“Seeing that you all still love me means the world to me. I really want to continue my musical journey with all of you by my side.” – ILHOON
Words By Jeanne Lao
Since making his debut in March 2012, Jung Ilhoon has built a strong reputation for his sharp lyricism and signature melodic rap style. Known globally for creating the viral “Gwiyomi Player” early in his career, the multifaceted artist recently returned to the spotlight for an exclusive fan concert in Manila on July 18, 2026. Marking his first visit to the Philippines in nearly nine years, the event gave Ilhoon a chance to reconnect with long-time supporters and reflect on how much he has grown as both a musician and a person.
Following the show, HallyuLife had the privilege of sitting down with Ilhoon for a candid interview. He opened up about evolving beyond his youthful image, exploring visual arts, and managing the creative pressures of music production alongside his mental wellness, all while sharing his deep gratitude for his heartwarming reunion with Filipino fans.
When Ilhoon released his solo debut mini-album Big Wave in 2018, he was focused on crafting a specific image. Looking back today, his approach to making music has transformed into something far more organic.
“When I was younger, I was always trying to be cool and trying to be someone else,” he reflected with a smile. “Now, I just want to be myself.”
This emphasis on authenticity extends beyond his studio work and onto the stage. Performing solo carries its own unique pressure, but reconnecting with his fans in the Philippines reminded him why he loves live music. The Manila concert marked his return after roughly nine years, and the audience made sure it was an unforgettable night.
“I remember the surprise video message from the fans near the end of the show. I really did not expect it, and I was so touched,” he shared. “They even celebrated their own anniversary on my birthday. I also remember a fan who danced on stage and did an acrobatic. She is a pure artist! Leading a stage by myself as a solo artist can be really difficult, but when I have fans with that kind of humor and energy, I feel so relieved.”
Ilhoon is widely recognized for his versatility. Over the years, he has taken on roles as a rapper, songwriter, producer, and even an actor, making his debut as Kim Sung-min in the 2015 webtoon drama Webtoon Hero: Tundra Show. However, as his creative focus deepens, he has learned the importance of setting boundaries to safeguard his mental health.
When asked if he plans to return to acting anytime soon, Ilhoon offers a candid look into his current priorities.
“I stopped acting after Tundra Show, and for now, it feels like too much for me,” he admits. “I am doing so many things these days. I write songs as a producer, I perform as a solo artist, and I even draw. When I am ready, I can act again, because acting is really exciting when you are fully into it. But not right now. Maybe in the farther future, I can try something with a cool, different style.”
If he does eventually return to the screen, he has a soft spot for noir films, though he laughingly notes that he might end up back in comedic roles because comedy feels like a natural fit.
For now, managing his primary focus, which is music production, requires a careful personal balance. Creating music demands deep emotional investment, which can easily bleed into daily life.
“When I make music, I am very serious about it,” Ilhoon explains. “When I get too immersed, it starts affecting my daily life, making me overly sensitive. That is why there are moments when I need mental care. I get energy from being around people, but I also intentionally make time to be alone and reflect. Once I regain my mental balance, I find the energy to create again. It is a paradox, really. I lose my energy making music, but I also feel energized by making music.”
That same growth and self-acceptance can be seen in how he views his past viral moments. As the original creator of the famous Gwiyomi Player, Ilhoon unwittingly shaped a massive piece of global internet culture. While the viral trend brought smiles to millions, his feelings about it early on were quite different.
“When I was younger, I felt really shy about it,” he shares. “As I said, I always wanted to be a cool guy. I am actually a bit sentimental and chic by nature. Back then, even though fans liked it, I would not do it because I was shy. But now I understand that people find it cute. It can still feel a little awkward, but I do not feel shy anymore.”
“I actually enjoy it because the fans like it. If the fans like it, I could do it a hundred times!”
Looking to the future, Ilhoon is eager to stretch his artistic boundaries even further under Carpenters Art Republic. Rather than restricting himself to standard music releases, he is actively exploring ways to merge different creative mediums.
“There are so many directions to take,” Ilhoon says. “We have discussed working on film scores and similar projects. Rather than limiting myself to what music alone can express, I want to challenge myself across mediums that blend with music, whether that is video, writing, or visual arts. That is why I draw; I want to share my messages in diverse ways.”
Collaborations are also high on his list, particularly with international acts. When asked if there is a specific artist he hopes to work with, he doesn’t hesitate: “I really like 070 Shake. When she released her single, I was so inspired. I am looking for a new challenge, and taking on a project with her would be amazing.”
As our conversation came to a close, Ilhoon shared a warm message directly for the fans who have supported him throughout his decade-long journey, especially those who made his return to Manila so special.
“Hi guys, I’m Ilhoon. To my lovely fans, especially my fans in the Philippines, last night [on his concert] was truly fantastic. Thank you so much for coming to my show. It has been about nine years since I was last here, but seeing that you all still love me means the world to me. I really want to continue my musical journey with all of you by my side. I would love for you to join me on this path. Thank you always, and I wish you all the best. Stay healthy and stay wealthy! Mahal kita!“
