Umji

Kim Ye-won, known professionally as Umji, is a South Korean singer-songwriter and dancer currently active in the entertainment industry. She rose to prominence as a lead vocalist of the girl group GFriend before reuniting with two former members to form the trio Viviz. As of 2026, she continues to perform music, act in dramas, and engage with her fanbase while navigating recent legal matters regarding her agency contract.

Umji stands out for her stable live vocals and emotional delivery, often described by critics as studio-quality even during intense choreography. Her career has been defined by resilience, transitioning from the highly successful era of GFriend to a new chapter with Viviz without losing her core artistic identity. Fans appreciate her maturity and dedication, which have earned her a reputation as a reliable and talented performer in K-pop. [edit]

Kim Ye-won was born on August 19, 1998, in Yeonsu-dong, Incheon, South Korea. Unlike many idols who enter training camps at age twelve or younger, Umji followed a more conventional educational path. She attended local schools in Incheon where she cultivated an early love for music and dance. Her journey into the spotlight began when she was still a high school student, marking a slightly later start than her peers in the industry.

Her discovery came through a routine scouting process that caught the attention of Source Music executives. Impressed by her natural vocal tone and stage presence, the agency invited her to join their trainee program. During her training years, she honed her skills in vocals, dance, and performance under rigorous schedules. She was one of the final members selected for the lineup that would become GFriend, a decision that proved pivotal for her future success. [edit]

Umji officially debuted on January 15, 2015, as part of the six-member girl group GFriend. Their debut mini-album Season of Glass introduced the world to their unique reverse idol concept, blending youthful visuals with mature, powerful vocals. The group quickly gained traction with hits like Glass Bead and Me Gustas Tu, establishing Umji as a key vocal force within the team.

Between 2016 and 2021, GFriend achieved massive commercial success, releasing acclaimed albums such as The Awakening and Time for Us. Umji contributed to songwriting on several tracks, showcasing her versatility beyond just performance. The group performed globally and won numerous awards, cementing their status as top-tier K-pop artists.

In January 2021, GFriend announced they would not renew their contracts with Source Music. However, three members, Eunha, SinB, and Umji, decided to continue together. They debuted as the trio Viviz under Big Planet Made on May 11, 2021. Their debut album Bounce was released on July 13, 2021, marking a successful restart. Recent years have seen Umji expand her portfolio with acting roles, including cameo appearances in the popular drama Lovely Runner in 2024 and Astro: Memory of The Moon in 2025. [edit]

Umji is recognized for her elegant and sophisticated fashion sense, often blending chic streetwear with classic elegance. On stage, she wears stylish outfits that highlight her vocal prowess while allowing for comfortable movement. Media outlets consistently portray her as a hardworking, humble, and talented vocalist who maintains professionalism even during challenging times. Her social media presence on Instagram (@ummmmm_j.i) reflects a warm and approachable persona, sharing glimpses of her daily life, workout routines, and behind-the-scenes moments. [edit]

iFANN's Global Fame Engine evaluated this person in October 2026, but they do not currently hold a placement in the published rankings. This individual is not featured on the September 2026 iFAMOUS Rankings flagship list. The fandom for Umji is deeply connected to her history with GFriend and Viviz, with fans often referring to themselves collectively as Buddy or Vivi depending on the era. The fanbase is known for its organized support, including chart manipulation campaigns, birthday billboards, and charity drives. Umji is particularly beloved for her "mom" persona within the group, and fans have historically organized streaming pushes to boost numbers for her solo parts and group comebacks. [edit]

Umji is often called the "mom" of GFriend due to her caring nature and mature demeanor toward the other members. She is known for her ability to sing complex ballads while performing difficult choreography without compromising her vocal stability. A story fans frequently retell involves her staying late after practice sessions to help junior trainees perfect their moves, highlighting her supportive personality. She also has a hidden talent for cooking, often sharing homemade meals with friends and family in her social media posts. Her nickname "Umji" is derived from the Korean word for "finger," though the exact origin story remains a playful mystery among fans. [edit]

Umji keeps her family life largely private, but she has mentioned in interviews that her parents were incredibly supportive of her dream to become an idol. They encouraged her education and allowed her to pursue her passion despite the uncertainties of the entertainment industry. While she rarely shares details about siblings or extended relatives, she often expresses gratitude for their unwavering belief in her abilities. Her close bond with her family serves as a grounding force amidst the demands of her career. [edit]

Eunha, SinB, Jin Young-jack, Park Jin-young. [edit]

As of late 2026, Umji's personal life has been the subject of public speculation, though no confirmed long-term romantic relationships or marriages have been verified. Reports from April 2026 suggested a divorce involving a name similar to hers, but these appear to be cases of mistaken identity or conflated names, as no official statement from Umji or her agency confirms a marriage or divorce for Kim Ye-won. Based on available credible sources up to September 2026, Kim Ye-won is reported to be single. The news headlines from August 2026 focus on her professional struggles rather than personal romance. There is no verified information suggesting she is married, engaged, or dating anyone as of 2026. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Umji's net worth at approximately $2 million. This figure reflects her earnings from music sales, streaming royalties, concert tours, and brand endorsements accumulated over her decade-long career. Her wealth stems primarily from her time with GFriend, where the group enjoyed significant commercial success, and her continued work with Viviz. Additional income sources include acting cameos in dramas like Lovely Runner and potential sponsorship deals. Recent news in 2026 mentions a contract dispute with Big Planet Made, which may temporarily impact her earnings distribution, though her overall financial trajectory remains positive. [edit]

While Umji has been part of numerous award-winning projects, most recognition comes from her group affiliations. She shares in the accolades of GFriend and Viviz, including Best New Artist awards and Song of the Year honors. Individual wins are less documented, but her contributions to the groups' success have been widely acknowledged. [edit]