Introduction
Say My Name (Korean: 세이마이네임) is a South Korean girl group that has quickly captured the attention of K-pop fans worldwide since its debut in 2024. Formed and managed by Inkode, the group comprises eight talented members: Hitomi, Shuie, Mei, Kanny, Soha, Dohee, Junhwi, and Seungjoo. With their unique identity and powerful messages embedded in their music, Say My Name aims to resonate with audiences who have experienced challenges and seek hope and solidarity in their lives. The group officially debuted on October 16, 2024, with their self-titled extended play (EP), setting the stage for what promises to be a bright future in the competitive K-pop industry.
Meaning Behind the Name
The name “Say My Name” carries a significant meaning that reflects the group’s core values and aspirations. It symbolizes a “unique identity” that sets the group apart in an industry saturated with talent. Beyond just an artistic label, it embodies the “preciousness of ‘me myself, us ourselves'”—an acknowledgment of the struggles individuals face at various points in life. The name serves as a reminder to embrace one’s true self and collective experiences while fostering a sense of unity among fans and members alike. Through their music and activities, Say My Name aspires to deliver hopeful messages that encourage personal growth and overcoming adversity together.
Formation and Pre-debut Activities
The formation of Say My Name involved several pre-debut activities that highlighted the individual talents of its members. Some members had prior experience in the entertainment industry before joining the group. For instance, Hitomi was previously part of the renowned Japanese idol group AKB48 and later achieved fame by finishing ninth in the 2018 Mnet audition program Produce 48, leading to her debut with the project group Iz*One. Similarly, Seungjoo made her mark as a contestant on MBC TV’s audition program My Teenage Girl, while Mei showcased her skills on the global talent competition reality show The Debut: Dream Academy.
On August 30, 2024, Inkode announced Say My Name as its first girl group, further highlighting that it was produced by prominent figure Kim Jae-joong. The company gradually revealed the seven initial members: Dohee, Kanny, Mei, Junhwi, Soha, Seungjoo, and Hitomi. The anticipation surrounding their debut grew as fans eagerly awaited more information about these talented individuals who would soon unite as a cohesive group.
Debut and Early Releases
Say My Name officially debuted on October 16, 2024, following an offline debut showcase titled ‘Cat Night’ held on October 15. This event allowed fans to connect with the members and witness their performances live. Additionally, an online debut showcase streamed through SBS K-Pop Concert expanded their reach to global audiences eager to witness this promising new act.
The group’s debut EP featured several tracks that showcased their versatile musical style and vibrant energy. The lead single “WaveWay” quickly garnered attention for its catchy melody and engaging choreography. Following this successful launch, Say My Name continued to build momentum with subsequent releases.
My Name Is… EP
On March 13, 2025, Say My Name released their second extended play titled My Name Is…, which included the lead single “ShaLala.” This EP marked another step in their artistic evolution and allowed them to further establish their presence in the K-pop scene.
Addition of Shuie
In July 2025, Inkode announced a significant change within the group: Shuie was added as an eighth member. The addition brought fresh dynamics to Say My Name’s performances and creative processes. The first single featuring Shuie was “iLy,” released on August 1. This track notably included an interpolation of Frankie Valli’s classic song “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” showcasing their ability to blend contemporary sounds with nostalgic elements.
Achievements and Recognition
As Say My Name continued to release music and expand their fanbase, they achieved notable milestones within a short period. Their third extended play &Our Vibe was released on December 29, further solidifying their status as rising stars in K-pop. One of their significant accomplishments came when they earned their first win on a domestic music show Music Bank for the lead single “UFO (Attent!on)” from &Our Vibe on January 9, 2026. This achievement underscored their rapid rise within the industry and demonstrated both critical acclaim and fan support.
Endorsements and Branding
Upon their debut, Say My Name quickly attracted attention from brands seeking to collaborate with emerging talent in the entertainment space. They were selected as the global model for Tiam, a vitamin specialized skincare brand. This endorsement not only highlights their growing influence but also illustrates how brands recognize the potential impact of K-pop groups on consumer engagement.
Conclusion
Say My Name represents a fresh chapter in South Korea’s vibrant K-pop landscape. With a meaningful name that reflects individuality and unity, a diverse set of talents among its members, and an ambitious approach to music production and performance, Say My Name is poised for success in the years ahead. As they continue to evolve through new releases and performances, fans can expect this girl group to deliver inspiring messages while navigating their journey in the entertainment industry. With each milestone achieved since their debut in October 2024, Say My Name is not just asking listeners to “say my name,” but also inviting them to join in celebrating personal growth and resilience through shared experiences.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).