Former Kara member Kang Ji Young talks about her blooming career in Japan

Kang Ji Young made a secretive debut under her stage name JY.

Former Kara member Kang Ji Young is rejoicing her career as an actress in Japan. The 22-year-old, who left the girl group in 2014 for a promising career opportunity in the island country, is looking forward for her future advancement in Korea as well as, in and around Asia.

During the promotional event for her upcoming movie, Kataomoi Spiral, the singer turned actor shared about her progression after exiting Kara. Ji Young stated: "I decided to come to Japan alone and learn the language. I learned how to discipline myself in Japan. Sometimes I would think to myself, 'Let's just sleep tonight without reading over the script,' or 'Let's skip class today,' but I didn't want to lose to myself. I was in a group until then, so I did experience loneliness. If I didn't become stronger, I would fail."

Ji Young started off with small roles in Japan, until Sony Music laddered her in December 2015 and signed the songstress for solo track to be used as an OST for Japan NTV drama Higanbana. She made a secretive debut under her stage name JY, however, the song's enormous popularity made Ji Young a known name around the industry.

Sharing her experience, the Radio singer told Naver: "I was really happy when I saw articles about me.I was glad that people were taking an interest in my work. Instead of asking me questions about KARA, people were asking questions about my acting."

"I always want to receive love. A rookie award for film. I think it's the best to receive an award after doing various work. I'd be happy if my acting was acknowledged. I think I want to do more in Japan and Korea as well as other places in Asia, " Ji Young concluded.