Exclusive! KiiiKiii Speaks on Their Bold Entrance Into K-Pop With 'UNCUT GEM'
With their unique musicality, bold visual identity, and infectious energy, KiiiKiii is making a statement.
The K-pop scene just got a fresh injection of energy with the official debut of KiiiKiii, a rookie girl group that has been making waves since their pre-debut single, "I Do Me." On March 24, the quintet unleashed their first EP, UNCUT GEM, a six-track release that positions them as a defining force in the next generation of K-pop. Blending infectious beats, striking visuals, and a raw, youthful spirit, KiiiKiii is proving that they are more than just another girl group—they're a movement.
With a name that features six ‘i’s—five representing the members and the final ‘i’ symbolizing their fans—KiiiKiii carries a clear mission: to bring unfiltered fun and self-expression to the industry. Their motto, “Let’s laugh out loud in this world with five kids,” encapsulates their vibrant, carefree attitude, a theme that extends into their Tumblr-esque Y2K-inspired visuals on social media platforms. The group's aesthetic merges nostalgic digital-era graphics with contemporary self-expression, setting them apart in a saturated market.
Each member brings something unique to the table. JIYU, the leader, is a triple-threat, balancing rap, vocals, and dance while shaping the group’s artistic direction. SUI captivates with rich, soulful vocals, while KYA, the youngest, commands attention with her bold energy and striking voice. LEESOL, the resident rapper, exudes effortless chic with sharp gestures, and HAUM rounds out the team with emotionally charged performances that add depth to their music.
Sonically, KiiiKiii crafts a seamless blend of hip-hop and pop—'hip pop' if you will—marked by punchy beats, dreamy synths, and addictive bass lines. Their debut single “BTG,” released alongside UNCUT GEM, is an immersive, hypnotic track that layers chic rap, synth arpeggios, and groovy 808 bass, creating a sophisticated yet electrifying soundscape. In contrast, their pre-release track, "I Do Me," leans more into pop territory, featuring an upbeat, feel-good energy and a vibrant music video shot in New Zealand. When asked about their favorite track from the EP, the group unanimously named "BTG" as a standout.
With their unique musicality, bold visual identity, and infectious energy, KiiiKiii is making a statement: they’re here to shake up the K-pop landscape. And if UNCUT GEM is any indication, this is just the beginning.
