Kim Chaewon, the lead vocalist of LE SSERAFIM, is adored not only for her sweet visuals but also for her crystal-clear voice that many compare to a “Disney princess.” However, when we take a closer look at her technical abilities, does she truly stand out as a vocal gem of the fourth generation, or is she merely good enough?
Disney-like Tone: Mic-Friendly and Beloved by Audiences
Without relying on extensive high notes or flashy techniques, Kim Chaewon captivates listeners with her pure, soft voice that radiates sweetness. It’s often described as “Disney princess-like”—a tone that, while not rare, remains highly sought after by producers due to its versatility and broad appeal.
A prime example is her performance at Coachella. While Yunjin’s voice leans darker and more textured, resonating with a Western pop influence, Chaewon’s brighter, smoother tone effortlessly stood out, offering a perfect balance to the group’s overall sound. Her mic-friendly and easily digestible voice undeniably makes her a fan favorite in live settings.
Technique and Range: Progressing but Not Perfect
On the technical side, Chaewon’s breath support and technique support cover a range from A#3/B3 (lower range) to around G#4/A4 (mid-high range). While this range isn’t particularly wide, it’s a significant improvement from her IZ*ONE days, where she lacked any noticeable support.
Within the context of fourth-generation idols, her vocal ability is more than sufficient to fulfill the role of a lead vocalist. Some fans even argue that she feels like the main vocalist of LE SSERAFIM, as her vocal lines often dominate the group’s songs.
That said, Chaewon’s narrow support range remains her biggest limitation, making it challenging for her to tackle more demanding vocal lines or lower registers effectively.
Smart Vocal Execution: Compensating for Weaknesses
What sets Chaewon apart isn’t her raw technique but her intelligent approach to vocal execution. Instead of forcing high notes or applying excessive strength, she skillfully adjusts volume, emphasizes specific syllables, and shapes her phrasing to blend seamlessly with the instrumental.
In high-pitched sections, she often switches to mix voice or nasal voice, reducing strain on her vocal cords. This allows her to maintain a soft and pleasant tone, avoiding any sense of tension or overexertion. Such finesse is not commonly seen among idols with similar technical abilities.
Does She Shine as a Vocalist?
Although Kim Chaewon’s vocal technique isn’t groundbreaking, her distinctive tone and smart delivery make her stand out in her own way. She doesn’t need sky-high belting or dramatic runs to leave a lasting impression. Instead, her natural, effortless singing style is enough to create a memorable impact.
However, to truly establish herself as one of the standout vocalists in K-pop, she would need to expand her support range and tackle songs that demand more advanced vocal techniques.
Chaewon’s Vocal Journey: A Star on the Rise
Kim Chaewon is a perfect example of how a voice doesn’t have to be technically flawless to resonate with listeners. Her unique tone and thoughtful approach to singing have made her an essential part of LE SSERAFIM’s sound.
What do you think? Can she evolve to become one of the top vocalists of the fourth generation in the future?
