Karina, born Yu Ji-min, is a multifaceted South Korean singer, rapper, and dancer, celebrated for her dynamic presence in the K-pop and hyperpop scenes. She rose to prominence as the leader of Aespa, a girl group formed by SM Entertainment on November 17, 2020. Karina debuted with Aespa’s groundbreaking digital single “Black Mamba,” showcasing her commanding vocals and charismatic stage presence.
In addition to her role in Aespa, Karina is a pivotal member of SM Entertainment’s supergroup Got the Beat, which debuted in January 2022. This prestigious group includes industry veterans like BoA, Taeyeon, Hyoyeon, Seulgi, and Wendy, highlighting Karina’s status as a standout performer among K-pop royalty.
Beyond music, Karina has expanded her influence into television and entertainment. She hosted the travel show “Travel Diary Soul: Seoul,” in collaboration with the Seoul Metropolitan Government and History Channel, reaching millions of viewers across 19 countries. Her versatility as an entertainer was further showcased when she participated in the Netflix series “Song of the Bandits” with her solo release “Sad Waltz” and later joined the cast of “Agents of Mystery.”
Karina’s impact extends into the realm of fashion and endorsements, being recognized as the face of YSL Beauty’s “Rouge Pur Couture” lipstick line and serving as a brand ambassador for Converse Korea and Vita 500 Zero. Her influential presence in media and fashion aligns seamlessly with her role as a trendsetter and cultural icon in South Korea’s entertainment industry.