Meet U.ing!

The new singer-songwriter shares her goal of being a “happiness fairy” through encouraging music!

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “U.ing is ___” or “U.ing’s music is ___”?

“U.ing is the happiness fairy that exists for you.” I'm U.ing, a singer-songwriter in South Korea who debuted on December 12, 2024. In addition to my singer-songwriter activities, which started with the release of the mini-album ing, I have been active as a creator and posting on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram! I sing because I want people who listen to my songs to be happy and touched. I want everyone to have a happy life [with] my songs in [them].

Who or what inspired you to pursue a music career?

Music has been the most natural way to express my feelings since I was young. I think everyday feelings and stories from people around me naturally led me to music, not one person or event in particular. I [have been] very inspired by artists who [tell] honest stories in their own colors. Just as that kind of music [has] comforted me, I [want] to play that kind of music for someone.

How did you choose your stage name, and did you consider any other stage names first?

I deeply considered my stage name. There were other options, but none were as powerful and impactful as “U.ing.” My Korean name has the word “You,” which is pronounced as “U.” “ing” means “the current development.” [So “U.ing”] means “I'm growing into myself, and my story will continue.”

What three words or phrases best describe the mini-album ing?

“Happiness,” “hope,” and “empathy.” There's a lyric in “ing”: “Solving all your worries / Clear your mind.” It means I want to get rid of all the worries and bad thoughts of people who listen to my songs. Besides the title track, I hope [people] listen to all of the songs. Each song is interesting and has a different story and style!

Is ing an example of what your future songs will sound like, or do you plan to change musical directions?

ing is an important album that shows my musical color, but I can't necessarily conclude that future music points in the same direction. I always want to express new emotions and experiences through music, so I think I will try a slightly different sound or style in the next album. Most importantly, I think my music is [able] to reach out to listeners honestly, so whatever change I try, [it won’t change the fact that I] capture my own stories and emotions.

Please talk about each song on ing:

“ing”: This song is about hoping people who listen to my song forget their worries and negative thoughts. While practicing, I suddenly thought, “Why don't I create my own world in the deep sea and invite people who need happiness?,” and that thought led to the song. You can see beautiful beach scenery in the music video, so make sure to check it out on YouTube!

“Destination”: “Be confident wherever you go! Everywhere you walk is your destination!” This song is a good song to listen to when you have a lot of worries about whether what [you are] doing is right and going [as] well as planned. In particular, I want all women to act confidently like superstars. I often doubt or confuse myself, but I wrote and composed with the desire to overcome those feelings. The vocals were expressed as powerfully as possible, and I added a powerful killing part like a diva singer. As you walk down the street listening to this song, you'll feel like you're walking on a stage!

“forget completely”: “Don't be afraid of mistakes or failures and keep going! Your worries and regrets will be forgotten by my spell!” This song has a message that you should trust yourself and not dwell on mistakes. I had to do a presentation in front of many people, but I was so nervous that I made a mistake. I was so upset, but I want to give courage to people who struggle with mistakes like I made. Everyone makes mistakes and grows through failures. The lyrics are positive, but the melodies and beats are meant to give [it] a dreamy and unique feeling.

“inside mind”: This song is about my honest feelings. Sometimes I have a selfish mind, but in the end, I want to be a better person to my loved ones, and I always want to be considerate. This was the first song in ing to [be completed].

Who do you look up to in the music industry, and why?

I respect various K-pop artists, but mostly TAEYEON and IU. I think both have excellent vocal skills. Whenever they sing, their emotions touch listeners’ hearts so greatly that I get inspired to do music like them!

What are your short-term and long-term career goals?

First of all, my goal for 2025 is to release a second album with various genres, and I plan to communicate with my fans around the world through interesting content. If I get to have [more] music and fans than [I have] now, I want to hold my own concert. Also, I want to be an artist who can do acting and broadcasting activities at the same time as music. Actually, when I was young, I did acting and musicals, and I have a dream of becoming a musical actor. I will be an all-rounder who can give happiness through various activities!

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?

I want to honestly express my feelings, support, and comfort through music and art. I deeply hope those feelings will reach listeners and become music that they can relate to in their own ways. I will continue to deliver comforting and sympathetic stories through music. I'd appreciate it if you could keep an eye on me!

It’s been my honor to have a chance to interact [with fans] through this interview. This is your fairy singer-songwriter U.ing. Have a happy day! Hope to see you next time!

Check out ing here, and keep up with U.ing on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

Answers have been edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of U.ing.