Happy Kim Chaewon Day: Looking back at K-pop idol’s rise from Produce 48 to K-Pop stardom in IZ*ONE and LE SSERAFIM

Let’s trace the dynamic journey of LE SSERAFIM’s Kim Chaewon on the occasion of her birthday.

Updated on Aug 01, 2024  |  12:34 AM IST |  270.2K
LE SSERAFIM's Kim Chaewon: Source Music
LE SSERAFIM's Kim Chaewon: Source Music

Kim Chaewon, born on August 1, 2000, is a K-pop star who quickly managed to become one of the rising stars of K-pop at just 23 years of age. The artist’s journey has been challenging, but through perseverance and hard work, she has distinguished herself, letting her talent shine brightly.

From competing in the survival show Produce 48 to debuting in the popular K-pop group IZ*ONE and leading LE SSEARFIM, let’s look back at the K-pop artist’s journey. 


The Beginning: Produce 48

Kim Chaewon first gained widespread attention as a contestant on the reality survival show Produce 48 in 2018. The show, a collaboration between Mnet and AKB48, aimed to form a global girl group by bringing together trainees from Korea and Japan. Chaewon, representing Woollim Entertainment, quickly became a fan favorite due to her powerful vocals, captivating performances, and undeniable charm.

Twelve contestants were chosen who debuted in the girl group IZ*ONE, and Cahewon was among them. Despite facing intense competition from other talented trainees, Chaewon’s dedication and hard work paid off. Her performances were consistently praised for their emotional depth and technical skill, showcasing her potential as a future star.


With a total of 238,192 votes, the artist took the 10th position in the final voting and secured a place in the official lineup. Right from the start, her popularity shone through, and it was bound for her to become a star.

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Rising to Stardom: IZ*ONE

Debuting as a member of IZONE in October 2018, Chaewon quickly made her mark on the K-pop scene. The group’s debut extended play, COLORIZ, was a commercial success, and its lead single, La Vie en Rose, garnered significant attention. The artist’s distinctive voice and stage presence contributed to the group’s unique sound and image, helping IZ*ONE stand out in a crowded industry.

Throughout her time with IZONE, Chaewon continued to grow as an artist. The group released multiple albums and singles, with her playing a crucial role in their success. Her vocal prowess and ability to convey deep emotions through singing became defining characteristics of IZONE’s music. Songs like Violeta, Fiesta, and Panorama highlighted her versatility and solidified her position as one of the group’s main vocalists.


In addition to her musical contributions, Chaewon’s dynamic stage presence and graceful dance moves made her a standout performer. Whether performing powerful dance routines or delivering heartfelt ballads, she consistently captivated audiences with her talent and charisma. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with fans on a personal level earned her a loyal following.

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New Chapter: LE SSERAFIM

Following IZ*ONE’s disbandment in April 2021, Chaewon faced a new chapter in her career. Many fans eagerly awaited her next move, and their patience was rewarded when she debuted as a member of LE SSERAFIM in May 2022. LE SSERAFIM, a highly anticipated girl group under HYBE Labels, marked a fresh start for the K-pop idol and an opportunity to further showcase her talents.

As part of LE SSERAFIM, Chaewon continued to impress both fans and industry professionals. Moreover, she ditched her usual look with long hair and adorned herself with a bob haircut, which showed her bold side. The group’s debut single, FEARLESS, received widespread acclaim for its catchy melody and empowering lyrics. The singer’s mature and confident performance in the music video and live stages demonstrated her growth as an artist and readiness to take on new challenges.


LE SSERAFIM’s concept, characterized by themes of empowerment and self-assurance, allowed Chaewon to explore different facets of her artistry. Songs like Blue Flame and ANTIFRAGILE showcased her ability to adapt to various musical styles while maintaining her signature vocal strength. Her versatility and willingness to experiment with new sounds contributed to the group’s distinct identity and growing popularity.

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However, she gained immense popularity and went viral on all social media platforms for her performance in the group’s recent track, Smarter. Her position as the center for the song’s dance routine yet again showcased her infectious stage presence and her ability to draw more fans. 


As we celebrate Kim Chaewon Day, we reflect on her incredible journey and look forward to the many achievements yet to come. From her early days on Produce 48 to her current success with LE SSERAFIM, Chaewon’s story is one of triumph and inspiration. 

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