HEYOON, the Korean-born international artist and performer, is making waves as a soloist after her time with Now United. Her latest single, ‘ASAP,’ featuring rapper Chris Patrick, showcases her evolving artistry and musical versatility. In an exclusive interview with Namaste Hallyu, HEYOON talks about her journey, the creative process behind her new music, and what the future holds.
From Now United to a Solo Career
After dedicating her early and mid-20s to Now United, transitioning into a solo career was both exciting and challenging for HEYOON. “It felt like starting over and wasn’t easy, having the members meant that there were people I could lean on, experiencing the same exact thing as me,” she shares. Despite the challenges, she finds joy in carving her own path.
It’s so creatively fulfilling and freeing now getting to tell my own story, so I find both experiences equally challenging in different ways that’ll strengthen me.
Her latest single, ‘ASAP,’ is a testament to this newfound freedom. The track, which explores themes of desire, allowed HEYOON to embrace vulnerability in her music. “I think it’s very freeing to be so vulnerable and express exactly how you feel for someone. I want people to feel free and have fun listening to ‘ASAP,’” she says. Collaborating with Chris Patrick was a dream for HEYOON, who has been a fan of his music. “Chris is so talented and a humble artist. He’s been so collaborative and open to everything, it’s been such a smooth process.”
When it comes to her performances, HEYOON shares that she prioritizes different aspects, whether it’s the sound or the choreography, depending on the song.
For ASAP, music came first. But I think most songs, while I work on them, I picture how I’m going to perform them, and sometimes little moves might naturally come up – I try to incorporate that into the choreography/performance.
Evolving Artistry and Future Plans
HEYOON’s artistic evolution has been shaped by her diverse experiences—from growing up in Daejeon, South Korea, to traveling the world with Now United. “Growing up in Korea taught me how to be resilient and to have love for community on top of many things. I am who I am because of my roots and the experiences I got to have with my career,” she reflects. She is now focused on expanding her artistic identity, blending her dance background and global influences into her music.
It’s been such a unique journey I feel blessed. Right now, I’m focusing on expanding, exploring, and sharing different sides of me- I’ve learned so much as an artist/grown as a human being in a group like Now United, and I can’t wait to share HEYOON 2.0.
With ‘ASAP’ following her previous release, ‘Pivot,’ HEYOON teases that more music is on the way. “Definitely an album on the way! It’s very early in the process, but stay tuneddd!” she says excitedly. While music remains her main focus, she also expresses an interest in acting. “I love acting! Right now I’m locked in and want to focus on my music but I’m also staying open to the right opportunities that’ll align with my journey!”
A Message to Fans
As she continues to build her solo career, HEYOON remains grateful for the unwavering support of her fans, including those in India.
Namaste my loves, thank you so much for your love and support – I get to do what I love every day because of you guys! MORE music on the way so stay tuned & I hope to see you in person ASAP.
With her undeniable talent, passion, and ever-evolving artistry, HEYOON is set to make a lasting impact in the global music scene.
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Photo Credits: Universal Music Group
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