The band Hwanho is showcasing a strong presence once again with the release of their new song 'Action' in spring 2025.
Hwanho recently shared honest stories through a written interview with OSEN. This interview provides a glimpse into the new song's production background, the musical attempts of the members, their individual philosophies, and discussions about the new member joining the band, Kim Rida (guitar), Yoo Hwan-joo (vocals), Sugakim (BASS), and Lee Gang-san (drums).
Especially, like the title 'Action,' the energy and directness of this new song breathe life beyond simple sounds, vividly capturing the band's identity and direction for the future. Hwanho has added 'movement' to their music through this song, and they are hinting at active engagements, including the preparation of a full-length album and performances. I am looking forward even more to their journey of completing the puzzle of 'coolness' right at this moment.
- The following is the complete interview with the band Hwanho.
#. What is the reason for naming the new song 'Action'? Please introduce the song along with the main message conveyed in the title.
Kim Rida: The song's rhythm overall emphasizes the second beat rather than the first, reminding me of a scene in a movie set where the director shouts 'Action!' while clapping the slate. From there, create the scene that unfolds while listening to this music :)
#. What was the inspiration or motivation behind creating the new song 'Action'? Is there anything specific you kept in mind during the composing and lyric writing process?
Kim Rida: A few years ago, when we participated in a festival, I saw an audience member yawning. We were playing rock music, and seeing that scene was quite shocking. I thought about creating amazing music that would make the audience not want to miss a moment, and that's what led to this creation.
#. Compared to existing Hwanho music, in what ways do you think 'Action' shows the greatest change or development?
Yoo Hwan-joo: I believe this song can showcase a fresh sound of the band that we haven't presented before, along with the emergence of a new vocalist.
#. While working on the song, were there any musical attempts or implementations by the members that aligned with the title 'Action'?
Sugakim: I think we tried our best to maintain a traditional feel and achieve a real live sense. Essentially, we wanted to capture the true essence of 'Action.' We also tried our best to retain the live feel in the mix.
Kim Rida: I think we made a joyful effort to showcase authentic hard rock guitar sounds and the flavor of guitar solos. I attempted a solo reminiscent of a wild horse, like Angus Young from AC/DC.
Yoo Hwan-joo: I paid more attention to vocal tone research to present a slightly lighter and more refined vocal. While the overall sound leans toward traditional rock, I wanted the vocal sound to feel a little special, which made this song a meaningful challenge.
Lee Gang-san: I wanted to express the energy and straightforwardness of the title 'Action' through the drum performance. I focused on creating a play that supports and elevates the strong energy of the guitar riffs and solos without getting overshadowed by them. Each beat feels like a moment of action, striving for a solid rhythm that is impactful yet not excessive. For me, it was not simply about keeping time, but about creating the 'movement' of this music.
#. What are some notable parts of the new song 'Action'?
Yoo Hwan-joo: It's the first attempt at a dual vocal song, so I think you’ll find it interesting to pay attention to the sound dynamics that emerge from that! It’s going to be enjoyable music.
Sugakim: Our Rida's first vocal debut! To elaborate, in the pre-chorus section, we recorded the BASS as a powerful step, and I hope you'll jump around during that part.
Kim Rida: Among the lyrics, the line 'So we have brought the ticket, adult exemption' resonates with me the most. 'Adult exemption,' isn't it quite a cool ticket?
Lee Gang-san: Personally, I hope you pay special attention to Rida's guitar solo scene in the music video. True to the title 'Action,' the performance in that scene creates tension and energy, feeling like riding on a sharp sword. It’s a moment where reality and exaggeration touch precariously. I believe it's a visually striking moment where the unique sound of hard rock with intense guitar shines, adding extra enjoyment.
#. If there are any memorable episodes from the process of releasing the new song 'Action', please share them.
Kim Rida: This was the first time I progressed from the verse to the chorus with my own voice in Hwanho; in fact, I have never done vocal recording before. Thanks to the members’ hard work in providing feedback and support, I was really pleased with the outcome, but since I had never learned vocals, I ended up hoarse and exhausted. It was truly the hardest day.
Yoo Hwan-joo: When Rida first brought this song, the melody was already complete. After listening to it, I thought, 'Can I handle this well?' But after hearing the demo sung by Rida, I realized it was well done. I suggested, 'How about you sing it?' and that’s how a new atmosphere with two vocalists came to exist.
#. We have been handling many performances recently. What are your activity plans following the release of the new song 'Action'?
Sugakim: We plan to keep moving forward without stopping. We are preparing for a full-length album while actively showing new songs and continuous performances.
Kim Rida: Since 2025, with drummer Lee Gang-san officially joining as a member, how do you feel the band has gained additional vitality? Do you feel that Hwanho's music has acquired any new colors or changes?
Kim Rida: Our band has always pursued coolness, and it feels like the puzzle of that coolness has finally come together. We have a gemstone-like friend who contributes significantly both visually and musically, and I'm very happy these days.
Sugakim: The drums add weight to the overall sound, and especially when changes occur in the rhythm section, the band may differ even while trying to perform the same music. Our San is quickly blending into Hwanho, showcasing excellent performances and good outcomes in the performance aspects as well. He shares many ideas for the visual aspects, such as member outfits and visual art, so I think we can showcase tremendous synergy moving forward.
Yoo Hwan-joo: With the addition of a really cool member, the expectation for Hwanho’s visual development has also grown significantly. While music is important, I thought that adding more visual coolness could create a better synergy. I am grateful that a friend who loves Hwanho's music has joined.
#. Recently announced joining Ruby Records; I'm curious about your thoughts and aspirations.
Lee Gang-san: I'm excited and thankful for the opportunity to work with a label for the first time. Through this process, I want to create music on a broader scale and in more depth. Since the opportunity to share our music with more people has arisen, I will do my best to get closer to our fans sincerely.
Kim Rida: Even if we consistently release songs and participate in competitions, it has always felt like we were stagnant rather than moving to the next step. With good representatives and staff, I finally feel like we can move on to the next stage.
Yoo Hwan-joo: Meeting a team we can collaborate with and finding people who can support us, isn’t that a blessing? I intend to live more beautifully through this precious connection.
Sugakim: Throughout our journey as a band, I've always felt a sense of regret and a desire to show better versions of ourselves. I look forward to filling in those gaps and growing together with Ruby Records.
#. What do each of you think is the biggest appeal of the band Hwanho?
Yoo Hwan-joo: Energetic music, a free and energetic group. That's the charm Hwanho brings.
Kim Rida: I believe the biggest appeal is that we are not confined to any genre and do various types of music.
Sugakim: I think we shine the brightest and look the coolest and sexiest while performing, without losing our original intention and giving our all.
Lee Gang-san: Each member has a distinct personality, and I believe those personalities create harmony instead of conflict when combined. There are moments on stage where each person’s color intertwines naturally to create a single flow. In those moments, I feel, 'Ah, I’m really doing a band.'
#. In the future, what goal or dream do you want to achieve as Hwanho?
Lee Gang-san: I want Hwanho to become a band that doesn't just remain as a 'cool band' but evokes moments in people’s memories. I believe music is not just sound; it’s about recording and sharing emotions, maybe even something beyond that. So, I want to create music with the members that is more refined and deeper. I hope our music doesn't crumble over time and is remembered for a long time, providing comfort to some and becoming a turning point in life for others. I believe that's one of the paths Hwanho can take, and I want to do my part well within that. Most importantly, I want to make music healthily and for a long time with my brothers!
Sugakim: I hope that our Hwanho continues for a long time without any member changes, injuries, or major incidents. I have seen many musicians who hit a wall in reality and had to lay down their instruments and return to their livelihoods. There were also many who quit for various reasons. Those people must have pursued music with big dreams, just like us. I want to fulfill everyone's share while continuing music for a long time and meeting the expectations of our fans. Also, maintaining our identity while reaching more audiences is a significant goal and dream for us. Of course, a big stage... Coachella is a dream, but I believe the immediate dream is to continue for a long time!
#. Lastly, please share your thoughts on the release of the new song 'Action' and your determination for the future activities of the band Hwanho.
Kim Rida: I am excited about creating another wonderful piece and revealing it to our listeners as soon as possible. There’s still a lot of music we want to share with you. Thank you for always listening!
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