Seok and Hyuk, two North Korean defectors, are teaching all of us a thing or two about resilience and determination. As members of the newly minted boy band 1VERSE, they’ve already started shaking things up in the cutthroat universe of K-pop. With great courage, as teenagers they made the dangerous and rugged trip through a closed border into China. Now, two-and-a-half years after arriving in South Korea, they’re hard at work training to make their ambitious goals of musical fame and fortune a reality.
In 2022, the talent agency Singing Beetle found them Seok and Hyuk. Since then, they’ve been very seriously working behind the scenes on their craft as performers. Drawing from their backgrounds as defectors, their experiences and artistry have a fresh perspective that deeply speaks to the people. Beyond winning, the duo is committed to ensuring that they lead by example and inspire others who have overcome the odds.
Their personal odyssey from the North to the South is filled with their own achievements and growth. Seok had aspirations of being a professional soccer player back in his home country. At the same time, Hyuk found his love of music through a rap club in high school. Because of the artists’ own experiences of escaping and adapting to life in a new country, their shared experiences have influenced their unique artistic visions.
A Journey of Transformation
Seok and Hyuk’s stories reflect the stark contrasts between life in North Korea and their new beginnings in South Korea. Seok described his transition, stating, “I feel like I was reborn after coming to South Korea.” His new freedom to chase his dreams has unlocked doors he never dreamed could be opened.
He went on to describe more differences between the two Koreas. “South and North Korea are completely different. That’s why I’m able to dream a new dream here.” This newfound freedom fuels their ambitions to expand their artistry beyond the K-pop industry.
Hyuk expresses a similar feeling, stressing that it’s about the importance of their trip. “Sometimes fans ask, ‘Are you from North Korea?’ That means they liked us without knowing. That feels really meaningful.” For him, the potential to reach fans who may have gone off the path only adds to the beauty of their musical return.
State of the Art’s dream has been echoed by both artists, who hope that their story will give courage to others. Hyuk noted, “There are many others (who aren’t defectors) who haven’t dared to dream yet. If our story gives them courage, then I think that process itself is meaningful.”
Musical Aspirations
As young adults and members of 1VERSE, Seok and Hyuk are using their past impacts to fuel their new music. Yet in addition to reflecting on their histories, they’re spreading important messages of hope and resilience. In one of their songs, “Who’s gonna save us now?”, Seok reflects on the importance of support during difficult times.
“That line reminded me that sometimes we all need someone’s help,” – Seok
Given Hyuk’s contributions to the group, especially the references to his life as a defector, their lyrics take on an added weight. He the power of music as a storytelling device. “Our members, our company, me and Seok. To me, the songs themselves are beautiful stories,” he stated.
Both musicians have lofty aspirations for subsequent partnerships within the music scene. Hyuk expressed admiration for Post Malone, stating, “Post Malone. I really liked his songs growing up.” Seok’s main goal is to work with Charlie Puth. On a deeper level, he has a desire to make music that connects to people outside of the Christian internet.
The Road Ahead
With an infectious energy and passion for the K-pop industry, Seok and Hyuk are clearly ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead. Their training has trained them for the rigors of performance and artistry under much higher competitive and creative terms. As they try to find new ways to further grow and nurture their talents, they will always be appreciative from whence their support has come.
Seok mentioned, “When I shared those moments, our members and the staff encouraged me. That support is the most memorable part.” That feeling of community among other 1VERSE participants has been vital for them — and us — to help cultivate their new arts career journeys.
Each artist has sharpened their swords and are more than ready to make waves on the world’s biggest stage. They understand the value their history provides as they gaze toward a bright future. Seok reflects on his journey, saying, “Now I’m pursuing something completely new. Starting from zero, going through each stage – that reality itself makes me happy.”
