After nearly a decade in the K-pop spotlight, NCT’s Doyoung is ready to fly higher than ever. With the release of his second solo album Soar, the 29-year-old singer is peeling back the layers of his artistry to show fans who he truly is — not just as an idol, but as a fully realized artist with his own voice, message, and creative soul.
Best known as a member of SM Entertainment’s powerhouse group NCT — and its sub-units NCT 127 and DoJaeJung — Doyoung has already left a strong mark on the K-pop world. But Soar feels like something different. It’s more personal, more mature, and more reflective than his first solo effort Youth, released just last year. If Youth captured the raw emotions of early adulthood, Soar represents growth, confidence, and purpose.
“Compared to Youth, which resonated with many through its honest portrayal of youth and emotions, Soar comes from a more mature place,” Doyoung told The Hollywood Reporter in a recent interview. “I wanted to present a deeper and more evolved side of my music. That’s why the idea of ‘soaring’ became the theme — chasing dreams and flying higher with belief.”
A Song That Found Him
At the heart of Soar is its lead single, “Memory” — a cinematic pop-rock anthem that showcases Doyoung’s wide vocal range and emotional depth. But the process of choosing this song wasn’t just about finding a catchy hook or a high note to hit. It was a moment of fate.
While on tour with NCT 127 in Los Angeles earlier this year, Doyoung listened to a 30-second demo of “Memory” in his hotel room one morning — and something clicked.
“That first 30 seconds… it was destiny,” he recalled. “As soon as I heard the chorus, I knew — and my team knew — this was the one. I remember feeling this rush to get the verse written and show everyone. That moment is one of the most powerful memories I have from making this album.”
The emotional connection to “Memory” stayed with him. A few weeks later, he returned to the same hotel in L.A. during SMTown Live — but this time, he had the finished song in hand. It felt full circle. From that brief demo to a complete, soaring anthem, it reflected his journey as both an artist and a person.
Finding Freedom in Solo Work — and in His Group
While Soar is a statement of independence, Doyoung doesn’t see himself as completely separate from his group identity. In fact, his bond with his NCT members remains one of his biggest sources of strength — especially during stressful or tiring moments.
“Doing all this solo work is a big responsibility,” he admitted. “When I work in a group, we share the burden. But alone, the pressure can be overwhelming. Still, the time I spend with my NCT members is how I recharge. They’re not just coworkers — they’re true friends who understand me better than anyone.”
Even as he grows as a soloist, Doyoung never loses sight of what brought him here — a brotherhood built over years of music, practice, travel, and shared dreams.
“When we’re together — waiting for schedules, practicing, joking — it doesn’t feel like work. It’s healing. That’s what gives me the energy to keep going.”
Soar’s Message: Courage and Connection
For Doyoung, Soar isn’t just a collection of songs — it’s a message. Through his music, he hopes to inspire courage and self-belief in others. That inspiration flows from his own journey — from a rookie idol navigating the fast-paced world of K-pop to a confident soloist unafraid to speak his truth.
“Sonically, I want this album to reflect my identity as an artist,” he explained. “I want people to remember these songs as me. And message-wise, I want to encourage people who might be scared to dream big. I want to help them believe they can achieve something amazing.”
His goal is simple but powerful: to use music not only as self-expression but as a tool for connection and empowerment.
A Decade in, and Still Growing
Having debuted in 2015 as part of SM Entertainment’s SM Rookies program, Doyoung has spent nearly ten years on the global stage — and he’s learned a lot along the way. One of the biggest lessons? Letting go of perfectionism.
“When I first debuted, I felt like I had to be perfect all the time,” he said. “But after 10 years, I’ve started to see pressure differently. I still feel it, but I’ve learned that it doesn’t have to control me. There’s strength in doing your best, not in being flawless.”
He now views challenges as part of the artistic process — not obstacles, but opportunities for growth.
Looking Ahead: Touring and L.A. Love
Fans across Asia and around the world will soon get a chance to experience Soar live, with Doyoung hitting the road for a solo tour. And, yes — he’s headed back to Los Angeles this summer for KCON with NCT 127, one of his favorite destinations.
“L.A. always feels special,” he shared. “The city, the fans — it just brings a great energy. Every time we go, we get excited. Even just being there lifts our spirits while preparing for performances.”
As for what fans can expect? While he’s keeping surprises close to the chest, one thing is clear: Doyoung’s heart is in every note, and he’s eager to share this new chapter with the people who’ve supported him all along.
“Whether it’s a solo concert or a group stage, it only matters if the fans are there,” he said. “They make it meaningful.”
The Real Doyoung
With so much time in the public eye, Doyoung is well aware that people may form their own impressions of him. But at this stage in his life and career, he’s not chasing a specific image — he just wants to be known sincerely.
“Even people close to me don’t always fully understand me,” he reflected. “That’s normal. I just hope people don’t think I’m acting or being fake. I want them to know I’m real. I’m Doyoung — just myself.”
As he spreads his wings with Soar, one thing is certain: Doyoung’s journey is far from over. With heartfelt music, a grounded perspective, and a deep love for his fans and fellow members, he’s flying higher — and more freely — than ever.