Lee Seung Yoon: the singer-songwriter who transformed K-pop

Lee Seung Yoon is a name that strongly resonates within the Korean music scene. After rising to public recognition by winning the acclaimed audition program Sing Again in 2021, the artist embarked on a unique artistic journey, breaking away from the clichés of mainstream K-pop. His latest album, Yeok Seong, is a monumental work consisting of 15 tracks that weave together powerful sounds, profound lyrics, and an uncompromising sonic vision.

In an exclusive interview, he shared with us his musical journey, the creative process behind Yeok Seong, and the meaning this album holds for him.

Can you introduce yourself to our readers and share a bit about your musical journey so far?

Hello, I am Lee Seung Yoon, a singer-songwriter who creates the music I want to make, primarily based on band sounds. For about ten years, I pursued music through club performances and busking. Just when I thought it might be time to give up, I had the chance to appear on a TV show, which extended my life in music. After that, I faced the decision of living as either a singer or a singer-songwriter and ultimately released my first full-length album. Fortunately, many people welcomed my music, and now, after releasing my second album in 2023 and my third full-length album this year, I am still living as a singer-songwriter.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music, and how has that inspiration evolved over time?

At first, it was simply because I loved music. I enjoyed the emotional state I could only reach when listening to music. I think of music as a creation of a few minutes of time and space that doesn’t physically exist in the world. Over time, I’ve come to deeply enjoy the act of filling that time and space with emotions and feelings, making them real.

Your new album features 15 tracks with a massive band sound. What was the creative process behind crafting this album?

This album began from a place of powerlessness and walls I couldn’t seem to overcome, despite living diligently. I wanted to break through that powerlessness with music and confront those walls head-on. The theme of the album is inspired by the Korean term YEOK SEONG HYUK MYUNG, which conveys ideas of overthrow and transformation. YEOK SEONG also holds a dual meaning of unconditionally supporting someone, regardless of right or wrong. I wanted to express the emotional line of “togetherness.” Ultimately, the album is about standing up as “noise” before the loud voices of the world and, just this once, overtaking the main melody. Musically, I aimed to realize the hazy dream of creating all the music I’ve always longed for. The sound layers are dense, with many instruments stacked to convey the feeling that noise and melody are on the same level.

How would you describe your unique musical color, and how is it reflected in this album?

I would call it “multicolored.” I enjoy all kinds of colors, and I love mixing them together. This album feels like a vivid, multicolored painting.

Were there any particular challenges or memorable moments during the production of this album?

Recording strings in Prague was a particularly memorable experience. I thought it might be my only chance to try such a thing, so I went for it. I truly felt the meaning of “communicating through music without language.” Watching people immerse themselves in the music and pour their hearts into it, even without knowing the lyrics, was an invaluable experience. As for challenges, finalizing the sound was the most difficult. With so many layers and sources, it took until just before the album release to create a harmonious final mix.

What message or emotions do you hope listeners take away from this album?

For those moments when life makes you feel like “Am I just noise?,” a pawn on a chessboard, or powerless before the grand schemes of existence—I hope this album gives you a little rebellious courage. I also hope listeners can let loose and explore their most vulnerable feelings through the music, even if only for a while.

How do you stay inspired and continue to grow as a musician in such a competitive industry?

I recognize the competition and the industry, but I focus solely on music. While I release albums within this competitive and industrial framework, I believe the essence remains “music, music, music.” Instead of aiming for the top of the competition or industry, I try to expand the horizons of where my music can take me. To stay inspired, I accept that music is simply music and continue to ask myself, “What meaning does my music hold?”

What are your hopes for the future of your career, and can you give us a glimpse of what fans can expect next?

My journey up to this third album has been an all-out sprint in my life as a musician. I feel satisfied with how this album turned out and can finally say I’ve achieved a dream. As for specific plans, I don’t have any yet, but I do hope to perform in new places someday.

Is there anything you want people to pay attention to in this album?

Music, music, music.

Please explain what this new album YEOK SEONG means to singer-songwriter Lee Seung Yoon.

After completing this album, I felt as though I was born to create it. This album holds the essence of my life’s meaning.