Jini made her official debut as a soloist on Wednesday, October 11, with the mini album An Iron Hand In a Velvet Glove. However, netizens are still left wondering about her sudden departure from K-pop girl group NMIXX.

On the same day of the album launch, Jini held a media showcase to celebrate her fresh start. There, the singer was suddenly questioned about her reason for leaving her former group, NMIXX. 

The show’s MC, Park Seul Gi, immediately spoke on her behalf. “It’s difficult to go into detail as it’s a personal matter. Right now, we’re here to introduce the album,” she said.

A clip of the incident immediately circulated on social media, leaving fans concerned with the artist’s seemingly anxious reaction and trembling voice. 

Despite her difficulty to speak about the matter, Jini carefully clarified: “It’s hard to discuss this due to personal reasons, but I’m determined to debut as a solo artist this time.”

This is the first time that the young idol briefly commented about her departure from NMIXX. As per JYP Entertainment’s statement, Jini terminated her exclusive contract due to personal circumstances. At the time, the singer also didn’t provide additional details about her career move. 

However, her departure came as a shock to NSWERS, NMIXX’s fans, especially that Jini was known as one of the members who trained the longest. Moreover, she left not even a year after NMIXX made their official debut. 

Focusing on Jini and her new beginning

After parting ways with NMIXX and JYP Entertainment in December 2022, Jini found a new home under the entertainment company, ATOC.

After signing with the agency, Jini focused on preparing for her first mini album An Iron Hand In a Velvet Glove. Said album consisted of a total of five songs, including the English title track “C’mon,” featuring American rapper Amine and three other B-sides.

During the media showcase, Jini shared her thoughts about the title song. “When I first heard the demo, I was so fond of the English version that I suggested it to the company,” she explained as to why she opted for the track.

In addition, the singer also took the opportunity to express her appreciation to her devoted fans. “First of all, I would like to say thank you so much for waiting. I want to tell you that I hope to make many memories together for a long time,” she said. 

With a positive mindset, Jini mentioned her ambitions for the future. “I want to show a more positive side of myself in the future, alongside never-seen-before sides of myself. Please look forward to it,”  she declared.

Featured image: Jini poses for her solo debut album ‘An Iron Hand in a Velvet Glove.’ Credit: Twitter/JINI