It's been 10 years, but I'm 24...Jeon So-mi, solo color found in confusion (comprehensive)

Aug 12, 2025

 It's been 10 years, but I'm 24...Jeon So-mi, solo color found in confusion (comprehensive)
Photo provided=The Black Label



Singer Jeon So-mi honestly unraveled the confusion and changes experienced between '10th year since debut' and '24th year youth' in the second EP 'Caotic & Confused'.

Jeon So-mi, who debuted as the center of project group IOI through Mnet 'Produce 101' in 2016, marks her 10th year of activities this year. Although he is still fresh at 24, his experience in broadcasting and performing is comparable to that of most middle-aged artists.

"The public remembers when I was in middle school. There are times I've lived in the meantime, but it can be burdensome to suddenly seem like a serious artist. I thought about accepting myself as an artist, as long as it's not cringe-worthy."




 It's been 10 years, but I'm 24...Jeon So-mi, solo color found in confusion (comprehensive)
Photo provided=The Black Label
The second EP 'Caotic & Confused', released on the 11th, is the result of the worry. "You might be embarrassed because it's such a new look, but that was the goal. Now I can accept a confusing situation and naturally explain my feelings with a song. I think I came out just at the right time to show that, I feel refreshed."

The entire song, including the title song 'Closure', melted the confusion and internal conflict that Jeon So-mi had been experiencing. "I wasn't looking for change. I just sing honestly, make an album, and work on it. Now that I'm just 24 years old, I want to express things that I've experienced in a human way."

 It's been 10 years, but I'm 24...Jeon So-mi, solo color found in confusion (comprehensive)
Photo provided=The Black Label
He stressed that 'confusion' is in the present progressive form. "I didn't find the answer with this album through confusion. It's just this confusion. I feel relieved that I finally took it out. It's the first time I've shown a feeling to the public that I've ever known."




The song also contains a paradoxical message. Unlike the lyrics "Please call me a pretty girl", the music video shows a face mold. I don't judge you by your appearance, but it means that everyone has their own charm and beauty."

 It's been 10 years, but I'm 24...Jeon So-mi, solo color found in confusion (comprehensive)
Photo provided=The Black Label
In the course of Jeon So-mi's change and experimentation, Teddy, the head of The Black Label and producer, was always next to Jeon So-mi. His collaboration with him became an important pillar in the completion of this album.

Teddy's songs, such as "All Day Project" and "K-Pop Demon Hunters" OST "Golden", are doing well, but I think my album is separate. There's no pressure. Rather, the first 'Birthday' was more burdensome. Now it's a routine where we know each other's ways well. He is like a senior and cousin to the point where I tell my company before my parents if I have any concerns."




 It's been 10 years, but I'm 24...Jeon So-mi, solo color found in confusion (comprehensive)
Photo provided=The Black Label
In this way, in the process of completing the color of solo Jeon So-mi, I thought of IOI, the starting point of making herself. Next year marks the 10th anniversary of I.O.I's debut.

"We promised to reunite five years after the end of our activities, but it was difficult due to the schedule. But I'm still talking about the 10th anniversary. I'm still thankful for the question 'Do you have a group chat?' I'm talking about a way that can be remembered as a pretty memory, suitable for everyone."

However, there are also concerns about performing solo with the group at the same time. "I hope this album will serve as an opportunity to distinguish between "I.O.I Somi" and "Solo Somi" to the public." I'm going to show my originality in I.O.I.I. and my originality in solo."

 It's been 10 years, but I'm 24...Jeon So-mi, solo color found in confusion (comprehensive)
Photo provided=The Black Label
At the same time, Solo Jeon So-mi's weapon was defined as 'Boldness'. "I think my weapon is boldness. I'm not afraid of getting bold. I want to continue to give you fresh stimulation."

Above all, Jeon So-mi learned not to be afraid of confusion through this album. "There needs to be confusion to deepen your understanding of the song and enrich your expression. I want to make a good impact with meaningful messages in the future. And I'd like to hear 'I know what Somi wants to do' I know now. Musically, I'm really looking forward to the future. I want you to put me in the back of your mind."





rightlight@sportschosun.com