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How a North Korean defector became a K-pop idol

Yu Hyuk is in 1VERSE, the first K-pop boy band with North Korean members.

Twenty-four-year-old Yu Hyuk is a North Korean defector who is about to make his debut as an idol in 1VERSE, the first K-pop band to include North Korean members.

Before defecting to South Korea at the age of 13, Hyuk was so poor that he had to beg on the streets to survive. He initially had a hard time adjusting to the new environment but eventually found solace in music and song-writing.

Can music bridge the divide between North and South Korea for defectors like Yu Hyuk? He shares his journey into the competitive K-pop industry. And Yuna Ku, our reporter in Seoul, explains the challenges defectors face in their new country.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Kevyah Cardoso and Maria Clara Montoya
Editor: Emily Horler

Available now

12 minutes

Last on

Thu 26 Sep 2024 02:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Wed 25 Sep 2024 17:50GMT
  • Thu 26 Sep 2024 02:50GMT

Podcast