Female idols in K-pop not only face scrutiny for being in the industry but also for being a woman. Idols face unwarranted comments for their appearance and behavior. But as times change, the expectations and stereotypes that come with belonging to a specific gender have become blurred. Although the number of men challenging gender norms in K-pop has increased, it is harder for women in K-pop to express themselves freely than men. Few women in K-pop do not adhere to these strict norms of being in the industry. Here are the top 10 female idols who have stayed true to themselves and broke all gender norms by doing so:
1. F(x)’s Amber Liu
Debuting in 2009 with her group f(x), Amber Liu chose not to conform to the cute and girly concept that was popularized in K-pop amongst girl groups at that time. Despite the rest of her group’s decision to maintain their femininity, she chose to dress androgynously by keeping her hair short and wearing baggy clothes. Amber Liu is genuinely a pioneer amongst women for bending gender norms when it almost seemed impossible.
2. Jessi
The rapper has gone through heavy criticism online. With her tanned skin, raspy voice, curvy body, and outspoken nature, Jessi does not conform to gender standards. She has spoken confidently about undergoing plastic surgery in interviews, which lead her to face heavy criticism. Although it is common for idols to get plastic surgery, Jessi is amongst the few who have spoken up about it. Despite what others think, she chooses to be herself authentically.
3. GWSN’s Miya
The Japanese idol has cited Amber Liu as her role model. She would, however, like to be known for her unique style. Fans of the singer have used the term “girl crush” to describe her unique personality and her androgynous fashion sense. Amongst all the members of the group, Miya has captured the most attention for her ‘cool’ and ‘chic’ look that incorporates both masculinity and femininity.
4. Mamamoo’s Moonbyul
The main dancer of the group Mamamoo has stated that she prefers being called handsome over being called pretty. She enjoys wearing traditionally masculine clothing but is still proud to be called a woman, Moonbyul, does not denounce femininity, instead, she redefines it on her terms. Known for performing rigorous choreography that in K-pop is stereotypically reserved for men, Moonbyul has defied all gender norms both through her work and her style.
5. TWICE’s Chaeyoung
The main rapper of the group TWICE has multiple tattoos despite the cultural taboo and even went on to cut her hair short without the permission of her company. Chaeyoung is a rule breaker as well as a free spirit. Despite being known for her cute appearance, she has repeatedly denounced this label and has said that she suits a stronger image as well. Ever since her debut, Chaeyoung has chosen to remain true to herself.
6. Pristin’s Kyla
The American-born former member of Pristin, Kyla, has been brutally criticized and body-shamed online for her curvy physique. She has been through a lot as she debuted when she was a teenager. Despite her struggles, Kyla remains an inspiration for women in K-pop as an example that women do not have to fit into the stereotypical beauty standards to be successful in the industry.
7. (G)-Idle’s So-Yeon
The leader of the popular girl group is known in the industry as one of the top composers, producers, rappers, and songwriters. She has stated that during her trainee days, she was shunned by her male counterparts for wanting to learn composition as it was rare for female idols to do so. Despite the frustrating start, So-Yeon went on to defy all odds and has made it one of the greatest producers in K-pop today.
8. Itzy’s Ryujin
The main rapper of Itzy is known for her viral fan cams and tomboyish nature and has not been one to shy away from speaking out about misogyny in K-pop. Although the group’s fans have complimented their performances for their intricate choreography, Ryujin has expressed her frustration with some people commenting on the group by stating, “Their performance was cool, for a girl group.” She has also said that she wants to be seen just as herself and without any prejudice or judgment.
9. Dreamcatcher’s Dami
Lee Yu Bin, popularly known by her stage name Dami is known for sporting more traditionally masculine outfits. She is seen often wearing stylish suits paired with round glasses, which make her look effortlessly classy. Dami possesses enough confidence and style to make an oversized sweatshirt look fashionable.
10. Mamamoo’s Solar
The leader of the group Mamamoo has time and time again proven herself as an empowered woman who does not need anyone else’s opinion. From pole dancing to ripping her shirt off at the end of her cover of the song Fire by BTS, Solar has on multiple occasions stepped outside the boundaries set by the K-pop industry conservatism and has done what she wanted.
