AHOF (All-time Hall Of Famer), a nine-member group formed through the survival show ‘Universe League’, made a spectacular debut on July 1. The group — consisting of Steven, Jeongwoo, Woongki, Shuaibo, Han, JL, Juwon, Chih En, and Daisuke — marked their entry into the K-pop scene with their first EP, ‘WHO WE ARE’. True to its title, the debut album showcases the group’s passion, ambition, and sincerity.
In an exclusive interview with Namaste Hallyu, AHOF talks about ‘WHO WE ARE’, how they navigated the challenges before debut, and the goals they wish to achieve.
When it came to crafting their debut album, the group drew inspiration from stories and sounds that aligned closely with their identity. AHOF’s leader, Steven, explained, “We got inspired from movies and music that have a similar vibe to our debut album, ‘WHO WE ARE’.” Reflecting that inspiration, the album takes on an almost autobiographical tone, touching on emotions like self-doubt and the fear of losing one’s dreams during the long wait to debut.
For Woongki, those emotions were especially personal. He coped by immersing himself in practice and holding on to the thought of finally meeting fans, a mindset that kept him grounded and driven throughout the journey.
I overcame those feelings [doubt and the fear of losing my dreams] easily. I just practice super hard and just wait to meet our fans. Easy way to overcome!
– Woongki
With an album as emotionally resonant as ‘WHO WE ARE’, it’s no surprise that the members felt personally connected to the lyrics. When asked which lines stood out the most, Han and JL both highlighted moments that held special meaning for them. Han was particularly moved by the line, “Those memories dropped into the sky/ Nine colors reflected in the eyes,” while JL connected deeply with, “We will shine forever at this moment,” describing it as a reflection of the group’s mindset during debut.
Of course, the path to debut wasn’t the same for everyone. While some struggled, others embraced the process. Jeongwoo shared that he genuinely enjoyed every step and didn’t face any major challenges. On the other hand, Juwon admitted that stepping into a new musical style was difficult at first, but with passion and determination, he pulled through.
The song was in a style and mood that I never had done before, so it was hard. However, with my passion, I overcame it and did a great job!
– Juwon
Now that their debut is behind them, the members are already thinking about what’s next. When asked about future concepts they’d like to try, Chih En expressed interest in a “sexy” concept, while Daisuke said he’d love to explore something “cute and adorable.” Their different preferences hint at an exciting range of directions AHOF might take in upcoming projects.
As for what fans can expect moving forward, the members shared that they plan to continue experimenting and evolving. Shuaibo encouraged fans to look forward to their future looks, albums, and concepts, promising that what’s to come will be amazing. Steven added that the group’s honest emotions and chemistry are key to their identity, and he hopes their energy connects deeply with fans, saying, “Our sincere and honest feelings as well as our chemistry. I want all our energies to touch our fans and feel the same!” Woongki emphasized that the impact he hopes the group leaves on fans is their unique identity, sharing, “A color that no other groups have but just AHOF!”
Before wrapping up, AHOF had a sweet message for their Indian fans, and to everyone’s delight, Jeongwoo shared it in Hindi.
नमस्ते!! कृपया हमें खूब पसंद करें! (Hello! Please give us lots of love!)
– Jeongwoo
With sincerity at their core, a drive to grow, and music filled with meaning, AHOF is ready to make their mark.
Photo Credits: F&F Entertainment
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