BVNDIT disbanded in November 2022. In an industry that churns through talent at light speed, the group’s end came as a sharp cut. Beyond the bureaucracy and the formal expiration of a contract, for Um Jungwoo, this was a genuine professional trauma: a sudden blackout, an uncertain future, and the dizzying reality of finding herself without a paycheck or a team overnight.
Once the aftershock subsided, however, rather than frantically chasing a new spotlight, Jungwoo chose books and technique. She dedicated herself to study—setting her sights directly on Berklee College of Music—and took to the musical theatre stage, taking on iconic roles in Dreamgirls and Spring Awakening.
When I listened to her solo debut single, Still Here, I realized I wasn’t dealing with just an idol seeking exposure. The track—a pop-rock piece weaving together Korean and English—was launched with a strategy that places the voice front and center. The decision to release an Official Audio instead of a glossy MV, the independent distribution via StreamMusic… everything screamed “substance.” Jungwoo chose to make her official debut this past November 25th by forgoing the traditional music video, entrusting the visual narrative instead to complementary content—such as the Interview Film that preceded the release and an intimate Lyric Video—designed to welcome the listener into her world without ever overshadowing the music.
For this reason, I let the conversation slide away from the rails of classic promotion to delve into more concrete territory. I wanted to understand the reality behind the music. I asked her how one survives logistically and economically when you no longer have a solid structure like MNH behind you, and how the work changes in the studio when you are the one deciding and building every single vocal harmony. Jungwoo answered me without filters, telling me about the struggle of creating a promotional team from scratch and the freedom to finally explore her own voice without having to “overpower” the heavy synths of dance tracks.
This is the story of an artistic rebirth, told firsthand by the person living it.
And here is our conversation.
Hello Jungwoo and welcome back to music!! We are so happy and honored to have you here on Koreami!
You chose to return with an “Official Audio” instead of a classic Music Video focused on choreography. Was this a strategic choice to force the audience to focus exclusively on your voice rather than the “idol” image?
This time, I wanted people to focus on my voice and the message behind it. I hope listeners take their time with the lyrics and enjoy the music by really focusing on my voice.
Critics have often praised your timbre for being deeper and “huskier” than the standard K-pop soprano. How has your approach to recording changed now that you no longer have to overpower the heavy synths of BVNDIT’s dance tracks?
I paid more attention to delicate vocal techniques than before. And since I had to sing the entire song alone, I focused a lot on the overall flow of the track. Recording group songs was powerful and energetic, which I always enjoyed, but this time I had fun in a different way.
Being accepted to Berklee College of Music is a huge milestone. Is there a specific technical skill learned during your studies that you applied in the production of this single that you didn’t possess before?
I’m currently studying musical theatre acting, and while performing Dreamgirls and Spring Awakening at school, I learned a lot about vocal technique. So during this recording, I tried to apply what I learned—especially how to create stronger, lighter, and more stable high notes. This song is quite high, but I think I managed it well thanks to what I studied.
You are also credited for the “chorus” (backing vocals). What was it like working in the studio building all the vocal layers yourself that were previously divided among five members?
Actually, even though many might not know it, I participated in many parts of the backing vocals even during group promotions. So it is familiar to me. But this time, I was able to make more decisions about the chord structure of the harmonies and which parts needed to be doubled, so I had even more fun. It was the part I enjoyed the most during the recording.
You now operate through independent distribution (StreamMusic) without a large agency like MNH behind you. What is the most difficult logistical challenge you have had to face managing your career on your own?
Honestly, everything felt difficult. I didn’t have the same financial support as before, and I had to manage the content production myself. So I formed a promotional team, and together we created various types of content and contacted the media. I could never have done it alone. I am truly grateful to my promotional team.
The title “Still Here” is very powerful in an industry that forgets quickly. Do you feel like a representative for all those talented 4th generation idols who “disappeared” too soon?
I think so. Sometimes I still ask myself: “If we had received more support and continued promoting steadily, would things have turned out differently?”. But I really want to say thank you to the fans who recognized the value of BVNDIT and of me as a person, and who continued to love and support us. I’m truly grateful, and I love you all so much.
Bvnditbul have waited three years for this moment. If this song is a response to their wait, what do you want them to feel when listening: nostalgia or hope for the future?
Both are nice, but I hope they feel hope for the future. I want myself and my fans to use our memories as fuel and move forward even stronger.
“Still Here” is an emotional track, but your background includes powerful performances like “Jungle.” In the future, do you intend to explore genres like R&B or Soul, or will you also return to more rhythmic performances?
Going forward, I think I’ll explore R&B or soul rather than performance-centered music. As a solo artist, I want to show deeper emotions and my musicality more fully. I think I’ll be able to show a charm that’s different from my BVNDIT days.
How would you define Uhm Jung Woo today in a single sentence, now that the label “BVNDIT’s Main Vocalist” no longer precedes your name?
I think I’m “a warm and free person.” I want to be someone warm to everyone, and at the same time, someone who lives freely. I hope that everyone reading this can also express themselves generously to the people around them and live freely without being tied down by too many things.
