • Released: April 30, 2024
  • Label: RBW
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
14
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released in that region.
N/A denotes data that are not available.

Single albums

[edit]
Title Album details Peak chart positions Sales
KOR
[91]
Spit It Out
  • Released: April 23, 2020
  • Label: RBW
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
2
Solar Emotion Part.7 (Limited Album)
  • Released: January 18, 2024
  • Label: RBW
  • Formats: Cassette tape, digital download, streaming
7
Solar Gamsung Part.8 (Extremely Limited Album)
  • Released: October 29, 2024
  • Label: RBW
  • Formats: Cassette tape, digital download, streaming
38
Want
  • Released: April 2, 2025
  • Label: RBW
  • Formats: QR card, digital download, streaming
13
Floating Free
  • Released: July 4, 2025
  • Label: RBW, Seed Music TW 種子音樂
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
"—" denotes releases that did were not released in that region.

Singles

[edit]

As lead artist

[edit]
List of singles as lead artist, showing year released, selected chart positions, and name of the album
Title Year Peak chart
positions
Album
KOR
[98]
KOR
Hot

[99]
SGP
Reg.

[100]
US
World

[101]
"Spit It Out" (뱉어) 2020 71 37 19 6 Non-album single
"Honey" () 2022 [A] 13 容 : Face
"But I" (벗 아이) 2024 [B] Colours
"Colors" [C]
"Want" (원트) 2025 [D] Non-album singles
"Floating Free" (with 9m88)
"Your Own Star" (總有一顆屬於的星球) (Solar x Accusefive) 2026
"—" denotes releases that did not chart.

Remakes

[edit]
List of remakes singles, showing year released, selected chart positions, sales figures, and name of the album
Title Year Peak chart
positions
Sales Album
KOR
[105]
"Lived Like a Fool" (바보처럼 살았군요) 2015 43 Solar Emotion Part.6
"Only Longing Grows" (그리움만 쌓이네) 69
"In My Dreams" (꿈에) 2016 72
"Happy People" (행복을 주는 사람) 2017 49
"Autumn Letter" (가을 편지) N/A
"Alone People" (외로운 사람들) [E]
"Nada Sou Sou" (눈물이 주룩주룩) 2018 [F] N/A
"Love Has Gone" (사란했지만) 2024 [G] N/A Solar Emotion Part.7
"First Love" 2024 N/A Solar Emotion Part.8
"Love Letter" (나 그대에게 모두 드리리) 2024 N/A Solar Emotion Part.8
"—" denotes releases that did not chart.
N/A denotes data that are not available.

Collaborations

[edit]
List of collaboration singles, showing year released, selected chart positions, sales figures, and name of the album
Title Year Peak chart
positions
Sales Album
KOR
[114]
"Coffee & Tea"
(with Eddy Kim)
2015 53 Dokkun Project Part.4
"Angel"
(with Wheein)
2016 26 Memory
"Mellow" (꿀이 떨어져)
(with Hwang Chi-yeul)
48 Fall In, Girl Volume.2
"Honey Bee"
(with Luna and Hani)
2017 38 Non-album singles
"Charm of Life"
(with Heechul, Shindong, Eunhyuk)
N/A
"A Song from the Past" (이 노랜 꽤 오래된 거야)
(with Kassy)
2020 58
"Promise U"[H]
(with Moonbyul)
2021 172 Revibe Vol.1
"Bada Boom"
(with Moonbyul, Mismolly & Turns)
2022 [I] Street Dance Girls Fighter (SGF) Special
"After Love"
(with Yesung)
[J] Non-album singles
"—" denotes releases that did not chart.
N/A denotes data that are not available.
[edit]
List of singles as featured artist, showing year released, selected chart positions, sales figures, and name of the album
Title Year Peak chart
positions
Sales Album
KOR
[121]
"Love Again"
(Yang Da-il feat. Solar)
2016 [K] Non-album single
"Cloudy"
(Kiggen feat. Solar)
2017 N/A Cloudy
"Lie Ya"
(Cosmic Girl feat. Solar)
2018 Non-album single
"Leopard"
(Ravi feat. Solar)
2019 Nirvana II
"Bubble Love"
(MC Mong feat. Solar)
2021 143 20th Anniversary Edition "Dark Hole"
"—" denotes releases that did not chart.
N/A denotes data that are not available.

Soundtrack appearances

[edit]
List of soundtrack singles, showing year released, selected chart positions, sales figures, and name of the album
Title Year Peak chart
positions
Sales Album
KOR
[124]
"Star" ()
(with Kim Min-jae)
2015 68 Twenty Again OST Part. 6
"Blue Bird"
2020 [L] N/A Run On OST Part. 3
"Adrenaline" 2021 [M] Vincenzo OST Part. 3
"Always, Be with You" (나는 그대고 그대는 나였다) 153 Lovers of the Red Sky OST Part. 2
"Winterblooming" (겨울꽃) [N] School 2021 OST
"Dun Dun Dun" (던 던 던)
2022 [O] Kill Heel OST Part. 4
"Paradise" (파라다이스)[130] [P] WET! :World EDM Trend OST
"Eternal" 2023 [Q] Pandora: Beneath the Paradise
"Exit" [R] The Escape of the Seven
"Lean" 2024 [S] Gyeongseong Creature Season 2
"Someone Tell Me" 2025 Moon River
"My Wish" 2026 Everyday We Are (Movie)
"—" denotes releases that did not chart.
N/A denotes data that are not available.

Other charted songs

[edit]
List of soundtrack singles, showing year released, selected chart positions, sales figures, and name of the album
Title Year Peak chart
positions
Sales Album
KOR
[135]
"Like Yesterday" (어제처럼)
(with Moonbyul)
2015 54 Two Yoo Project Sugar Man OST Part 6
"Hello" (Solar solo) 2018 [T] N/A Blue;s
"—" denotes releases that did not chart.
N/A denotes data that are not available.

Composition credits

[edit]

All song credits are adapted from the Korea Music Copyright Association's database unless stated otherwise.[138] Solar has a total of 51 credits as a songwriter and 29 credits as a composer.

Year Artist Song Album Lyrics Music
2015 Mamamoo "Um Oh Ah Yeh" (음오아예) Pink Funky Yes No
"Um Oh Ah Yeh" (Acapella version)
2016 "Taller Than You" (1cm의 자존심) Melting
"My Hometown" (고향이) Yes
"Recipe" (나만의)
"You're the Best" (넌 is 뭔들) No
"Décalcomanie" (데칼코마니) Memory
"I Love Too" (놓지 않을게)
"Memory" (그리고 그리고 그려봐; Draw & Draw & Draw)
2017 "Yes I Am" (나로 말할 것 같으면) Purple
"Aze Gag" (아재개그) Yes
2018 "From Winter to Spring" (겨울에서 봄으로) (intro) Yellow Flower
"Star Wind Flower Sun" (별 바람 꽃 태양)
Solar "Star Wind Flower Sun" (별 바람 꽃 태양)[U] Solar Emotion
Mamamoo "Sleep in the Car" (잠이라도 자지) Red Moon
Cosmic Girl (feat. Solar) "Lie Ya" Non-album single
Mamamoo "No More Drama" Blue;s
"Hello" [V]
2019 "Gogobebe" (고고베베) White Wind No
Ravi (feat. Solar) (prod. Cosmic Boy) "Leopard" Nirvana II Yes
Mamamoo "I'm Your Fan" Reality in Black
2020 Solar & Kassy "A Song from the Past" (이 노랜 꽤 오래된 거야) Non-album single No
Solar "Spit It Out" (뱉어) Spit It Out Yes
2021 Mamamoo "Decalcomanie 2021" I Say Mamamoo: The Best No
"Gogobebe" (Rock ver.) (고고베베)
"Yes I Am" (Funk boost ver.) (나로 말할 것 같으면)
"You're the Best 2021" (넌 is 뭔들 2021)
"Um Oh Ah Yeh 2021" (음오아예 2021)
2022 Solar "RAW" 容: Face
"Honey" () Yes
"Chap Chap" (찹찹)
"Big Booty"
Mamamoo "Decalcomanie" (Japanese ver.) I Say Mamamoo: The Best (Japan Edition) No
"gogobebe" (Japanese ver.)
"1,2,3 Eoi! " (하나둘셋 어이!) Mic On
2023 Mamamoo+ "LLL" ACT 1, SCENE 1 Yes
"Chico malo" (나쁜놈)
"Chico malo" (Aniri ver.) (나쁜놈)
"dangdang" (댕댕) TWO RABBITS
2024 Solar "Colors" Colours
"But I" (벗 아이) No
"Empty" () Yes
"Easy Peasy"
"Blues"
2025 "Floating Free" (with. 9m88) [citation needed] Floating Free No
"Floating Free" (Solar Ver.) [citation needed]
"Floating Free" (Korean Ver.) [citation needed]
2026 "Your Own Star" (總有一顆屬於的星球) (Solar x Accusefive) [citation needed] Your Own Star (總有一顆屬於的星球) (Solar x Accusefive) Yes
Mamamoo "4 Flowers" 4WARD
"4 Flowers (Acoustic Remix)"
"4 Flowers (Latin Remix)"
"4 Flowers (Inst.}" [citation needed] N/a

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Ref.
2025 The Cursed Mi-yeon [61][62]

Television series

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2015 Imaginary Cat Jung Soo-in First acting debut role [139]
2016 Entourage Herself Cameo (Episode 1) [140]

Television shows

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2015 King of Mask Singer Contestant Episode 21–22 as "Single Hearted Sunflower" [141]
2016 Duet Song Festival Episode 1, 21, 23–24 [citation needed]
We Got Married Cast member Episode 316–348 with Eric Nam [142]
2020 Gamsung Camping with Park Na-rae, Ahn Young-mi, Son Na-eun, Park So-dam [143]
Boss in the Mirror Episode 81–85, 107–109, 115–120, 124–126 [citation needed]
2021 The Song We Loved, New Singer Judge Episode 1–10 [144]
Poongryu – Battle Between the Vocalist Episode 1–12 [145]
2022 Local Dining Table Special MC Episode 3–4 [146]
Late Night Ghost Talk Season 2 MC Episode 49–70 [147]
Star Birth Star Maker/Judge Episode 1–11 [148]
2023 Late Night Ghost Talk Season 2 MC Episode 75–78, 80–81, 100 [147]
WET! : World EDM Trend Special Judge Episode 9 [149]
2023 Veiled Musician Judge Episode 1–10 [150]
2024 Make My Boyfriend a Handsome Guy MC and Panelist Episode 1–10 [citation needed]
Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survival Judge Episode 1–10 [151]
Make Mate 1 Coach/C-Mate Episode 4–10 [46]
Glam Me Season 3 MC Episode 1–6 [152]
2025 Glam Me Season 3 Episode 1–6 [152]
Hangout with Yoo Special Cast Episode 291, 294–301 [153]
Ttorora Cast member Episode 1–7 [154]
2026 [155]

Host

[edit]
Year Title Notes Ref.
2016
2016 Gaon Chart Music Awards With Leeteuk [citation needed]
2017 KBS Gayo Daechukje With Mingyu, Yerin and Kang Daniel [156]
2019 Genie Music Awards Ambassador with Yoon Bomi
2021 KBS Entertainment Awards Award Presenter with Park Myungsoo

Radio shows

[edit]
Year Title Role Ref.
2022 Dream Radio DJ Special (2 weeks) [157]

Theatre

[edit]
Year English title Korean title Role Venue Dates Ref.
2022 Mata Hari 마타하리 Mata Hari Charlotte Theater May 28 – August 15, 2022 [32]
2024 Notre-Dame de Paris 노트르담 드 파리 Esmeralda Sejong Center January 24 – March 24, 2024 [158]
Notre-Dame de Paris in Busan Sohyang Theater Shinhan Card Hall April 6–7, 2024 [159]
Notre-Dame de Paris in Daegu Keimyung Art Center April 13–14, 2024 [160]
Notre-Dame de Paris in Jinju Gyeongnam Culture and Arts Center Grand Performance Hall May 19, 2024 [citation needed]
Notre-Dame de Paris in Ulsan Ulsan Culture and Arts Center Main Performance Hall May 25, 2024 [citation needed]
Notre-Dame de Paris in Daejeon Daejeon Arts Center Art Hall June 9, 2024 [161]
Mata Hari 마타하리 Mata Hari LG Arts Center December 5, 2024 – March 2, 2025 [162][63]
2025 Mata Hari 마타하리 Mata Hari LG Arts Center December 5, 2024 – March 2, 2025 [162][63]
Sugar 슈가 Sugar KEPCO Art Center December 12, 2025 – February 22, 2026 [73]
2026 Sugar KEPCO Art Center December 12, 2025 – February 22, 2026 [73]
Sugar in Cheongju Cheongju Arts Center March 27, 2026–March 28, 2026 [163]
Sugar in Busan Busan Citizens' Hall April 10, 2026 [164]

Concerts and tours

[edit]
Solar Emotion Concert "Blossom" (2018)[165]
Date City Country Venue
April 27, 2018 Seoul South Korea Ewha Womans University
April 28, 2018
April 29, 2018
June 16, 2018 Busan Sohyang Theater Shinhan Card Hall
June 17, 2018
Solar 2nd Concert "Colours" in Asia (2024)[56]
Date City Country Venue
June 1, 2024 Seoul South Korea Blue Square Mastercard Hall
June 2, 2024
June 16, 2024 Manila Philippines The Theatre at Solaire
June 22, 2024 Kaohsiung Taiwan Kaohsiung Music Center
June 28, 2024 Kawasaki Japan Cultzz Kawasaki
June 29, 2024
July 7, 2024 Hong Kong China AsiaWorld–Expo
July 14, 2024 Taipei Taiwan Taipei International Convention Center
July 27, 2024 Singapore Capitol Theatre
October 6, 2024 Macau China Broadway Theatre
Solar 1st Talk Concert "Know Your Place/[Topic: Understanding]" (2024–2025)[59]
Date City Country Time Venue
November 17, 2024 Seoul South Korea 1 PM Yonsei University Centennial Concert Hall
November 17, 2024 Seoul South Korea 5 PM Yonsei University Centennial Concert Hall
January 12, 2025 Taipei Taiwan 1 PM Legacy TERA
January 12, 2025 Taipei Taiwan 6 PM Legacy TERA
Solar 1st FAN CONCERT [Floating Free: Between] (2025)[68]
Date City Country Venue
June 22, 2025 Taipei Taiwan Taipei International Convention Center
Solar 1st FAN MEETING [Floating Free: My Heart is Beating at This Moment] (2025)[69]
Date City Country Venue
August 23, 2025 Chongqing China Chongqing Private Venue
Solar 3rd CONCERT "Solaris" (2025)[71][72]
Date City Country Venue
October 11, 2025 Seoul Korea Yonsei University Centennial Concert Hall
October 12, 2025 Seoul Korea Yonsei University Centennial Concert Hall
October 25, 2025 Hong Kong Hong Kong AXA Dreamland
November 2, 2025 Kaohsiung Taiwan Kaohsiung Music Center
November 22, 2025 Singapore Arena @ EXPO
November 30, 2025 Taipei Taiwan Taipei International Convention Center
Solar Live Concert [Your Own Star Live] (2026)[166]
Date City Country Venue
May 10, 2026 Taipei Taiwan Taipei International Convention Center

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Name of the award ceremony, year presented, category, nominee of the award, and the result of the nomination
Award ceremony Year Category Nominee / Work Result Ref.
Daegu International Musical Festival 2024 Rookie of the Year (Female Actress) Esmeralda in Notre Dame de Paris Nominated [167]
KBS Entertainment Awards 2021 Best Entertainer Award in Variety Show The Song We Loved, New Singer &
Boss in the Mirror
Won [168]
Excellence Award in Reality Category Nominated [169]
Korea Musical Awards 2023 Best Newcomer Award (Female Actress) Mata Hari in Mata Hari Nominated [35]
MBC Entertainment Awards 2016 Best Couple Solar (with Eric Nam) in We Got Married Won [170]
Female Rookie Award in Variety Show We Got Married Nominated [citation needed]
Weibo Gala - Weibo Cultural Communication Night 2026 Outstanding Vocal Artist of The Year Solar Won [171]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Solar (born Kim Yong-sun on February 21, 1991) is a South Korean singer, songwriter, actress, and musical theater performer.[1] She serves as the leader and main vocalist of the girl group MAMAMOO, which debuted on June 18, 2014, with the single "Mr. Ambiguous" under RBW Entertainment (formerly WA Entertainment).[2] Solar began her solo career on April 23, 2020, with the single album Spit It Out, marking her as the final MAMAMOO member to launch a solo project and achieving a debut at No. 12 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart.[3] Born in the Gangseo District of Seoul, South Korea, Solar grew up with an older sister, Kim Yong-hee, and attended Modern K Music Academy, where she trained for approximately three years in vocals before debuting with MAMAMOO.[2] She also holds an associate degree in international tourism from Hanyang Women's University.[4] As MAMAMOO's leader, Solar has contributed to the group's signature vocal-driven style and hits like "Um Oh Ah Yeh" and "Starry Night," while participating in subunits such as MAMAMOO+ with Moonbyul, releasing tracks like "Better" in 2022.[5] In her solo endeavors, she released her first EP, 容: Face (Yong: Face), in March 2022, featuring the single "Honey," which highlighted her dynamic range and received positive reviews for its energetic production; her second EP, Colours, followed in April 2024, alongside the resumption of her Solar Emotion project with new single installments that year.[6] Solar has expanded into acting and musical theater, appearing in productions and dramas, and continues to perform live, including her third solo concert tour "Solaris" across Asia in late 2025, commencing with shows in Seoul on October 11 and 12.[7] Known for her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, she has earned recognition as one of K-pop's prominent vocalists, contributing to MAMAMOO's reputation for musicality and longevity in the industry.[8] Solar was born Kim Yong-sun on February 21, 1991, in the Gangseo District of Seoul, South Korea.[2] She grew up with her parents and an older sister, Kim Yong-hee.[2] Solar attended Seoul Deunghyeon Elementary School and Myeongdeok Girls' Middle School.[9] She graduated from Seoul Management Information High School and later earned an associate degree in international tourism from Hanyang Women's University.[10] Prior to her debut, she trained in vocals for approximately three years at Modern K Music Academy.[2]

Career

2014–2018: Debut with Mamamoo and Solar Emotion project

Solar debuted as the leader and main vocalist of the South Korean girl group Mamamoo on June 18, 2014, with the release of their debut extended play Hello and its lead single "Mr. Ambiguous".[11] The track showcased Mamamoo's signature blend of powerful vocals and retro-inspired sounds, setting the group apart in the K-pop landscape.[12] As the group's anchor, Solar contributed significantly to their vocal harmony and stage presence, helping Mamamoo gain initial recognition through performances on music shows like Music Bank and Inkigayo.[13] During this period, Mamamoo solidified their rising popularity with a series of successful releases, including the 2015 EP Melting featuring "Um Oh Ah Yeh," which became a sleeper hit and peaked at number three on the Gaon Digital Chart, marking the group's breakthrough.[14] Subsequent hits like 2016's "Décalcomanie" from the EP Melting Pt. 2 further elevated their status, earning critical acclaim for their vocal prowess and earning Mamamoo their first music show wins.[12] By 2017–2018, albums such as Purple and Red Moon demonstrated the group's versatility, with Solar's emotive delivery shining in tracks like "Yes I Am" and "Star Wind Flower Sun," contributing to Mamamoo's reputation as one of K-pop's premier vocal ensembles.[15] In parallel to her group activities, Solar launched the Solar Emotion project—also known as Solar Gamsung—in October 2015 as an informal solo endeavor to reinterpret classic Korean trot and ballad songs in a modern style.[16] The series began with Part 1, a cover of Lee Mi-ja's "Lived Like a Fool" (바보처럼 살았군요), which highlighted Solar's vocal range and emotional depth, followed by subsequent installments like Part 2's "Longing Piles Up" (그리움만 쌓이네) in 2016.[14] Over the next three years, she released six parts in total, each featuring remakes of vintage tracks by artists such as Choi Jin-shil and Kim Wan-sun, aiming to bridge generational gaps through her soulful renditions.[17] The project culminated in 2018 with the release of Part 6 on April 24, accompanied by four music videos that emphasized its thematic focus on sensitivity and nostalgia.[17] To celebrate, Solar held her first solo concert, Solar's Emotion Concert Blossom, from April 27 to 29 at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, where she performed the covers alongside Mamamoo tracks, drawing fans to experience her individual artistry.[18] This initiative not only marked Solar's early steps toward solo exploration but also underscored her commitment to preserving and revitalizing Korean musical heritage.[19]

2019–2021: Solarsido, solo debut and variety show appearances

In February 2019, Solar launched her personal YouTube channel, Solarsido, as a platform for sharing vlogs, challenges, mukbangs, and collaborations with guests from the entertainment industry.[20] The channel's name combines her stage name with the solfège syllables "sol," "la," "si," and "do," reflecting her musical background, and it quickly attracted subscribers through her energetic and relatable content, including dance covers and lifestyle segments.[20] Solar made her solo debut on April 23, 2020, with the single album Spit It Out, under RBW. The title track, "Spit It Out" (뱉어), is a bold hip-hop and pop fusion co-composed and co-written by Solar, highlighting her powerful vocals and confident stage presence through intense choreography and fiery visuals in the music video.[21] The release marked her as the third Mamamoo member to pursue solo activities, following Hwasa and Moonbyul, and received positive reception for its empowering message and her artistic direction.[21] Expanding into variety television, Solar joined the fixed cast of JTBC's Gamsung Camping (감성캠핑), which premiered on October 13, 2020, alongside Park Na-rae, Ahn Young-mi, Park So-dam, and Son Na-eun.[22] The show featured the group embarking on scenic camping trips across South Korea, blending outdoor adventures with comedic interactions and personal stories, where Solar often showcased her enthusiasm for nature and cooking mishaps. In 2021, she made guest appearances on tvN's The Sixth Sense Season 2 in Episode 6 (aired July 30), teaming up with Moonbyul to discern real from fake scenarios in a humorous, intuition-based format.[23] Later that year, on September 25, Solar performed a dramatic rendition of Seoraksan's "With You" (님과 함께) as a solo contestant on KBS's Immortal Songs 2, earning praise for her emotional delivery and stage adaptation of the classic ballad.[24] She also served as a judge on JTBC's Joseon Top Singer starting September 28, 2021, evaluating contestants in a Korean traditional music crossover competition alongside artists like Lee Juck and Sung Si-kyung.

2022–2024: 容: Face , theatre debut and continued OST and competition judging appearances

In March 2022, Solar released her debut extended play, 容: Face, through RBW, marking her first major solo project following a series of digital singles. The EP, which translates to "容: Face" and explores themes of self-expression through diverse musical styles, features five tracks: "RAW," the lead single "HONEY" (꿀), "Chap Chap" (찹찹), "Big Booty," and "Zinggle Zinggle" (징글징글). "HONEY," a groovy R&B track co-written and co-composed by Solar, served as the title track and was promoted with music video performances emphasizing her charismatic vocals and dance. The album debuted at number one on the worldwide iTunes Top Albums chart and topped iTunes charts in at least 20 countries, including Brazil, Indonesia, and Singapore, while achieving over 37,000 first-week physical sales in South Korea, the highest for a female solo artist that week.[25][26][27] That May, Solar made her theatre debut as the titular character in the Korean production of the musical Mata Hari, double-cast alongside veteran actress Ock Joo-hyun for its third season running from May 28 to August 28 at the Blue Square Hall in Seoul. The role, portraying the historical figure Margaretha Zelle as a dancer and spy entangled in romance and espionage, showcased Solar's vocal range in numbers like "Mata Hari" and "I Am What I Am," earning her a nomination for Best New Actress at the 7th Korea Musical Awards. She reprised the role in a limited encore run from December 2024 to March 2025, refining her performance based on feedback from her initial outing. In 2024, Solar expanded her stage presence by taking on the lead role of Esmeralda in the Korean adaptation of Notre-Dame de Paris, performing from March to June across venues like the SG Wannabe Hall, where her emotive delivery of songs such as "Vivre" highlighted her transition from idol to musical actress.[28][29][30] Throughout the period, Solar maintained a steady presence in original soundtracks for popular dramas, contributing her versatile voice to emotional ballads and dramatic pieces. In April 2022, she sang "Dun Dun Dun" for the tvN series Kill Heel, a rock-infused track that underscored the protagonist's intense revenge narrative and peaked within the top 50 on domestic digital charts. The following year, she released "Eternal" in March for tvN's Pandora: Beneath the Paradise, a poignant piano-driven ballad reflecting isolation and longing that accompanied key scenes of psychological thriller elements. Later in September 2023, "EXIT" appeared in SBS's The Escape of the Seven, a suspenseful mid-tempo song about breaking free from deception, which gained traction on streaming platforms amid the show's high ratings. She closed the era with "LEAN" for the second season of The Escape of the Seven in September 2024, an upbeat yet introspective number emphasizing resilience that featured in promotional teasers and episode climaxes.[31][32] Solar also took on judging roles in vocal competitions, leveraging her expertise as Mamamoo's lead vocalist to mentor emerging talents. In 2023, she joined the judging panel for Wavve's Veiled Musician, a masked singer reveal show where contestants performed anonymously; alongside Paul Kim, Yang Yoseob, and others, she evaluated vocal techniques and stage presence across 10 episodes, culminating in a finale that highlighted her insightful critiques on emotional delivery. Later that year, from December 2023 to February 2024, Solar served as a vocal judge on Mnet's Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survival, coaching 40 male trainees in harmony and performance skills; paired with Lee Seok-hoon, Baekho, Seo Eunkwang, and Wendy, her guidance helped form the boy group We;rd, with episodes focusing on a cappella challenges and group formations. These appearances solidified her reputation as a vocal authority in the industry.[33][34]

2024–present: The Return of Solar Emotion , Colours and touring

On January 10, 2024, Solar announced the revival of her long-running Solar Emotion project, which had been dormant since 2018, with the upcoming release of Part.7.[35] The single, a remake of Kim Kwang-seok's "Love Has Gone," was released on January 18, 2024, featuring Solar's emotive vocals over a stripped-down arrangement that emphasized themes of lost love and nostalgia.[36] This installment marked her return to the project's signature style of reinterpreting classic Korean ballads, receiving positive feedback for its heartfelt delivery and production.[37] Building on this momentum, Solar released her second mini-album, Colours, on April 30, 2024, through RBW.[38] The album showcased a diverse palette of genres—including house, rock, pop ballad, R&B, folk, and blues—across six tracks, with "But I" serving as the lead single, a powerful R&B-infused ballad highlighting her vocal range and emotional depth. Colours explored themes of self-expression and personal growth, with Solar contributing to the lyrics and creative direction to reflect her evolving artistry.[39] The release was accompanied by a pop-up exhibit in Seoul from April 27 to May 7, 2024, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the album's visual and thematic elements.[40] To promote Colours, Solar embarked on her second solo concert tour, titled Solar 2nd Concert [Colours], her first Asia-wide tour in six years.[39] The tour kicked off with two shows at Blue Square Mastercard Hall in Seoul on June 1 and 2, 2024, where she performed a setlist themed around colors, incorporating dynamic stage elements like lighting and costume changes to match tracks such as the upbeat "Colors" opener and high-energy voguing segments. Subsequent stops included Manila on June 16, Kaohsiung on June 29–30, Kawasaki on July 13, Singapore on July 20, Hong Kong on July 7, and Macau on July 28, drawing enthusiastic crowds and praise for her live vocal prowess and engaging interactions.[41] The tour highlighted Solar's growth as a solo performer, blending Colours material with Mamamoo hits and covers. In October 2024, Solar continued the Solar Emotion project with Part.8, announced on October 14 and released on October 29, featuring a remake of the sentimental ballad "First Love."[42] The track, accompanied by a drawing film teaser, evoked autumnal introspection and was promoted through overseas pop-up shops starting October 30.[19] In June 2025, Solar released her Chinese single album Floating Free, featuring the title track with Taiwanese singer 9m88, marking her official debut in the Mandarin market. A Korean version of the track followed shortly after.[43][44] Extending her touring activities into 2025, Solar launched her third solo concert series, Solar 3rd Concert [Solaris], an Asia tour beginning with back-to-back performances at Yonsei University Centennial Memorial Concert Hall in Seoul on October 11 and 12.[45] The production emphasized her musical theater influences and vocal experimentation, with setlists incorporating recent releases alongside fan favorites.[46] The tour proceeded to Hong Kong, Kaohsiung (completed November 2), and was scheduled for Singapore on November 22 at The Arena @ EXPO, followed by Taipei, underscoring her expanding international presence as a solo artist.[47]

Impact and influence

As the leader and main vocalist of MAMAMOO, Solar has played a pivotal role in establishing the group as a cornerstone of vocal excellence in K-pop, emphasizing live performance prowess and musical diversity over typical idol tropes. Her powerful vocals and stage presence have earned her recognition as one of the industry's top vocalists, contributing to MAMAMOO's longevity and influence on subsequent acts prioritizing talent-driven music.[48] She is widely regarded as MAMAMOO's most popular and influential member, often credited with embodying the group's charismatic "face."[15] In her solo career, Solar has extended her impact by advocating for self-expression and inclusivity. Her 2024 EP Colours features tracks like the title song that promote confidence in one's unique identity, reflecting her commitment to diversity in K-pop narratives.[49] Additionally, her ventures into musical theater, such as her role in Mata Hari, have highlighted her versatility, inspiring broader appreciation for K-pop idols in performing arts as of 2025.[29]

Endorsements

Solar has served as a brand ambassador and model for various companies. In April 2019, she was selected as the fifth "Lipton Girl" for Lipton's iced tea campaign in South Korea.[50] In April 2020, Solar became the exclusive model for the skincare brand BLANCOW, promoting its natural beauty products. She renewed her contract with the brand in April 2021.[51] In September 2025, she was appointed as the promotional ambassador for Shin Kong Mitsukoshi's 2025 anniversary celebration, with the slogan "So Love".[52] In October 2025, Solar was announced as the promotional ambassador for Garena's mobile game Arena of Valor 9th anniversary campaign, where she voiced the character Yena.[53] In November 2025, she became an advertising model for DJB eSIM, a travel connectivity service, and promoted it during the Taipei International Travel Fair 2025.[54]

Philanthropy

Solar has engaged in various philanthropic efforts, including volunteering and donations to support social welfare and children's rights. In February 2018, she donated 1 million Indonesian rupiah (approximately 80 USD) to UNICEF Indonesia's programs.[55] On September 7, 2020, Solar participated in the "Social Welfare Day Challenge" by volunteering at the "Beautiful Store," a thrift shop that recycles donated goods and donates profits to welfare causes. She sorted clothes, operated the cash register, and donated her own items to raise awareness.[56] In 2021, she joined World Vision's "Girl's 60 Days" campaign, aimed at protecting girls from issues like early marriage and menstrual health challenges in regions affected by poverty and conflict. Solar expressed her commitment to using her influence for positive change.[57] That October, she performed at the "World is One 2021" online charity concert organized by MBC to aid children impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, covering songs like "Hello" and collaborating on "Man in the Mirror."[58] Also in 2021, Solar donated two wigs to the Weaja Sharing Market, a platform for sharing items to support those in need.[59]

Discography

Extended plays

Solar released her first extended play, Solar Emotion Part. 6, on April 24, 2018, serving as the culmination of her Solar Emotion remake project.[60] The EP features four tracks, including covers of classics such as "Where the Wind Rises" by Kim Kwang-seok and "Nada Sou Sou" by Rimi Natsukawa, alongside "It's Been a Long Time" and a solo version of Mamamoo's "Star Wind Flower Sun."[61] It was issued in both CD and vinyl formats by RBW, marking her initial foray into multi-track solo releases focused on emotional ballads.[60] Her official solo debut EP, 容: Face, arrived on March 16, 2022, via RBW, showcasing a bolder, retro-inspired sound with five original tracks.[62] Led by the upbeat title track "Honey," the project includes "RAW" (an intro), "Chap Chap," "Big Booty," and "Zinggle Zinggle," all co-written by Solar to explore themes of self-expression and sensuality.[63] The EP topped iTunes album charts in over 20 countries upon release, highlighting her international appeal.[25] Solar's second EP, Colours, was released on April 30, 2024, also by RBW, expanding on her versatile style with six tracks that blend pop, R&B, and emotional depth.[38] The title track "But I" leads the set, accompanied by "Colors," "Empty (텅)," "Honey Honey," "Easy Peasy," and "Blues," with Solar contributing lyrics to multiple songs to convey multifaceted emotions. This release followed a two-year hiatus from full-length projects and emphasized her growth as a songwriter and performer.
TitleRelease dateLabelFormat(s)No. of tracksLead single(s)
Solar Emotion Part. 6April 24, 2018RBWCD, digital, LP4"Nada Sou Sou"
容: FaceMarch 16, 2022RBWCD, digital5"Honey"
ColoursApril 30, 2024RBWCD, digital6"But I"

Single albums

Solar's single albums represent her focused forays into standalone releases outside of her extended plays and project singles, emphasizing bold, character-driven concepts through limited tracklists. Her debut single album, Spit It Out, was released on April 23, 2020, under RBW, marking her official solo debut after years of group activities with Mamamoo. The album features the title track "Spit It Out," a high-energy Latin pop song with trap influences, co-written and co-composed by Solar herself, alongside producers like GEESE. It explores themes of self-assertion and breaking free from constraints, delivered through Solar's powerful vocals and dynamic choreography. The release also includes an instrumental version, peaked at number 76 on the Gaon Digital Chart, and sold over 84,000 physical copies in South Korea.[21][64] Following a period of extended plays and OST contributions, Solar returned with her second single album, Want, released on April 2, 2025, also under RBW. This release centers on the title track "Want," a confident pop track blending retro synth elements with modern beats, reflecting themes of desire and empowerment. Solar co-composed the song, continuing her hands-on creative involvement. The album comprises the main track and its instrumental. Multiple versions, including PLVE and POCAALBUM editions, were made available, each featuring unique photocards and accessories to engage fans. It sold 11,371 copies on the Circle Album Chart (as of October 2025).[65]

Singles

Solar's singles as a lead artist primarily consist of title tracks from her single albums and mini-albums, marking key milestones in her solo career. Her official solo debut came with the single "Spit It Out" on April 23, 2020, which peaked at number 76 on the Gaon Digital Chart and number 12 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart (later peaking at No. 6).[66][3] Following this, "Honey," the title track from her first mini-album 容: Face, was released on March 16, 2022, showcasing her vocal range in a dance-pop style. "But I," the lead single from her second mini-album Colours, arrived on April 30, 2024, blending R&B and rock elements to address themes of resilience.[67] More recently, "Want" served as the title track for her second single album of the same name, released on April 2, 2025.[68] The remakes category highlights Solar's Solar Emotion (also known as Solar Gamsung or Solar Sensitivity) project, a series of digital singles where she reinterprets classic Korean and Japanese songs to emphasize emotional depth and vocal expression. Launched in 2015, the initial run included eight parts through 2018, starting with "Lived Like a Fool" (a cover of Cho Deok-bae's song) on October 16, 2015, and featuring tracks like "Full Moon" (December 11, 2015), "Because I'm Stupid" (July 8, 2016), "Only You" (October 17, 2016), "To You" (April 24, 2017), "Where the Wind Blows" (April 23, 2018), "Angel" (August 27, 2018), and concluding with "To My Love" (December 24, 2018).[69] The project resumed in 2024 after a five-year hiatus, with Part 7 "Love Has Gone" (a remake of Kim Kwang-seok's track) on January 18, 2024, and Part 8 "First Love" (covering Lee Seung-cheol's song) on October 29, 2024, allowing Solar to revisit nostalgic hits with contemporary arrangements.[70] In collaborations, Solar has partnered with various artists on singles that blend her soulful vocals with diverse genres. Notable examples include "Coffee & Tea" with Eddy Kim on May 28, 2015, under the Dokkun Project, a lighthearted acoustic duet; "Mellow" with Hwang Chi-yeul on December 1, 2016, a warm ballad produced for the winter season; and "Honey Bee" with f(x)'s Amber and EXID's Hani on January 19, 2017, a brassy pop track emphasizing female empowerment.[71][72] More recent efforts feature "Floating Free," her Chinese debut collaboration with Taiwanese singer 9m88 on June 11, 2025 (Korean version July 25, 2025), exploring themes of liberation in an indie-pop style, and "Come Away With Me" for the Arena of Valor 9th anniversary on October 25, 2025.[73] As a featured artist, Solar has contributed vocals to tracks by other performers, enhancing their releases with her distinctive tone. Representative instances include "Love Again" on Yang Da Il's album in April 2016, adding emotional layers to the R&B track; "Cloudy" (Heurim) on Kiggen's release in November 2017, a moody hip-hop collaboration; and "LIE YA" with Cosmic Girl in 2020, infusing pop energy into the group single.[74] These features often highlight her versatility in supporting ensemble dynamics while maintaining her signature warmth.

As lead artist

Remakes

Collaborations

Soundtrack appearances

Solar has made notable contributions to the soundtracks of various South Korean television dramas, showcasing her vocal range through ballads and emotional tracks that complement the narrative themes of longing, romance, and resilience. Her OST appearances often highlight her ability to convey deep sentiment, earning praise for enhancing key dramatic moments.[75]
YearSongDramaNotes
2015"Star" (with Kim Min Jae)Twenty AgainDuet ballad featured in the coming-of-age drama, emphasizing themes of second chances.[76]
2020"Blue Bird"Run OnAcoustic track from Part 3, capturing the joy of companionship amid life's challenges.[75]
2021"Adrenaline"VincenzoUpbeat English-Korean fusion from Part 3, reflecting the thrill and intensity of the legal thriller.[77]
2021"Always, be with you" (나는 그대고 그대는 나였다)Lovers of the Red SkyRomantic ballad from Part 2, underscoring eternal bonds in the historical fantasy.[78]
2021"Winter Flower" (겨울꽃)School 2021Emotional piece from Part 7, portraying youthful aspirations and heartfelt confessions in the educational drama.[79]
2023"Exit"The Escape of the SevenDramatic track highlighting twisted fates and survival in the mystery thriller.[31]
2024"LEAN"Gyeongseong CreatureRestrained ballad expressing subtle joy and reliance, featured in the historical horror series.[80]

Other charted songs

Solar has lent her vocals to several collaborations outside of her main solo releases and soundtrack contributions, with some achieving modest placements on South Korean music charts. These tracks highlight her versatility as a featured artist in various genres, often blending her powerful voice with other performers' styles to create notable singles.
TitleYearPeak chart positionAlbum
"Bubble Love" (MC Mong feat. Solar)2021143 (Circle Digital Chart)20th Anniversary Edition 'Dark Hole'[81]
This collaboration with veteran rapper MC Mong marked a rare entry for Solar on the Circle Digital Chart as a featured vocalist, showcasing a playful hip-hop track with romantic themes. The song's chart performance underscores the enduring popularity of MC Mong's comeback project, where Solar's emotive chorus added emotional depth.[81]

Composition credits

Solar has been actively involved in songwriting and composition since her debut with Mamamoo in 2014, often collaborating on emotional ballads and fan-dedicated tracks for the group before expanding her role in her solo discography. Her contributions emphasize themes of love, self-empowerment, and introspection, blending pop and R&B elements. While primarily known as a vocalist, Solar's compositional work highlights her creative input in crafting melodies and lyrics that resonate with listeners.
YearSongArtist/AlbumRole
2018Star Wind Flower SunMamamoo - Yellow FlowerComposer, co-lyricist
2020Spit It OutSolar - Spit It OutCo-composer, lyricist
2024ColorsSolar - COLOURSSole composer, sole lyricist
2024EmptySolar - COLOURSSole composer, sole lyricist
2024Easy PeasySolar - COLOURSSole composer, sole lyricist
In her solo work, Solar has taken on more prominent roles, such as sole composer for multiple tracks on her 2024 EP COLOURS, where she also handled lyrics to convey messages of self-confidence and diversity. These efforts demonstrate her growth as a multifaceted artist beyond performance.

Filmography

Film

Solar made her feature film debut in the 2025 South Korean supernatural horror film The Cursed (Korean: 귀시; lit. "Ghost Sight"), directed by Hong Won-ki.[82] Released theatrically on September 17, 2025, the film centers on a group of individuals encountering a mysterious ghost market that materializes at night.[83] In the movie, Solar portrays the character Mi-yeon, a supporting role that highlights her transition from music and television to cinematic acting.[84] This debut has been noted for her passionate performance amid the film's eerie atmosphere and ensemble cast, including fellow idols Sumin of STAYC and Eunseo of WJSN.[85]

Television series

Solar made her acting debut in the 2015 South Korean web drama Imaginary Cat (also known as Sangsanggoyangi), which aired on MBC Every1 from November 2015 to January 2016.[86] The series follows the life of a young man named Hyun Jong-hyun (played by Yoo Seung-ho) who inherits a cat café and navigates relationships and personal growth with the help of a stray cat. Solar portrayed Jung Soo-in, the first love of the protagonist, in episodes 2 and 5.[87] This role marked her initial foray into scripted television acting, showcasing her versatility beyond her primary career as a singer in Mamamoo.[88]

Television shows

Solar has frequently appeared on South Korean variety and reality television programs, often showcasing her vocal prowess, humor, and engaging on-screen presence. These appearances have helped establish her as a versatile entertainer beyond her music career with Mamamoo, with roles ranging from guest spots to regular cast members in formats focused on singing competitions, travel, and lifestyle challenges.[22] In 2015, Solar competed on MBC's singing competition King of Mask Singer as the masked contestant "Single Hearted Sunflower," delivering notable performances of ballads like "Already One Year" by Kim Kwang-seok and "Single Hearted Sunflower" by Cho Deok-bae, which highlighted her emotional vocal range.[89][90] She gained significant popularity in 2016 as a regular cast member on MBC's We Got Married Season 4, paired with singer Eric Nam in a fictional marriage format, where their chemistry and lighthearted interactions became a fan favorite, including collaborative performances and date simulations.[91][92] Solar joined KBS2's travel variety Battle Trip in 2017 alongside bandmate Moonbyul, exploring destinations and competing in themed challenges that emphasized group dynamics and cultural experiences.[93] On KBS2's quiz show 1 vs. 100 in 2018, she competed against 100 contestants, sharing entertaining anecdotes from her career, including a humorous story about accidentally eating moths during a live performance.[94] In 2019, Solar guested on tvN's Amazing Saturday with Hwasa, participating in wordplay games and song quizzes that showcased their quick wit and camaraderie.[95] She also impressed audiences on MBC's My Little Television 2 with a pole dancing performance, demonstrating her physical agility and surprising fans with her multifaceted talents.[96][97] Solar appeared as a guest on SBS's Running Man in 2020 (episode 514) with fellow female artists Jessi, Somi, and Lee Young-ji, engaging in playful games and missions that tested teamwork and strategy, where she formed a memorable bond with cast member Song Ji-hyo.[98][99] That same year, she became a regular on JTBC's Emotional Camping (also known as Sentimental Camping), co-starring with Apink's Son Nae-un, comedian Ahn Young-mi, and actress Park So-dam in episodes centered on themed camping trips that blended relaxation, cooking, and personal storytelling.[22][100] In 2021, Solar and Moonbyul guested on tvN's The Sixth Sense Season 2, taking part in lie-detection challenges involving bizarre scenarios and celebrity secrets, contributing to the show's record viewership for that episode.[101][102] She made a surprise guest appearance on MBC's 2 Days & 1 Night Season 4 in 2022, joining the cast for outdoor adventures and games in a royal-themed episode that added a lively energy to the proceedings.[103] More recently, in 2024, Solar shared beauty and health tips as a guest on Olive TV's Glam Me Season 3, drawing from her experiences as an idol to offer practical advice on skincare and wellness routines.[104]

Host

Solar has taken on several hosting roles in South Korean television, showcasing her engaging personality and storytelling abilities, particularly in variety and reality formats. In 2021, she served as a special host on KBS Joy's Ask Us Anything (무엇이든 물어보살), where she assisted the main MCs in addressing viewers' personal concerns and offering advice during the 100th episode broadcast on February 16.[105] In 2022, Solar debuted as a special MC for the first two episodes of MBC's reality show DNA Mate (호적메이트), an observational program exploring celebrity siblings' dynamics, before returning as a guest in later episodes.[10] Later that year, she assumed the role of main host for the second season of MBC's Midnight Horror Story (심야괴담회), a popular ghost storytelling program that premiered on June 9 and ran for 32 episodes until February 23, 2023. As the MC alongside Kim Gura, Kim Sook, and Lee Yi-kyung, Solar shared her passion for supernatural tales, drawing from her trainee days of entertaining fellow Mamamoo members with ghost stories, and contributed to the show's intimate ASMR-style atmosphere that garnered strong viewer engagement.[106] In 2024, Solar co-hosted Make Minam: Change My Man! (MAKE미남 - 바꿔줘! 내 남자), a makeover reality show on LG Hello Vision's the Life channel, which aired from January 23 to March 26. As the sole female MC, she provided energetic commentary and encouragement to participants undergoing transformations to boost their confidence, leveraging her charismatic presence to highlight the emotional journeys of the 20s and 30s male contestants and their loved ones.[107]

Radio shows

Solar has appeared as a special DJ on several radio programs, primarily on MBC FM4U, where she demonstrated her engaging personality and musical insights alongside fellow Mamamoo members or as a solo host.[108] In April 2019, Solar and Moonbyul served as guest DJs for an episode of Starry Night (별이 빛나는 밤), sharing stories from their group activities and interacting with listeners.[109] They reprised the role in September 2019 for a visual radio broadcast of the same program, which included live performances and fan engagement segments.[110] In December 2020, the duo again acted as special DJs for Starry Night, this time under host Sandeul of B1A4, where they discussed their duo project YKBK and performed segments filled with humor and camaraderie.[111] Solar's most extended radio hosting experience occurred in early 2022 on MBC FM4U's Dream Radio (꿈꾸는 라디오), where she took over as special DJ, nicknamed "DJ Yong" after her given name Kim Yong-sun, from January 3 to January 16.[112] Over the 10-episode run, she welcomed notable guests including Moonbyul, WJSN's subgroup Chocome, and GOT7's Yugyeom, blending music recommendations, personal anecdotes, and light-hearted games to create an energetic atmosphere.[113] Her tenure marked a fulfilling realization of her long-held aspiration to host radio, as previously expressed during her 2016 variety appearances.[108]

Theatre

YearTitleRoleNotes
2022Mata Hari (Season 3)Mata HariMusical theater debut; double-cast with Ock Joo-hyun; ran from May 28 to August 15, 2022; nominated for Best New Actress at the 7th Korea Musical Awards.[29]
2024Notre-Dame de Paris (Season 6)EsmeraldaCast with Yuria and Jung Yoo-ji; ran from January 24 to March 24, 2024.[114]
2024–2025Mata Hari (Season 4)Mata HariReprise of title role; double-cast with Ock Joo-hyun; ran from December 5, 2024, to March 2, 2025.[29]
2025–2026Sugar (Season 1)SugarKorean premiere of Broadway musical based on Some Like It Hot; cast with Yang Seo-yoon and Yoo Yeon-jung; scheduled from December 12, 2025, to February 22, 2026, at KEPCO Arts Center.[115]

Concerts and tours

Blossom (2018)

Solar's first solo concert, titled Solar's Emotion Concert Blossom, was held from April 27 to 29, 2018, at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea.[116] An additional performance took place on June 16 and 17, 2018, at Shinhan Card Hall, Sohyang Theater in Busan, South Korea.[117]

COLOURS (2024)

Solar's second solo concert tour, Solar 2ND CONCERT [COLOURS], commenced in June 2024. The tour included the following dates and locations:
DateCityCountryVenue
June 1–2, 2024SeoulSouth KoreaBlue Square Mastercard Hall
June 16, 2024ManilaPhilippinesThe Theatre at Solaire
June 22, 2024KaohsiungTaiwanKaohsiung Music Center
June 28–29, 2024YokohamaJapanPacifico National Convention Center
July 7, 2024Hong KongHong KongAsiaWorld-Expo
July 27, 2024SingaporeSingaporeCapitol Theatre
October 6, 2024MacauMacauBroadway Theatre

Solaris (2025)

Solar's third solo concert tour, Solar 3rd CONCERT [Solaris], began on October 11–12, 2025, at Yonsei University Centennial Hall in Seoul, South Korea. As of November 2025, the tour schedule includes:
DateCityCountryVenue
October 11–12, 2025SeoulSouth KoreaYonsei University Centennial Hall
October 25, 2025Hong KongHong KongAXA Dreamland
November 2, 2025KaohsiungTaiwanKaohsiung Music Center
November 22, 2025SingaporeSingaporeArena @ EXPO
November 30, 2025TaipeiTaiwanVenue TBA

Awards and nominations

YearAwardCategoryRecipientResultRef.
201616th MBC Entertainment AwardsBest CoupleSolar (with Eric Nam) – We Got MarriedWon[118]
201616th MBC Entertainment AwardsFemale Rookie Award in Variety ShowSolar – We Got MarriedNominated[118]
2021KBS Entertainment AwardsBest Entertainer in Show and VarietySolar – New Singer and Boss in the MirrorWon[119]
2021KBS Entertainment AwardsExcellence Award, Reality CategorySolarNominated[118]
20227th Korea Musical AwardsBest New ActressSolar – Mata HariNominated[120]
2023Korea Musical AwardsBest Newcomer Award (Female)Solar – Mata HariNominated
2024Brand of the Year AwardsFemale Solo SingerSolarNominated[121]
202418th DIMF AwardsRookie of the YearSolar – Esmeralda (Notre-Dame de Paris)Nominated[122]

References

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