K-pop has recently become a global phenomenon, and it would be no surprise if YG Entertainment sought to capitalize on it. As one of the leading entertainment companies in South Korea, YG has produced some of the most successful K-pop groups in the industry, namely Big Bang, 2NE1, BLACKPINK, TREASURE, and more, who have made waves in the music scene.

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Now, while the style is similar to that of the previous girl groups from the company, the girls have garnered their spotlight as YG’s newest group BABYMONSTER. They were formed through the reality program Last Evaluation (2023).

This sister group of BLACKPINK has made their debut - twice - and has gained a considerable following with its stunning visuals and charismatic aura. Let's look closer at the 7-member girl group consisting of Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Rami, Rora, and Chiquita and the songs they have released.

Ruka

Position: Leader, Main Dancer, Lead Rapper

Kawai Ruka, born in Japan on March 20, 2002, was officially introduced as the last member on February 6, 2023. Before joining YG Entertainment, she was part of the Japanese girl group, Shibu3 Project. 

Ruka was affiliated with PLATINUM PRODUCTION from 2017 to 2018. She joined YG Entertainment in 2018, auditioning with the song 'Top Off' by DJ Khaled featuring JAY Z, Future, and Beyoncé.

Pharita

Position: Lead Vocalist

Pharita Boonpakdeethaveeyod, also known as Pharita Chaikong, from Thailand, was born on August 26, 2005. She was officially introduced as the sixth member on February 2, 2023.

She auditioned for YG Entertainment in July 2020 and underwent training for two and a half years. Her audition song was 'How You Like That' by BLACKPINK, as her role model is Lisa.

Asa

Position: Main Rapper, Main Dancer, Sub-Vocalist

Enami Asa, hailing from Japan, was born on April 17, 2006. She was unveiled as the fourth member on January 26, 2023. In the final debut announcement, Asa secured the No. 7 spot.

She joined YG Entertainment in 2018 and showcased her talents during her audition with the song 'Weekend Warrior' by 80kidz.

Ahyeon

Position: Lead Vocalist, Lead Rapper, Center

Jung Ahyeon, born on April 11, 2007, in Korea, was unveiled as the second member on January 16, 2023. Notably, in the final debut announcement, Ahyeon clinched the No. 1 spot.

Having undergone four years of training at YG, she earned acceptance in December of 2018 and successfully passed the first-round audition in February. Ahyeon showcased her talents during her audition with 'The Show' by Lenka.

However, just before the group's debut, on November 15, it was announced that Ahyeon would not debut with BABYMONSTER due to health reasons. However, she later rejoined the group.

Rami

Position: Main Vocalist, Lead Dancer, Visual

Hailing from Korea, Shin Haram was born on October 17, 2007, and was initially introduced as the first member on January 12, 2023, under her former stage name, 'Haram'. However, in the final debut announcement, she ranked No. 4 under the name Rami.

Having joined YG Entertainment in August 2018, she showcased her talent during the audition with 'Good Time' by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen, as well as '봐 (Look)' by Red Velvet.

Rora

Position: Main Vocalist, Visual

Lee Dain, born on August 14, 2008, in Korea, was revealed as the fifth member on January 30, 2023. However, in the final debut announcement, she ranked No. 6 under the name Rora.

Before joining YG Entertainment, Rora was a member of the kid-girl group U.SSO Girl, where she performed under the stage name U.ha. Her journey as a trainee began when she received an audition call while in U.SSO Girl and successfully got in. She has been training since mid-2018.

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Chiquita

Position: Lead Vocalist, Lead Dancer, Sub-rapper, Face of the Group, Maknae

Riracha Phondechaphiphat, born on February 17, 2009, in Thailand, was unveiled as the third member on January 23, 2023. Notably, in the final debut announcement, she ranked No. 3 under the name Chiquita.

She holds the distinction of being the member with the shortest training time, having started her training journey in March of 2021. During her audition, she showcased her talent with the song 'In The Name Of Love' by Martin Garrix and Bebe Rexha.

BABYMONSTER's debut and songs:

'Batter Up' marks the debut digital single by the girl group, released on November 27, 2023.

Their second digital single, 'Stuck In The Middle', was released on February 1, 2024.

BABYMONS7ER, their first mini-album, was released on April 1, 2024, with 'Sheesh' serving as the title track. Notably, this album marked the return of member Ahyeon following her hiatus in 2023.