The siblings of renowned K-pop idols are increasingly making their mark in the entertainment industry, drawing significant public attention and establishing their own careers while navigating the spotlight that comes with their famous family connections. From reality TV debuts to acting careers and music endeavors, these talented individuals are proving they have star power in their own right.
BLACKPINK member Jisoo's older sister, Kim Ji-yoon, is preparing to make her television debut on ENA's upcoming reality competition show "Super Seller: Incentive Game," which is set to premiere in October. The former Korean Air flight attendant shared her excitement on social media, writing, "I can finally share the reason I've been studying so hard. I'm so grateful to everyone who gave me confidence and advice!" She also expressed her determination, adding, "I'll try my best to show my good side, so I'd appreciate it if you could cheer me on as I take on my first challenge as a super seller. Let's go for first place!"
During a pre-interview for the show, Kim Ji-yoon demonstrated remarkable composure when asked about any pressure she might feel being known as Jisoo's sister. "Not at all," she responded calmly. "It's true, and I can't change that. I was just born this way." She predicted that Jisoo would be supportive of her new venture, explaining, "She'll probably tell me to do my best, since we're both T-types," referring to their Myers-Briggs personality test results. Kim has previously gained attention for her striking appearance and resemblance to popular actress Han Hyo-joo.
The trend of K-pop siblings entering the spotlight extends beyond Kim Ji-yoon. Lovelyz member Lee Mi-joo's older sister, Lee Yun-ji, made a memorable appearance on MBC's variety show "Hangout With Yoo" in July, earning widespread praise from both viewers and celebrities. Singer DinDin complimented her elegant appearance, noting she had "the kind of visuals that would instantly pass any job interview." Social media users quickly began comparing her looks to acclaimed actors Go Yoon-jung and Son Ye-jin, creating significant buzz online.
IVE member Jang Won-young's older sister, actress Jang Da-a, has already successfully established herself in the entertainment industry. She gained viral fame when photos showcasing her beauty circulated widely across the internet, earning her the playful nickname "the prettier sister." Da-a officially launched her acting career in February of last year, starring as the lead in TVING's original drama "Pyramid Game." Currently, she appears in ENA's Monday-Tuesday drama "My Troublesome Star," where she portrays the younger version of veteran actress Uhm Jung-hwa's character.
During promotional interviews for "Pyramid Game," Jang Da-a addressed the frequent references to her famous sister with grace and ambition. "It was something I couldn't control since it was already public, so I accepted it," she explained. "But I want to be recognized as an actress on my own." Her comments reflect the common challenge faced by siblings of celebrities who must balance family connections with their desire for independent recognition.
NewJeans member Danielle's older sister, Olivia Marsh, has chosen to pursue her own music career under the stage name Livy. She debuted in September of last year as the first artist signed under global label MPLIFY. Since 2023, Marsh has contributed her talents to albums by several prominent K-pop artists, including BoA, Kep1er, Kiss of Life, Oh My Girl, and Wheein, steadily building her reputation within the competitive music industry.
Despite her growing profile as a musician, Marsh acknowledges that she is still frequently identified primarily as Danielle's sister, a label she embraces with pride rather than frustration. "It's natural," she said in a recent interview. "Danielle debuted first and is doing so well. I'm proud of her. I'm also working hard and making good music, so maybe someday I'll be known by other titles, too," she added with a laugh, demonstrating her positive attitude toward her current situation.
As an increasing number of K-pop idols' siblings venture into the entertainment and music industries, fans and industry observers are closely watching to see how these rising stars will establish their own unique identities and careers. The challenge of stepping out from the shadows of their globally famous family members while leveraging the opportunities that come with their connections presents both advantages and obstacles that each individual must navigate in their own way.
