WJSN Dayoung Steps Forward with “body” and a Breakout Solo Year
Saturday, December 20, 2025
WJSN’s Dayoung has emerged as one of 2025’s standout solo debuts, with her first single “body” earning widespread recognition from major international media outlets. Both Billboard and Teen Vogue have named the track among the best K-pop releases of the year, praising its music, performance, and visual identity.
On December 18 local time, Billboard revealed its list of The 25 Best K-pop Songs of 2025: Staff Picks, where “body” secured a spot. The publication described Dayoung’s solo debut as a clear departure from her work with WJSN, highlighting a new performance-driven identity. Billboard noted the song’s sharp beat, solid bassline, and addictive chorus, adding that her bright and confident vocals complete a summer-ready pop dance track with strong impact.
Teen Vogue also spotlighted Dayoung’s debut, calling “body” one of the most unexpected yet impressive solo releases of the year. The magazine wrote that while the song appeared to arrive suddenly as it climbed streaming platforms and domestic charts, Dayoung’s debut was carefully planned. Teen Vogue praised her preparation and passion, describing her as the pop star audiences had been waiting for.
The outlet further highlighted the “body” music video, noting its focus on choreography rather than flashy editing. According to Teen Vogue, Dayoung’s natural charisma shines through varied dance movements and poses, elevating the video’s overall quality. The publication described her transformation as a solo artist as the defining girl-crush pop moment of the summer.
Released in September, “body” serves as the title track of Dayoung’s solo debut digital single “gonna love me, right?”. Built on a rhythmic beat and catchy hook, the song showcases her clear vocals and marks a meaningful step forward in her artistic identity. Through the track, Dayoung presented a more defined musical world and a sincere approach to new challenges.
The music video drew attention for its bold styling and energetic performance. Filmed across open spaces such as empty lots, outdoor pools, and gardens, the video turned each setting into Dayoung’s stage. One-take-style shots emphasized movement and performance, reinforcing her passion and solid skill as a performer.
Throughout the year, Dayoung continued to build momentum as a solo artist. “body” earned her a music show win, while her challenge videos with fellow K-pop artists, actors, dancers, and creators gained traction both locally and globally. She followed up with promotions for the b-side “number one rockstar,” further solidifying her stage presence. Last month, she was awarded Best Solo Artist Female at the 2025 KGMA.
International attention continued to grow as outlets such as NME, Forbes, FOX 13 Seattle, and multiple MTV channels covered her solo debut. “body” was also selected for NME’s list of the 25 Best K-pop Songs of 2025, reinforcing its impact alongside recognition from Billboard and Teen Vogue.
Dayoung is set to appear later today at the 2025 KBS Gayo Daechukje Global Festival, held at Incheon Songdo Convensia, continuing a year that firmly established her as a global solo artist.
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