A new K-pop boy group named 1VERSE is making history as the first-ever idol group to include two members from North Korea. The group will officially debut on July 18, 2025, with their first single ‘The 1st Verse’.
The five-member group includes Hyuk and Seok, both North Korean defectors, along with Nathan and Kenny from the United States and Aito from Japan. Their agency, Singing Beetle, announced the debut date, calling it a milestone for K-pop.
Hyuk and Seok are the first North Korean defectors to join a K-pop group. Their journey from North Korea to becoming K-pop idols has drawn global attention. The group’s multicultural lineup reflects the growing diversity in the industry.
CEO Michelle Cho said, “Fans can expect something real, something powerful, something that will lift them up and move them. This debut reflects who 1VERSE is, the inspiring journeys they’ve taken, and the future they’re ready to shape.”
1VERSE has already gained a strong online following, with over 500,000 TikTok followers before their official debut. Their music video will premiere on their YouTube channel on July 18.
The North Korean Members’ Background
Hyuk, the group’s rapper, escaped North Korea at 13 after living in extreme poverty. He worked odd jobs and even stole to survive before defecting in 2013. In South Korea, he discovered his passion for rap after performing at a school talent show.
Seok, the vocalist, came from a relatively wealthier family in North Korea. He grew up listening to smuggled K-pop songs and dreamed of performing. He defected in 2019 and later joined Singing Beetle after giving up on a soccer career.
Both members faced language and cultural barriers but trained hard to adapt. Hyuk said, “We communicate well even if our languages aren’t perfect. We care for each other, and that’s what matters.”
The Group’s Multicultural Lineup
1VERSE’s other members bring diverse backgrounds:
- Nathan (Lao-Thai American) – A computer science major from Arkansas.
- Kenny (Chinese American) – Called the “personality hire” of the group.
- Aito (Japanese) – The main dancer, inspired by K-pop since childhood.
Their debut song ‘Ordinary Person’, co-written by Hyuk, has already been teased. The track mixes English and Korean, aiming for global appeal.
Industry Impact and Fan Reactions
This debut marks a major moment for K-pop, breaking barriers in an industry known for its strict training system. Netizens have praised the group’s unique story.
One fan tweeted, “Hyuk and Seok’s journey is inspiring. Can’t wait to see them shine!” Another wrote, “1VERSE is making history. This is what K-pop’s global vision should look like.”
Future Plans
The group hopes to perform in the U.S. and even North Korea someday. Hyuk said, “I want to touch people with honesty through music. We’re just ordinary people with extraordinary dreams.”
With their debut weeks away, 1VERSE is set to bring a fresh perspective to K-pop. Their story of resilience and unity is already resonating with fans worldwide.
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