Former BB Girls member Nam Yoo-jung faced mixed online reactions after making her first Waterbomb appearance as a solo artist, with some critics asking, “Why did she even join BB Girls if it was going to be like this?”
Naver
According to Naver, Nam Yoo-jung performed on August 22 at Waterbomb Sokcho 2026, held at Hanwha Resort Seorak Sorano in Sokcho, Gangwon Province. The appearance marked her first Waterbomb performance since her 2016 debut and her first major festival stage since leaving BB Girls in April 2024.
Her set included remakes of Jewelry’s “I Really Like You,” Park Myung-soo’s “Prince of the Sea,” and Uhm Jung-hwa’s “Invitation.” Lee Min-hyuk of BTOB made a surprise appearance during “Invitation,” joining Nam Yoo-jung for the collaboration.
Although she performed in a summer festival style, wearing a sleeveless top and short shorts while displaying her characteristic bright smile and energetic manner, videos from the event prompted criticism online.
Some commenters questioned why she had performed only remakes instead of original solo material. Others said she appeared more effective in a group and criticized her vocals, dancing and overall stage presence.
Comments included questions about whether she had a clear musical direction and claims that her weaknesses had been concealed by other members during group activities. The remarks were individual online opinions rather than an official evaluation of the performance.
Nam Yoo-jung also received support from viewers who said the live audience responded positively. Some welcomed her return to the stage and said they were willing to give her time to develop as a solo performer.
Naver
Before the festival, she discussed the pressure surrounding the appearance in a YouTube interview, according to The Chosun Daily. She said singers generally promote albums through music programs, but she accepted Waterbomb after receiving what she considered a valuable performance opportunity.
She added that she had never released a solo song while in a group, making the event both burdensome and enjoyable.
The outlet reported that Nam Yoo-jung released “You’re So Nice” on Aug. 11 as the first solo song from a remake album featuring new interpretations of songs she selected.
MK Sports reported before the concert that Nam Yoo-jung had drawn attention on social media after posting photos in a Y2K-inspired outfit. The report said fans focused on her changed appearance and anticipated her first large festival stage alone.
Nam Yoo-jung debuted with Brave Girls, which rose to renewed popularity in 2021 after “Rollin'” became a hit. The group later became BB Girls. It now operates as a trio of Minyoung, Eunji, and Yuna, while Nam Yoo-jung works to establish her own identity and sound.