A Comprehensive Guide to NewJeans: Members, Characteristics, and Hit Songs

NewJeans, also known as NJZ, is a South Korean girl group formed by ADOR, a sub-label of HYBE Corporation, under the creative direction of Min Hee-jin. Debuting on July 22, 2022, with their single "Attention," NewJeans has rapidly risen to global prominence with their "girl next door" image and nostalgic 1990s and 2000s-inspired musical style. The group consists of five members: Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein. Below is an overview of each member, their roles, characteristics, and the group's most iconic hit songs.

NewJeans Members: Roles and Characteristics

1. Minji (Kim Min-ji)

Role: Vocalist, dancer, unofficial leader
Characteristics: Minji, the oldest member at 20, is often regarded as the group's natural leader due to her maturity and experience. Hailing from Gangwon, South Korea, she was a Source Music trainee and appeared in BTS's "Permission to Dance" music video. Known for her polished visuals, she is a global ambassador for Chanel.
Song Parts: Minji delivers smooth vocals and contributes to the group's harmonious sound, often taking prominent lines in choruses, as in "Ditto" and "Super Shy." She co-wrote "Ditto," showcasing her lyrical talent.
Notable Contribution: Her leadership and vocal consistency shine in live performances, and her appearance in audition promotional videos helped build anticipation for NewJeans.

2. Hanni (Hanni Pham)

Role: Vocalist, dancer, songwriter
Characteristics: Hanni, a Vietnamese-Australian from Melbourne, brings an international perspective, speaking English, Vietnamese, and Korean fluently. She was the only trainee selected from the Plus Global Auditions and appeared in BTS's "Permission to Dance" video. Known for her charming and relatable personality, she studies online at an Australian high school.
Song Parts: Hanni's versatile vocals feature in melodic verses and choruses, as heard in "Hype Boy" and "OMG," both of which she co-wrote, highlighting her songwriting skills.
Notable Contribution: As the first Vietnamese idol under HYBE, Hanni made history, and her dance background with Aemina Dance Crew adds to her stage presence.

3. Danielle (Danielle Marsh)

Role: Vocalist, dancer, songwriter
Characteristics: Danielle, a Korean-Australian, is praised for her emotive singing and ability to convey intricate emotions, as noted by Haerin. A former YG Entertainment trainee, she joined ADOR through a Source Music audition. She is a Dior ambassador for jewelry, fashion, and beauty.
Song Parts: Danielle's expressive vocals shine in songs like "Attention," "Super Shy," "Cool With You," and "ASAP," all of which she co-wrote, often taking lead in emotional sections.
Notable Contribution: Her lyrical contributions and vibrant stage presence, combined with her bilingual fluency, enhance NewJeans' global appeal.

4. Haerin (Kang Hae-rin)

Role: Vocalist, dancer, songwriter
Characteristics: Haerin, from Seoul, is known for her ethereal visuals and soft-spoken demeanor. Street-cast in 2019, she joined ADOR in 2020 and is a Dior ambassador. Her lyrical contribution to "New Jeans" reflects her creative input.
Song Parts: Haerin's delicate vocals complement the group's harmonious style, with standout moments in "New Jeans" and "Hurt," where her subtle delivery adds depth.
Notable Contribution: Her unique charm and dance precision contribute to NewJeans' cohesive performances, earning her praise for her artistic versatility.

5. Hyein (Lee Hye-in)

Role: Vocalist, dancer, maknae (youngest member)
Characteristics: Hyein, from Incheon, South Korea, is the youngest at 16, known for her youthful energy and modeling experience since age eight. Despite a temporary hiatus in 2024 due to a foot injury, she remains a vital part of the group. Her tall stature and striking visuals enhance her stage presence.
Song Parts: Hyein's bright and clear vocals feature in songs like "Cookie" and "ETA," often adding a playful tone to choruses.
Notable Contribution: Her modeling background and charismatic performances make her a standout, with fans appreciating her growth as a performer.

NewJeans' Hit Songs

NewJeans has released several chart-topping hits that blend retro R&B, pop, and electronic influences, earning critical and commercial success. Below are some of their most iconic songs:

"Attention" (2022)
The group's debut single, a 2000s R&B-inspired track with smooth piano chords and angelic harmonies. It topped South Korea's Circle Digital Chart and marked their innovative, promotion-free debut.
"Hype Boy" (2022)
An upbeat future bass song with 1990s R&B and moombahton elements, it became the longest-running song by a K-pop female act on the Billboard Global 200, charting for 42 weeks. Its catchy choreography went viral on TikTok.
"Cookie" (2022)
A pop-R&B track with a fluttering bassline and Jersey club elements, it faced controversy over lyrical interpretations but was defended by ADOR as referencing baking and burning CDs. It charted globally and contributed to their debut EP's success.
"Ditto" (2022)
From their single album OMG, this track became the longest-running number-one song on the Circle Digital Chart and entered the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Singles Chart. Its nostalgic music video and relatable lyrics resonated widely.
"OMG" (2023)
A viral TikTok hit with minimalist R&B production, it peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Global 200. Its energetic vibe and English-Korean chorus boosted its international appeal.
"Super Shy" (2023)
The lead single from their second EP Get Up, this dance-pop track with waacking-inspired choreography reached number two on the Billboard Global 200 and charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Its catchy hooks gained global traction.

Conclusion

NewJeans has redefined K-pop with their minimalist production, nostalgic aesthetics, and authentic storytelling. Each member's unique talents—vocals, dance, and songwriting—create a cohesive and captivating group dynamic. Despite challenges, including a 2024 management dispute with ADOR and HYBE, their music continues to resonate globally, earning them accolades like Time Next Generation Leaders and a spot as the eighth best-selling artist worldwide in 2023 by IFPI. As they navigate their future under the name NJZ, NewJeans remains a trailblazer in the global music scene.