K-Pop is a global sensation, but did you know that some of the idols who make our hearts race and our feet dance are actually Filipinos? In this article, we’ll look at these talented stars who bring a unique Filipino touch to the vibrant world of K-Pop. Ready for a few surprises? Let’s dive in!
What’s Inside
- Kriesha Chu
- Chanty (Lapillus)
- Hori7on
- Gehlee Dangca (UNIS)
- Elisia Parmisano (UNIS)
- Jin Hyeonju (UNIS)
- Sophia Laforteza (Katseye)
1. Kriesha Chu
Kriesha Chu was born in the Philippines to Filipino parents of Chinese descent. Driven by her passion for music, she moved to South Korea to pursue her dreams. Her talent quickly caught the spotlight when she participated in the reality survival show K-Pop Star 6: The Last Chance, where she gained significant attention for her impressive performances.
In May 2017, Kriesha Chu made her debut with her first single album, featuring the title track ‘Trouble.’ The release garnered positive feedback from both fans and critics, showcasing her distinctive blend of Filipino charm and K-Pop style. As a rising star in the industry, Kriesha continues to captivate audiences with her engaging music and dynamic performances, steadily building her career.
2. Chanty (Lapillus)
Chanty, a member of the K-Pop girl group Lapillus, was born in the Philippines and moved to South Korea to chase her dream of becoming a K-Pop idol. Her journey reflects her dedication to her craft and her passion for music.
Chanty debuted with Lapillus in 2022, a group known for its energetic performances and catchy music. As a member of Lapillus, Chanty has been gaining attention for her impressive stage presence and vocal talent. Her Filipino heritage adds a unique dimension to the group’s dynamic, making her a standout member in the K-Pop scene.
3. Hori7on
Hori7on is the first all-Filipino K-pop group, made up of seven members: Vinci, Kim, Kyler, Reyster, Winston, Jeromy, and Marcus. The group is based in South Korea and was formed through the reality-survival TV show Dream Maker, which featured 62 talented boys undergoing rigorous training in the search for the next big male pop group. The show aired on the Kapamilya Channel and was a collaboration between MLD Entertainment, ABS-CBN, and KAMP Korea.
In July 2023, Hori7on officially debuted with their studio album Friend-Ship. Prior to this, they had already released three pre-debut singles, which helped build anticipation for their debut. Since then, Hori7on has gained recognition for their energetic stage presence and innovative music. The group continues to be active in both South Korea and the Philippines, further expanding their fanbase in both countries.
4. Gehlee Dangca (UNIS)
Gehlee Dangca is a Filipino singer best known as a member of the project group ‘UNIS’ under F&F Entertainment. Before venturing into the K-Pop scene, she was active in local beauty pageants and modeling in the Philippines.
She gained prominence through her participation in the SBS survival show Universe Ticket. In this competition, 82 contestants undertook various missions to showcase their singing, dancing, versatility, and performance skills. The show aimed to select eight members for a project group set to debut on a global scale, targeting the global audience. In the show’s finale, Gehlee was announced as the 4th overall contestant, securing her place in the group. She made her official debut with the other members of UNIS in March 2024.
5. Elisia Parmisano (UNIS)
Another member of UNIS making the list is Elisia Parmisano. A Filipino actress and singer, Elisia competed in the survival show Universe Ticket alongside Gehlee. Known for her captivating stage presence and charming voice, she earned the top spot as the 1st overall contestant, securing her place in the group.
Here’s a fun fact: Elisia and Marcos of Hori7on are actually cousins! It looks like talent runs in the family!
6. Jin Hyeonju (UNIS)
Jin Hyeonju, also known as Belle from Cignature, is the leader of the project group UNIS, where Gehlee and Elisia are a part of, and is a former member of GOOD DAY. She’s half Korean and half Filipino, with her Filipino roots coming from her mother. In the Universe Ticket finale, Hyeonju’s 6th place ranking guaranteed her a spot in UNIS.
7. Sophia Laforteza (Katseye)
Say hello to Sophia Laforteza, a Filipino singer and the leader of Katseye, a six-member girl group based in Los Angeles, California, hailed as a “global girl group.” Sophia gained recognition as one of the 20 contestants on the survival show The Debut: Dream Academy where contestants will have to go through a series of missions and be evaluated based on their performance. The contestants were also trained for a year in L.A. using popular Korean idol training methods.
Sophia, together with Katseye members, Manon, Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae, made their debut in June 2024 with the single “Debut” from their first EP, while their second digital single “Touch” was released in July 2024. Katseye is under the management of Hybe, a South Korean multinational entertainment company behind K-Pop superstars BTS and Seventeen, and Geffen Records, an American record label.
There’s no doubt that Filipinos have a knack for talent, may it be singing, dancing, or acting—Pinoys really do shine everywhere they go. Seeing young Filipino artists like them make their way through the rigorous training and cultural differences completely shows how talented, persevering and versatile Filipinos are.
