K-Pop Rookies 1VERSE Reflect on Whirlwind First Year, Upcoming World Tour

The group discusses their rapid rise, creative process, and the impact of connecting with fans during their Shattered World Tour.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:03am

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K-pop rookie group 1VERSE is preparing for the European leg of their Shattered World Tour after completing the North American concerts. The members - Hyuk, Seok, Nathan, Kenny, and Aito - reflect on their whirlwind first year since debuting just nine months ago, discussing the tour, their songwriting process, and the profound impact of connecting with their passionate fanbase, known as 5tars. Despite the fast pace and challenges, the group remains focused on expressing themselves authentically through their music.

Why it matters

1VERSE's rapid rise and global tour within their first year of debut is an impressive feat, showcasing the group's talent and the growing international appeal of K-pop. Their diverse backgrounds and openness about mental health struggles also make them relatable artists who are inspiring their fans.

The details

The members of 1VERSE - Hyuk, Seok, Nathan, Kenny, and Aito - are preparing for the European leg of their Shattered World Tour after completing the North American concerts. They recently participated in a songwriting camp in Los Angeles, collaborating with talented producers and songwriters. The group is surprised by how quickly time has passed since their debut, realizing it's been nine months already. 1VERSE has a global fanbase, with large followings in the US, Europe, and Latin America, leading to sold-out shows even in smaller cities. The members are grateful for the opportunity to tour and connect with their '5tars' fans, which reminds them of their purpose as artists. However, some, like Kenny, have been openly struggling with mental health challenges like imposter syndrome and perfectionism, which they are working to overcome with support from their company and each other.

  • In August, Kenny (23) and Nathan (25) first spoke about their debut.
  • In the fall of last year, Hyuk went on hiatus due to undisclosed personal and health reasons.
  • 1VERSE performed at the sold-out K-Playfest in Orange County, California in August.
  • 1VERSE is currently on their Shattered World Tour, with the European leg starting soon.
  • 1VERSE will be celebrating their one-year anniversary this year.

The players

1VERSE

A K-pop rookie group consisting of members Hyuk, Seok, Nathan, Kenny, and Aito. The group debuted just nine months ago and is preparing for the European leg of their Shattered World Tour.

Michelle Cho

The CEO of Singing Beetle, the company that manages 1VERSE. Cho has been heavily involved in the group's creative process and supports their mental health.

Kenny

A 23-year-old member of 1VERSE who has been openly struggling with mental health challenges like imposter syndrome and perfectionism.

Nathan

A 25-year-old Asian American member of 1VERSE who is from Bentonville, Arkansas, the birthplace of Walmart.

Aito

The 20-year-old Japanese member of 1VERSE who is the group's main dancer and has become more involved in the creative process.

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What they’re saying

“I am very proud and happy that we're able to tour within nine months of our debut. I am really pursuing this as a career. I have really debuted as an artist.”

— Seok

“This is my second time coming to the US. The first time I came, I could only talk to my fans, but this time around, I actually performed on stage. That made me feel like I am an artist.”

— Aito

“There's going to be a lot of starstruck moments because all these artists and producers that we're working with are people that made music that we used to listen to.”

— Nathan

“This time around, I realized I'm a lot weaker than I thought because I can be happy at the moment, but I'm hiding a lot of it. I'm so grateful that this time during the tour, people all try to cheer me up. Mentally, I'm not really strong at the moment, but I put up a front. But I'm grateful to people who pull me out of it and tell me to be present. Don't be so hard on yourself.”

— Kenny

“That really gave me a different perspective, not just inspiring others, but that what we do can literally save someone. I don't care if we become super big or whatnot: if we can impact one person, that's enough for me. My new goal is to maintain that image.”

— Nathan

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

1VERSE's rapid rise and global tour within their first year of debut showcases the group's talent and the growing international appeal of K-pop. Their diverse backgrounds and openness about mental health struggles make them relatable artists who are inspiring their passionate fanbase, known as 5tars. The group remains focused on authentically expressing themselves through their music, even as they navigate the challenges of sudden success.