Lee Junyong – member of nine-member LUK Factory boy group NOIR – has unveiled his first digital single “Run” on November 8th at 12 p.m. KST.
It is a song that conveys the desire to escape a frustrating reality and a determination to run toward the future without stopping. The track’s fast-paced rhythm collides with dreamy electronic instruments, creating a refreshing soundscape, while Junyong’s sincere emotions shine through with his clean and powerful vocals.
“Run” was written, composed, and arranged by fellow NOIR member Yoo Hoyeon (under his producing pseudonym BigsharKK) with producers Cielo and ON (Choi Seon, best known as a participant on Mnet survival shows “I-LAND” and “Produce 101 Season 2”) also working on the track.
All three artists are part of production team Cielogroove which also includes songwriter Moode (who has not only produced songs for MIRAE, AleXa, and Sura, and is also the vocalist of R&B duo Meldawn), former We In The Zone member Jooan, and musician OldTable.
Hoyeon has previously showcased his musical affinity by writing and composing the intro song off the group’s fourth mini-album Up The Sky in 2020 and dropping a remix of Aespa’s “Next Level” on his personal music channel earlier this year.
As one of NOIR’s main vocalists, Junyong appeared as a contestant on MBC survival show “Extreme Debut: Wild Idol” alongside many former and current idols and trainees. He was unfortunately eliminated in the third episode. A former member of idol group INX before debuting with NOIR in 2018, Junyong is also the older brother of another talented idol, N.CUS member Seungyong.
The release of “Run” comes just a few days prior to Junyong’s enlistment, which he announced on November 5th KST in a handwritten letter.
Hello, I’m NOIR’s Junyong ㅎㅎ
NOIR’s Junyong
You were surprised to see a letter suddenly, right?
Over the past 3 years, we made a lot of memories and we were so happy! If there’s something that’s a bit disappointing, it’s sad that we can’t perform in front of you.ㅠㅠ
I will be healthy and safely finish it well.
I’ll come back as Junyong who has grown up a little more. Lumi [short for “Lumiere,” NOIR’s fandom name] always be careful not to catch a cold, eat well, and stay healthy! Thank you for giving me so many memories.ㅠㅠ I’ll be back! I love you.
Following in the footsteps of NOIR leader Seunghoon who released his first solo single “Don’t Touch Me” in conjunction with his enlistment last year, Junyong similarly departs on a high note (quite literally with that voice!) by gifting fans with his own solo release and a subsequent video.
In the video released on NOIR’s official YouTube channel, Junyong can be seen singing his heart out in the studio, overseen by Hoyeon who actually did in in fact lead the recording process of “Run.” The video’s closing scene shows Hoyeon marvelling at Junyong’s performance before the pair come together for a touching hug, showcasing their close brotherly bond and genuine respect for each other as artists.
Junyong is scheduled to enlist on November 8th KST and after finishing his basic military training, he is expected to serve as an active-duty soldier. We wish him all the best as he completes his service!
“Run” is available now on all music streaming sites. Check out the special video below!
Let us know your thoughts by tweeting to us @whatthekpop1 or leaving us a comment on Facebook and Instagram!
Justin is a K-pop fan from Australia who is passionate about shining a light on underrated and lesser known groups and artists. A lover of all types of music, devoted television drama and soap opera fan, and part-time video game nerd.
MEDIA: LUK Factory