Former RIIZE member Seunghan has officially announced his solo debut under the new stage name XngHan. He will release his first single “Waste No Time” on July 31, 2025, under the artist brand XngHan & Xoul. The project marks his return to music after leaving RIIZE in late 2023.
The announcement came with teaser photos shared on July 9 at midnight KST. The images show Seunghan with long hair, giving off a fresh and artistic vibe. Fans quickly noticed similarities to RIIZE’s pre-debut era, sparking excitement for his new chapter.
New Artist Brand XngHan & Xoul
Seunghan’s solo debut is not just a typical solo act but a creative project under the brand XngHan & Xoul. The name “Xoul” refers to a crew of creators from different fields who will collaborate with him. For his debut, he is working with two professional dancers, Kyohong and Yul, to enhance the performance aspect of his music.
The concept behind XngHan & Xoul is about crossover collaborations. Each project will involve different creators, making every release unique. This approach sets Seunghan apart from traditional K-pop soloists, focusing on teamwork and artistic synergy.
SM Entertainment confirmed that “Waste No Time” will include two new songs. The single is now available for pre-order at various online and offline music stores. Fans can expect a strong performance focus, highlighting Seunghan’s dancing skills and stage presence.
Background on Seunghan’s Career
Seunghan debuted as a member of RIIZE in September 2023 under SM Entertainment. However, his time with the group was cut short due to controversies surrounding his personal life. In November 2023, he went on an indefinite hiatus after private photos from his trainee days surfaced online.
In October 2024, SM Entertainment initially announced his return to RIIZE but reversed the decision just two days later due to fan backlash. Seunghan later posted a handwritten letter, expressing regret and stepping away from the group to avoid further harm.
Since then, RIIZE has continued as a six-member group, releasing hits like “Love 119” and “Boom Boom Bass”. Meanwhile, Seunghan has been preparing for his solo career, quietly working on music and performance concepts.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Fans have shown strong support for Seunghan’s solo debut. Many took to social media to praise his teaser photos and express excitement for his new music. Some noted that his visuals and concept remind them of RIIZE’s early days, creating nostalgia.
International fans, in particular, have been vocal about their support. During his controversy, many defended him, arguing that idols deserve privacy. Now, they are eagerly awaiting his return to the stage.
Korean fans have had mixed reactions. While some are willing to give him a second chance, others remain critical. However, the overall response to his solo announcement has been more positive than expected.
What to Expect From “Waste No Time”
The single “Waste No Time” will showcase Seunghan’s growth as an artist. SM Entertainment has described it as a performance-driven project, with choreography playing a key role. The collaboration with dancers Kyohong and Yul suggests a high-energy, visually striking release.
Teaser images hint at a narrative where Seunghan and the dancers connect through dance, forming the XngHan & Xoul crew. This storytelling approach adds depth to the debut, making it more than just a music release.
Seunghan has also been active on Instagram, sharing updates and interacting with fans. He plans to hold live broadcasts leading up to his debut, allowing real-time engagement with his global audience.
The Future of XngHan & Xoul
This debut is just the beginning for XngHan & Xoul. The brand is designed to evolve with each project, bringing in new collaborators. Future releases may involve different musicians, stylists, and visual artists, keeping the concept fresh.
Seunghan’s focus on performance suggests that live stages and dance will remain central to his work. However, the flexibility of XngHan & Xoul means he could explore other creative directions in the future.
Also Read: Former RIIZE Member Seunghan Secures “Best Idol of 2024” Trophy; Netizens Celebrate
For now, all eyes are on July 31, when “Waste No Time” drops. Fans and industry watchers are curious to see how Seunghan will redefine himself as a solo artist.
Credits: SM Entertainment, XngHan & Xoul’s Instagram
