Isaac Hong is one of K-pop’s many talented individuals who shouldn’t go under your radar. A singer-songwriter under ARCHIVE ACHIM, Isaac Hong debuted in May of 2014 and has released countless OSTs such as “Be With You” and “Kiss Me Kiss Me” alongside his wonderful albums such as Stay and Everland. One could easily say after seeing Isaac’s accolades he is a leading force in the development of K-pop’s musical diversity.
As of late, Isaac’s work for Queen of Tears only further skyrocketed his fame and his performances on international stages like KCON LA continue to put his name on the map. While many fans may be hyper-focused on numerous boy groups and girl groups, many established artists like Isaac progress and evolve alongside the K-pop scene in various ways – and comparatively more freely than artists micro-managed by their agencies. With a successful year worth reflecting over, Isaac Hong got together with ZAPZEE to discuss all of his achievements, highlight his newer projects and shared more insight about his artistic style.
Check out Isaac’s exclusive video greeting, photos and learn more about his artistry and musical taste in our exciting interview below!
Q1. Tell us about your popular single “I Love You” after the album Everland. You also found success with your last single album release “Because There Is Love” too. Can you describe the conceptually charming vibes of your music as a whole? Do you plan to maintain this mellow and soft style or looking for a change with new songs with a different style?
ISAAC HONG: The single “I Love You” was released as part of the audition program called Sing Again Season 3, in which I participated in (that ended this January). My most recent song is called “Because There Is Love,” which was released this February. I may not be as famous as other K-pop stars, but there are more things fans can learn about my music by listening to these songs and through this interview. I tend to enjoy writing mellow songs more. Hopefully, there will be more music with different vibes in the future.
Q2. Tell us about your performance for Beautiful Mint Life – how was it on stage? What did you enjoy sharing most with your fans?
ISAAC HONG: Beautiful Mint Life 2024 Festival was one of the best memories I had. The show was literally on my birthday. It was a very humbling and thankful experience.
Q3. Do you prefer to sing in English more than Korean? How do you feel about the ability to play with words or express yourself in each language? Is there a preference for one language when composing lyrics?
ISAAC HONG: It’s different in every situation. My first goal as a musician was to live and be acknowledged in the Korean music industry. I really didn’t think about writing English lyrics unless I felt like it. It’s only been a recent interest for me to deliberately write in English.
Q4. You worked on Queen of Tears for the ‘Fallin’ OST – how was that? Did you expect the drama to blow up in popularity? Any stories from your experience such as meeting the actors?
ISAAC HONG: Usually, when there is an offer to sing for a drama, I get to study who the actors are, who the writer is, and all the other aspects surrounding the work. This time, I somewhat expected that the drama would attract a certain amount of attention because of how great the entire production was. I was just honored to be a small part of it. Honestly, I didn’t expect the drama to become this popular. As a person who just sang one song, it’s a thankful situation. I actually met Kim Soo Hyun backstage. We were surprised to find out we are the same age.
Q5. What was your favorite OST to sing or work on thus far?
ISAAC HONG: Of course, My favorite is Queen of Tears.
Q6. You studied music at Berklee in America. Is there anything you learned there that you would never forget and would like to share with people interested in making music?
ISAAC HONG: Berklee College of Music is very culturally diverse in terms of music and art. It is a place to learn more than just music; it gives you the chance to learn about the roots and respect for different cultures.
Q7. What has been a major highlight for you this year?
ISAAC HONG: I guess winning the audition program Sing Again Season 3. Hopefully, there will be more highlights, but this was definitely a turning point in my life.
Q8. You had a successful performance at KCON! Congratulations. What were you most excited about? What did you prepare for the KCON stage?
ISAAC HONG: Honestly, it is hard to know what to expect before you actually stand there. I was just excited that I had the chance to sing in LA, a place I never expected to perform in my life. I wanted to prepare something more upbeat and grand, but the recent songs that I had been singing were mellow ballads, so I thought, “This is who I am,” and settled on singing those songs.
Q9. What does KCON mean to you? How do you think KCON promotes K-pop and more? What do you enjoy most about this major event?
ISAAC HONG: I realized how important KCON can be for Korean musicians to grow as better artists. Because the market is so small in Korea, many artists like me have a hard time figuring out how to live instead of being more creative and expressive. The high cost of living and the fast pace of life in Korea can stifle artistry. If KCON can embrace more diversity and become a gateway for talented Korean musicians to be introduced around the world, I think there is hope for Korean music culture to become more appealing to a broader audience.
Q10. Do you enjoy watching other artists perform during KCON? Who do you look forward to seeing on stage this year?
ISAAC HONG: I enjoyed watching everyone’s performances. I don’t often have the chance to see K-pop idols and artists perform, so it was very refreshing.
Isaac Hong shared so many interesting experiences with us while reflecting on his impactful year. Before departing, Isaac wanted to reach out to new and old fans alike by sharing a final message for our readers at ZAPZEE!
ISAAC HONG: Thank you for your support! I hope to continue sharing my music with you and look forward to bringing you new experiences and sounds in the future.
After the cheerful and sincere interview, Isaac Hong seemed pleased to reminisce over his time spent traveling in LA for KCON, meeting new fans on his many stages, and experiencing more recognition after his contribution to Queen of Tears overall success. With his amazing vocals and ability to create heartfelt lyrics that can bring peace to listeners everywhere, adding Isaac’s tracks to your playlist is a no-brainer by now.
Did you become a fan of Isaac Hong and enjoy our interview? Everything seems to be only looking up for Isaac from here! Don’t forget to follow Isaac on social media to learn more about his musical journey and also check out ZAPZEE’s Instagram and Twitter for more exclusive K-pop Interviews.
amazing voice, great singer!