First North Korean Defector Idols Debut in K-Pop History – From Stray Life to Stage Stars

For the first time in K-Pop history, a large number of idols born as North Korean defectors are making their debuts. Hakseong (21, real name Kim Hakseong) of the six-member boy group VIVIZ, who debuted on June 18, is the first person of North Korean descent to debut as a K-Pop idol. The five-member group UNIVERSE, set to debut on July 18, has drawn attention due to its two members who are North Korean defectors. Hakseong of VIVIZ left North Korea at the age of 13 in 2017. At his recent debut event, he said, “I once went through a depressing period without any dreams, but I am truly happy now that I can stand on stage.” Hyuk and Seok of UNIVERSE fled North Korea for different reasons. Being born in 2000 and the same age, the two lived in different environments before Hyuk attempted to escape in 2013 and Seok in 2019. Hyuk, from Kyongsong in North Hamgyong Province, led a life as a “stray” in North Korea, giving up his studies to just survive. After coming to South Korea, he first became interested in music through a high school rap club. He even wrote his own rap lyrics and performed them at school festivals. He appeared on a broadcast as part of the school club, and after an agency saw the video, he began training as a trainee in September 2021. In a recent interview, Hyuk said, “I used to be busy just surviving like a mayfly in North Korea, but now I am creating music that gives courage to others. Here, even though it’s hard every day, I feel good, and I am happy thinking about what kind of person I will become tomorrow.” Seok, from Ryanggang Province, lived in a region near China before fleeing North Korea. His original dream was to be a football player, and after coming to South Korea, he pursued that dream by playing in the K3 League. However, after struggling to adapt and considering new career paths, he met his current agency. He says he had been exposed to K-Pop through smuggled CDs even before fleeing North Korea. In particular, he had watched the music video for f(x)’s “La Chata.” Seok recalled, “I liked singing and playing guitar in North Korea too, and on the day I first met the manager, I told him I would work hard and asked if he would accept me.” Seok joined the group in September 2022. Hyuk and Seok, both born in 2000, supported each other through the rigorous trainee period. At first, they were too shy to speak to each other, but they quickly became close friends. Seok said, “I was grateful that he, having joined the company first, taught me many things.” Their touching stories also inspired the other members greatly. The members said listening to their experiences helped them strengthen their determination. Member Nathan said, “I was moved and inspired by their stories. I realized that if I really want to, I can achieve my dreams.” UNIVERSE has a very diverse nationality. In addition to North Korean defectors Hyuk and Seok, it consists of American-Lao and American-Thai member Nathan, American-Chinese member Kenny, and Japanese member Aito. Hyuk serves as the main rapper, Aito as the main dancer, while the other members handle vocals. UNIVERSE reflected their own stories in the pre-release song “Multiverse,” which was released on the 4th, singing about the process of scattered beings coming together into one world with a warm tone. Member Kenny said, “This is a song that expresses the values of our company and group. It’s the track we prepared the longest, so we want to give it as a gift to our fans who have been waiting for us.” UNIVERSE will officially debut in the music industry on July 18 with the release of their album “THE 1ST VERSE.” According to their agency, the members had already gained nearly one million followers by showcasing their vocal and dance skills through social media even before their debut. The members said, “Our common goal and mindset of creating amazing stages bring us together. We also want to convey to people the message that respecting each other allows them to move forward toward their dreams.” As they prepare for their exciting debut, they aim to grow into singers who will one day appear on Billboard charts and serve as role models for future generations. Nathan emphasized, “Having different backgrounds might seem like a disadvantage, but diversity is our strength.”