Dreamcatcher (Korean: 드림캐쳐, romanized: deurimkaechyeo; formerly known as MINX; also stylized as Dream Catcher) is a South Korean girl group formed by Happyface Entertainment (now Dreamcatcher Company). The group, consisting of JiU, SuA, Siyeon, Handong, Yoohyeon, Dami, and Gahyeon, made their official debut on January 13, 2017, with the single album Nightmare.
Originally known as MINX, the group debuted with five members, JiU, SuA, Siyeon, Yoohyeon, and Dami. However, in November 2016, Dreamcatcher announced their re-debut with two new members, Handong and Gahyeon, adopting a darker concept and non-mainstream music style to distinguish themselves from other K-pop girl groups.
Dreamcatcher has earned the title “The Face of Rock in K-pop” and received acclaim for their unique sound, infused with rock and metal elements. Their popularity has predominantly grown internationally, and they have gained a reputation for frequently touring abroad.
MINX, during their initial period from 2014 to 2016, performed their first live show at the Oak Valley Summertime Festival on August 9, 2014. They showcased original songs like “Action” and “Why Did You Come To My Home.”
The group officially debuted under the name Minx on September 15, 2014, with their digital single “Why Did You Come to My Home” and made their music show debut on M Countdown on the same day. In December, they released a holiday single, a cover of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” in collaboration with girl group and labelmate Dal Shabet.
In July 2015, Minx released their first and only EP titled Love Shake, featuring the lead single of the same name. The song was promoted as a “joyous song” perfect for summer and was a remake of Dal Shabet’s “Love Shake” from the album Bang Bang.
After a year of limited activity, Happyface Entertainment revealed in November 2016 that Minx would re-debut as Dreamcatcher, introducing two additional members, Handong and Gahyeon.
In an interview, CEO Lee Joowon explained that the concept change was prompted by the perception that Minx had not succeeded due to the saturation of “cute” concepts among K-pop girl groups at that time. Dreamcatcher aimed to break away from the norm and carve a unique niche in the industry with an uncommon girl group style for the Korean market. The group’s re-launch sought to take on endeavors that others were hesitant to explore.