One member, in particular, got a lot of attention after one of his unit performances and has non-FANTASY asking about him. SF9’s HwiYoung has become a hot topic with many K-Pop fans wanting to know more about him. So, we’ve compiled this list of 10 ways that HwiYoung will most definitely steal your heart.
1. Captivating performer
HwiYoung has an undeniable stage presence. It’s almost like he was born to be on stage. This was highlighted during his time on “KINGDOM: LEGENDARY WAR.” The performance in question, that made HwiYoung a hot topic, was on the 7th episode when he performed ‘Full DaSH’ with his rap unit (consisting of iKON’s Bobby and THE BOYZ’s SunWoo). HwiYoung opens the song with sexy confidence as he raps some powerful lyrics in a relaxed way. The other contestants were also amazed by how laidback he seemed on stage, which made it even cooler.
This wasn’t the first or last time that HwiYoung has wowed FANTASY on stage though. Just when we thought his performances couldn’t get any better, he pulled another stunt in the “KINGDOM: LEGENDARY WAR” finale that showed us how much he owns it on stage. He walks on dancers’ backs, blindfolded, in a way that is so effortless. HwiYoung was clearly born to be on stage because he can make scary performance stunts like that look like a piece of cake.
2. Triple threat
Not only is HwiYoung an extremely talented idol (singer and dancer), but he is also on the rise in his acting career. His acting profile is becoming no joke, especially with his latest webtoon-based K-Drama “Imitation.” He remained humble in an interview about it, stating that because other members of SF9 were also busy with acting activities, he wanted to look to them for inspiration and continue to work hard for the overall benefit of SF9. HwiYoung plays LeeHyun of the top K-Pop boy group SHAX in the drama. He divulges that when he met with the director, it actually wasn’t for the role of SHAX, but they seemed to see a similarity between HwiYoung and LeeHyun so his role changed. He says that he enjoyed seeing the character merge with aspects of himself. We’re glad that he’s enjoying his work as he rises to the top.
3. Could fit into any K-Pop group
As mentioned before, even in the webtoon adaptation drama “Imitation,” HwiYoung is in a famous K-Pop group called SHAX. He plays the role of a vocal and also as the group’s producer. The concept fits him perfectly and the group looks good together. No wonder this fictional boy group has gained just as much popularity as a real-life one. This drama made FANTASY realize one thing about HwiYoung. Even if he was not a part of SF9, he could fit into any K-Pop group that he debuted with. His performances with non-SF9 members looked so natural that the unknowing K-Pop fan would wonder who he is as a member of that group. There have even been Twitter jokes by netizens, following the finale of “KINGDOM: LEGENDARY WAR,” saying that HwiYoung would make an amazing 7th member of iKON. Following his performance with the rap unit, HwiYoung has grown very close to iKON’s Bobby and, as a result, was filmed sticking to Bobby’s side and next to iKON on the final stage. Netizens mused about how he could trick FANTASY into thinking he was part of iKON’s group if they looked quickly enough. Regardless of whether he is acting as another idol or meshing well into a collaboration, it’s awesome that HwiYoung is so adaptable.
4. Invented the long hair look
HwiYoung is famous for the long locks that he has kept for a very long time. It is almost difficult for us to imagine him with shorter hair. It frames his already handsome face and also gives him a bad boy vibe. He had cut it once in 2019 (which gave him a more innocent clean-cut look) but has continued to wear it long again after that. Which look do you prefer? As his signature look, the long hair makes FANTASY want to stare at him all day.
5. He’s a walking happy vitamin
In an interview, SF9 member Chani was asked what makes him laugh these days and his answer was HwiYoung. HwiYoung is known as a happy vitamin amongst his members and FANTASY can vouch for that. Watching videos with HwiYoung in them gives you the feeling that he’s a very approachable and down-to-earth type. He seems like the kind of person that can pep up your day by just having a conversation with you, hence he is a happy vitamin. Check out this video of Chani and HwiYoung where you can see their close friendship and just how their banter could translate to HwiYoung being a happy vitamin.
6. The best of both worlds: Kim YoungKyun vs. HwiYoung
Although he’s an idol with a very glamorous life, HwiYoung always wants to remind FANTASY of who he is. His real name is Kim YoungKyun and he loves to share the most real parts of himself with his fans. For example, he shared that he went on a hike with his family and he really wanted to share the experience and the view with his FANTASY. We love this pure side of him just as much as his idol persona!
7. Unmatched musical talent
HwiYoung actually produces his own songs and releases them on his SoundCloud. The music he makes is different from a lot of SF9’s discography and he tends to go for groovy hip-hop or R&B vibes. This shows just how versatile his musicality is. When it comes to his own music, HwiYoung transcribes his life experiences and feelings into meaningful songs. For example, his song ‘APGuJEOnG RODeO’ signifies the subway station where he and Chani used to meet before heading to FNC Entertainment for practice as trainees. The song isn’t necessarily directly related to that, but FANTASY recognized the significance in the song title immediately. He even released a music video for his track ‘EMPTY’ in 2019, which is seeing an influx of new views and comments from the new fans who fell in love with HwiYoung after his ‘Full DaSH’ performance on “KINGDOM: LEGENDARY WAR.”
8. Selflessly serves FANTASY visuals
HwiYoung would’ve dominated the model industry with his model-like visuals, but he chose music. FANTASY think that he would’ve been the most in-demand in the model industry and are relieved that he chose to be their unofficial SF9 visual instead. Whether it’s an everyday selfie or a photoshoot, HwiYoung never fails to deliver.
9. Effortless cutie
Who needs aegyo when you’re just naturally cute? HwiYoung is cute without even trying. His SF9 members say that he is a very serious person when the cameras are on him, but off-camera is just relaxed and adorable. They’ve also mentioned that he is cutest when he is trying hard to do something. Here is a throwback we’ve dug up of him trying his best in the Cleopatra challenge on “Weekly Idol” against members of CROSS GENE.
10. Never wants to disappoint his fans
Following the finale of “KINGDOM: LEGENDARY WAR,” HwiYoung confided in his fans, telling them how upset he was (the message can be found on the app Bubble for FNC). HwiYoung, who is known for being sensitive, shared that he was sad at the loss and wanted to get better results. He said it was unfortunate that the competition ended like that, but he knows that the future is more important and he will prepare harder for it and show fans a better performance. He thanked FANTASY for their constant support and hard work. It is never pleasant to hear that your favorite idol is upset, but hopefully, wherever HwiYoung is, he knows that FANTASY will always love and adore him regardless of results. There’s not enough time in the world for us to list the reasons why we love SF9’s HwiYoung so much, but it goes without saying that he is adored. FANTASY, why do you love HwiYoung? Let us know in the comments.
SF9’s HwiYoung Makes Hearts Flutter With His “Dangerous” Look KPOP STORIES|Dec 10, 2019 “Imitation” (2021 Drama): Cast & Summary KDRAMA STORIES|May 4, 2021
