LIMITED EXPOSURE TO K-POP GROWING UP
Both members’ experiences reflect harsh realities they left behind. Hyuk described spending eight to 10 hours daily collecting firewood as a child just to survive.
“Where I lived, we had to collect firewood just to cook rice and survive day by day – it was essential,” he recalled.
Hyuk didn’t have much access to music growing up. “Since I lived struggling every day, I lived so busily that I wonder if I even had time to listen to music – I didn’t have that luxury,” he said.
Seok had some exposure to K-pop in North Korea, listening occasionally to f(x)‘s LA chA TA and Super Junior songs despite it being illegal in North Korea to listen to South Korean music. “I probably heard K-pop back in elementary school. But I couldn’t listen often since it was illegal,” he said.
GAINING INTERNATIONAL TRACTION
Experts and defectors say K-pop and other South Korean pop culture products have emerged as a challenge to North Korea’s leadership as they steadily gained popularity among the public.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has intensified campaigns since the pandemic to eliminate South Korean cultural influence.
Nathan, from Arkansas, first encountered K-pop through his Texas-based cousins who were longtime fans. “I would kind of just pretend to be a hater, like urgh, K-pop. And then I just so happened to come across Exo’s Growl music video on YouTube,” he recalled.
The group’s diverse backgrounds are reflected in their training, which includes courses on global citizenship. “We want to be inclusive of everyone’s history, everyone’s current situations back home,” Kenny explained.
Seok expressed excitement about connecting with international fans, particularly in America. “Since I came from North Korea, it’s hard to see foreigners there. So I really wanted to see people from other countries,” he said.
The group has already gained traction online. Seok described filming emotional video diaries during difficult early training days, which fans responded to with supportive messages.
“I filmed that diary video with somewhat emotional, slightly teary feelings. And I uploaded it to TikTok or YouTube, and fans sent me comforting letters,” he said. “As soon as I saw the first line, tears came out and I was really touched.”
Hyuk acknowledged the attention their North Korean background generates while emphasising the group’s collective identity.
“I’m very grateful that people are paying attention to us,” he said. “I think it’s okay as long as it doesn’t lean too much to one side … it’s not just me but all our members are here too, it’s a journey we’re creating together.”
The group’s debut single album is available on all major streaming platforms.
