For a typical K-pop girl group, it is hard to take a different path from the “lovely, cute concept,” especially for those who have made their debut recently. 3YE (known as “Third Eye”) are bringing a different vibe with bleached dreadlocks, bold dangling ear rings and cargo pants.
The group “3YE” made its debut on May 21, with “Do Ma Thang,” a strong hip-hop track with a dance break. The name brings a different interpretation and perspective to the K-pop scene, as it is unusual for a female trio to showcase a “strong women concept.”
“I think the group is taking a new approach, making a challenge to the K-pop idol scene,” Yurim said.
The group said their role model was Shinhwa, a first generation boy band in Korea which is still popular among fans. The members met Lee Min-woo, one of the main vocalists in Shinhwa, to get some advice last Monday.
“Gender is not particularly our consideration,” Ha-eun, the youngest of the group, said. “We want all genders, regardless of male or female, to dance to our songs, and I think this is a new departure for a K-pop girl group,” she added.
“We are only three members so people can remember us easily,” she smiled.
Although they show powerful performances with a strong beat, they have been through hard times to reach this moment.
Ha-eun, 20, said she started dancing and dreamed about debuting as a performer since she was in elementary school. She gave up training during her middle school years, but tried again.
Yuji, the 21-year-old leader of the group, said she has been to numerous auditions backed only by her passion for dancing and singing. “I am so proud of this moment for myself. I knocked on so many doors in this business, including music auditions such as Superstar K, KARA project, and many more,” she said.
She became a little emotional during the interview as she looked back on trials and tribulations. “When I was taking part in audition programs, I started to get obsessed with ratings without realizing it,” Yuji said.
“At one point I slipped from the top ten, which made me feel sorry for my friends and family who had been supporting me. I felt sad because I felt I was not living up to their expectations.”
But looking back she said she would not repeat the past. “I hope 3YE can make it all the way to the top.”
Source: The Korea Times, Courtesy of Fortune Entertainment
