Ex-K-pop star Gehlee Dangca to release single ‘Closer’

Filipino singer Gehlee Dangca, a former member of the K-pop girl group UNIS, is entering a new chapter in her music career as she prepares to launch her solo career in the Philippines.

Gehlee is set to release her debut solo single, “Closer,” under Universal Records Philippines on October 23.

The song is described as “a fresh romantic pop track about the thrilling uncertainty of wanting to be closer to someone you secretly admire,” Universal Records said in a press statement.

“Closer” also marks the beginning of Gehlee’s solo career, offering listeners “a glimpse of her musical direction beyond her previous group experience.”

A music video for the song will premiere on the same day, showcasing Gehlee in a variety of fashionable looks that highlight her appeal as a “global Filipina artist.”

Gehlee recently returned to the Philippines following UNIS’ announcement of its disbandment in September, after two and a half years of activities in the K-pop industry.

In a previous interview with ABS-CBN News, the idol expressed hope that her homecoming would not be perceived as her “losing opportunities.”

“I don’t see it as that kasi home ko din ‘yong ‘Pinas ever since the beginning. I’m here to reconnect with people from my hometown — my family, my friends — to catch up with them,” she said.

Gehlee also assured fans that she would “not disappear” and that her bond with her UNIS bandmates, whom she called her “sisters,” “will always stay strong.”

Gehlee was one of two Filipino members of UNIS, alongside Elisia Parmisano. The multinational group also had a Korean-Filipina leader, with all nine members selected through the 2023 reality talent competition series “Universe Ticket.”