Yeji Kim

USC Thornton School of Music Scholarship Award, 2025

Yeji Kim is a 21-year-old Los Angeles native known for her diverse pop sensibilities as an emerging topline songwriter. She joined the USC Thornton Popular Music program in 2021 with a vocal emphasis and has quickly become one of the most vibrant singer/songwriter-producers in the community. Her early passion for folk and R&B writing flourished during her junior year through mentorship with Professor Michael “Smidi” Smith, who began sending her briefs every other week. In just a few months of recording and pitching her songs, her talent caught the attention of future collaborators and her manager. Yeji’s recent cuts include collaborations with Rick Ross, Imanbek, KDDK, and Hwasa (of K-pop group MAMAMOO). Upon graduation, she plans to carve out her place among the most exciting songwriters and producers in the recording industry.