'Catch Catch' syndrome: 'YENA-core' suggest new survival strategy in group-dominated K-pop scene

K-pop soloist YENA appears on the music program "Music Bank." Captured from KBS Kpop's YouTube channel

In a K-pop market dominated by groups, singer YENA has built a distinct musical identity as a solo artist. The response to "Catch Catch," the lead track from her fifth EP "LOVE CATCHER" released in March, suggests that her signature style is gaining momentum.

Evolution of 'YENA-core'

YENA, a former member of project girl group IZ*ONE, which was formed through Mnet's "Produce 48," debuted as a solo artist in 2022 with the track "SMILEY." Since then, she has moved across genres while developing a style often called "YENA-core."

The term refers less to a repeated concept than to a recognizable mix of music, performance and visuals. It combines her bright energy, kitschy sensibility and cartoonish visuals with an addictive electro-pop sound.

The appeal of "Catch Catch" rests heavily on that accumulated musical narrative. Her conceptual universe, which expanded through previous releases such as "SMILEY," "NEMONEMO" and "Being a Good Girl Hurts," has developed into a distinct sensibility that resonates with listeners.

K-pop soloist YENA performs her new song, "Catch Catch," during a press conference for her fifth mini-album, "LOVE CATCHER," at CGV Apgujeong in Gangnam District, Seoul, March 11. Yonhap

Strategic nostalgia

A key factor behind the track's success is its use of second-generation K-pop nostalgia. "Catch Catch" revisits the intuitive melodies, signature dance moves and retro moods associated with veteran acts such as T-ara and Orange Caramel. The blend of nostalgia and current trends helped the song draw attention.

YENA actively studied the period while preparing for her performance. She used retro outfits and collaborated with veteran artists for dance challenges, turning nostalgia into online buzz. The track topped YouTube Shorts charts and entered major domestic music charts.

Identity proves key in solo market

Building a long-term career as a female solo artist in K-pop is difficult, but especially so in a market dominated by groups. YENA's career shows how a soloist can stand out by focusing on a recognizable style and turning it into musical results.

YENA focused on her core strengths. During her comeback, She described the philosophy of "YENA-core" as pursuing her own interests.

K-pop soloist YENA hosts a media showcase for her fourth mini-album, "Blooming Wings," at Blue Square's SOL Travel Hall in Yongsan District, Seoul, July 29, 2025. Courtesy of Yuehua Entertainment.

"It is a mindset of enjoying while doing what I want to do and what I am good at," YENA said. "Since sincerity always gets through, I want to deliver good energy while enjoying it with all my heart."

The response to "Catch Catch" reflects that steady direction, pointing to the value of a distinct personal style in K-pop. Attention is now turning to how she will develop "YENA-core" in her next release.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.