Ryujin

Ryujin's journey to becoming an idol began by pure chance when a JYP Entertainment scout approached her at a GOT7 fan meeting during middle school. Source: KProfiles

After joining JYP, Ryujin also received an offer to train under YG Entertainment. She ultimately chose to remain with JYP—a decision that would eventually lead to her debut with ITZY. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

Before debuting, Ryujin competed on JTBC's survival program "MIXNINE," where she finished as the No. 1 ranked female contestant. Source: KProfiles

Despite ranking first among the girls, Ryujin never debuted through MIXNINE because the female team lost the final competition against the male team. Source: KProfiles

Ryujin appeared as the female lead opposite BTS members J-Hope and Jimin in the "Love Yourself Highlight Reel," introducing her to many fans before her official debut. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

She also made a small acting appearance in the 2017 Korean film "The King" before officially becoming an idol. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

In November 2021, Ryujin became STUDIO CHOOM's "Artist of the Month," delivering a powerful performance of Billie Eilish's "Therefore I Am" that many fans still consider one of the series' best stages. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

Ryujin earned her first official songwriting credit by participating in the writing and composition of her solo song "Run Away," released as part of ITZY's "BORN TO BE" album. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

Both of Ryujin's parents work as doctors specializing in Korean traditional medicine—a surprising contrast to her career as a global K-pop performer. Source: Ixartpark

She shares her home with two beloved cats named Byullie and Dallie and often describes herself using the hashtags #BobCut, #CatOwner, and #Lazy. Source: KProfiles

Although she jokingly calls herself lazy, ITZY members have repeatedly voted Ryujin as the smartest member of the group. Source: KProfiles

Ryujin is widely recognized as the physically strongest member of ITZY and is capable of carrying both Lia and Yuna on her back. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

She has quietly supported disaster relief by donating ₩50 million to victims of wildfires in Gangwon Province and another ₩50 million to victims affected by the 2023 Turkey earthquake. Source: Kpop Singers

Ryujin's favorite film is "The Perks of Being a Wallflower," while "The Grand Budapest Hotel" is another movie she frequently recommends to fans. Source: Kpop Singers / Vanity Fair

She is the only ITZY member with the INTJ personality type, making her both the group's only introvert and its only "Thinker" according to MBTI. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

Ryujin has joked that even the worst mood can disappear almost immediately after she eats good food. Source: Weekly Idol Episode 473

Together with Yeji and Chaeryeong, Ryujin helped revive JYP Entertainment's Female Dance Club during their trainee years. All three would eventually debut together in ITZY. Source: ITZY Wiki (Fandom)

As a trainee, Ryujin attended her very first concert—a 2PM performance—years before becoming an artist performing in sold-out arenas herself. Source: Kpopping

Whenever ITZY prepares for a tour, the very first thing Ryujin packs is instant cup noodles, a habit fans have come to associate with her practical personality. Source: Kpop Singers

Ryujin's calm confidence and natural charisma have made her one of fourth-generation K-pop's most recognizable "girl crush" idols. Source: Industry coverage and fan reception

Fans often praise her for balancing fierce stage performances with a surprisingly soft spot for animals, thoughtful conversations, and quiet acts of kindness. Source: Variety appearances and fan interviews

Although she's known for her cool exterior, fellow members often describe Ryujin as someone who quietly looks after everyone around her without drawing attention to herself. Source: ITZY interviews and behind-the-scenes content