C POP Stars, Chinese Boy Group
Profile of WayV
Group Name: WayV (威神V)
Formation Date: January 17, 2019
Country of Origin: China
Genres: C-pop, K-pop, Mandopop, R&B, Hip-Hop
Labels: SM Entertainment (South Korea), Label V (China)
Associated Acts: NCT (Neo Culture Technology)
Members:
- Kun (Leader, Vocalist)
- Ten (Vocalist, Main Dancer)
- Winwin (Dancer, Vocalist)
- Lucas (Rapper, Dancer)
- Xiaojun (Vocalist)
- Hendery (Rapper, Vocalist)
- Yangyang (Rapper, Dancer)
Introduction
WayV (威神V) is a seven-member Chinese boy group formed by SM Entertainment, a South Korean entertainment powerhouse, under its China-focused sub-label, Label V. WayV is the fourth sub-unit of the NCT (Neo Culture Technology) project, an ambitious global music project that focuses on creating multiple subunits with members from different countries. WayV, however, is distinct in that it focuses solely on the Chinese market, performing primarily in Mandarin while blending Chinese and Korean pop styles, hip-hop, and R&B. The group has become a vital force in the Chinese pop scene while also building a global fanbase due to their association with the NCT project and their diverse, genre-spanning music.
Since their debut in 2019, WayV has been recognized for their powerful performances, impressive vocals, and striking visuals. The group has managed to bridge the gap between K-pop and C-pop, cementing their place in both the Chinese and international music markets.
Formation and NCT Connection
WayV is part of the larger NCT project initiated by SM Entertainment, a unique concept in the world of K-pop where various subunits operate independently across different regions. NCT debuted in 2016 with rotating units that focused on specific markets, including NCT 127 (Seoul-based), NCT Dream (teen-focused), and NCT U (a flexible unit). WayV became the fourth major subunit of NCT, but it specifically targeted the Chinese market, making it the first fully China-based unit in the NCT system.
WayV was officially introduced to the public on December 31, 2018, under Label V, a sub-label set up by SM Entertainment in China. This strategic move was aimed at entering the Chinese market more deeply with a dedicated Chinese group. Although WayV is part of the broader NCT ecosystem, their promotional activities are largely independent and focused on Mandarin-speaking markets.
Members of WayV
WayV’s members were handpicked from different cultural backgrounds, which adds to the group’s appeal and global reach. Each member brings something unique to the group in terms of talent and personality.
1. Kun (钱锟)
Kun, born on January 1, 1996, in Fujian, China, is the leader of WayV. He initially gained attention as a member of NCT U before joining WayV. Known for his calming presence and leadership qualities, Kun is also an accomplished vocalist and pianist. His warm, powerful voice often shines in WayV’s ballads and more melodic tracks.
2. Ten (Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul)
Born on February 27, 1996, in Bangkok, Thailand, Ten is one of the most versatile members of WayV. He initially debuted as a member of NCT U in 2016 and has since gained a reputation for his exceptional dance skills and stage presence. Ten is known for his artistic expression in dance, vocals, and visual artistry. Fluent in multiple languages, including Thai, Korean, English, and Mandarin, Ten is a truly international star.
3. Winwin (董思成)
Winwin was born on October 28, 1997, in Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China. Before debuting with WayV, Winwin had already debuted with NCT 127. Known for his elegance and grace in dance, Winwin plays a crucial role in WayV’s choreography-heavy performances. His reserved and introverted personality adds a subtle contrast to the group’s more extroverted members.
4. Lucas (黄旭熙)
Born on January 25, 1999, in Hong Kong, Lucas is known for his charismatic and outgoing personality. He has a strong stage presence, which comes from his background in modeling and his unique charm as a performer. Lucas made his initial debut as a member of NCT U and quickly gained popularity for his deep voice and rapping skills. In WayV, he plays the role of rapper and dancer, contributing to the group’s more hip-hop-influenced tracks.
5. Xiaojun (肖德俊)
Xiaojun, born on August 8, 1999, in Guangdong, China, is one of the main vocalists in WayV. His rich, soulful voice adds a distinct layer to the group’s harmonies. Xiaojun joined WayV as one of the newer recruits, but his strong vocal ability quickly made him stand out in their performances. He is known for his emotional singing and powerful high notes.
6. Hendery (黄冠亨)
Hendery was born on September 28, 1999, in Macau, China. He is a rapper and vocalist in WayV, known for his quirky and humorous personality. Hendery’s playful charm has made him a fan favorite. As one of the newer members of WayV, Hendery has shown tremendous growth as both a rapper and performer, adding his unique flavor to the group’s dynamic.
7. Yangyang (刘扬扬)
Born on October 10, 2000, in Taiwan, Yangyang is the youngest member of WayV. He is a rapper, dancer, and multilingual talent, fluent in English, Mandarin, and German due to his upbringing in Germany. His youthful energy and sharp rapping skills bring a fresh element to WayV’s music. Despite being the youngest, Yangyang has already proven himself to be a key player in the group’s success.
Debut and Early Success: The Vision
WayV officially debuted on January 17, 2019, with the release of their digital EP The Vision. The EP featured three songs, including their title track “Regular,” a Mandarin version of the hit single by NCT 127. The release of The Vision made a significant impact, and WayV quickly garnered attention not just in China but also internationally.
“Regular” showcased WayV’s slick, high-energy choreography, combining trap beats and hip-hop elements with sharp visual storytelling. Their performance immediately set them apart as a group with immense talent and potential, with critics praising their ability to bridge C-pop and K-pop sensibilities. The Vision peaked at number three on the Billboard World Albums Chart, signaling WayV’s global appeal.
First Full Album: Awaken the World
In June 2020, WayV released their first full-length studio album, Awaken the World, which included the lead single “Turn Back Time.” The album’s mix of high-energy dance tracks and emotional ballads demonstrated the group’s versatility and growing maturity as artists. “Turn Back Time” was a dynamic, futuristic track that blended EDM with hip-hop, accompanied by an impressive music video that highlighted the members’ performance skills and visual appeal.
Awaken the World was a commercial success, reaching the top of various music charts in China and placing high on international charts as well. The album also earned WayV several awards and nominations, further establishing their position as one of the top boy groups in Asia.
Discography Highlights
- Take Off (2019) – This EP, featuring the title track “Take Off,” marked WayV’s solidification as a major force in the C-pop world. With its high-energy beats and martial arts-inspired choreography, “Take Off” became one of their signature songs.
- Take Over the Moon (2019) – Another successful EP, featuring the track “Moonwalk.” This project explored more melodic and emotional themes while maintaining the group’s characteristic mix of genres. It showcased the group’s growing vocal and performance skills.
- Kick Back (2021) – This mini-album further pushed WayV’s boundary-pushing sound, featuring the title track “Kick Back,” a groovy, futuristic pop song that solidified their ability to tackle complex choreography and intricate musical arrangements.
Global Popularity and Fanbase
WayV’s strategic position within the NCT project has helped them attract a global fanbase. Their music resonates not only with C-pop fans but also with K-pop and international music audiences. WayV’s members are multilingual, and their ability to communicate with fans in various languages, including Mandarin, English, Korean, and Thai, has helped them cultivate a diverse, international fanbase.
Their fanbase, known as WayZenNi, is spread across the globe, supporting the group through social media and fan-driven initiatives. WayV is also highly active on platforms such as Weibo, Instagram, and YouTube, where they interact with fans, share behind-the-scenes content, and promote their music.
Influence and Future Prospects
WayV’s success represents a new era in Chinese pop music, where artists can achieve global recognition while maintaining a strong presence in their home market. By blending C-pop and K-pop styles, WayV has helped to globalize Mandarin-language music, making it more accessible to international audiences.
With their ability to constantly evolve and innovate, WayV is poised to continue their rise in both the Chinese and global music scenes. Their association with SM Entertainment and the NCT project gives them access to cutting-edge music production, choreography, and fashion, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the industry.
As WayV continues to release music, perform live, and engage with fans worldwide, they are likely to further cement their place as one of the most exciting and influential groups in modern pop music.