WOODZ’s K-rock hit “Drowning” sent him on a packed US tour

In January 2024, South Korean singer WOODZ, born Cho Seung-youn, took a break from music to enlist in South Korea’s mandatory military service. While he was away, his song “Drowning,” a crashing rock opus about a lethal heartbreak originally released in 2023, would not only go viral but unexpectedly climb the ranks of the country’s biggest streaming platform, Melon. Eventually, it would break the record for the longest-running Top 10 song in the streamer’s history, spending over 70 weeks on the charts.

For an industry pro who’s been through it all — he’s formerly a member of the groups UNIQ and X1 (a band created from Produce X 101, a reality competition show) — he’s never experienced anything quite like having a song randomly catapulted to international success. “While serving in the military, I received so much love not only from my fans, but also from people who were discovering me for the first time,” he tells The FADER over email. “Because I was in the military, I rarely had the chance to experience that support firsthand. Now, I can meet everyone in person and truly feel their love, which makes me incredibly happy and grateful.”

Today, the hype for the alt-rock ballad still goes strong. After being discharged in July 2025, WOODZ quickly got to work on his debut full-length album, Archive. 1. He hasn't rested since; he’s been embarking on a nonstop international tour across Asia, Europe, and Australia, and most recently, wrapped up the North American leg of his performances. At a recent show in Atlanta, the crowd belted every word of “Drowning” without skipping a beat, transcending the evident language barrier.

Ahead, we talked to WOODZ about the most memorable shows he’s played, the songs in his current music rotation, and more. See some exclusive photos of the K-pop singer on tour, too, below.

The FADER: Introduce yourself to the FADER audience. Where did you grow up and what was it like?

WOODZ: Hello, I’m WOODZ, a singer from South Korea. I grew up in Korea, but when I was young, I moved to Brazil to pursue football. Even while I was there, though, I couldn’t shake the dream of becoming a singer. Eventually, I decided to follow that dream, came back to Korea, went through the trainee process, and made my debut [in UNIQ].

How do you feel embarking on a global tour, especially coming out of the military? How has it been transitioning from service to seeing your solo career explode?

During my service, I kept thinking about how much I wanted to meet everyone who supported me and thank them in person. I’m so glad I have the opportunity to do that this year. I’m learning so much through this journey, and I feel like I’m taking away a lot that will help me with whatever comes next.

What cities are you most excited to visit and why?

One thing I remember from my last U.S. tour is that every city has its own unique charm. This time, I’ll be visiting places I’ve never been before, so I’m excited for all of them. Also, I really enjoyed Chipotle when I was in the U.S. last year to work on music, so I’m really looking forward to having that again.

Did you partake in any special rituals to prepare for your tour?

I wouldn’t say I have any special routines. I’ve just been working out consistently to stay healthy, and since there’s a big time difference between Korea and the places I’m touring, I’ve also been making sure I get enough sleep.

Any memorable moments from the tour so far?

The one that stands out the most happened recently in Paris. I wasn’t feeling well that day, and honestly wasn’t sure I’d be able to perform. But before the show, I had a chance to meet fans at a pre-show event, and they gave me such a boost [of energy]. Somehow, once the concert started, my voice came back. It honestly felt unreal.

What’s your favorite song to play live right now and why?

That would be “Bloodline.” I’ve always loved the moment the first song starts, but in the past, the opening song often came with a lot of pressure and nerves. “Bloodline,” which I currently open the show with, really helps me settle in, focus, and fully immerse myself in the performance. I believe the audience also feels the same energy, which is why it’s my favorite track to perform on stage.

Describe the best show you’ve played this year so far.

I’d have to say my first solo concert [in Incheon]. I’ve performed on a lot of stages and in big venues before, but seeing so many people come out for a solo concert under my own name made it an incredibly meaningful experience.

What is the inspiration behind your tour ‘fits?

I’ve been listening to a lot of classic rock bands and I naturally find myself drawing inspiration from their iconic looks. I wanted to incorporate elements of rock-band-inspired styling and mix them with a more laid-back streetwear and urban-casual aesthetic. I played around with pieces like leather, denim, knitwear, vintage-inspired details and accessories to bring in that signature rock sensibility, while mixing different silhouettes and styles to make it feel more personal.

What’s something that’s always on your rider?

Water, a humidifier, and mouthwash.

Name the last three songs you played/streamed.

“I Was Wrong” - Haylie Davis
“Flex It” - MPH, y3kfae
“dollaz n dollaz” - jigitz, Lay Bankz

Best and worst advice you’ve received? Why?

After “Drowning” became such a big hit, I had the opportunity to meet the legendary Korean vocalist Lee Seung-chul. While we were talking about music, he gave me a piece of advice that really stayed with me. He told me to work toward putting on concerts so that even someone seeing me for the very first time would feel like every song was a hit. That really resonated with me and gave me a new goal to chase.

As for the worst advice... honestly, I can’t think of any.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.