Chungha, On Courage

From pursuing a career as a solo artiste to marrying unconventional elements in her song and dance, this lion-hearted singer is bent on constantly pushing through K-pop boundaries

- Chelsea Tang

In her homey apartment where she stays alone with two puppies, K-pop visionary Chungha has been singing her lungs out, over and over. The songs From Now On and Love U, pop tunes from Blooming Blue, a 2018 EP released during her earlier days as a solo artiste ring through the house, as she practices from the living room to the bathroom, and back. With a name and mien instantly recognisable, and a track record of anthemic tunes to back her stellar rep, millions of eyes and ears around the globe have been charmed by her silvery voice and magnetic dance moves — but Chungha remains skittish for this one upcoming gig.

“For the first time in my life, I sang a song for my friend at her wedding, and I was so nervous,” she laughs. “Even though I practiced many times for it… I’m not sure if my neighbours heard me singing. I might have to apologise to those living above and below my apartment.”

No one would’ve guessed that there would’ve been such a side to Chungha when it comes to performing — not when she seems so perfectly made for the stage. When dancing, the 25-year-old is a sight to behold, moving fluidly, yet also seemingly in flashes. Her smooth voice is powerful, her body is nimble, while her gaze is intense; she is the very incarnation of song and dance. To be able to captivate and command such unwavering attention — for the world to stop and stare — this is the kind of charm that requires guts and talent, and such is a gift special to Chungha.