VIDEO K-pop couple HyunA, DAWN reveal music, relationship

K-pop diva HyunA and her boyfriend DAWN, whose former stage name was E'DAWN, pose for photos during the joint showcase on Tuesday in Hannam-dong, Seoul. Yonhap

By Dong Sun-hwa

Video by Han Su-jin

K-pop couple HyunA and DAWN are conspicuous in many ways.

The pair went public with their relationship in 2018 and left their former agency Cube Entertainment together. Then, the two joined the music label P NATION, established by “Gangnam Style” artist PSY. They even released individual albums on the same day ― Tuesday ― and held a joint showcase.

“Many people asked me whether I would form a duo with DAWN, but, honestly, we are not compatible in terms of music styles,” HyunA said during the showcase in Hannam-dong, Seoul. “We are fond of different genres. But I still respect him and know he has much to learn from.”

DAWN agreed, saying: “I would say it is more challenging than incompatible.”

The decision on the “simultaneous comeback” was made after a meeting with PSY, according to the couple.

“We were discussing who should release the album first, but both of us didn't want a delay,” HyunA said. “So we talked about what we could do and came up with such a decision. I think this could create a synergy effect for me and DAWN."

HyunA has come back with “Flower Shower.” Yonhap

She added: “We had some clashes while gearing up. I wanted to film my music video and book the practice rooms first. This was the same for DAWN. He seemed to consider me as a real rival.”

DAWN said returning together with HyunA eased some burdens.

“This is the first time for me to go solo, so I was worried if I could do well,” he said. “But after knowing HyunA was going together with me, I felt I could lean on her.”

This time, HyunA has come back with the “tri-color” number “Flower Shower,” which boasts three charms ― it is sexy, lovely and energetic. It is a combination of the future sound and moombahton. The lyrics liken a life to a flower.

“I feel that flower looks much like me,” HyunA said. “A flower is colorful but will wither away one day. It requires attention and affection, but not to an excessive extent.”

DAWN has returned with “Money.” Yonhap

For DAWN, the singer-songwriter opens up his thoughts on the value of cash through his first single “MONEY.”

For instance, the track includes lyrics that read: “If I cannot buy happiness with money, how can I buy it. Please don't give me an obvious answer. Money, I hate you. You are definitely dirty but still shining.”

DAWN approaches listeners with his plain voice but contrastingly tight rap. He contributed to the song-making and the lyrics.

During Tuesday's event, the two also spoke about their relationship. They stirred debate among followers when they disclosed their romantic tie, despite Cube's previous denial.

“It was demanding for us to choose to be outspoken (about our relationship,)” HyunA said. “But we were afraid of lying and concealing.”

DAWN said: “I thought more people would get hurt if we lied. I want to apologize to those who were hurt by me. I take responsibility for my choice and will strive to display it on stage.”