Dayoung Talks What's A Girl To Do, Going Solo & What's Next | DAEBAK SHOW

Daebak Show w/ Eric Nam38mApril 28, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of The Daebak Show, host Eric Nam welcomes Korean artist Dayoung (also known as Taeyoung) for a heartfelt conversation about her journey from a young auditioner in Jeju Island to a rising solo star. Dayoung reflects on her early dreams of becoming a singer, her struggles with self-doubt and financial hardship, and the pivotal role her mother played in supporting her ambitions despite their humble background. She shares the emotional weight behind her new single, 'What's a Girl to Do,' which marks her first solo release after years in the group Cosmic Girls (WJSN). The episode delves into her creative process, her collaboration with Eric Nam as both mentor and executive producer, and the intense preparation behind her music and performances. Dayoung reveals her admiration for artists like Yori and Eric Nam himself, and expresses excitement for her future, including a new project with a 'Pussycat Dolls and Beyoncé' vibe. The conversation is interspersed with fun games, candid reflections, and a touching moment when her mother finally changed her profile picture to Dayoung’s—symbolizing her pride and validation.

Key Takeaways
1

Self-belief and persistence are key—Dayoung overcame rejection, financial hardship, and self-doubt to launch her solo career.

2

Mentorship and confidence-building from trusted collaborators (like Eric Nam) can be transformative for artists transitioning from group to solo work.

3

The K-pop industry is extremely competitive and financially demanding—many trainees never debut, and even successful artists face significant debt and pressure.

4

Family support, especially from a mother who believed in her dreams despite their circumstances, is a powerful foundation for success.

5

Artistic identity evolves through collaboration and experimentation—finding your 'sound' takes time, effort, and creative courage.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
10 min

Welcome & Introduction to Dayoung

Eric Nam introduces Dayoung as a rising solo star and special guest, highlighting their close working relationship as executive producer and artist. He praises her talent and excitement for her new single.

10:00
10 min

The Journey Behind 'What's a Girl to Do'

I was like, oh my god this is it. Yes, and then I decided I'm gonna record this and then right after I called Eric Nam...

Highlight
20:00
10 min

From Jeju Island to Seoul: The Early Struggles

My mom said, see? You're not talented. So like don't do music, just study.

Highlight
30:00
10 min

The Reality of K-Pop Training & Industry Pressure

It's a very tough life. Yes. And even like... my friends who are now very, very successful. Like they all had times where they were like we're so big but we have so much debt to our company.

Highlight
40:00
10 min

Mother’s Love & Legacy: A Source of Strength

For the first time in 15 years... she changed the profile picture to me. Oh she must be so proud.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
For the first time in 15 years... she changed the profile picture to me. Oh she must be so proud.
Dayoung56:30
Viral: 92.0
My mom said, see? You're not talented. So like don't do music, just study.
Dayoung26:44
Viral: 90.0
It's a very tough life. Yes. And even like... my friends who are now very, very successful. Like they all had times where they were like we're so big but we have so much debt to our company.
Dayoung31:46
Viral: 88.0
Speakers

Host

Eric Nam

Guest

Dayoung
Topics Discussed
Solo Artist Journey95%K-Pop Industry Realities90%Family Support & Parental Influence88%Mentorship in Music85%Creative Identity & Artistic Evolution80%Overcoming Self-Doubt78%K-Pop Training Life75%Cultural Inspiration & Role Models70%
People & Brands

Dayoung

person

120xPositive

Eric Nam

person

95xPositive

Cosmic Girls

other

15xNeutral

K-Pop Star

other

10xNeutral

Jeju Island

place

8xPositive

Yori

person

5xPositive

Tebuk Show

media

4xPositive

Pussycat Dolls

other

3xPositive

Destiny's Child

other

3xPositive

Ariana Grande

person

3xPositive

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