K-Pop Star Wonho Dishes About His Return, Tour and New Single, ‘What Would You Do’
by Tayah Fox
On Sep. 4, 2024, K-Pop star Wonho and his fans, WENEE, rejoiced at his discharge from mandatory South Korean military service. After 18 long months of separation, Wonho was enthusiastic about returning to doing what he loves the most—his music and meeting his fans.
The idol released his English single, "What Would You Do," on Nov. 22, setting the stage for his solo U.S. debut performances. This relaxed pop and R&B fusion, steered by Wonho's delicate vocals, acts as a gift for his devoted fans who patiently awaited his return.
From Jingle Ball to The Unforgettable Gala, Wonho wasted no time returning to work. One of his most notable post-enlistment activities was his U.S. tour, the 2024 WONHO USA FAN MEETUP 'WELCOME BACK WENEE,' which allowed American fans a close experience, seeing Wonho like never before. His U.S. promotions mark the beginning of a new chapter for the star and his fans. Sweety High got to chat with Wonho, diving into the latest single and his feelings behind his fan meet-up tour. Read our interview below!
Sweety High: Welcome back, Wonho! How does returning to your artist activities feel after being away for almost two years?
Wonho: Since it's my first time touring as a solo artist, every performance I've had so far on this trip has felt like the very first time again. I've been so excited seeing my fans after such a long time!
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SH: Can you tell us a little more about your new single, "What Would You Do?" What is the inspiration behind this track?
Wonho: "What Would You Do" is a pop R&B ballad that's perfect for relaxed listening. It has a catchy melody that stays with you for a long time after listening, so I think my fans will want to listen to it over and over again! Sometimes, I think of imaginary situations and use those feelings to create a concept for the song. For "What Would You Do," I thought about what I would do if I didn't have my fans. I focused on the sad and painful emotions that the situation would bring and focused on expressing those feelings in the song.
SH: How did you prepare for your fan meetup tour to ensure WENEEs had a great time?
Wonho: Since I've come back after being away for so long away from my fans, I wanted to take a bit more time to prepare and show a new side of myself. My desire to see my fans as soon as possible was stronger, so I prepared to put on a show that WENEE would love.
SH: What has been your favorite thing you've shown American fans on tour?
Wonho: I hope WENEE can see how much fun I've been having on stage at every show. They've been so loud cheering for me, and it's giving me energy in every single city!
(Photo credit: HIGHLINE ENTERTAINMENT)
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SH: What memories do you hope WENEEs will leave with after the fan meetup tour?
Wonho: Well, because this has been my first trip to the U.S. as a soloist, the experiences have been new for me. I'm really just thinking about doing my best for the fans with the performance. I want it to be a happy time with them!
SH: How did you feel when you first learned you'd perform at Jingle Ball?
Wonho: I was, and still am, feeling really excited about Jingle Ball. There have been so many artists I want to meet! Just being able to share the same stage with them is amazing. I'm looking forward to everyone's performances, and if I have the chance, I'd love to enjoy the show with everyone, too!
(Photo credit: HIGHLINE ENTERTAINMENT)
SH: How do you keep yourself energized with such a hectic agenda?
Wonho: Sticking to a routine is really important for me while I'm on a tour like this. I make sure to drink a lot of water and never miss a day at the gym. Staying on a schedule similar to what I do in Korea really helps me stay energized. And of course, seeing WENEE keeps me energized always!
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SH: What can fans look forward to in this new, exciting chapter of your career?
Wonho: I think both WENEE and I have grown, and our bond has become even more special. I want to continue making up for lost time and show you the best of myself.
(Photo credit: HIGHLINE ENTERTAINMENT)
SH: Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans?
Wonho: I always want to express my thoughts directly to my fans in each place I go, even if it's just a short word or phrase, so I've been practicing my English a lot. I hope to continue meeting my fans all around the world and communicate with them as much as I can!
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