Sunmi

Lee Sunmi, known mononymously as Sunmi, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, dancer, and television personality who has established herself as one of K-pop’s most distinctive solo artists. Born in Iksan, North Jeolla Province, South Korea, she was selected as a member of the JYP Entertainment girl group Wonder Girls at the age of 15. The Wonder Girls debuted in 2007 and became one of the most popular K-pop groups of their era, with their hit “Nobody” becoming the first K-pop song to enter the Billboard Hot 100 in 2009.

Sunmi left the Wonder Girls in 2010 to focus on her education but returned to the group in 2015 before they eventually disbanded in 2017. Her solo career truly blossomed under the guidance of JYP Entertainment when she released “Gashina” in 2017, a retro-pop anthem that became a massive viral hit and solidified her reputation as a solo powerhouse. The song’s iconic choreography and Sunmi’s charismatic performance made it one of the most memorable K-pop releases of the year, with the music video amassing hundreds of millions of views.

Following the success of “Gashina,” Sunmi continued to release critically acclaimed solo music including “Heroine,” “Siren,” “Lalalay,” and “Tail.” Her artistry is characterized by retro-inspired production, provocative choreography, and a distinctive vocal style that blends vulnerability with confidence. She moved to Abyss Company and later signed with other management, continuing to produce music that pushes creative boundaries. She has also become a prominent television personality, serving as a judge on the survival show “Girls Planet 999” and appearing on numerous variety programs.

Sunmi’s endorsement portfolio includes deals with major Korean and international brands, leveraging her fashionable image and massive social media following. Her net worth of 10 million dollars as of 2026 reflects her successful transition from a group member to one of K-pop’s most respected solo artists, with income from music sales, touring, television appearances, and brand partnerships.