[Sportschosun reporter Jung Bit] Junwon (Kim Jun-won), the vocalist of H2O, the "legend of Korean modern rock," is returning as a solo artist after 10 years.
Junwon will release his first single, "Nakwonsanga (Paradise for Sale)," on the 29th and begin solo activities. It is his first solo release in about 10 years, following his debut solo album "Jussex" in 2016.
The project also features co-producers Yoo Ji-hoon on keyboards and Hwang Hyun-woo on bass. In addition to performing, the two worked together on songwriting, arranging, and recording to raise the overall quality. The entire production process took place at the music label Gorani Special Forces, run by Hwang Hyun-woo.
The new song "Nakwonsanga" began with notes and reflections Junwon had recorded over the course of about six years while living in Jeju. Starting with this single, he plans to release one new song every two months and continue his music career steadily.
He has also announced plans for live performances. On October 9, he will hold his first solo concert, titled "Junwon Project," at West Bridge in Hongdae, Seoul, where he will meet fans.
After gaining band experience in the United States, Junwon returned to Korea and formed H2O. The band rose to prominence by turning its 1987 hit "Foggy City" into a defining song that helped spark a boom in Korean rock bands.
He also made his presence felt beyond music. Based on his distinctive visuals and commanding stage presence, Junwon appeared as an actor in the drama "The Bowed Man" and the musical "Hard Rock Cafe." He also served as music director for the drama "Return of Iljimae," showcasing his wide-ranging talents.
Attention is now focused on what kind of music Junwon will use to tell his own story as he resumes his solo project after 10 years.
Jung Bit, reporter rightlight@sportschosun.com
