Shownu of Monsta X: muscular lead vocalist, main dancer and leader of the K-pop boy band who’s even stronger than he appears
- After working with K-pop diva Lee Hyori as a backup dancer, Shownu hit the big time after his success in reality show No.Mercy saw him join Monsta X
- Although known for his physicality, it is Shownu’s thoughtfulness and understated style that has won him fans’ affection
On or off the stage, K-pop star Shownu is a charismatic, fit performer who looks like he was born to be in front of an audience. But take a deeper look at the dancer-singer’s life and you’ll soon see his major strength is his compassion and leadership.
The member of boy band Monsta X may have big muscles, but he is even stronger than he appears. Here’s a look at Shownu’s journey so far.
His early life
Sohn Hyun-woo was born in Seoul’s Changdong neighbourhood in June 1992. Growing up as an only child, a young Shownu was inspired to pursue music after watching Rain, one of the first South Korean artists to gain international attention.
Following in his idol’s footsteps, Shownu auditioned for K-pop superlabel JYP Entertainment – which put out Rain’s debut album in 2002 – and trained alongside future K-pop stars Miss A and members of Got7.
