Let’s talk about KiiiKiii, the newest girl group to hit the K-pop scene, because they’re already sparkling brighter than a disco ball at a BTS afterparty. If you haven’t heard of them yet, don’t worry—you will. This five-member crew from Starship Entertainment just dropped their debut EP, Uncut Gem, and they’re already making waves with their pre-release single “I Do Me.” Yes, the song is as catchy as the name suggests, and no, you won’t be able to get it out of your head. Consider this your official warning.
First things first: the name. KiiiKiii. It looks like someone fell asleep on the keyboard, but it’s actually a clever nod to Korean internet slang. In Korean, “ㅋㅋ” (pronounced “keke” or “kiki”) is the equivalent of “LOL,” so basically, they’re the group that’s here to make you laugh—or at least, to make you smile while you’re trying to figure out how to pronounce their name without tying your tongue in knots. Five members, six I’s—maybe the extra one stands for “iconic,” because that’s clearly what they’re gunning for.
Now, let’s get to the music, because that’s what really matters. Their pre-release single “I Do Me” is already climbing the charts like it’s got a personal vendetta against gravity. It’s the kind of song that sneaks into your brain and sets up camp, with a hook so sticky you’ll be humming it in your sleep. The EP Uncut Gem promises more of that magic, showcasing a range of sounds that prove these girls aren’t just here to follow the K-pop playbook—they’re writing their own rules. Starship’s calling it a “bold entrance,” and from the buzz alone, it’s hard to argue.
In a recent chat with The Hollywood Reporter, the members of KiiiKiii opened up about their journey to the spotlight. Sui, the 18-year-old vocalist with a voice that could melt glaciers, summed it up best: “We’ve been training for years, and we’re just so excited to finally share our music with the world.” Meanwhile, Leesol, the group’s rapper with a flow as sharp as her wit, shared some sage advice they received from their seniors at Starship Entertainment: “They told us to stay healthy and happy, and to enjoy the stage.” It’s the kind of wholesome wisdom that makes you want to root for them even harder—because who doesn’t love a group that’s got heart as well as hustle?
So, what sets KiiiKiii apart in a K-pop landscape that’s already bursting with talent? For starters, they’re not afraid to be a little weird—in the best way possible. Their music’s been praised for its “unique musicality,” which is industry speak for “they’re doing something fresh, and we’re here for it.” With members ranging from 14 to 19 years old, they’re bringing a youthful, unfiltered energy that feels like a breath of fresh air in a genre that can sometimes take itself a bit too seriously. But don’t let their age fool you—these girls are pros, with the vocals, the choreography, and the charisma to back it all up.
And let’s not forget the machine behind them: Starship Entertainment. These are the folks who brought us Monsta X and IVE, so they know a thing or two about launching acts into the stratosphere. With that kind of backing, KiiiKiii’s got the muscle to make sure the world takes notice—and judging by the early response to “I Do Me,” the world’s already listening.
