1Verse, a new K-pop group with a unique story, is set to release their debut album “The First Verse” this Frida What makes them stand out? Two of the five members, Hyuk and Seok, were born in North Korea and defected to the South, bringing a rare cultural mix to the global K-pop scene.
The group also includes Nathan from Arkansas (USA), Kenny from Los Angeles, and Aito from Japan. Together, they blend different backgrounds, languages and experiences, aiming to show that music truly goes beyond borders.
“When we came together as a team from so many places, I felt we could succeed no matter where we’re from,” said Aito, the youngest member.
From North Korea to the K-pop stage
Hyuk escaped North Korea’s Hamgyong Province at age 12 in 2013. He started rapping after meeting a music producer by chance while working in a factory during the pandemic.
“At first, I thought it was a scam,” Hyuk told AP. “But then I thought, I have nothing to lose.”
Seok fled North Korea in 2019. He briefly played semi-professional football in South Korea before joining a star training program and stepping into music for the first time.
“If I fail, I’ll just try something else,” he said.
Growing up in North Korea, music wasn’t part of daily life. Hyuk recalls spending 8–10 hours daily gathering firewood just to cook rice, leaving no time for listening to songs. Seok managed to hear some K-pop tracks by groups like f(x) and Super Junior, despite strict bans.
Global attention and personal stories
Experts say K-pop poses a challenge to North Korea’s government, especially among young people. Nathan discovered K-pop through cousins in Texas and was hooked after watching EXO’s Growl.
“At first I pretended to hate it,” he laughed.
The group even takes classes on “global citizenship” to better connect with fans worldwide.
“We want to celebrate each member’s story and culture,” Kenny explained.
Seok shared that he’s excited to meet fans outside Asia, especially in the US. Early videos of his training days, where he opened up emotionally, received many supportive messages online.
“I cried while filming my diary, and when fans replied, it really touched me,” he said.
While their background as defectors draws attention, Hyuk emphasizes that their identity is about being a team.
“I’m grateful, but it shouldn’t be the only focus,” he said. “We’re on this journey together.”
