CHUNG HA is ready for a new chapter: 'It's really important from now to share my stories'

South Korean singer CHUNG HA doesn't fear trying new things. She constantly challenges herself when creating music because it's what she loves.

The 28-year-old got her start on reality competition show "Produce 101" in 2016. She placed fourth, earning a spot in the final lineup of project girl group I.O.I. After the group disbanded in 2017, CHUNG HA made her solo debut with "Hands on Me".

She quickly became one of K-pop's most iconic soloists. She's won various awards and her songs have placed high on the charts, cementing CHUNG HA's legacy through skillful choreographies and melodic vocals.

Now, she's back after almost two years with new music and a refreshed mindset.

"I'm very excited and very nervous at the same time. It's a whole new chapter for me opening up," she told USA TODAY.

CHUNG HA is setting the stage for a new era

Over the last year, CHUNG HA has been reflecting on her artistry and where she stands in the industry. At first, she was unsure how to move forward.

"I was confused," she explained. "I didn't know what my authentic color was as a musician."

She considered different options, deciding to not give up and push ahead. She credited the team at MORE VISION (including founder Jay Park), which she signed to in October 2023, as a support.

"The music industry changes. The trends, they change. I didn't know what to do," CHUNG HA said. "But then, Jay asked me, 'What do you want to do?'"

This sentiment was something she never really considered.

"I've always chased what people like... I didn't find it from me. I found it from those people," she said. "For me, right now, I think I'm trying to find it for myself."

In reframing her mindset, CHUNG HA revitalized her confidence and this echoes throughout her latest release.

Outlining the messages of 'EENIE MEENIE' and 'I'm Ready'

"EENIE MEENIE" and "I'm Ready" were released March 11. She is thankful to her fans who have waited for her comeback. CHUNG HA took part in writing the songs' lyrics, explaining how each represents her "current state of mind."

"I'm Ready" speaks to CHUNG HA's fervor to be back performing, reflecting her self-assurance and authenticity. "It just explains where I am at right now and how ready I am to get this stage."

For "EENIE MEENIE", the lead single, it mirrors CHUNG HA growth and strength.

"I had a lot of situations that I had to choose and navigate through. I did have some moments to hesitate," she said. "I hope my fans could get the message to follow their true desires and pursue their hearts fearlessly."

"EENIE MEENIE" served as a challenge for CHUNG HA, experimenting with a different sound. Its creative process was unlike previous ones. But the track ultimately underscores her sonic growth.

It also features Hongjoong, the leader of ATEEZ. "He's a captain there, so I needed that captain in my song," CHUNG HA said. "As I navigate through my new waves in the water, he was just a perfect fit."

Embracing life, music without predetermined answers

Reflecting on her younger self, CHUNG HA would remind her to remain humble and be thankful. "It's not going to be smooth. No road is that silky. You're going to have some obstacles and face some difficulties."

Moving forward, CHUNG HA is eager to test the limits. She wants to try new and different things to see what fits her well. The same repeats for her music's themes.

"As an artist now, I'm not a beginner, I feel like I'm more mature. As a person and as an artist, I think it's really important from now to share my stories and my own thoughts into the music," she said.

CHUNG HA held back in the past; "When I was a beginner, I thought I would have to hide my flaws and what I don't have."

Today, CHUNG HA embraces the undefined without fear.

"There is no right or wrong answer to life. Sometimes, this society has predetermined answers for you that they want you to pick, and I think I've gone through that phase in the beginning of my years," she said. "Right now, I'm in a phase where I really don't know but I follow my instincts and follow my gut feeling of what I want to do."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: K-pop soloist CHUNG HA talks comeback, new music and confidence