Ruka (BABYMONSTER): An Underrated Talent or Just in Need of More Time to Shine?

K-pop is a lavish banquet, where every idol must bring a unique specialty to impress the audience. And Ruka? She has quality and potential, yet some say she’s like a dish missing that final burst of seasoning—not quite flavorful enough to leave a lasting impression.

So, is this young rapper being underestimated, or does she simply need more time to prove herself?

Controversy Surrounds Ruka: Can a Single Anonymous Post Stir Up a Storm?

It all started with a post on X (Twitter), where an anonymous user claimed that HYBE criticized BABYMONSTER for lacking standout visuals, Ruka for not having star quality, and YG’s training system for being ineffective.

Though there was no concrete proof, the post still racked up over 182K views, proving that Ruka is so popular that even an unverified rumor can set the fandom on fire.

At the same time, discussions on Allkpop heated up over her rap skills:

“She has good flow and speed, but when she raps in English, her pronunciation sounds like… a duck. However, her Korean rap is incredibly powerful and full of swag.”

💥 The verdict?

• Critics say: Ruka lacks star power and needs to improve her English pronunciation.
• Supporters argue: She has a strong rap flow, fast delivery, and undeniable hip-hop charisma.

But regardless of opinions, one fact remains: Ruka is at the center of attention—something an idol without appeal could never achieve.

The Future: “Jennie 2.0” or Her Own Unique Brand?

From the moment she debuted, Ruka has been labeled “Little Jennie”—a cool hip-hop vibe, strong “boss” energy, and the group’s main rapper. But is this comparison a compliment, or does it risk turning her into a mere copy?

🔥 But is Ruka really following in those footsteps?

✔ Bad girl charisma: Sharp gaze, confident walk, effortlessly exuding attitude.
✔ Rap and role in the group: If Jennie was BLACKPINK’s ace, then Ruka is undoubtedly a key piece in BABYMONSTER.
✔ The difference? Jennie balances both rap and vocals, while Ruka? She still has room to define her unique edge.

But let’s be real—Jennie is Jennie, and Ruka? She doesn’t need to be anyone’s shadow. With her style and presence, she might just carve out her own identity instead of letting fans forever label her as Jennie’s successor.

💡 Not a Jennie 2.0—just one and only Ruka. And she’s ready to prove it.

Ruka—A Diamond in the Rough?

🌸 Every flower needs time to bloom. In K-pop, every star has faced doubt before rising to success, and Ruka is no exception.

Right now, she may be navigating the storm of praise and criticism, expectations and pressure. But who knows? Maybe these very debates will push her to break through and shine even brighter.

After all, a diamond doesn’t start out gleaming—it takes time and polish to reveal its true brilliance.

So, what do you think? Will Ruka rise to the occasion and prove her worth, or will she be just another fleeting spark in K-pop’s vast universe?