Vcha is derived from the Korean word "비춰" (RR: Bichwo), which translates to "to shine upon" or "to illuminate."[2][3] The name references the group's purpose to illuminate and inspire fans around the world.[4] Fans of Vcha are known as "VLIGHTS."
A2K was an 2023 American reality competition show. A2K is also the short form for "America to Korea." The series was a collaborative project between JYP Entertainment and Republic Records, with the goal of forming the first American girl group using the K-pop system, intended for a global audience.[5][6] Following A2K's bootcamp in Los Angeles and the group's formation, Vcha spent months training for debut at JYPE's Seoul headquarters.[3]
Their pre-debut extended play, SeVit (New Light), was released on September 22, 2023, supported by the lead single "Y.O.Universe".[7] On September 23, 2023, they performed this song on Show! Music Core as their first public performance.[8]
Their second pre-debut single, "Ready for the World," originally the A2K theme song, was released on December 1, 2023.[9]
On March 10, 2024, it was announced that member Kaylee would be taking a hiatus due to a health condition.[15][better source needed]
Their second single, "Only One" and b-side "Favorite Girl," were released on March 15, 2024.[16][17][18]
In May 2024, VCHA had its first cover story as part of Teen Vogue's Girl Group Week.[3] The members revealed that in January 2024, they moved into a house in Los Angeles together and share rooms in duos, a practice common among K-pop groups.
Vcha was originally set to make their first music festival appearance at Lollapalooza on August 2, 2024. However, the festival announced on July 19 that they were no longer performing due to “unforeseen circumstances”. [19][3]