In an industry built on glitz and grooming, Hyuk is unlike any other idol. He’s not just another pretty face with a mic—he’s a survivor, a fighter, and now, the first North Korean defector to lead a K-pop boyband.
Hyuk didn’t grow up training in air-conditioned studios or dancing in front of mirrors. He grew up fearing for his life. From a harsh childhood in North Korea to nights spent begging on unfamiliar streets after escaping at age 12, Hyuk’s story isn’t just inspiring—it’s groundbreaking.
“There Was No Music, Just Survival”
Hyuk’s earliest memories aren’t of music—but of hunger and hardship.
“We had to collect firewood just to cook rice,” he said during a recent press conference in Seoul. “Music wasn’t part of my world. I was too busy trying to stay alive.”
In 2013, he fled the oppressive regime as a child and crossed into South Korea—alone, penniless, and barely a teenager. He begged on the streets, unsure of where his next meal—or safe place—would come from.
The Music That Caused a Stir
Something changed in 2024. Hyuk posted a song titled “Ordinary Person,” which he wrote himself, to YouTube. His trauma, perseverance, and unwavering hope were all depicted in stark detail in the lyrics. It attracted notice—and affection.
Now, with his new bandmates, the same song has been brought to life onstage amid applause and flashing lights. It’s more than simply a show; it’s a healing experience.
Presenting 1Verse: One Band, Numerous Tales
The new K-pop boyband 1Verse is upending the scene and defying clichés.
- Hyuk & Seok: Defectors from North Korea
- Nathan: A soulful voice from Arkansas
- Kenny: LA-born, smooth, and sharp
- Aito: The group’s youngest, from Japan
Under the label Singing Beetle—founded by former SM Entertainment executive Michelle Cho—these five boys bring five very different backstories. But their goal is one: to make music that connects. “Each of us is a verse, together we’re one universe,” they say.
Not a Fairy Tale: Factory Work, Rejection, and a Lifeline
Hyuk’s path to debut wasn’t a straight line. After reaching South Korea, he worked in factories just to survive. College was a dream—until COVID crushed it.
Then came an unexpected lifeline. A music label CEO spotted something in him. Skeptical at first, Hyuk thought it was a scam. “I had nothing. If someone tried to rob me, not even dust would come out,” he joked.
But the CEO kept showing up. Bought him meals. Believed in him. After nearly a year of hesitant hope, Hyuk finally said yes—and joined the label in 2021.
Leader, Rapper, History-Maker
Fast forward to now: Hyuk isn’t just a member of 1Verse. He’s the leader. A title that carries weight—and history.
Their fandom, called 5tarz, is already gaining momentum. For Hyuk, the attention is humbling. “I’m thankful people are noticing us. But this isn’t about me alone—it’s about all of us. We’re creating this story together.”
Redefining the K-pop Dream
Hyuk’s journey proves that idols don’t all come from fairy tales—some come from fire. His presence in the industry is more than symbolic. It’s a wake-up call, a fresh perspective, and a reminder that resilience sings louder than any auto-tune ever could.
From firewood to fan chants, from silence to stages, Hyuk’s verse is now being heard across the world—and K-pop will never be the same.
