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Lee Hyun
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Key Information
Lee Hyun (Korean: 이현; born November 8, 1983)[1] is a South Korean singer. He debuted in 2007 as a member of the co-ed vocal group 8Eight, which disbanded in 2014. He was also a member of the disbanded vocal duo Homme from 2010 to 2018. Lee is currently signed to Big Hit Music as a solo artist. He introduced his alter ego Midnatt in March 2023, through the release of the single "Masquerade".
Career
[edit]2007–2014: 8Eight
[edit]Lee joined Big Hit Entertainment as a trainee in 2005 and signed with the company in 2007.[2] That same year, he debuted as part of the co-ed group 8Eight, alongside Baek Chan and Joo Hee.[3] The group released three studio albums between 2007 and 2009, and two extended plays in 2010 and 2011. On December 21, 2014, Big Hit announced that Baek and Joo's contracts had expired and further promotional activities for the group had been suspended. The label stated that the members remained friends and did not rule out the possibility of them reuniting in the future.[4] During its seven years in the industry, 8Eight had become one of the top vocal groups in Korea and dominated the coffee house scene.
On January 31, 2021, Big Hit announced that 8Eight would make a comeback in February with a new commemorative single composed by "Hitman" Bang and Wonderkid for the 10th anniversary of "Without A Heart".[5] On February 6, Lee uploaded a new photo of 8Eight to his Twitter account, teasing the impending release. The song was released on February 7 and marked the group's first time singing together in six years since unofficially disbanding.[6]
2009–present: Solo activities and Homme
[edit]Lee released his debut single as a solo artist, "30분전" ("30 Minutes Ago"), on September 8, 2009,[7] in both digital and physical format. A duet featuring singer Lim Jeong-hee,[7] it was written by Bang Si-hyuk as the final part of his Goodbye trilogy of songs that included Baek Ji-young's "총 맞은 것처럼" ("Like Being Hit By a Bullet") and 8Eight's "심장이 없어" ("Without a Heart").[8] An accompanying music video, starring actress Sunwoo Sun, was released alongside the single without any copyright restrictions to encourage viewers to share it freely.[9] Lee gave the premiere performance of "30 Minutes Ago" on Music Bank on September 11.[10] He also participated in the original soundtrack for the KBS2 television series Invincible Lee Pyung Kang, contributing the single "숨이 막혀" ("I Can't Breathe"), which was released on November 2.[11]
In 2010, Lee recorded the song "왜 나를 울려요" ("You Make Me Cry") for the soundtrack of the SBS television series Big Thing; it was released as a single on October 27. Lee became part of the collaboration duo Homme with Changmin of 2AM. They released the single "I Was Able To Eat Well" featuring Lee Chae-young.
In 2012, Lee debut solo album The Healing Echo.
In 2015 Changmin signed an exclusive contract with Big Hit.[12] Following its expiration at the end of January 2018, Big Hit announced on February 1 that Changmin had chosen to leave the company and open his own agency; Lee remained with the label as a soloist.[13]
In 2019, Lee contributed the single "You Are Here" to the BTS World: Original Soundtrack; the soundtrack was released globally on June 28.[14] Lee renewed his contract with Big Hit in March 2021 and opened a YouTube channel in celebration of his 14th anniversary with the company that same month.[15] He participated in the soundtrack for season two of Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce),[16] contributing the ballad "Deep Sadness", which was released as the soundtrack's fifth single on June 26.[17][18] The following month, Lee released his first single since the renewal of his contract, "Moon in the Ocean".[19]
Lee introduced his alter ego Midnatt[a] in May 2023 with the release of the digital single "Masquerade" through Big Hit and Hybe Corporation's interactive media technology subsidiary Hybe IM.[20][21] As Midnatt, Lee is the first artist to debut as part of Hybe Corp's "Project L", a music project utilizing AI voice synthesis—the company acquired voice design technology created by sound AI startup Supertone in 2021—and extended reality technologies for music and visual content production.[21] A synthwave song comparing Lee's conflicting emotions to a lovers relationship, his Korean vocals were translated into English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese via AI, allowing for the simultaneous release of multi-lingual versions of the song alongside the original; the female voice featured in the song was also derived from Lee's vocals.[20][21]
Personal life
[edit]Lee enlisted in the South Korean military on October 8, 2012, in order to carry out his mandatory military service. He received five weeks of basic training before serving as an active-duty soldier for 21 months.[22] While enlisted, Lee co-starred in the military musical The Promise, co-produced by the Ministry of National Defense and the Korea Musical Theatre Association in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Korean War armistice. The musical ran from January 9 to 20, 2013, at the National Theater of Korea and co-starred actors Ji Hyun-woo, Kim Mu-yeol, and Jung Tae-woo, and singers Leeteuk of Super Junior and Yoon Hak of Supernova.[23][24] Lee was discharged on July 7, 2014.
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Album details | Peak chart positions | Sales |
|---|---|---|---|
| KOR [25] | |||
| The Healing Echo |
Track listing
|
24 |
|
Extended plays
[edit]| Title | EP details | Peak chart positions |
|---|---|---|
| KOR [25] | ||
| 30 Minutes Ago |
Track listing
|
— |
| You Are the Best of My Life |
|
— |
| A(E)ND |
|
— |
| "—" denotes release did not chart. | ||
Singles
[edit]| Title | Year | Peak chart positions | Sales | Album |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KOR [27] | ||||
| As lead artist | ||||
| "30 Minutes Ago" (30분전) feat. Lim Jeong-hee |
2009 | No data* | No data* | 30 Minutes Ago |
| "Slander" (악담) | 2011 | 27 | You Are the Best of My Life | |
| "You Are the Best of My Life" (내꺼중에 최고) | 3 |
| ||
| "Although You Said So" (다며) feat. Mighty Mouth |
11 |
|
Non-album single | |
| "Because You Are You" (너니까) | 2012 | 5 |
|
The Healing Echo |
| "Senseless Me" (촌스러워서) | 20 |
|
Non-album singles | |
| "Your Lips" (입술자국) | 2017 | — | — | |
| "Will There Be a Next?" (다음이 있을까) | 2018 | — | — | |
| "Moon in the Ocean" (바닷속의 달) | 2021 | — | — | |
| "Masqueade" (as MIDNATT) | 2023 | |||
| Collaborations | ||||
| "Burn" (타버려) with Jeong U |
2010 | 80 | No data* | Non-album singles |
| "Heal" with Han Go-eun |
— | |||
| "After Losing You" (널 잃고 보니) with Kan Mi-youn |
2012 | 62 | ||
| "At the End of the Winter" (겨울 끝에서) with Jang Hee-young |
2015 | 72 | ||
| "It's Raining" (비가 내려와) with Zia |
42 | |||
| "Pretty Bae" (예쁜사람) with Park Bo-ram |
53 | |||
| "Starlight" with Muzie, Lee Gi-kwang, Joohoney, Chuu, Hyeongjun , and Jeong Yeon Joo) | 2021 | — | <Muzie-Kwang Company> project album | |
| Soundtrack appearances | ||||
| "I Can't Breathe" (숨이 막혀) | 2009 | No data* | No data* | Invincible Lee Pyung Kang OST |
| "You Make Me Cry" (왜 나를 울려요) | 2010 | 66 | Big Thing OST | |
| "I call with you" (널 불러본다) | All About Marriage OST | |||
| "Best Love" (최고의 사랑) | 2012 | 50 | Fashion King OST | |
| "My Heartache" (가슴이 시린 게) | 4 | A Gentleman's Dignity OST | ||
| "Engraved in My Heart" (가슴에 새겨져) | 48 | The King of Dramas OST | ||
| "Though It Hurts, It's Okay" (아파도 괜찮아) | 2014 | 91 | Birth of a Beauty OST | |
| "Close My Eyes" (눈을 감아도) | 2016 | — | Come Back Mister OST | |
| "You Are Love" (그대 사랑) | — | Blow Breeze OST | ||
| "Because It's You" (그대라서) | — | Dr. Romantic OST | ||
| "You Are Here" | 2019 | No data* | No data* | BTS World: Original Soundtrack OST |
| "Somebody" | No data* | No data* | Joseon Survival Period OST | |
| "Deep Sadness" (깊은 슬픔) | 2021 | — | Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce) 2 OST | |
| 악수 | — | 아는 여자애 OST | ||
| "Only You" (오직, 그대) | 2022 | — | Eve OST | |
| "—" denotes release did not chart. * The Gaon Digital Chart was launched in 2010. Sales data is not available prior to March 2011. | ||||
Filmography
[edit]Television shows
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Notes | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010–2011 | Let's Go! Dream Team Season 2 | Contestant | ||
| 2015 2018–2019 |
The King of Mask Singer | Episodes 31–32 and 179–180, 188 as "Eagle" | [32] | |
| 2023 | R U Next? | Coach | [33] |
Web shows
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Muziekwang Company | Host | [34] |
Theater
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Venue | Ref. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English | Korean | ||||
| 2023 | Dream High | 드림하이 | Kang Oh-hyeok | BBCH Hall of Gwanglim Art Center | [35] |
Radio
[edit]| Year | Channel | Title | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English | Korean | |||
| 2024 | MBC FM4U | My Close Friend Lee Hyun | 친한친구 이현입니다 | November 25 - present |
Awards
[edit]| Year | Award-Giving Body | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Mnet Asian Music Awards | Best Vocal Solo Performance[36] | "You are the Best of My Life" | Nominated |
Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ 이현 소개 [Lee Hyun Profile]. Mnet.com (in Korean). Archived from the original on June 20, 2018. Retrieved June 20, 2018.
- ^ Hong, Se-young (March 29, 2021). 이현 재계약, '빅히트 1호 가수' 존재감 계속 [공식] [Lee Hyun, renewed contract as 'Big Hit's first singer' [Official]]. Sports DongA (in Korean). Archived from the original on March 30, 2021. Retrieved March 30, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Kim, Ji Yeon (October 7, 2012). "Lee Hyun to Enter Army on October 8". CJ E&M enewsWorld. Archived from the original on June 20, 2018. Retrieved March 30, 2021 – via Yahoo News Singapore.
- ^ Yoon, Seong-yeol (December 21, 2014). [단독]에이트, 7년만에 잠정적 해체.."각자 음악 활동" [[Exclusive] 8Eight, temporary disbandment after seven years.."Individual music activities"]. Star News (in Korean). Archived from the original on June 22, 2020. Retrieved May 16, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Hwang, Hye-jin (January 31, 2021). 빅히트 측 “에이트 2월 7일 신곡 발표, 방시혁 참여”(공식). Newsen (in Korean). Archived from the original on March 30, 2021. Retrieved March 30, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Jeon, Ah-ram (February 6, 2021). 에이트, 6년만 컴백 앞두고 새 사진 공개…신곡 기대감 ↑ [Eight release a new photo before comeback after 6 years...Anticipate a new song ↑]. Xports News (in Korean). Archived from the original on March 30, 2021. Retrieved March 30, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ a b Lee, Jung-ah (September 9, 2009). 임정희, 이현 솔로곡 통해 2년만에 '국내 가요계 복귀' [Lim Jung-hee and Lee Hyun's solo song 'return to the Korean music industry' after 2 years]. Osen (in Korean). Archived from the original on May 17, 2023. Retrieved May 16, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Nam, An-woo; Moon, Tae-gyeong (August 26, 2009). '에이트' 이현, 방시혁의 '30분 전' 노래 낙점 ["Eight"'s Lee Hyun was chosen for Bang Si-hyuk's "30 Minutes Before"]. My Daily (in Korean). Archived from the original on May 17, 2023. Retrieved May 17, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Lee, Jung-ah (September 10, 2009). 이현, 뮤비 속 'CL'의 의미는 [Lee Hyun, the meaning of "CL" in the music video]. Osen (in Korean). Archived from the original on May 17, 2023. Retrieved May 16, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Choi, Jeong-ju (September 11, 2009). '솔로' 전성기…前 vs 現 '그룹 출신' 대격돌. Seoul Newspaper (in Korean). Archived from the original on May 17, 2023. Retrieved May 16, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Lee, Hye-rin (November 2, 2009). 에이트 이현, KBS '이평강' 러브테마곡 낙점 [Eight's Lee Hyun selected for KBS' 'Lee Pyung Kang' love theme song]. Asia Economic (in Korean). Archived from the original on May 17, 2023. Retrieved May 17, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Park, Su-yun (February 1, 2018). [공식입장] 이창민, 빅히트와 전속계약 만료 "1인 기획사 설립" [(Official) Lee Chang-min exclusive contract with Big Hit expired, "Establishing one-man agency"]. X Sports News (in Korean). Archived from the original on February 1, 2018. Retrieved March 30, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Park, Soo-yoon (February 1, 2018). 옴므 이창민, 1인 기획사 설립…빅히트와 계약종료 [Homme's Lee Chang-min established one-man agency...ends contract with Big Hit]. Yonhap News (in Korean). Archived from the original on June 20, 2018. Retrieved March 30, 2021.
- ^ Herman, Tamar (June 28, 2019). "BTS Release 'BTS World' Soundtrack Album Including New Track 'Heartbeat': Listen". Billboard. Archived from the original on July 2, 2019. Retrieved March 29, 2021.
- ^ Park, Seo-yeon (March 30, 2021). '빅히트 1호' 이현, 재계약 체결 후 유튜브 개설..방탄소년단 "어마어마할 것 같아" ['Big Hit's first singer' Lee Hyun, opened YouTube after signing a renewal contract.. BTS "I think it will be tremendous"]. Herald POP (in Korean). Archived from the original on March 30, 2021. Retrieved March 29, 2021.
- ^ Park, Soo-in (June 1, 2021). 성훈 '결혼작사 이혼작곡2' OST 참여, 시즌1 이어 두번째 [Sunghoon participated in the OST for "Love ft. Marriage and Divorce 2". This is the second time since season 1.]. Newsen (in Korean). Archived from the original on September 17, 2021. Retrieved September 17, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Hwang, Hye-jin (June 24, 2021). 이현 '결사곡2' OST 부른다, 26일 '깊은 슬픔' 발매 [Lee Hyun will sing the OST of "결사곡2". "Deep Sadness" will be released on the 26th.]. Newsen (in Korean). Archived from the original on September 17, 2021. Retrieved September 17, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Kim, Su-jin (June 29, 2021). 이현, '결사곡2' OST '깊은 슬픔' 비하인드 영상 공개 [Lee Hyun behind-the-scenes video of "Deep Sadness" OST for "결사곡2"]. Star News (in Korean). Archived from the original on September 17, 2021. Retrieved September 17, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Kang, Jin-ah (July 17, 2021). 이현 "'바닷속의 달' 컴백 설레…방탄소년단 응원 고마워" (in Korean). Newsis. Archived from the original on July 17, 2021. Retrieved July 17, 2021.
- ^ a b c Salazar, David (May 15, 2023). "This K-pop artist sings fluently in 6 languages. His secret? Voice AI". Fast Company. Archived from the original on May 15, 2023. Retrieved May 16, 2023.
- ^ a b c Choi, Ji-won (May 15, 2023). "Hybe opens up an era of 'tech-tainment' with new artist Midnatt". The Korea Herald. Archived from the original on May 15, 2023. Retrieved May 16, 2023.
- ^ Sunwoo, Carla (September 26, 2012). "8eight's Lee Hyun to enter the Army on Oct. 8". Korea Joongang Daily. Archived from the original on June 19, 2013. Retrieved October 2, 2012.
- ^ "Star-Studded Army Musical to Open in January". The Chosun Ilbo. December 28, 2012. Archived from the original on December 31, 2012. Retrieved April 4, 2013.
- ^ Hong, Grace Danbi (December 12, 2012). "Super Junior's Leeteuk and Ji Hyun Woo Participate in Army Musical". enewsWorld. Archived from the original on June 15, 2013. Retrieved April 4, 2013.
- ^ a b "Gaon Album Chart" (in Korean). Gaon Music Chart.
- ^ (See #76) 2012년 01월 Album Chart [January 2012 Album Chart] (in Korean). Gaon Music Chart. Retrieved June 18, 2018.
- ^ "Gaon Digital Chart" (in Korean). Gaon Music Chart.
As lead artist:- ""Slander" charting".
- ""You Are The Best of My Life" charting".
- ""Although You Said So" charting".
- ""Because You Are You" charting".
- ""Senseless Me" charting".
Collaborations:- ""Burn" charting".
- ""After Losing You" charting".
- ""At The End of the Winter" charting".
- ""It's Raining" charting".
- ""Pretty Bae" charting".
Soundtrack appearances: - ^ Cumulative sales of "You Are The Best Of My Life":
- ^ Cumulative sales of "Although You Said So":
- ^ Sales of "Because You Are You":
- ^ Sales of "Senseless Me":
- ^ Kim, Myung-mi (January 27, 2019). '복면가왕' 불난 위도우 새 가왕 등극, 4연승 독수리 건=이현(종합) [(Comprehensive) 'King of Mask Singer', Widow, who was in trouble, ascended to the new king of singers, 4 wins in a row Eagle Gun = Hyun Lee]. Newsen (in Korean). Archived from the original on January 27, 2019. Retrieved July 28, 2021.
- ^ Lee, Seung-hoon (June 22, 2023). "박규리·이현·조권·김재환·아이키, '알유넥스트' 코치 합류 [공식]" [Park Gyu-Ri, Lee Hyun-Hyun, Cho Kwon, Kim Jae-Hwan, and Aiki to join 'R.U.NEXT' as coaches [Official]] (in Korean). MT Star News. Retrieved June 27, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Ahn Byung-gil (October 1, 2021). "이현, 페이크 리얼리티 '뮤지광 컴퍼니' 깜짝 등장" [Lee Hyun, a surprise appearance in the fake reality ‘Mujikwang Company]. Sports Kyunghyang (in Korean). Retrieved October 1, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Son, Jin-ah (March 14, 2023). "오종혁·이현·정동화, 쇼뮤지컬 '드림하이' 기린예고 괴짜선생 된다" [Oh Jong-hyuk, Lee Hyun, and Jeong Dong-hwa become geek teachers at Kirin Arts High School for the show musical ‘Dream High’] (in Korean). MK Sports. Retrieved March 14, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ "2011Mnet Asian Music Awards part 1" Archived December 9, 2014, at the Wayback Machine. MAMA. Retrieved 20 January 2015.
| Authority control databases: Artists |
|---|
Lee Hyun
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early life and education
Early years
Lee Hyun was born on November 8, 1983, in Gwangju, South Korea. He spent his early childhood in Goheung, Jeollanam-do, before his family relocated to Suncheon, where he grew up in a modest household. Public information about his family remains limited, though he has two older sisters and his parents played significant roles in shaping his early perspectives.[1][8][10] From a young age, Lee Hyun displayed a natural affinity for performing and singing, often entertaining others with his voice. In middle school, he channeled his competitive energy into taekwondo, competing as an athlete before shifting focus to academics and quitting the sport. His interest in music deepened during his teenage years in high school, where, while preparing for university entrance exams at a prep school, he frequently practiced vocals at a local arcade's karaoke room. These sessions not only honed his skills but also drew admiration from friends, leading to spontaneous public performances that sparked his enduring passion for singing.[11] Lee Hyun's musical inclinations were foreshadowed even before his birth, as his mother reportedly received a fortune-telling prediction that he would become a singer. However, his path faced early resistance from his father, who vehemently opposed his pursuit of music and issued an ultimatum, resulting in a two-year estrangement between them. This familial tension underscored the challenges of his adolescence but ultimately reinforced his determination to follow his vocal talents.[11]Education
Lee Hyun attended Suncheon High School in Suncheon, Jeollanam-do Province, near Gwangju, graduating in the early 2000s.[5] After high school, he enrolled at Chonnam National University in Gwangju, joining the College of Social Sciences with a major in political science and diplomacy. He dropped out to dedicate himself to music.[8] In 2002, he became involved in the local music scene through the Soullist club and was discovered performing at an underground café by musicians including K.Will and Kim Jin-ho of SG Wannabe.[10][11] His post-secondary path shifted toward vocal development through self-directed practice and informal engagements in Gwangju's local music community, which exposed him to diverse influences and built foundational skills. This preparation culminated in his scouting by Bang Si-hyuk, founder of Big Hit Entertainment, who recognized his vocal potential and enrolled him as a trainee in 2005. Under Bang's guidance, Lee Hyun received targeted training focused on refining his strengths and addressing technical weaknesses, paving the way for his professional entry into the industry.[12]Career
2007–2014: 8Eight
Lee Hyun debuted as the leader and main vocalist of the co-ed vocal trio 8Eight on August 25, 2007, during a performance on MBC's Music Core, under the management of Big Hit Entertainment (now Big Hit Music) and Source Music. The group, formed after winning the grand prize on the audition program Show Survival (also known as Showvival), consisted of Lee Hyun, alongside Baek Chan (rapper and vocalist) and Joo Hee (vocalist and former dancer). Their debut full-length album, The First, released on August 27, 2007, featured the title track "Forget Love and Sing" (also translated as "I Sing After Losing Love"), which showcased the group's strong vocal harmonies and emotional ballad style, quickly topping major music charts in South Korea.[13][14][15] Over the following years, 8Eight released several successful albums and singles that highlighted their vocal versatility and chemistry, with Lee Hyun often taking the lead on high notes and ad-libs. Their second album, Infinity, arrived on March 18, 2008, led by the hip-hop-infused track "Let Me Go" featuring Cho PD, while the single "I Love You" (featuring Jessica of Girls' Generation) gained popularity for its R&B elements. In 2009, The Golden Age marked their commercial peak, with the lead single "Goodbye My Lover" (잘가요 내사랑) earning praise for its heartfelt lyrics and the group's layered vocals; the album also included hits like "One Day." The 2010 mini-album The Bridge featured "Farewell Is Coming," continuing their focus on romantic ballads, and the 2011 self-titled mini-album 8Eight included tracks like "One More Time." These releases emphasized Lee Hyun's role in delivering powerful, emotive performances, complemented by Baek Chan's rap verses and Joo Hee's softer tones, creating a balanced dynamic that set 8Eight apart as Big Hit's first co-ed group.[16][17][18] 8Eight achieved notable recognition for their vocal prowess, including a win for Best Mixed Group at the 2009 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) for "Without a Heart" (from a 2009 single album), which also topped digital charts and won the Best 10 Award at the Cyworld Digital Music Awards. The group frequently performed on major shows like Inkigayo and M Countdown, building a dedicated fanbase through live vocal stages that highlighted their acapella skills and improvisations. Lee Hyun's contributions extended to songwriting on tracks like "Between" from their debut, fostering a collaborative group environment. During this period, Lee Hyun began releasing early solo singles, such as those from his 2009 mini-album 30 Minutes Ago, while remaining committed to 8Eight activities.[19][20] The group released their final single, "Don't Go Crazy," on September 19, 2014, before announcing a temporary disbandment on December 21, 2014, primarily due to the expiration of Baek Chan and Joo Hee's contracts with Big Hit Entertainment, allowing members to pursue individual careers. Despite the split, 8Eight's seven-year run established them as vocal innovators in K-pop, with Lee Hyun crediting the group's tight-knit dynamics for their enduring harmonies and stage presence.[21][22]2009–2018: Solo activities and Homme
In 2009, Lee Hyun ventured into solo work with the release of his debut mini-album 30 Minutes Ago on September 8, featuring the title track of the same name in collaboration with singer Lim Jeong-hee. The EP, produced by Bang Si-hyuk, highlighted his powerful vocals through a mix of emotional ballads and mid-tempo tracks, and the lead single performed strongly, topping several digital charts and earning a premiere on Music Bank on September 11.[23][24] Following an 18-month break, Lee Hyun returned with his second mini-album You Are the Best of My Life on February 15, 2011, which blended rock and hip-hop elements in its title track—a ballad emphasizing his vocal range and emotional depth. The album included notable collaborations, such as "Bad Girl" featuring early appearances by BTS and GLAM, and "Heart Beat" with Song Hee-ran, showcasing experimental sounds while maintaining his signature sensitivity.[25][26] The release solidified his solo presence amid ongoing 8Eight commitments, with the title track climbing to high positions on music programs. Lee Hyun's first full-length studio album, The Healing Echo, arrived on January 3, 2012, compiling nine tracks that explored themes of love and introspection, including the lead single "Because It's You" and a duet "We Can't Love Each Other" with 8Eight bandmate Joohee. The album, his fourth major solo project overall, was praised for its cohesive emotional narrative and acoustic elements, debuting at number six on the Gaon Album Chart and receiving positive reviews for his healing vocal style.[27][28] Parallel to his solo pursuits, Lee Hyun co-formed the vocal duo Homme in 2010 with 2AM's Lee Chang-min, a project initiated by producer Bang Si-hyuk to showcase masculine R&B harmonies. Their debut digital single "Homme by 'Hitman' Bang," released on July 28, featured the upbeat track "I Was Able to Eat Well" with Lee Chae-young, which became a summer hit and led to their self-titled mini-album later that year. In 2012, Homme followed with their second album I Can Feel You on February 2, where the title track—a soulful ballad—topped charts and garnered awards, alongside popular cuts like "Still Love You," demonstrating the duo's chemistry in live performances.[29][30][31] Throughout 2009–2018, Lee Hyun actively promoted both solo and Homme projects through concerts, such as Homme's showcase tours and joint stage appearances, as well as variety show outings on programs like Yu Hee-yeol's Sketchbook, where he performed solo tracks and discussed his dual career. However, his schedule was interrupted by mandatory military enlistment on October 8, 2012, following the release of his pre-service single "Senseless Me" on October 5; he completed basic training and 21 months of active duty, discharging on July 7, 2014, which temporarily halted Homme releases but allowed for a stronger comeback with the duo upon return.[32][33][34]2019–present: Midnatt, reunions, and recent releases
In March 2021, Lee Hyun renewed his exclusive contract with Big Hit Entertainment (now Big Hit Music under HYBE), marking 14 years since his debut with the agency.[35] This renewal underscored the agency's commitment to supporting his vocal talents and future projects, as Lee Hyun expressed gratitude for their long-term partnership.[35] Earlier that year, in February 2020, he reunited with 8Eight members Baek Chan and Joo Hee for the digital single "Fool Again," their first new release in six years since the group's hiatus.[36] Produced by Bang Si-hyuk and Wonderkid, the ballad highlighted the trio's signature ethereal harmonies and served as a tribute to the 10th anniversary of their hit "Without a Heart," including a remixed version of the track.[36] In May 2023, Lee Hyun introduced his alter ego Midnatt with the digital single "Masquerade," an innovative project utilizing AI voice synthesis technology from HYBE subsidiary Supertone.[37] The track layered a synthesized female voice over his own to create a duet effect, allowing him to explore themes of masked emotions and hidden vulnerabilities in relationships.[38] Released simultaneously in six languages—Korean, English, Japanese, Spanish, Indonesian, and Portuguese—"Masquerade" aimed to transcend language barriers, reflecting Midnatt's conceptual focus on emotional duality and technological expression.[39] In November 2024, Lee Hyun debuted as a radio DJ on MBC FM4U's "Close Friend, Lee Hyun" (previously "My Friend"), airing Monday through Thursday from midnight to 2 a.m., where he shares K-pop stories and engages listeners with his warm, sincere style.[40] This marked his first official DJ role, featuring guests like BTS's j-hope on the premiere episode.[41] Building on this momentum, Lee Hyun released his third mini-album A(E)ND on September 16, 2025, capturing themes of love's beginnings and endings amid personal growth and maturity.[42] The album's introspective tracks, including the title song "Ijeumeseo Neol," blend ballad sensibilities with modern production, earning praise for evolving his earnest vocal style.[43] In October 2025, he contributed the OST remake "Geudaewa" (also known as "With You") for tvN's Accidental CEO 3, infusing the original piano-driven ballad with deeper emotional resonance through added strings and his signature timbre.[44] Looking ahead, Lee Hyun has expressed aspirations for a solo concert to showcase his expanding repertoire, emphasizing his desire to connect directly with fans through live performances.[42] He has also reflected on HYBE's transformation from a small label to a global powerhouse, crediting BTS's success for elevating K-pop's international stature and enabling opportunities like his AI-driven projects.Musical style and influences
Vocal technique and style
Lee Hyun is renowned for his wide vocal range, which enables him to deliver emotive high notes and seamless falsetto transitions particularly in ballads.[45][46] His falsetto, as demonstrated in covers like BTS's "Spring Day," adds a layer of ethereal quality to his performances.[47] His vocal technique emphasizes precise vibrato control, strong breath support, and dynamic emotional delivery, earning praise during his time with 8Eight and Homme. Critics have highlighted his spot-on techniques and vocal stability, which allow for consistent execution in both group harmonies and solo showcases.[45][48] Lee Hyun's style is characterized by a melancholic timbre that suits R&B and pop ballads, conveying deep emotional resonance through poignant phrasing. In his Midnatt project, he adapts this foundation with experimental AI elements, incorporating voice modulation for multilingual tracks and layered harmonies to expand accessibility.[49] Critically, his vocals have received accolades for stability in live settings, including commanding performances that fill stages with warm, solid tone and controlled dynamics. During his military service, his role in the musical The Promise showcased his singing prowess alongside fellow enlistees, further solidifying his reputation for reliable, emotive delivery under demanding conditions.[48][50]Influences and artistic evolution
Lee Hyun's musical style has been profoundly shaped by R&B traditions, with early-2000s influences such as Luther Vandross standing out for their emotive live vocals and tonal depth, which he has highlighted as pivotal to his development as a vocalist.[51] Throughout his career, Lee Hyun's artistry evolved from the harmonious vocal blends of his group eras in 8Eight and Homme—where he explored dynamic interplay with partners like 2AM's Lee Chang-min—to more introspective solo expressions that prioritize personal narrative and emotional subtlety. This progression culminated in his 2025 mini-album A(E)ND, a collection of six tracks delving into the dualities of love's origins and conclusions, reflecting a matured shift toward nuanced, reflective balladry after years of emotionally charged group harmonies.[9] In his Midnatt alias, debuted in 2023, Lee Hyun integrated AI technology from HYBE subsidiary Supertone to generate multilingual renditions of tracks like "Masquerade" in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, and Vietnamese, using his own voice data to craft varied intonations and even female vocals; this innovation deepened thematic explorations of identity by challenging linguistic and performative boundaries in K-pop.[52] Central to Lee Hyun's philosophy is a belief in the persistence of core human values amid transformation, particularly the evolving yet timeless essence of love, which he articulated in a 2025 interview as a desire for "certain values [to] endure," drawing parallels to universal constants like those in Interstellar.[51]Personal life
Family and privacy
Lee Hyun hails from Gwangju, South Korea, where he was born on November 8, 1983, but details about his parents and any siblings remain undisclosed to the public, underscoring his commitment to shielding his family from media attention.[53] His family is described in limited profiles as supportive yet intentionally low-profile, providing a stable foundation without seeking spotlight alongside his career.[8] As of 2025, Lee Hyun has not publicly confirmed any marriage or children, consistently prioritizing the privacy of his romantic life amid his long-standing entertainment career. In 2011, he addressed and denied rumors suggesting a marriage to fellow 8Eight member Joohee during a television appearance, emphasizing the platonic nature of their professional relationship.[54] This incident highlights his proactive stance against unsubstantiated personal speculations, helping maintain a scandal-free public image focused on his artistry. In recent interviews, Lee Hyun has revealed a shift toward a more relaxed lifestyle post his career peak, incorporating laid-back hobbies like watching science videos and animations while spending time at home to foster mental clarity. He has moved away from more active pursuits such as bowling and fishing, now emphasizing balanced workouts and personal reflection over intense physical activities.[51] This evolution aligns with his broader approach to privacy, where he selectively shares insights into non-professional aspects of life only when they intersect with his creative process, avoiding deeper disclosures about familial or intimate matters.[4]Military service
Lee Hyun enlisted in the South Korean military as an active-duty soldier on October 8, 2012, beginning his mandatory 21-month service after completing five weeks of basic training at the Nonsan Training Center.[55] This enlistment led to a temporary hiatus from his solo career and activities with the group 8Eight, as required by South Korean law for male citizens. During his service, Lee Hyun participated in cultural activities to support military morale, notably co-starring in the military musical The Promise in January 2013.[56] The production, co-presented by the Ministry of National Defense and the Korea Musical Theatre Company, depicted the bonds formed among seven soldiers during the Korean War and featured fellow performers including Super Junior's Leeteuk, Supernova's Yunhak, and actor Ji Hyun Woo.[57] The musical held performances at the National Theater of Korea, providing Lee Hyun an opportunity to continue his artistic contributions within the armed forces.[58] Lee Hyun was honorably discharged on July 7, 2014, marking the end of his service.[59] He immediately resumed his music career, reuniting with 2AM's Changmin for promotions as the duo Homme, with their agency Big Hit Entertainment confirming plans for a comeback following his return.[60]Discography
Studio albums
Lee Hyun's solo career includes one full-length studio album, marking a significant milestone in his discography amid a focus on emotional ballads and vocal-centric R&B. His debut studio album, The Healing Echo, was released on January 2, 2012, by Source Music and CJ E&M.[27] The album comprises 9 tracks, blending acoustic mixes and heartfelt ballads that emphasize healing and recovery themes, drawing from personal introspection to offer solace through his signature warm timbre.[61] Key highlights include the lead single "Because It's You" (너니까), a pop ballad produced by Hitman Bang that showcases Lee Hyun's emotive range, and re-recorded versions of earlier hits like "30 Minutes Ago" and "You Are the Best of My Life." The album debuted on the Gaon Album Chart, reflecting moderate commercial success for his first full-length solo effort following mini-albums and group activities. Its healing motifs resonated with listeners seeking comforting narratives, establishing Lee Hyun as a solo artist capable of intimate, therapeutic songwriting.[62]Extended plays
Lee Hyun's debut extended play, 30 Minutes Ago, was released on September 8, 2009, marking his first solo project outside of 8Eight. The title track, a duet with Lim Jeong-hee, centers on themes of regret and the desire to turn back time before a breakup, delivered through emotional balladry that highlighted his vocal prowess. Featuring five tracks including "The Day We Love Again" and "Since the Heart Doesn’t Know," the EP was produced by Bang Si-hyuk as the climax of his breakup trilogy, with innovative music video elements like reverse-action cinematography emphasizing the narrative of reversal. The title track achieved commercial success, peaking at number 8 on the Soompi Weekly K-Pop chart and entering the top 10, solidifying Lee Hyun's reputation in the ballad genre.[23][63] His second extended play, You Are the Best of My Life (also known as Naekkeo Jung-e Choego), arrived on February 15, 2011, after an 18-month hiatus, exploring romantic longing, heartbreak, and post-breakup agony across five tracks. The title track, a rock-infused ballad blending hip-hop elements, captures the irony of realizing a partner's irreplaceable value only after separation, while collaborations like "Heart Beat" (featuring Song Hee-ran) and "Bad Girl" (featuring GLAM and BTS) add experimental up-tempo variety to the otherwise emotive collection. Produced once again by Bang Si-hyuk, the EP showcases Lee Hyun's vocal sensitivity and versatility, with the title track earning a nomination for Best Vocal Performance - Solo at the 2011 Mnet Asian Music Awards.[25][64][65] Lee Hyun's third extended play, A(E)ND, was released on September 16, 2025, under BIGHIT MUSIC.[9] This six-track mini-album delves into themes of emotional closure, exploring the beginnings ("A") and endings ("END") of relationships with mature introspection shaped by life experiences like family and career shifts.[42] The title track "Let You Go" (이쯤에서 널) serves as a poignant highlight, blending nostalgic R&B with ballad elements to reflect on unkept promises and personal growth, while other notable songs like "Day & Dream" and "Gravity" (featuring Song Ha-young of fromis_9) add layers of duality and resonance.[43] The album's conceptual depth signals an artistic evolution toward vulnerability and closure, contrasting the restorative tone of his earlier work. These EPs laid the foundation for Lee Hyun's solo career, bridging his group activities toward fuller-length album explorations and recent returns.Singles
Lee Hyun's solo singles career began in 2009 with the release of his debut track, marking his transition from group activities to individual artistry. His singles often explore themes of love, regret, and introspection, evolving from heartfelt ballads to innovative experimental works incorporating technology. These releases have demonstrated his vocal prowess and adaptability, achieving notable success on South Korean music charts. Lee Hyun has released numerous digital singles and single albums throughout his career, including key tracks like "Curse" (2011), "The First" (2013), "Missing You" (2014), "Moon in the Ocean" (2021), and "Eve" (2022).[7] "30 Minutes Ago" (Korean: 30분 전), released on September 8, 2009, as a digital and physical mini-album, served as Lee Hyun's solo debut and featured a duet with Lim Jeong-hee. The R&B ballad, penned by Bang Si-hyuk, captured themes of fleeting romance and immediate heartbreak, resonating with listeners through its emotional depth. It peaked in the top 10 on weekly K-pop charts, marking his first major solo hit.[66] In 2011, Lee Hyun released "You Are the Best of My Life" (Korean: 내꺼 중에 최고), the title track from his second mini-album, which solidified his status as a ballad specialist. This uplifting R&B track, also composed by Bang Si-hyuk, celebrated enduring love and positivity, contrasting earlier melancholic tones. It achieved chart-topping success, reaching number one on major South Korean music platforms and earning widespread acclaim for its infectious energy. The single's performance helped establish Lee as a key vocalist in the industry.[4] Under his alter ego Midnatt, Lee Hyun ventured into experimental territory with "Masquerade," a digital single released on May 15, 2023, by Big Hit Music. This multilingual track (available in Korean, English, Japanese, Spanish, Mandarin, and Vietnamese) utilized AI voice synthesis to enhance pronunciation and global accessibility, blending city pop influences with themes of hidden identities and nocturnal escapism. Produced in collaboration with HYBE's AI team, it represented a shift toward innovative, technology-driven music without compromising his signature vocal style. While not a massive chart hitter, it garnered attention for its technical novelty and peaked within the top 100 on Melon charts.[49] In 2025, Lee Hyun contributed to the OST landscape with a remake of "Geudaewa" (With You), released on October 27 as part of the soundtrack for the tvN variety program Accidental Boss 3. This reimagined ballad, originally tied to themes of companionship, showcased his matured vocal timbre in a nostalgic context, bridging his early career roots with contemporary interpretations. As a recent release, it has begun charting on digital platforms, emphasizing emotional intimacy over commercial peaks.[44]| Single Title | Release Date | Key Themes | Chart Peak (Notable) | Label |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| "30 Minutes Ago" | September 8, 2009 | Fleeting romance, regret | Top 10 (Weekly K-pop Charts) | Big Hit Entertainment |
| "You Are the Best of My Life" | February 15, 2011 | Enduring love, positivity | #1 (Melon/Gaon Digital) | Big Hit Entertainment |
| "Masquerade" (as Midnatt) | May 15, 2023 | Hidden identities, escapism | Top 100 (Melon) | Big Hit Music |
| "Geudaewa" (OST Remake) | October 27, 2025 | Companionship, nostalgia | Emerging on digital charts | Big Hit Music |
Media appearances
Television and web shows
Lee Hyun has actively participated in South Korean television variety shows, leveraging his vocal expertise to engage audiences through performances and demonstrations. Early in his career, he appeared on SBS's Star King in 2011, where he showcased his singing abilities alongside fellow artists like Tim and Moon Hee-jun in a segment highlighting musical talents. His role involved live vocal performances that emphasized emotional depth and technical precision, contributing to the show's entertainment format of talent showcases. Throughout the 2010s, Lee Hyun made multiple guest appearances on KBS2's Immortal Songs: Singing the Legend, a program dedicated to reinterpreting legendary songs. Notable performances include a 2011 collaboration with 2AM's Changmin on "Lying on the Ocean," which highlighted his harmonious blending and ad-libbing skills in a competitive singing battle.[5] He also performed solo renditions, such as "A Shot of Soju" in 2018, where he demonstrated his ability to infuse traditional trot elements with contemporary R&B flair, often winning episodes through audience votes for his interpretive vocal control. These appearances solidified his reputation as a versatile entertainer capable of elevating classic tracks with personal artistry.[67] In more recent years, Lee Hyun transitioned into mentoring roles on web and television platforms. He served as a vocal coach on JTBC's survival audition show R U Next? in 2023, produced by HYBE Labels, guiding aspiring girl group members alongside coaches Park Gyu-ri of KARA, Jo Kwon of 2AM, Kim Jae-hwan, and Aiki.[68] In this capacity, he conducted mentor segments focused on vocal techniques, providing feedback on pitch accuracy, breath control, and stage presence during training rounds, helping contestants refine their performances for the show's competitive evaluations. His strict yet constructive approach was praised for fostering growth, tying into his broader career as a vocal educator in the K-pop industry.[69]Theater
Lee Hyun has ventured into musical theater, leveraging his vocal expertise in live stage productions during and after his military service. While serving in the South Korean military, Lee Hyun starred in the army-produced musical The Promise in early 2013. Co-presented by the Ministry of National Defense and the Korea Musical Theatre Association to mark the 60th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, the production depicted themes of camaraderie and sacrifice among soldiers during the conflict. It ran from January 9 to 20 at the Haeorum Theater in the National Theater of Korea, with Lee Hyun sharing the cast with Super Junior's Leeteuk, CSJH the Grace's Yunhak, actors Ji Hyun-woo and Kim Mu-yeol, and singer Jung Tae-woo.[70] Following his discharge in July 2014, Lee Hyun returned to theater in 2016 with the romantic comedy musical Romantic Muscle, performed alongside 2AM's Lee Chang-min under their duo Homme. In the show, which explored relationships in a fitness gym setting, Lee Hyun portrayed the lead role of Do Jae-ki. The production premiered on March 22 and continued through April 10 at Yes24 Stage 2 in Seoul.[71] In 2023, he took on the role of Kang Oh-hyuk, the supportive teacher figure, in the show musical adaptation of the popular KBS drama Dream High. This dance-heavy production, which revisited themes of pursuing dreams through music and performance, opened on May 13 at the BBCH Hall of Kwanglim Arts Center in Seoul and ran until July 23. The cast included fellow K-pop artists such as SE7EN, GOT7's Youngjae, and TVXQ's Changmin, blending high-energy choreography with nostalgic songs from the original series.Radio
In November 2024, Lee Hyun took on the role of main DJ for the MBC FM4U K-pop radio program Chinhan Chingu, I Hyunimnida (translated as "Close Friend, This is Lee Hyun"), which airs from midnight to 2 a.m. Monday through Thursday.[72] The show, revamped under his leadership, emphasizes engaging discussions on K-pop trends, listener interactions, and live performances, marking his first full-time radio hosting position after years in the music industry. His debut episode on November 25 featured BTS member J-Hope as a special guest, highlighting connections within Big Hit Music (now HYBE).[73] Lee Hyun's hosting style draws on his extensive experience as a vocalist and ballad specialist, incorporating segments where he provides vocal advice to emerging artists and conducts in-depth interviews that explore their creative processes.[74] Guests have included groups like PLAVE, CRAVITY, izna, BabyDONTCry, and BOYNEXTDOOR, often participating in quizzes, live challenges, and music recommendations that tie into contemporary K-pop dynamics.[75][76][77] This approach allows him to mentor younger idols while sharing insights from his career with 8Eight and solo projects.) Prior to this DJ role, Lee Hyun made guest appearances on various radio programs in the 2010s to promote his group's releases and solo work, contributing to music discussions and performances.[7] Throughout his tenure on Chinhan Chingu, he has occasionally referenced tracks from his 2025 mini-album A(E)ND during segments, blending personal promotions with the show's K-pop focus.[78]Awards and nominations
With 8Eight
{| class="wikitable" ! Year ! Award-giving body ! Category ! Nominated work ! Result| ! Ref. |
|---|
| 2009 |
| [[Mnet Asian Music Awards]] |
| Best Mixed Group |
| "Without a Heart" |
| {{Won}} |
| [79] |
| - |
| 2009 |
| [[Cyworld Digital Music Awards]] |
| Best 10 |
| "Without a Heart" |
| {{Won}} |
| - |
| 2010 |
| [[Mnet Asian Music Awards]] |
| Best Vocal Performance – Group |
| "Farewell is Coming" |
| {{Nom}} |
| [80] |
| } |
With Homme
{| class="wikitable" ! Year ! Award-giving body ! Category ! Nominated work ! Result| ! Ref. |
|---|
| 2010 |
| [[Melon Music Awards]] |
| Song of the Year |
| "I Was Able to Eat Well" |
| {{Nom}} |
| - |
| 2010 |
| [[Mnet Asian Music Awards]] |
| Best Collaboration |
| "I Was Able to Eat Well" |
| {{Nom}} |
| - |
| 2011 |
| [[Korea Music Copyright Association]] |
| Best Ballad Song |
| "I Was Able to Eat Well" |
| {{Won}} |
| } |
Solo
{| class="wikitable" ! Year ! Award-giving body ! Category ! Nominated work ! Result| ! Ref. |
|---|
| 2011 |
| [[Mnet Asian Music Awards]] |
| Best Vocal Performance – Solo |
| "You Are the Best of My Life" |
| {{Nom}} |
| [64] |
| } |