WOODZ Becomes the Icon of Chart Resurgence

📔ABOUT woodz

WOODZ, originally known as Cho Seung-youn, debuted in 2014 as a member of UNIQ-a joint boy group formed by China’s Yuehua Entertainment and Korea’s YG Entertainment. However, due to deteriorating diplomatic relations between Korea and China, YG withdrew from the partnership, leaving WOODZ to continue under Yuehua. His early career faced another setback in 2016 when China’s Hallyu ban halted his activities in Korea, marking an abrupt pause to his initial journey.

Determined to pursue music, he appeared on Show Me the Money 5 to showcase his rap skills and later joined the Mnet survival show Produce X 101, though he didn’t gain significant attention at the time. In 2018, he rebranded himself as WOODZ and began his solo career. His 2020 EP EQUAL featured the title track “Love Me Harder,” and although he also released “Drowning,” the song initially went unnoticed. Eventually, he enlisted for military service.

Everything changed when WOODZ performed “Drowning” on KBS’s Immortal Songs during a special broadcast for Armed Forces Day. His flawless high notes and striking appearance-even with a military buzz cut-left a lasting impression. Despite being inactive due to his service, the performance sparked a viral resurgence of “Drowning,” propelling it into the top ranks of K-pop charts-a rare feat for a song revived by a military stage.

WOODZ was discharged in July 2025 and resumed his career with renewed momentum. On September 25, he released “I’ll Never Love Again,” further expanding his emotional reach in K-pop. Fans are captivated by his elegant visuals, expressive stage presence, and unwavering vocal strength. His heartfelt delivery resonates deeply, making his music not just personal but universally relatable. The next chapter of his artistic journey is one to watch.