Still 'scared': First-gen idol Son Ho-young on persevering through hardships

Son Ho-young, a prominent figure in the first generation of K-pop idols as a member of the legendary group god, recently opened up about the formidable challenges that shaped both his group's inception and his personal artistic path. As god approaches nearly three decades since debuting in 1999, Son reflects on the turbulent environment that early K-pop artists endured and the evolving landscape that today’s idols navigate.

The origins of god trace back to a difficult period marked by the 1997 Asian financial crisis, which severely impacted their management and support structure. The group was thrust into a precarious situation, isolated in a dilapidated building in Gyeonggi Province, forced to rely on their own resilience and camaraderie to survive. Son, then 19, regarded these hardships as a formative crucible that forged a unique bond among the five members, a connection that has endured through decades.

Despite this shared history of adversity, Son cautions that such grueling experiences are not essential for success, acknowledging the considerable progress the industry has made since those days. He expressed deep respect for the younger generation of idols, whose skills, creativity, and achievements far exceed what was conceivable during god's early years. This admiration is grounded in the recognition of the increasing demands and sophistication present in today’s K-pop scene.

Son Ho-young’s commitment to his craft has spanned solo ventures alongside his work with god. Marking 20 years since his debut solo album "Yes" in 2006, he is set to release a new digital single titled "Go Around." The track features a stripped-back pop sound with introspective lyrics co-written by Son himself, embodying themes of self-trust and embracing uncertainty when embarking on new phases in life. This release symbolizes both a personal milestone and a statement of resilience and ongoing artistic refinement.

Throughout his career, Son has grappled with the pressures of perfectionism and the fear of failure, sentiments he openly shares as part of his public persona. Reflecting on his early years, he revealed how relentless practice and rigid goals sometimes overshadowed the search for music that truly resonated with his identity. This candid self-assessment highlights the complexities artists face in balancing discipline with authenticity.

Son’s artistic pursuits have extended beyond music into acting and theater, fields where he has encountered both challenges and growth opportunities. His experiences have enriched his versatility as a performer and deepened his engagement with the creative process, including his active role in directing god’s live performances. These multifaceted endeavors underscore his dedication to evolving within the entertainment industry.

Known for his sensitivity and empathetic nature, Son has contemplated a career in counseling, drawn by a desire to support others through personal connection and conversation. Although the academic and professional demands of counseling proved prohibitive, he continues to maintain meaningful dialogues with peers and younger artists. His recent participation in a reality program featuring the group Tomorrow X Together exemplifies his role as a mentor and bridge between generations.

Son’s reflections emphasize the intense competition and pressure faced by emerging idols today, acknowledging the broader perspective and maturity gained through such experiences. Yet, he remains deeply proud of the enduring friendship and mutual respect among god’s members, attributing their longevity to shared perseverance and genuine human bonds.

As Son Ho-young prepares to release "Go Around," his narrative stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of one of K-pop’s pioneering acts and the personal evolution of an artist who continues to adapt and inspire within a rapidly transforming industry. His story offers a nuanced perspective on both the legacy of early K-pop and the vibrant future shaped by new generations.