Shocking pivot: Minami of girl group Lecenne, who went viral for her 'gyaru' persona, announced she's saying goodbye to the character and plans to show her real self.
Recently on a fan communication platform, Minami brought up leader Woni's YouTube channel first. "So many people watched the channel. I'm so grateful we already passed one million views," she said, before adding, "It's about time to say bye-bye to the gyaru. I wasn't originally a gyaru, right? I think it's time to really show more of the real me." While the character made her a fan favorite in content, she now wants to spotlight her original charm as an on-stage artist.
Minami also candidly explained why she's stepping away from the gyaru concept. "To be honest, there are parts of 'gyaru' I don't fully understand, and there are many styles within it," she said carefully. "Some people might not feel good seeing me imitate gyaru."
She emphasized that the concept was never treated lightly. "What's certain is that I studied hard and prepared to entertain those who enjoyed the videos," Minami noted. "Staff members also prepared beautiful outfits that suited me." She continued, "Rather than content to promote gyaru culture, I hope you see the videos as showing different sides of me and my great chemistry with Woni unnie."
Minami also shared affection for the time she spent in the gyaru role. "Since many people seemed to like this look, I'm glad I did it. I'm thankful to the PD as well," she said. "From now on, I'll work even harder on dance and vocals so the real me can be loved, too. I'll become an artist worthy of all the attention and love you've given me."
Minami drew attention on Woni's YouTube channel by playing a gyaru-character concept. In particular, a scene where she visited Woni's hometown of Geoje and shouted "Geoje Yaho" spread across online communities and short-form platforms, cementing itself as a meme.
Meanwhile, Lecenne will make a comeback on July 8 with a remake single of KARA's hit 'Pretty Girl'.