Shim Mina (born December 1, 1978), more commonly known by her mononym Mina (미나), is a South Korean singer and dancer. She gained significant public attention in 2002 following her impromptu performance during the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea, which led to her being dubbed "Miss World Cup."
Career: Mina officially debuted as a singer in 2002 with her first album, Rendezvous. Her music often blends K-pop with elements of Latin and dance music, characterized by strong vocal performances and dynamic choreography. Her debut single, "Kiss Kiss," became a hit, solidifying her presence in the South Korean music scene.
Following her initial success, Mina expanded her career into other Asian markets, particularly China, where she also achieved popularity and released music. Her later albums include Minastyle (2004), Kissing to Kill (2005), and Natural Beauty (2007). Throughout her career, she has been known for her energetic live performances and a distinctive, often provocative, visual style.
Personal Life: In 2018, Mina married Ryu Phillip, a member of the K-pop boy group SoReal, who is 17 years her junior. Their relationship garnered significant media attention due to the age difference, and they have appeared together on various South Korean television programs.