Local female rap sensation Yoon Mi-rae was recognized as the Korean hip-hop scene’s “diamond in the rough” by U.S. music publication MTV Iggy.

MTV Iggy recently published an interview feature on Yoon, who is best known as a member of hip-hop trio MFBTY and for being the wife of Korean hip-hop legend Tiger JK ― widely referred to as the godfather Korean hip-hop.

“She continues to be one of Korea’s toughest emcees, and is one of a handful of female rappers outside of the idol groups who keeps breaking the mold of Korean hip-hop,” wrote Adrienne Stanley, who referred to the hip-hop star as an “anomaly in South Korea.”

“Yoon Mi-Rae is a diamond, whose unique vocals and beauty are inspirational to Korean music fans throughout the world.”

The Korean-American made her official debut in Korea in 1997 at age 16 with the hip-hop group Uptown. In 2001, Yoon went solo and established herself as a pioneering figure in spreading hip-hop music culture in Korea.

Last month, Yoon released her latest single “Angel,” featuring MFBTY member Tiger JK and Bizzy.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)