South Korean Rapper Lee Young-ji Eyes Global Stardom and Collaborations

South Korean rapper Lee Young-ji is making headlines as she expresses her aspirations for international collaborations, including a dream partnership with Taylor Swift. Recently, at the Waterbomb Singapore festival, she showcased her vibrant personality and candid insights about her career, which has rapidly ascended since her debut in the hip-hop scene.

In 2019, Lee made history as the first female winner of the competition series High School Rapper. Her remarkable talent and bold performances soon garnered her recognition, not just in music but also in the entertainment industry. Following her initial success, she captivated audiences on popular variety shows such as Running Man and Knowing Bros, establishing herself as a versatile entertainer.

Reflecting on her journey, Lee remarked, “I really upgraded. I did my upgrade as a human being and as an artiste.” She elaborated on her growth, highlighting how she has learned to better understand herself and her audience.

As for her musical inspiration, Lee draws from a range of experiences, stating, “Most of my music is about relationships, but it can also be about inner and outer peace.” Recently, she has been keen on exploring unique themes, often pulling ideas from classic films that resonate deeply with Korean culture.

Looking ahead, Lee is eager to experiment with various music genres while honing her unique sound. She expressed her desire to collaborate with an impressive roster of international artists, including Justin Bieber, SZA, and Doja Cat. “Before they retire, I hope I can grow my career and music enough to collaborate with them,” she said. Her ultimate ambition remains clear: “So, Coachella, let’s go!”

Performing at events like Waterbomb presents its challenges. Lee shared her apprehension about getting wet during performances, a common occurrence at the festival. “I think I am afraid of getting wet,” she admitted, recalling how the crowd in Korea would enthusiastically douse her with water. Despite her fears, she approaches her performances with a confident attitude, noting that every stage offers a valuable opportunity to connect with her audience.

Lee hopes attendees remember her shows for her captivating performances. She stated, “I really want them to think that. For me, whether it’s Waterbomb or any other show, especially overseas, I see it as a valuable chance to introduce myself and my music.”

When not performing, Lee finds solace in relaxation. “I pretend to be dead on my couch and on the floor sometimes! I don’t do anything,” she quipped, emphasizing the importance of downtime amid her busy schedule.

As she continues her journey in the music industry, Lee Young-ji remains committed to connecting with her audience through her art. She conveyed a heartfelt message, stating, “Maybe… don’t fight? People fight too much. Also, please listen to my music – I’ll keep working hard for you.”

Fans can catch Lee Young-ji in the latest season of Earth Arcade, streaming on Viu, as she continues to carve her path in the global entertainment landscape.