Yuqi: The Multifaceted Star of i-dle and Beyond

In the vibrant world of K-pop, few artists embody versatility quite like Song Yuqi, better known mononymously as Yuqi. Born on September 23, 1999, in Beijing, China, Yuqi has risen from a child prodigy in dance and music to become a global sensation as the lead rapper, principal dancer, sub-vocalist, and face of the powerhouse girl group i-dle (formerly (G)I-DLE). With her infectious energy, bilingual charm, and knack for blending sharp rap verses with soulful melodies, Yuqi has not only captivated millions but also carved out a thriving solo career spanning music, variety shows, acting, and even production. As of 2025, at just 26 years old, she continues to redefine what it means to be a modern idol, balancing group dominance with personal artistic evolution.

Early Life: From Beijing Prodigy to Global Dreamer

Yuqi’s journey began in the bustling streets of Beijing, where she was raised in a supportive family alongside her older brother, Song Yuxuan. From a tender age, her talents shone brightly. A natural performer, she immersed herself in dance and music, even mastering the guzheng, a traditional Chinese string instrument, which would later influence her eclectic musical style. Her academic prowess was equally impressive; Yuqi’s intelligence secured her a spot at Beijing 101 Middle School, one of the city’s most elite institutions, highlighting her disciplined mindset from an early age.

But Yuqi’s heart was set on the stage. At 13, she started modeling, gracing local campaigns with her poised presence. Her big break came in 2015 when she auditioned for Cube Entertainment, performing CLC’s “High Heels” and G.E.M.’s “Bubble.” The performance landed her a trainee contract, but it also meant leaving home at 16—a bold move that tested her resolve. Relocating to South Korea alone, Yuqi faced language barriers, cultural shock, and homesickness, all while her parents initially questioned her choice. Undeterred, she bonded with future i-dle members Soyeon, Miyeon, Minnie, Shuhua, and Soojin during grueling trainee days, turning isolation into unbreakable sisterhood. Fluent in Korean within months, she also picked up English, showcasing the adaptability that would define her career.

Rise with i-dle: Self-Producing Powerhouse.

Yuqi’s debut came on May 2, 2018, as the first member revealed from (G)I-DLE, a group handpicked by Cube Entertainment through the survival show Produce 48 (where she ranked 11th). The quintet—later sextet with Soojin’s addition—exploded onto the scene with their self-produced mini-album I Am and the bold, genre-bending hit “LATATA.” i-dle’s ethos of artistic control resonated immediately, earning them Rookie of the Year honors at the 2018 Golden Disc Awards, MAMA, and more.

As i-dle’s charismatic “Cutie,” Yuqi’s deep, endearing voice and dynamic stage presence became signatures. She contributed Chinese lyrics to tracks like “Dumdi Dumdi” and co-wrote hits such as “Lost” from I Burn (2021). The group’s trajectory soared with anthems like “Tomboy,” “Nxde,” and “Queencard,” amassing over 20 awards and million-seller status outside the “Big Four” labels. Challenges arose, including Soojin’s 2021 departure amid controversy, leaving them with only five members. Yet, resilience defined them: In late 2024, all renewed with Cube, leading to a 2025 rebrand to i-dle and the anniversary EP We Are, featuring re-recorded hits like “Super Lady” and the chart-topping “Fate.”

Yuqi’s role extended beyond performance. Her variety show appearances, from Knowing Bros to hosting The First Date, amplified i-dle’s global reach. By 2025, i-dle’s world tours and festival slots—such as SUMMER SONIC in Japan—will cement her as a key pillar of their success.

Solo Stardom: A Page of Endless Possibilities

While i-dle provided the launchpad, Yuqi’s solo pursuits reveal her as a creative force. Her first foray came in 2021 with the single album A Page, featuring “Giant” and “Bonnie & Clyde”—raw, autobiographical tracks exploring love and ambition. Though Cube later deemed her official solo debut in 2024 with the mini-album YUQ1 (including the pre-release “Could It Be”), A Page marked her breakthrough in the Chinese market, where she promoted amid i-dle’s hiatus.

2024 was explosive: Collaborations like “Fire!” with Alan Walker and JVKE, “Bad Liar” for Marry My Husband, and “One” for Transformers One’s Chinese OST showcased her international appeal. YUQ1 earned acclaim for its artistry, blending hip-hop and R&B. In 2025, Yuqi leveled up further. March brought the digital single “Radio (Dum-Dum),” a boom bap heartbreak anthem comparing lost love to a skipping record. April’s “FENDI” pulsed with luxury swagger, while “Happy Space” and “Fly to the Youth” (featuring NOWZ) delved into youthful introspection.

Her production chops emerged prominently in June 2025, producing NOWZ’s comeback track—echoing groupmate Soyeon’s trailblazing path and earning fan chants of “Producer Yuqi!” September’s single album Motivation, led by “M.O.” (with a teaser starring actor Wang Anyu), promises more evolution. These releases, alongside OSTs and features, have boosted her net worth to an estimated $4-6 million, fueled by endorsements, tours, and savvy investments.

Beyond Music: Actress, Host, and Trailblazer

Yuqi’s talents transcend tracks. A staple on China’s Keep Running (seasons 7-11, returning in 2025), her humor and athleticism made her a variety queen. In Korea, she guested on Seoul Connects U and dazzled in Netflix’s Celebrity (2023) as Zhang Wei, sparking dreams of an action role next. Her acting debut in the Chinese drama Love Game (2023) hinted at more screen time ahead.

As i-dle’s mood-maker, Yuqi’s Weibo and Instagram (where her handle @songyuqi.923 boasts millions of followers) overflow with candid glimpses: spicy food hauls, travel vlogs, and pink-haired transformations. She’s a Super Junior stan (bias: Ryeowook), street dance club alum, and self-proclaimed “strongest member,” often flexing in playful challenges.

A Bright Horizon: Yuqi’s Enduring Legacy

At 26, Yuqi stands at a pinnacle. Her 2025 slate—solo comebacks, i-dle tours, and potential acting gigs—signals no slowdown. From Beijing’s classrooms to Coachella stages, she’s bridged cultures, proving passion trumps borders. As she told fans, renewing with Cube wasn’t about money but loyalty to her “sisters” and art. In a genre of fleeting stars, Yuqi’s authenticity endures, inspiring Neverlands worldwide. Whether rapping fire verses or producing hidden gems, she’s not just keeping up—she’s leading the way.