CL

Who? Originally part of girl group 2NE1, CL (real name Lee Chae-rin) went solo after a bandmate was involved in a drug scandal. Now she raps and boldly labels herself K-pop’s “baddest female”.

Big break: Getting signed by Ariana Grande’s manager, Scooter Braun. Best lyric: “My hips are pang-pang-pang [very tight].” Fashion vibe: Basically Korea’s answer to Lil’ Kim. Sounds like: Iggy Azalea (left), but not trying as hard. Crazy fact: Has found herself in hot water in Korea twice for wearing a swimsuit on stage. Not that she cares.