After a brief hiatus, Wonho has made a triumphant return to the music scene with his new album, SYNDROME. This long-anticipated release marks a significant milestone for the global K-pop star, who is eager to share his most personal work yet. In this exclusive interview, Wonho reveals the creative journey behind his first full-length studio album, talks about his relationship with fans, and shares a memorable holiday moment that left him feeling “happy and proud”.
Crafting SYNDROME: A Personal Exploration
It’s been three years since Wonho stepped away for his mandatory military service in Korea, a break that reignited his creativity and passion for music. Now 32, he’s back with SYNDROME, an album that represents his most personal project to date. Released at the end of October, this 10-track collection is a testament to his artistic growth and independence since leaving Monsta X more than five years ago.
“I’ve always wanted to release a full album like this,” he tells Rolling Stone. “But because I had this long break, I was able to prepare this music for a long time and really focus on creating a full album. It feels like a new beginning to be honest.”
With tracks ranging from lively party anthems to introspective ballads, SYNDROME reveals every facet of Wonho’s artistry. The veteran artist aimed to present a diverse range of emotions and sounds, showcasing both his playful and earnest sides.
Behind the Scenes: Creating a Unique Sound
Recording the album was a joyful experience for Wonho, who relished the process of selecting the perfect songs. “I think I probably recorded around 20 songs, but only 10 were selected for this album,” he says. Although some tracks didn’t make the final cut, fans can look forward to hearing them in future releases.
Despite the album’s party-ready themes, Wonho admits that he’s not a big club-goer. “Personally, I don’t really enjoy going to clubs,” he explains. However, touring in Europe felt like a celebration in itself, as he connected with fans across different countries.
Inspiration and Longevity
Staying relevant in the fast-paced music industry requires more than just talent; for Wonho, it’s all about his close bond with fans. “For me, my fans are the most important because they really show me directly how much they like my music,” he shares. This connection, coupled with his commitment to consistency and practice, has been crucial to his enduring success.
Seeking feedback is an integral part of his creative process, with Wonho valuing honest opinions from his team. “They provide a lot of direct feedback about my music,” he notes, appreciating their role in refining his artistry.
Memorable Gifts and Future Plans
Reflecting on past Christmases, Wonho recalls a touching memory from his childhood. He received a large LEGO set from “Santa Claus,” which he later discovered was a gift orchestrated by his father. It’s a moment that left him “happy and proud,” and it’s something he cherishes to this day.
As for the future, Wonho is focused on giving back to his fans through music. “I want to make more music and grow more… to meet as many fans around the world as possible,” he declares, excited to reconnect with his audience.
With the release of SYNDROME, Wonho is not only marking a new chapter in his musical journey but also reaffirming the deep connection he shares with his fans—a connection built on authenticity, creativity, and gratitude.
