Lionesses originally debuted as a four-member group, consisting of Damjun, Foxman, Kanghan, and Lee Malrang, the youngest member. The group’s formation story is as meaningful as their identity—they met through LGBTQ+-friendly spaces in South Korea and gradually bonded over their shared passion for music and representation.
From the very beginning, the members made it clear that their mission went beyond entertainment. They aimed to create music that speaks directly to the LGBTQ+ community and to inspire young artists who might feel discouraged. As they once shared, their goal was to become a “lighthouse” for aspiring musicians who fear being open about their identity.
The group’s name, Lionesses, carries symbolic weight. It reflects strength and leadership inspired by real-life lionesses, which, despite common perception, are actually the ones who lead hunts and sustain the pride. This metaphor aligns with the group’s message—challenging assumptions and redefining norms.
Through their music, Lionesses have consistently highlighted themes of self-acceptance and queer pride. While acknowledging that South Korea has made gradual progress regarding LGBTQ+ visibility, the members have also spoken candidly about the conservative nature of society and the long road ahead for broader acceptance.
Although there have been individual LGBTQ+ idols in K-pop before, Lionesses stood out as the first group in which all members were openly part of the LGBTQ+ community at the time of their debut. They officially entered the scene in October 2021 with their debut single “Show Me Your Pride.”
Since then, the group has remained active, particularly on YouTube and social media, where they continue to engage with fans and share content. However, their lineup has changed over time. Foxman eventually left the group due to health reasons, reducing Lionesses to three members.
In June 2024, Lionesses made a comeback with the single “Like Christina Taught Me,” marking their continued presence in the industry despite limited mainstream exposure.
Following this release, the members began focusing more on individual activities. Malrang, for instance, released a single titled “Take You to That Moon.” However, the song faced criticism from listeners regarding its production quality, leading to its eventual removal from social platforms.
Despite the ups and downs, Lionesses celebrated their fourth anniversary in November 2025, proving their resilience in an industry known for its intense competition and short lifespans.
Meanwhile, member Damjun took a major step forward by releasing his first full-length solo album in December 2025, signaling a new chapter for both himself and the group.
Though Lionesses may not dominate mainstream headlines, their legacy as pioneers of LGBTQ+ representation in K-pop remains significant—and their journey is still unfolding.
Sources: Koreaboo
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