KCrush Interview with Hwina

Editor : Evgeniya Hong

Rising K-pop newcomer Hwina is captivating listeners with her poetic lyricism and emotional depth. After debuting with hits like “Like a Tree”, she quickly became a name to watch, not only for her delicate yet expressive vocals but also for her lyrical storytelling. Her works such as “Noise Canceling” and the recent “A Secret Tale About Us” explore themes of identity, emotional healing, and quiet strength. In 2025, she gained national attention when she was selected as one of the final 10 artists for the MUSE ON 2025 program, beating out over 400 other applicants in the highly competitive selection process, solidifying her place among Korea’s new generation of singer-songwriters. We sat down with Hwina to talk about her journey, inspirations, and what lies ahead.

Who is Hwina and what is the story behind your name and artistry?

Hi KCrush readers! I’m Hwina, a singer-songwriter who creates music across pop, R&B, and synth-pop. My name represents my desire to shine through my music and connect with people on a deeper level.

Your debut mini album, “Like a Tree”, gained traction upon release. What emotions or stories were you hoping to express through the title and release in general?

My debut EP captures the emotions I experienced while growing up, especially those that shaped who I am. Since it was my first time opening up to listeners, I wanted to be completely honest. “Like a Tree”is about standing tall, growing stronger, and becoming someone who can offer comfort and strength to others. It reflects my positive mindset and my ongoing journey of personal growth.

Looking back, was there a defining moment when you knew you wanted to pursue music professionally?

I’ve always loved singing, but there was a moment in middle school that made everything clear. A friend who had made things difficult for me once said, “If you become a singer, I’ll ruin you.” Oddly enough, that pushed me even harder. I wanted to prove that I could succeed not just as a singer, but as a kind and strong person.

In “Noise Canceling”, you wrote about escaping from the noise of the world. What “noise” have you personally had to cancel out to find your own voice?

The noise I had to cancel was mostly my own anxious thoughts, like “Am I doing okay?” They shook me a lot. On top of that, there were outside expectations and comparisons. If I let those take over, I’d lose my true voice. So I learned to let go of the noise and focus on the stories I really want to tell. That’s how I found my own voice.

What’s one fact about you that fans have no idea about?

I really love soft and cozy things like blankets and plush toys. They calm me down and make me feel better. I always keep a blanket with me at home.

Your recently released the “A Secret Tale About Us” single has got many fans talking. What was the inspiration behind this piece?

It’s based on a real experience. When I was young, a boy and I watched a romance movie together, and we promised that even years later, we’d watch it again. I didn’t necessarily miss him, but that pure and innocent moment inspired the song.

Which artists, regardless of genre, inspire your sound and lyricism?

I’ve always looked up to IU. Watching her, I thought, “I want to be that kind of artist.” I want to be versatile, with a broad musical range and a lot of charm.

You were selected as one of the final 10 artists for the MUSE ON 2025 program, chosen from over 400 applicants. What did that moment mean to you as a rising artist?

It felt like recognition for all the work I’ve done so far. I’m really grateful, and I see it as a new opportunity to connect with more people through my music. It was a real turning point for me.

Fans are also excited about potential collaborations with new artists. Are there any Korean or international artists you’d love to work with in the future?

I’d love to collaborate with Lee Chan-hyuk from AKMU. I enjoy trying different genres, and working with him would be such a wonderful musical adventure. I’m also open to all kinds of creative ideas, even fashion collaborations.

We heard you’ll be releasing a new album soon through MUSE ON 2025. Could you tell us about the upcoming album?

The EP, coming out in October, is centered on synth-pop. It follows a journey from the bright, sunny moments of youth, to facing unavoidable realities, and finally to exploring the deepest parts of yourself. 

If you had to write a letter to your future self, five years from now, what is the one thing you would want to say or ask?

I’d tell myself, “Keep sharing love with the people around you.” No matter how far you’ve come, never forget the importance of staying genuine and close to the people who support you.

With the increasing wins and recognitions, what should fans be looking forward to in the near future? Any upcoming projects?

To stay true to that promise, I’ll keep making honest music. In September, I’ll be releasing a pre-release single, followed by my new EP in October. With these releases, I look forward to meeting fans more often and getting closer through concerts, live performances, and broadcast appearances.

What would you like to say to your fans who are always rooting for you?

It might seem like I’m walking this path alone, but I’ve really been walking it with all of you. I hope we can continue sharing our hearts through music for a long time. I’ll repay you with good songs, and with my new EP coming out this year, I’m excited to meet you more often through concerts and on various shows. Let’s stay together for many years to come! ♥THANK YOU! LOVE YOU ALL!♥︎

—-Karen Mwenda

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