Profile of BONBON GIRLS 303

BonBon Girls 303, known as 硬糖少女303 in Chinese, is a prominent Chinese girl group that emerged from the reality competition show “Produce Camp 2020” (创造营2020). Officially formed on July 4, 2020, the group gained immediate fame and rapidly became a staple in the Chinese music scene. Their journey, though short-lived, encapsulates the essence of K-pop-inspired girl groups in China, blending hard work, youthful charm, and undeniable talent.

Formation and Early Beginnings

BonBon Girls 303 was born out of the popular Tencent Video competition show “Produce Camp 2020”, which brought together 100 trainees from all over China. The competition was fierce, but after weeks of intense performances, 希林娜依·高 (Shirley Gao), 赵粤 (Zhao Yue), 王艺瑾 (Wang Yijin), 陈卓璇 (Chen Zhuoxuan), 郑乃馨 (Zheng Naixin), 刘些宁 (Liu Xiening), and 张艺凡 (Zhang Yifan) emerged as the top seven contestants, officially debuting as BonBon Girls 303. The group’s name, 硬糖少女303 (translated as “Hard Candy Girls 303”), was designed to reflect their concept: sweet on the outside, but tough and powerful on the inside, a balance they embodied perfectly.

Key Event: The Debut and First Steps

The first major milestone for BonBon Girls 303 was their official debut on July 4, 2020. On this day, they unveiled their first extended play (EP), “硬糖定律” (Hard Candy Laws), with a launch event held in Shanghai. The EP featured tracks such as “你最最最重要” (You Are the Most Important)” and “BONBON GIRLS,” solidifying the group’s concept as fresh, energetic, and powerful. The launch of the album was marked by a fanfare of announcements, including their fan name “糖纸” (Sugar Paper) and a rallying cry, “万丈光芒不一般，硬糖少女303” (Shining Bright, BonBon Girls 303).

Their debut was quickly followed by appearances on variety shows such as “超新星运动会” (Super New Star Sports Meet) and “青春环游记” (Youth Travel Diary), where the group members showcased their charming personalities and deepened their connection with fans.

Musical Achievements and Iconic Releases

BonBon Girls 303 made a splash in the Chinese music industry, with their debut album receiving critical acclaim. Their combination of energetic pop melodies and a youthful yet mature image resonated with fans across the country. In addition to their own original tracks, the group also performed and contributed to various soundtracks for TV shows, such as the theme song for the hit drama “斗罗大陆” (Douluo Continent).

In August 2020, the group continued to expand their influence with the release of “BONBON GIRLS”. This single was a defining moment for the group, showcasing their unified strength as a team. It quickly became a hit, establishing them as one of the leading girl groups in China.

As 2020 came to an end, BonBon Girls 303 earned accolades at multiple prestigious award shows, including the Tencent Star Glimmer Award, where they were honored with “年度团体” (Group of the Year), and the QQ Music PuTong Heartfelt Awards, where they received the “Trendy Group of the Year” title.

A New Chapter: Second Album and Further Recognition

In April 2021, BonBon Girls 303 released their second studio album, “了不起的女孩” (Incredible Girls). This album continued their evolution, presenting a more mature and diverse sound that resonated with fans of all ages. Songs like “了不起的女孩” and “双马尾” highlighted the group’s growth and the deepening of their connection with their fanbase, who were referred to as “糖纸” (Sugar Paper). The album was another success, showing the group’s musical maturity and appeal.

During this time, the members also continued to appear in various variety shows, further solidifying their popularity and ability to entertain across multiple platforms. “硬糖少女BON-US” (BonBon Girls BON-US), their first reality show, gave fans an inside look at their lives as they navigated the challenges of being a newly formed group.

The Road to Disbandment and Farewell

Despite their rapid rise and multiple accomplishments, BonBon Girls 303’s journey as a group was predetermined to last only two years, as per the contract with their agency. On July 4, 2022, their contract officially ended, and the group disbanded after a final farewell concert on July 24, 2022.

The group’s final album, “别怕，未来会来” (Don’t Be Afraid, the Future Will Come), released in May 2022, encapsulated the group’s journey — a message of hope, perseverance, and resilience. The album’s title track carried a sense of optimism, marking the group’s farewell while encouraging fans to look forward to the future. The release was accompanied by a special farewell reality show, “硬糖少女303告别季” (BonBon Girls 303 Farewell Season), which captured the emotions and reflections of the members as they prepared to say goodbye.

The Farewell Concert

The final concert, broadcasted on Tencent Video, was an emotional moment for both fans and members. The group performed their greatest hits, including their iconic songs, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances. The farewell concert symbolized not just the end of a chapter, but also the beginning of new journeys for each member, who would go on to pursue individual careers.

Legacy and Impact

BonBon Girls 303’s impact on the Chinese music industry was significant. They set themselves apart by balancing the hard and sweet aspects of their persona. On stage, they were fierce, charismatic, and full of energy; off-stage, they were down-to-earth, sweet, and deeply connected with their fans. This duality made them an embodiment of what it meant to be modern Chinese idols — strong, confident, yet relatable.

Their group dynamic, characterized by a mix of individual talents and group cohesion, contributed to their success. Each member brought something unique to the table — whether it was 希林娜依·高 (Shirley Gao)’s strong vocals, 赵粤 (Zhao Yue)’s charisma, or 陈卓璇 (Chen Zhuoxuan)’s versatility. Together, they formed a unit that was both vibrant and dynamic, one that fans could see grow over time.

Even after their disbandment, BonBon Girls 303 left behind an undeniable cultural footprint, continuing to inspire future generations of artists. Their influence, both in the music industry and in popular culture, will remain for years to come.

The Road Ahead for the Members

After the disbandment, the members of BonBon Girls 303 embarked on their own solo careers. Each of them had already showcased their individual talents during their time as a group, and their post-group careers reflect their versatility. Whether through music, acting, or other entertainment ventures, these seven young women continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the Chinese entertainment industry.

In many ways, the journey of BonBon Girls 303 reflects the evolution of modern Chinese girl groups. Their rise, rapid success, and eventual dissolution are all part of a larger trend in the Chinese entertainment scene, where temporary idol groups are formed and disbanded within a fixed contract period. However, their musical legacy and the joy they brought to millions of fans across China and beyond will live on.

BonBon Girls 303 may have been a short-lived chapter in the vast world of pop music, but their impact on the industry and fans will continue to resonate for years to come. Their story is a testament to the power of youth, dreams, and the fierce pursuit of success.