Excitement is reaching its peak among K-pop fans as the debut mini album of the highly anticipated sub-unit, Shownu X Hyungwon, is set to be released on July 25, 2023. Titled “The Unseen,” this album marks the first venture of Shownu and Hyungwon outside of their group MONSTA X, captivating fans with a unique musical experience that showcases their individual talents. Shownu X Hyungwon, also stylized as 셔누 X 형원, is the first sub-unit of MONSTA X, a six-member boy group under Starship Entertainment. MONSTA X gained popularity after their debut in 2015 with the mini album “Trespass,” and since then, they have established themselves as a powerhouse in the K-pop industry. The decision to form a sub-unit came as an exciting surprise for fans, with Starship Entertainment confirming the collaboration between Shownu and Hyungwon on May 3. Known for their incredible stage presence and versatile abilities, the two members were selected to explore a different musical direction while still maintaining their connection with MONSTA X.
Shownu, whose real name is Son Hyunwoo, is the leader of MONSTA X and the sub-unit Shownu X Hyungwon. Prior to his involvement with MONSTA X, he was a pre-debut member of the project group NUBOYZ and the project group Y TEEN. On July 22, 2021, Shownu announced his military enlistment as a public service worker, but after completing his service, he was discharged on April 21, 2023. Now, he is ready to showcase his talent once again through this sub-unit.
Hyungwon, whose real name is Chae Hyungwon, is not only a singer but also a songwriter, composer, DJ, and actor. He is a member of MONSTA X and Shownu X Hyungwon, as well as a former member of the project group Y TEEN. Known for his versatility, Hyungwon has also made a name for himself as a DJ under the stage name DJ H.ONE. He has performed at prestigious events such as Ultra Korea and KCON Japan, displaying his wide range of talents.
“The Unseen” is highly anticipated for its unique concept and musical direction. The mini album will be available in five versions: Seen, Unseen, two Jewel versions (Seen and Unseen), and KiT. Fans can expect a diverse range of songs that showcase the individual charms of Shownu and Hyungwon while also highlighting their chemistry as a sub-unit. Additionally, Hyungwon has already demonstrated his musical prowess through various collaborations, including his participation in the “Pepsi X Starship Project” alongside VIXX’s Hongbin with their release “Cool Love” in 2019. Such collaborations have further piqued fans’ interest in what Shownu X Hyungwon has in store for their debut. “The Unseen” is not just an album; it represents the unseen potential and talent of Shownu and Hyungwon as they embark on this new chapter of their careers. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release, eager to witness the synergy and creativity that will be showcased by these two dynamic performers. As the countdown to July 25 begins, K-pop enthusiasts can’t help but anticipate the remarkable musical journey that awaits them with “The Unseen.” Shownu X Hyungwon’s debut mini album is bound to leave an indelible mark on the industry and captivate fans worldwide with its unparalleled artistry.
