JUNGWON: 4TH GEN MAKNAE LEADER

Yang Jungwon (양정원) is the leader of the popular 4th gen group ENHYPEN. He has won the hearts of many from his time on I-LAND and still does even more so now. Jungwon is the second youngest of the group, however, Engenes and ENHYPEN themselves have adopted him as the maknae as he is so effortlessly adorable. Over the years he has shown just how caring he is not only to his members but to his fans, despite being known for not expressing his emotions often; though he is so young he is well respected by his members. From what we have seen of Jungwon, he always is positive about any situation and makes his fans feel heard and cared for. POP TOKKI is thrilled to celebrate this dear dimple-faced 4th Gen leader, Yang Jungwon, in all his glory.

I-LAND

Just a few months after announcing his #1 rank in global voting as a member of Enhypen at the age of just 16, he made his debut and was collectively chosen as the leader. Despite being so young, Jungwon had already shown how calm, cool, casual, and inclusive he is in all he does and for those around him. During his time on I-Land, his unique vocal and dancing skills made him a top contender in the competition. Jungwon had a steady race throughout I-LAND despite hitting a low point that almost ended in his elimination. However, his setbacks pushed him further and secured him the #1 spot. With each challenge he faces, Jungwon proves he is a hidden ace.

WHO IS YANG JUNGWON?

One of our favorite videos of him is where a filming crew follows Jungwon around to do everyday activities. We are greeted with a shy and polite version of Jungwon, one we hardly see as he does things alone. Not to say he isn’t always, it just allows for a different narrative; one without the comfort of his members. In this video, he states that he’s an introvert many times and the activities he does isn’t something he would normally do or agree to without context. It gives fans a refreshing yet comforting side to Jungwon we wish we could see more of. If there was anything we could take away from this video, it’s that he provides a gentle and warm ambiance.

As the video progresses we see Jungwon feeling a bit more comfortable, while being visibly and more vocally expressive. He expresses his true feelings about what he thinks and feels as an idol to his fans. This video provides a more serious and authentic version of who Jungwon is, though we can’t say for sure as he even states he doesn’t know who he is. However, we like to believe that what we see is authenticity, especially regarding his members and fans.

Just like the vlog above this one is similar however the previous one showcases a specific idol of the week. This vlog is part of ENHYPENs YouTube content known as “EN-loG”. In this video Jungwon spends his solo day camping, watching a movie, eating, and taking in the beautiful rainy vibes. We see Jungwon in a relaxing environment, although he seems a bit more natural than the last. Again like the last video, this vlog gives off a very calm and soothing aura, one that naturally exists whenever Jungwon is present. Jungwon is so effortlessly charming, and endearing and can’t help but have you smiling from ear to ear. Despite him being considered an adult already, we get to see the childish charm that he exhibits so casually.

DANCE

Jungwon’s dance style is so artless as if second as engenes have coined the term “JUNG-WORM”, expressing his dancing style. When he dances it’s as if he is almost under a spell, where his duality kicks in full effect. He hits every beat and note making it gratifying for the viewer. Not only his body movements but his facial expressions, and how he dispenses all these abilities while performing sets him apart. The video below gives a small glimpse of Jungwon’s style, leaving the viewer wanting more as if bewitched by him.

Alongside his fellow maknae, Jungwon and Niki performed a special dance that told a dark story. Though Niki is seen as prime dancer of Enhypen, Engenes collectively agree that Jungwon is high on the list as each dancer has their own style. While Niki’s dance style is more structured, Jungwon encompasses a loose style; both are talented complimenting each other nicely. As stated previously, the duality of Jungwon’s facial expressions and moves; this video is the perfect display of that statement. Looking back on the first time we watched this performance, impressed doesn’t even come close to our reaction as we were left astonished.

The choreography for “Bite Me” is so good that Jungwon encompassed the desired aura for this track perfectly on stage. The focused fan cam below is one of many that shows Jungwon’s captivating stage presence when performing. It was very hard to pick just one as he gives it 1000% in all performances. Those who have had the pleasure of seeing Enhypen live can attest to that last statement. Conveying compelling facial expressions and movements in “Bite Me”; Jungwon leaves a deep-rooted imprint; as a picturesque sight.

VOCALS

Jungwon has a unique vocal tone, bound to stand out regardless of the song. However, we chose 3 tracks that show a variation of tones in comparison to his vocals. “Upper Side Dreaming” is a hidden gem of ENHYPEN’s discography; in this performance video we see a combination of skills that Jungwon exudes; from his vocals, dance, and facial expressions. This track gives a good amount of vocal lines for Jungwon; allowing us to appreciate his unique and special tone. Apart from his skills as an idol, we also get to experience his overall charm as a person in this performance video making it all the more special.

“Criminal Love” became an immediate favorite among Engenes due to Jungwon’s solo sequence both in vocals and dance. This track came out of left field taking Engenes off guard and remains a favorite in favor of Jungwon. In particular what stands out most for Engenes happens at time stamp 2:57. As he sings he also shares a simple yet effective dance with member Heeseung. This sequence no doubt left both Jungwon and Heeseung stans in awe, and of course, always wanting more.

“Still Monster” had Engenes in a firm grip with its small teaser leading up to the new album. The 20-second released teaser of this track was Jungwon’s part, the small snippet was enough to dub this track a favorite among the rest. I guess that’s the Jungwon effect for you, who after this popular B-track was released engene’s could still not get over Jungwon’s vocals through the track; more specifically the 20-second teaser part that was released. There is something about his vocals on this specific track that riles up all the emotions, making it a favorite. We collectively agree that his part still holds a firm grip on us. His captivating part starts at time stamp 0:25 vocals in “Still Monster” are so captivating we hope to hear more of these deep vocals in future darker-tone tracks.

EXTRA

One of our favorite ‘EN-O’CLOCK’ videos of Jungwon is Ep. 58. In this episode we see a chaotic (in a good way) version of Jungwon as he enjoys his time with his members. In many ‘EN-O’CLOCK’ videos he seems to be having fun, but this time he had a burst of energy. As he is full of energy we couldn’t help but laugh and smile. Jungwon once again shows off his childlike charm and cuteness in this video making it an instantaneous favorite. Throughout the entire video, he provides endless smiles and giggles, to both us and his members.