Wonwoo
The introspective lyricist and deep-voiced anchor of Seventeen's hip-hop unit, shaping the group's identity with thoughtful, self-produced verses.
Born 1996 (age 30)·South Korean rapper and singer·Birthday: July 17·Millennials
Biography
Wonwoo emerged not as K-pop's typical extroverted performer, but as its thoughtful observer. As a member of the powerhouse group Seventeen, he carved a unique space as the quiet intellectual in the hip-hop unit. His journey began through an unconventional route—he was scouted not for singing or dancing, but for his appearance in a online photo. Once inside Pledis Entertainment, he dedicated himself to the craft of rap, developing a distinctive low-toned delivery that provided a grounded contrast to the group's vibrant energy. He is known for his involvement in writing and composing, often contributing lyrics that reflect his bookish and reflective personality. Wonwoo's presence proves that in a world of high-octane performance, there is profound power in quiet intensity and carefully chosen words.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Wonwoo was born in 1996, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Wonwoo Was Born
The biggest hits of 1996
#1 Movie
Independence Day
Best Picture
The English Patient
#1 TV Show
ER
Wonwoo's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1996Born
Dolly the sheep cloned
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $99,700Min wage: $4.75/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Macarena" — Los del RioBest Picture: The English Patient
2001Started school
September 11 attacks transform the world
Gas: $1.46/galHome: $126,400Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Hanging by a Moment" — LifehouseBest Picture: A Beautiful Mind
2009Became a teenager
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2012Could drive
Curiosity rover lands on Mars; Sandy Hook shooting
Gas: $3.64/galHome: $143,200Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Somebody That I Used to Know" — GotyeBest Picture: Argo
2014Could vote
Russia annexes Crimea; Ebola outbreak in West Africa
Gas: $3.37/galHome: $160,700Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Happy" — Pharrell WilliamsBest Picture: Birdman
2017Turned 21
#MeToo movement; solar eclipse crosses the US
Gas: $2.42/galHome: $195,000Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Donald Trump"Shape of You" — Ed SheeranBest Picture: The Shape of Water
2026Turned 30
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- A core member and rapper of Seventeen, one of South Korea's best-selling music artists.
- A key contributor to the writing and composition of songs for Seventeen's hip-hop unit and full group albums.
- Part of the subunit JxW (with member Jeonghan), releasing the single 'Bittersweet' in 2021.
- Performed as part of Seventeen's historic headlining set at Lollapalooza in 2022.
Did You Know?
He is known as an avid reader and often recommends books to fans.
His pre-deback training was notably short compared to other members, at roughly two years.
He is ambidextrous, though he primarily writes with his left hand.
He originally wanted to be a video game developer before becoming a trainee.
“I want to be a person who can comfort others through my words and music.”
