Jiho's Career Highlights: From OH MY GIRL Debut to Solo Artist (2015-2022)

Jiho debuted as a member of OH MY GIRL on April 21, 2015, following three years of intensive training—the longest training period among all members in the group. During her seven-year career with the popular K-pop ensemble, she contributed to their impressive achievement of 21 music show wins and helped establish the group as a significant force in the industry.

After dedicating herself to OH MY GIRL for years, Jiho eventually left the group when her contract with WM Entertainment ended on May 9, 2022. Her departure marked a significant turning point both for the former OH MY GIRL member and the group itself. Following this career change, she signed with P&Studio on August 10, 2022, shifting her focus toward acting under the stage name Gong Jiho. Before this transition, she had taken a hiatus in January 2020 due to anxiety issues, highlighting the challenges often faced by K-pop idols behind their polished public images.

Early Life and Pre-Debut Journey

Born on April 4, 1997, in Okcheon, North Chungcheong, South Korea, Kim Ji-ho entered the world with a name that would later reflect her journey in K-pop. Her given name carries meaningful symbolism in Korean, with "ji" (지) signifying "fortune" and "ho" (호) meaning "to call". Unlike many only children in the Korean entertainment industry, Jiho grew up in a bustling household surrounded by three older sisters and a younger brother.

Childhood in Okcheon and family background

The future OH MY GIRL member spent her formative years in Okcheon, a relatively small town in North Chungcheong province. Although information about her early childhood remains limited in public records, her family structure likely played a significant role in shaping her personality and work ethic. Growing up with multiple siblings often nurtures qualities like adaptability and cooperation—traits that would later serve Jiho well in a group setting.

While most of her pre-fame life remains private, Jiho's journey from Okcheon to Seoul represents the path many aspiring idols take—leaving smaller hometowns behind to pursue entertainment careers in Korea's capital.

Education at Seoul Performing Arts High School

As her interest in performing arts developed, Jiho enrolled at the prestigious School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA), an institution renowned for educating countless K-pop idols. Established in its current form in 2009, SOPA quickly became a breeding ground for entertainment industry talent, with specialized departments including Practical Dance, Practical Music, and Theatre & Film.

Despite ultimately becoming a vocalist in OH MY GIRL, Jiho notably graduated from the Department of Practical Dance, highlighting her versatility as a performer. Her SOPA graduation on February 4, 2016, occurred after her debut with OH MY GIRL—a common timeline for many idols who balance their education with professional careers.

Jiho's SOPA class became legendary in K-pop circles, as she shared a classroom with several future stars including Seventeen's DK, former GFriend members Yuju and Eunha, and Lovelyz's Sujeong. This "legendary class" connection created natural industry relationships that extended beyond her immediate group members.

Training period and joining WM Entertainment

In 2011, Jiho took her first significant step toward becoming an idol by joining WM Entertainment. This marked the beginning of her formal training period, which continued until her debut with OH MY GIRL in 2015. Throughout these years, she honed her vocal abilities, dancing skills, and stage presence under the company's guidance.

Notably, Jiho held the distinction of being the second-longest trainee in OH MY GIRL before debut, surpassed only by JinE. This extended training period reflects the rigorous preparation process K-pop idols undergo, often spending years perfecting their skills before standing on stage.

Throughout her training years, Jiho balanced the demanding schedule of idol preparation with her high school studies at SOPA—a challenging juggling act that demonstrates the determination required to succeed in the competitive K-pop industry. Nevertheless, her perseverance ultimately paid off when she debuted as a member of OH MY GIRL in 2015, beginning her journey as a professional idol.

Debut with OH MY GIRL in 2015

On March 26, 2015, WM Entertainment introduced their new eight-member girl group through teasers that created buzz in the K-pop community. After weeks of anticipation, OH MY GIRL officially stepped into the spotlight with their self-titled debut extended play.

First mini album and debut stage

WM Entertainment released OH MY GIRL's debut mini-album on April 20, 2015. The self-titled EP contained four tracks:

"Oh My Girl!" - An introductory track (1:18)
"Cupid" - The title track (3:27)
"Hot Summer Nights" (3:17)
"Curious (궁금한걸요)" (3:41)

The album was meticulously produced by Lee Won-min, CEO of WM Entertainment, with music produced by 72 and Moon Jeong-gyu. Their debut showcase took place at AX Korea in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, where they performed songs from the album for the first time. Subsequently, the group made their broadcast debut on SBS MTV's The Show on April 21. The music video for "Cupid," produced by renowned production company Zanybros, was released simultaneously with the album.

Initial public reception and image

At first, OH MY GIRL's journey in the competitive K-pop landscape was not instantaneously successful. As a group from a smaller, independent entertainment agency, they faced significant hurdles in gaining widespread public recognition.

However, "Cupid" received favorable reviews from several music critics. Scott Interrante from PopMatters described the song as "the perfect distillation of everything K-pop should be: saccharine almost to the point of nauseating yet also unusual and unpredictable". Interrante additionally ranked "Cupid" ninth on his list of "The Best K-Pop of 2015".

Similarly, Jacques Peterson, writing for Idolator, characterized the song as "simultaneously hypnotic and jarring" and called it the "surprise rookie gem of the year". The track secured the seventh position on "The 25 Best K-Pop Songs of 2015" list. Fuse writer Jeff Benjamin likewise acknowledged it as one of the best rookie releases of 2015.

Regardless of this critical acclaim, the group still needed to "put their noses to the grindstone and persevere through tepid initial public reception". This contrast between critical success and mainstream recognition would become a defining characteristic of their early career.

Jiho's early role in the group

Within OH MY GIRL's lineup, Jiho established herself as a key member from the beginning. She officially debuted as the group's lead vocalist and visual. Beyond these positions, she also served as a lead dancer, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

The group was immediately labeled by WM Entertainment as the sister group of their label-mates B1A4, which helped create an initial identity for them in the industry. This connection to an established boy group provided some framework for their introduction to fans.

After concluding promotions for "Cupid" on June 21 with a performance of "Curious" on Inkigayo, the group announced they were already preparing for their next album. This quick turnaround demonstrated the demanding schedule typical for rookie groups seeking to establish themselves in the competitive K-pop market.

Throughout this crucial debut period, Jiho began developing the stage presence and performance skills that would define her seven-year career with OH MY GIRL, setting the foundation for their gradual climb to success.

Jiho’s Role and Growth in OH MY GIRL

Throughout her seven-year journey with OH MY GIRL, Jiho progressively emerged as a multifaceted performer who contributed significantly to the group's identity and success. Her evolution from rookie to seasoned idol demonstrated her versatility and dedication to her craft.

Lead vocalist and lead dancer responsibilities

As one of OH MY GIRL's lead vocalists, Jiho showcased her distinctive vocal color that added depth to the group's sound. Her voice often carried the melodic pre-chorus or bridge sections in songs like "Secret Garden" and "Remember Me." Moreover, her stable live vocals maintained consistency during the group's demanding performances, particularly evident during their concert tours.

In fact, Jiho's dancing abilities complemented her vocal skills, making her one of the more balanced performers in the group. As a lead dancer, she executed OH MY GIRL's intricate choreography with precision and grace. Her formal dance training at Seoul Performing Arts High School provided a solid foundation for her performance capabilities.

Beyond technical skills, Jiho took on significant line distribution in the group's discography. For instance, in fan-favorite tracks like "Closer" and "SSFWL (The Fifth Season)," her parts often served as memorable hooks that helped define these songs.

Visual and variety show presence

Jiho quickly established herself as one of OH MY GIRL's visual representatives. Her elegant appearance and charismatic stage presence earned her the nickname "Monday Fairy," a reference to her ethereal beauty that seemed to brighten the beginning of each week for fans.

On variety shows, Jiho displayed a calm and thoughtful demeanor that balanced the more outgoing personalities within the group. Particularly in appearances on programs like "Weekly Idol" and "Knowing Bros," she revealed her quick wit and understated humor. Her variety show presence gradually increased as she became more comfortable in entertainment settings outside of music performances.

The idol's sophisticated image also led to several CF (commercial film) opportunities, furthering the group's reach beyond the music industry. Jiho's visual appeal made her recognizable even to casual K-pop fans who might not have been familiar with OH MY GIRL's music.

Notable performances and fan-favorite moments

Among Jiho's most memorable performances, several stand out as defining moments in her career:

Her participation in the powerful "Queendom" performances in 2019, especially during "Destiny," showcased her growth as a performer
The "Secret Garden" era highlighted her delicate expressions and interpretation of the fairy-tale concept
Her parts in "Remember Me" demonstrated her ability to adapt to more mature concepts

Above all, fans treasured Jiho's genuine interactions with them during fan meetings and concerts. Her thoughtful responses during Q&A sessions and handwritten letters to fans created a special bond between her and OH MY GIRL's fandom (known as Miracles).

As the years progressed, Jiho's confidence on stage became increasingly apparent. The shy trainee had evolved into a poised performer who could command attention during her parts. This transformation was particularly evident in later comebacks like "Nonstop" and "Dun Dun Dance," where she exhibited a more assertive stage presence.

Consequently, Jiho's growth within OH MY GIRL reflected both her personal development and her adaptation to the group's evolving concepts—from the innocent, fairy-tale aesthetics of their early years to the more sophisticated and varied themes of their later releases.

Challenges and Health-Related Hiatus

Behind the glamorous stage performances and polished music videos, Jiho faced serious health challenges that would temporarily remove her from the spotlight in early 2020. This period marked one of the most difficult chapters in her OH MY GIRL journey.

Hiatus announcement in 2020

On January 13, 2020, WM Entertainment released an official statement announcing that Jiho would be taking a temporary break from OH MY GIRL activities. The announcement came as a surprise to many fans who had been following the group's activities. The company explained that the decision was made to prioritize Jiho's health after her condition had recently deteriorated.

The agency's statement detailed:

Jiho had been receiving hospital treatment since the second half of 2019
Her health had been frequently deteriorating
She was experiencing worsening anxiety symptoms
Her condition made it difficult to continue with group activities

WM Entertainment assured fans they would "do our best to focus on recovering and maintaining Jiho's health so that her hiatus is not prolonged". Furthermore, they requested continued support for OH MY GIRL during this challenging period.

Anxiety and health concerns

Prior to the official announcement, Jiho had been quietly struggling with her health for months. According to company statements, she began experiencing anxiety symptoms in the latter half of 2019. As her symptoms progressively worsened, she sought medical treatment while attempting to maintain her demanding schedule as an idol.

The timing coincided with a period of increasing recognition for OH MY GIRL, potentially highlighting the pressures that come with growing success in the K-pop industry. Jiho's situation reflected a broader trend, as noted by industry observers who pointed out that "the number of idols seeking treatment for anxiety is rising".

In essence, her health struggles illuminated the often-hidden challenges of idol life. The physical demands of performances, rigorous schedules, and public scrutiny can take a significant toll on performers' mental health. At this point in her career, Jiho needed to step back from these pressures to focus on recovery.

Return to activities and fan support

Throughout Jiho's absence, fans (known as Miracles) demonstrated unwavering support. Social media platforms filled with encouraging messages and well-wishes for her recovery. This outpouring of concern highlighted the strong bond she had established with fans during her years with the group.

The company was careful not to rush her return, emphasizing that her health remained the priority. "We will do our best to make the hiatus brief and help her with the recovery," WM Entertainment noted. This approach represented a growing awareness within the industry about the importance of addressing mental health concerns.

Accordingly, fans respected her need for privacy during this period, generally avoiding speculation about specific details of her condition. Instead, they focused on sending positive messages and anticipating her eventual return.

This health-related hiatus ultimately became an important chapter in Jiho's story, revealing both her personal challenges and the supportive environment that surrounded her during difficult times. It also foreshadowed some of the considerations that would factor into her later career decisions.

Why Did Jiho Leave OH MY GIRL?

After seven years as a cornerstone member of OH MY GIRL, Jiho's journey with the group came to an end in May 2022. Her departure marked a significant turning point for both the artist and the beloved K-pop ensemble.

Contract expiration in May 2022

On May 9, 2022, Jiho's exclusive contract with WM Entertainment officially expired. Unlike her six bandmates—Hyojung, Mimi, YooA, Seunghee, Yubin, and Arin—who chose to extend their professional relationship with the agency, Jiho made the difficult decision not to renew. This choice came after she had been with the company for "a long period of seven years", dating back to her trainee days.

The timing of her departure followed shortly after an emotional fan meeting, occurring just one week prior. This event inadvertently became her final official activity as an OH MY GIRL member, though neither fans nor possibly Jiho herself knew it at the time.

Official statement and fan reactions

WM Entertainment formally announced the news on May 9 with a statement expressing "deep gratitude to the fans and many other people for always supporting and loving Oh My Girl". The company further explained that they would "respect Jiho's decision to head towards her new dream after the end of long in-depth conversations with the members of course as well the agency".

Jiho promptly addressed fans directly through a handwritten letter posted to the group's online fan forum. In this heartfelt message, she explained:

Indeed, she acknowledged the emotional weight of this transition, noting that "the many conversations we've shared, the moments we met every Monday, the love that Miracle gave us, and your support are all truly things that I will never forget".

Her letter concluded with a promise to fans: "No matter what I do in the future, I will work hard and repay you with a good image". Certainly, this statement offered some reassurance to concerned fans, even as they processed the surprising news.

Support from fellow members

Throughout the departure announcements, both Jiho and the company emphasized that the decision came after extensive discussions not only with management but also with her fellow members. Therefore, even amid the change, there appeared to be mutual understanding and respect.

The agency noted they would "sincerely support Jiho in her future activities", suggesting an amicable parting. Similarly, Jiho encouraged fans to "Let's support [Oh My Girl] together in the future!", demonstrating her continued goodwill toward her former groupmates.

Following her departure, OH MY GIRL continued as a six-member ensemble, adapting to this significant change while moving forward with their careers. Overall, Jiho's exit, though emotional for fans and likely the members themselves, appeared to be handled with professionalism and mutual support on all sides.

Transition to Solo Career and Acting

Following her departure from OH MY GIRL, Jiho embarked on a new chapter in her entertainment career path. True to her promise of showing "a good image" to fans, she took decisive steps toward establishing herself in a different area of the industry.

Signing with P&Studio

On August 10, 2022, approximately three months after leaving WM Entertainment, Jiho signed an exclusive contract with P&Studio. The agency officially welcomed the former idol with an announcement that garnered significant attention from both her existing fanbase and the broader entertainment industry.

P&Studio expressed their commitment to her new career direction: "We will give full support to Gong Jiho so that she can develop her talent as an actress". This statement highlighted both the agency's confidence in her abilities and their dedication to nurturing her transition to acting.

In conjunction with the announcement, P&Studio released a new profile photo showcasing Jiho's image as she began this fresh professional journey. The visual transformation hinted at the reinvention taking place as she moved from idol to actress.

Stage name change to Gong Jiho

As part of establishing her new identity, the former OH MY GIRL member adopted a modified stage name. Rather than continuing as Kim Jiho, she would henceforth be known professionally as "Gong Jiho". This intentional rebranding signaled a clear distinction between her past as an idol and her future aspirations.

In a later interview with TENASIA, she addressed her perspective on this career pivot: "I wouldn't say I have absolutely no lingering feelings [about being an idol], but right now, I'm fully focused on acting". She elaborated on her ambitions: "I have a goal of being recognized and called by my character's name. For the past 10 years since my debut, I've been known as 'Jiho.' From now on, I want to be remembered by the names of the characters I play".

First acting roles and public appearances

Between signing with P&Studio in 2022 and securing her first significant roles, Jiho underwent what she described as an "unintended 'hiatus'" from 2022 to 2024. She revealed that during this period, she "spent time auditioning for projects, traveling, and consistently working out".

This transitional time included moments of uncertainty, as she admitted: "There were moments when I questioned, 'Will I be able to continue doing this in the future?'". Nevertheless, she persevered with trust in her management team and her own choices.

Her patience ultimately proved rewarding when she secured a role in her debut K-Drama, which became remarkably successful. According to reports, the show "ranked in the Top 10 highest-rated SBS Friday-Saturday series," effectively "re-writing SBS history". This achievement represented a validating start to her acting career.

Throughout this transitional period, Jiho maintained the supportive relationship with her fans that had characterized her OH MY GIRL years, carrying her dedicated audience with her into this new professional territory.

Public Image, Nicknames, and Personality

Beyond her professional achievements, Jiho developed a distinctive public image and personality that endeared her to fans throughout her career. Her unique characteristics and interactions with others revealed much about the person behind the idol persona.

Nicknames like 'Nyang' and 'Monday Fairy'

Throughout her time with OH MY GIRL, Jiho accumulated numerous nicknames that reflected her appearance and habits. Fans affectionately called her "Nyang" because of her cat-like features. This feline comparison became one of her most recognized monikers within the fandom.

Yet her most widely known nickname was "Monday Fairy," earned because she regularly posted selfies on OH MY GIRL's official Twitter every Monday. She explained this habit as a way to maintain connection with fans, especially during COVID-19 when face-to-face interactions became limited.

Other creative nicknames included Jorangi, Jjoon, General Jo, Queen Joe, and "Endorphin" (given by her agency because of her mood-boosting presence). Whenever she posted on social media, she typically signed with a distinctive "~Jiho" signature that became part of her communication style.

MBTI and personal quirks

Personality assessments identified Jiho as an ESTP type, with strong Fi (introverted feeling) traits. This combination made her both outgoing and creative—a passionate extrovert with strong internal values. Her vibrant personality often contrasted with her sometimes cold or snooty appearance.

Interestingly, Jiho had a habit of taking screenshots whenever her phone showed matching numbers (like 1:11 or 2:22), revealing her attention to small details and patterns. Additionally, she played guitar and spoke Japanese, showcasing talents beyond her idol activities.

Relationship with fans and members

Despite leaving OH MY GIRL, Jiho maintained warm connections with both fans and former groupmates. When her former members watched her in "Buried Hearts," they sent supportive messages. Similarly, she praised Seunghee's performance in "Jeongnyeon."

Her relationship with Arin was particularly notable—Jiho was nicknamed "Arin Mom" for her affection toward the younger member, and Arin herself confirmed this special bond. To her dedicated supporters, Jiho once remarked, "Your unwavering support is helping me become a warmer person."

Legacy and Impact on OH MY GIRL

Even as years pass since her departure, Jiho's imprint on OH MY GIRL remains undeniably profound. The relationship between the former member and her group demonstrates a remarkable bond that transcends professional changes.

Jiho's influence on group identity

In the early years of OH MY GIRL, Jiho played a crucial role in shaping the group's musical direction. As she explained in an interview, "It's how like seven different people have come together to complete OH MY GIRL... the album expresses this process of how in time, we've become so close and united". This sentiment reflects her understanding of the group's collective identity—something she helped build through her contributions to their signature fairy-tale concepts and polished performances.

Jiho's vocal color added distinctive texture to OH MY GIRL's sound, helping establish what other members described as their "signature sound" with "more depth". Along with her visual presence, these elements became integral to the group's public image.

How fans remember her contributions

Upon news of her departure, longtime supporters expressed understanding rather than criticism. One fan remarked, "As a fan since pre-debut I am honestly heartbroken... I believe she loves OH MY GIRL and would've stayed if only WM gave her opportunities". Undoubtedly, this perspective reflects the general sentiment among many dedicated followers.

Meanwhile, Jiho herself has maintained her connection with the fandom, promising in her farewell letter to "be a great Miracle [member] too", shifting her role from performer to fellow fan.

Mentions in recent group activities

Current OH MY GIRL members continue acknowledging Jiho in interviews and broadcasts. Evidently, they "mentioned Jiho on live broadcasts" and noted they "are still strong by seeing Jiho's Instagram posts".

Most touchingly, for OH MY GIRL's 10th anniversary concert [Milky Way] in 2025, Jiho "sent a bouquet on the last day of the concert" despite being unable to attend. In addition, she celebrated their decade milestone by using "Dun Dun Dance on Instagram Story BGM" the day after—subtle yet meaningful gestures demonstrating enduring support for her former group.

FAQS

Curious fans often have questions about Jiho's career choices and personal journey. Here are some frequently asked questions that provide insight into her time with OH MY GIRL and beyond.

Why did Jiho leave OH MY GIRL?
After extensive discussions with both WM Entertainment and fellow members, Jiho decided not to renew her contract when it expired in May 2022. In her handwritten letter to fans, she expressed: "I talked with the company about the future a number of times, but we decided to support each other on the road ahead in the end". To clarify, her departure was to pursue a "new dream" and career direction.

What did Jiho promise fans after leaving the group?
In her farewell letter, Jiho made a heartfelt commitment: "No matter what I do in the future, I'll work hard to repay you [for your support] by showing you good images of myself". Additionally, she pledged to become "a great Miracle [member]" herself, supporting OH MY GIRL from the perspective of a fan.

What personal facts make Jiho unique among K-pop idols?
Jiho comes from a large family with three older sisters and a younger brother. Curiously, she has a habit of taking screenshots when her phone shows matching numbers like 1:11 or 2:22. As a trainee, she was notably ordered to survive on Subway sandwiches. Her motto includes wisdom such as "Your whole life can be changed with one event" and "Let's live to eat".

How did Jiho describe her time with OH MY GIRL?
In her parting message, she reflected that "the countless conversations we've had over the past seven years, the moments we met every Monday, and the love and support Miracle gave us are all truly unforgettable". Furthermore, she acknowledged: "Because of you, I was able to grow and be happier over the past seven years".