A bold and emotionally charged chapter in K-pop history began Friday as 1VERSE, a multinational boy band featuring two North Korean defectors, launched their debut EP, “The 1st Verse.” The five-member group—Hyuk, Seok, Aito, Nathan, and Kenny—brings together young men from North Korea, Japan, and the United States to form what they describe as a truly global act.

Performing their debut single “Shattered” during a livestreamed showcase at midnight, the group introduced themselves with a stylized, high-energy performance, complete with dramatic lighting and choreographed moves. The accompanying music video, set for release later the same day, offers a visual narrative layered with symbolism and raw emotion.

The track “Shattered” carries deep personal significance, particularly for Yu Hyuk, who fled North Korea as a child. Now 25 and living in South Korea since 2013, Hyuk recalls a harrowing past—beginning work at just nine years old, suffering from hunger, and enduring beatings for stealing food. “Survival was instinctive,” he shared. “I was starving. I had no choice.”

His journey to freedom was perilous, spanning multiple countries with the aid of a broker his mother—already in South Korea—had arranged. Despite the trauma, Hyuk reflects on the pain of leaving his homeland and loved ones. His grief deepened upon learning of his father’s death after his escape—a moment that inspired the emotions behind “Shattered.”

Fellow defector Kim Seok, also 25, discovered K-pop through smuggled videos while living in a border town near China. He escaped with his father and grandmother at age 20. For Seok, Psy’s global hit “Gangnam Style” was a gateway to the world beyond North Korea. His exposure to K-pop eventually turned into a dream he now lives.

Both Hyuk and Seok’s stories stand in stark contrast to the polished veneer often associated with K-pop idols. But their label, Singing Beetle, aims to redefine the genre’s narrative. Michelle Cho, the label’s CEO and producer, believes that 1VERSE brings something more real to the table. “People love stories of perseverance. K-pop needs authenticity, and this group embodies that.”

Despite their diverse roots, the members emphasize the unity they’ve found in music. Kenny, a Chinese American member, summed it up: “Isn’t it exciting? We’re a unique kind of global.”

Though the media spotlight has focused heavily on their pasts, the members of 1VERSE are clear—they want to be recognized for their artistry, not just their history. For Hyuk, the mission is simple: “I want to be someone who lifts others up and reminds them they’re not alone—even people like me are out here.”

With their powerful origin stories and musical talent, 1VERSE isn’t just another K-pop group—they’re a voice for resilience, unity, and hope in a divided world.