WONHO’s New EP ‘CORE’ Is More Than Just His Abs — It’s His Music

(Exclusive Photo for Forbes) WONHO’s CORE

Highline Entertainment

Global K-pop star WONHO is showing another side to his musicality with his latest comeback, CORE. The new EP contains seven tracks filled with explosive dance-pop hits that will get the body and mind moving.

No, the album isn’t about his abs. Though the very fit 33-year-old artist isn’t shy to show them.

Best known for his angelic voice that plays on R&B and pop, WONHO seems to be testing out something new, bordering on dance, EDM, club, house, mellow pop, and hyper-pop. His last EP, SYNDROME, was centered on sweet harmonies and declaration of love – and the fun boyband pop song, “Better Than Me.” CORE brings to life another side of the often-sexy performer, who is often praised for his strong dance moves, powerful vocals, and striking visuals. It’s the side of him that he wants fans to embrace, as the main concepts consist of RAW, SHELL, and CRACK. It also feels like he is embracing the sexy persona that he – and the fans – know he exudes.

According to the press release, CORE “looks beyond outward strength to explore the emotions that have quietly shaped him beneath the surface” and “follows an emotional journey from hidden wounds and self-protection to vulnerability and self-acceptance.”

The lead track, “Don’t Wake Me Up,” is an explosive dance-pop anthem that is perfect for the club. The pounding bass, sharp synths, and intense beats are what make the song an earworm. In between the shouts of “Don’t Wake Me Up,” WONHO’s voice echoes through as if he’s trying to reveal his truth – and that truth is sexy. As the focus track, “Don’t Wake Me Up” captures the “desire to escape reality by surrendering to an irresistible fantasy.”

In the accompanying music video, the people are oppressed by the government and restricted in what they can say, what they can do, and how they want to be. At first, WONHO is restrained, but as emotions run high and everyone begins to rise up, it becomes an intense, dramatic performance of setting himself free.

The album contains both English and Korean songs, as he appeals to both his global audiences and his WENEEs – the name for his fandom – back in his home country of Korea. Across the seven tracks, WONHO contributed to the lyrics, composition, production, and arrangement throughout the album. All the songs have some sort of high-energy beat to them, even when it is a ballad.

The opening track, “Answer,” is upbeat and groovy, capturing the uncertainty of a complicated relationship. WONHO just wants to know their ‘answer.’ “Can’t Get Enough” is one of his upbeat romantic tracks, and drum beats keep it in the dance pop genre. The song explores “lingering desire that only grows stronger after love has ended.” It is the most WONHO-style (WENEE will understand what this means) on the album, highlighting his soothing voice, which feels almost like a romantic movie.

“Summer Blue” is a mellow dance track that “reflects on the warmth and bittersweet nostalgia of unforgettable memories. Like “Can’t Get Enough,” “Summer Blue” keeps the tempo up with its drum rhythm phasing, especially during its soothing dance break. “Down,” which he first unveiled during his last tour, brings the energy back up with its house-blended techno production. Again, this would be perfect for the dance club. The atmospheric pop song, “Test Drive,” is another sweet love song about meeting for the first time – “like a test drive.” It’s so youthful and nostalgic.

He concludes his EP with an R&B pop ballad, “Promises” (featuring Brother Su), another love song about keeping promises of love and support. Brother Su’s sweet vocals align well with WONHO.

If you’re wondering why the name sounds familiar, Brother Su is best known as an R&B singer-songwriter, but also as a composer, producer, and lyricist for some of the biggest names in South Korea – BTS (“I NEED U,” “Whalien 52,” “Outro: House of Cards,” “Butterfly”), MONSTA X (“Beautiful Liar,” “Oi,” “Love”), BLACKPINK (“As If It’s Your Last”), and more.

WONHO’s CORE blends different dance genres to help listeners feel connected, want to dance, and feel free. The “CORE” is the inside of a person’s soul – and what better way to reach it than through his music.

WONHO’s CORE is available on all streaming platforms. Physical copies are available at select retailers.