DREAMCATCHER’S HANDONG: The Wuhan Princess
Handong in Dreamcatcher: Biography, Achievements, and More
Within the constellation of stars that constitute the Korean pop industry, Handong of Dreamcatcher shines brightly, her journey from Wuhan, China, to becoming a vital member of one of South Korea's most unique K-Pop girl groups serves as a testament to her talent and determination. As a sub-vocalist whose voice has enchanted the InSomnia fanbase worldwide, Handong's biography not only highlights the cultural bridges she's built but also underlines the versatility and dedication required to make it in the competitive realm of K-pop. Her participation in shows like "Idol Producer" and "Youth With You 2" in her home country further showcases the diverse skill set she brings to Dreamcatcher, blending Mandarin Chinese proficiency with her singing and dancing capabilities.
Handong's personal and professional life, tracing her early days in Wuhan, her rigorous training at Sejong University, to her pivotal role in Dreamcatcher. It explores significant moments such as her participation in Dreamcatcher's "Nightmare" series, her solo debut with "First Light of Dawn," and her aspirations in acting, reflecting her admiration for Taeyeon and works like "Les Misérables." Furthermore, insights into her personality, revealed through her ISFP Myers-Briggs type, and her fluency in Korean and Mandarin offer a closer look at the person behind the performances. From discussing her achievements with Dreamcatcher to outlining her solo ventures and future aspirations, the article provides a comprehensive look at Handong's burgeoning career, illustrating why she remains an influential figure both in South Korea and internationally.
Stage Name: HANDONG (한동)
Birth Name: Han Dong (韓東)
English Name: Della Han
Birthday: March 26, 1996
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Chinese Zodiac Sign: Rat
Height: 165 cm (5’5”)
Weight: 46 kg (101 lbs)
Blood Type: A
MBTI Type: ISFP
Nightmare: Scopophobia
Nationality: Chinese
Weibo: 韩东_捕梦网
Instagram: @0.0_handong
Agency:
Dreamcatcher Company (Korea)
Show City Times (China)
Early Life and Background
Handong was born on March 26, 1996, in Wuhan, China. Her early exposure to the arts was significant, marked by her participation in a high school production of "Les Miserables." This experience not only honed her skills in opera and acting but also ignited her passion for the performing arts. Her talent and dedication were evident early on, leading her university professor to recommend her for an audition with Happy Face Entertainment in South Korea. She successfully passed this audition by performing Taeyeon's song "If," showcasing her vocal prowess and stage presence.
Education and Early Interests
After completing high school, Handong moved to South Korea in 2015 to pursue further education and training in the arts. She enrolled at Sejeong University, where she continued to develop her skills in music and acting. This period was crucial for her growth as an artist, preparing her for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in her career.
Path to Stardom
Initial Auditions
Handong's path to stardom began with a pivotal audition where she performed Taeyeon's "If," which led to her signing with HappyFace Entertainment in mid-2016. Her professor's encouragement to audition in Korea was instrumental in this decision, highlighting her potential in the performing arts.
Joining Dreamcatcher
Handong was officially revealed as the sixth member of Dreamcatcher on December 1, 2016 . Her debut with the group came shortly after, on January 13, 2017, with their first single album "Nightmare". This marked a significant milestone in her career, establishing her as a key figure in the K-Pop industry.
Major Career Milestones
Handong's debut as the sixth member of Dreamcatcher was officially announced on December 1, 2016, and she made her first appearance with the group on January 13, 2017, with the release of their single album "Nightmare". This marked a significant beginning in her career, setting the stage for her contributions to the K-Pop industry.
In 2020, Handong's involvement in the Chinese reality show "Youth With You 2 (Idol Producer)" highlighted her versatility and international appeal. Although she was eliminated in episode 16, ranking 56th, this participation underscored her dedication and exposure to a broader audience.
Handong's solo career took a significant leap forward with the announcement of her solo debut in China. On October 20, 2020, she released her Chinese digital single "First Light of Dawn," marking her entry into the solo music scene and expanding her artistic repertoire. This milestone not only showcased her vocal abilities but also her capability to lead a solo career alongside her group activities.
Notable Achievements
Music Releases and Performances
Handong's solo music career has been marked by several notable releases. She made her solo debut with the Chinese digital single "First Light of Dawn" on October 20, 2020. Following this, she continued to showcase her vocal versatility with singles like "Winter" in 2022 and "That Day" later the same year. Her ability to cover a wide range of music was further demonstrated through collaborations and covers, including "Remember Me" with JiU in 2018 and a solo cover of Taeyeon's "11:11" projected for release in 2024.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout her career, Handong has received various accolades that highlight her contributions to the music industry. Her early recognition came from her participation in the survival reality show MIXNINE, although she was eliminated during the audition phase. Despite this setback, her dedication and talent led to significant achievements, including her participation in Dreamcatcher's first full-length Korean album, "Dystopia: The Tree Of Language," although her schedule in "Youth With You 2" prevented her from joining the promotions.
Personal Life
Handong's personal life reflects her diverse interests and close relationships within the entertainment industry. She has a deep appreciation for sweets, often enjoying cookies, egg tarts, and Oreo chocolate smoothies. Despite her love for chocolate, it amusingly triggers sneezes whenever she indulges. Handong also frequently enjoys jokbal (pig trotters), showcasing her varied taste in foods, though she steers clear of raw dishes.
Hobbies and Interests
Handong's hobbies extend beyond culinary delights. She is an avid YouTube watcher and finds pleasure in collecting body scents from Body Shop, which speaks to her love for personal care and fragrances. Additionally, Handong has expressed a desire to film a fried chicken commercial, highlighting her interest in combining her career with her personal likes.
Friendships and Relationships
In terms of relationships, Handong is known for her close friendship with Elkie from CLC, with fans affectionately calling them HanKie. She also maintains friendships with other foreign idols like Tzuyu from TWICE and Sally from Gugudan, which illustrates her social connections across the K-pop industry. Despite her outgoing social circle, Handong is described as the most socially introverted member of Dreamcatcher and generally dislikes making phone calls. This duality in her personality showcases a relatable and human side to her public persona.
In Her Own Words
Handong's reflections on her career and personal growth are captured through various statements she has shared over time. She once expressed her philosophy, stating, "I believe that each and every one of us has the potential to shine and make a difference in this world." This sentiment highlights her belief in individual potential and the importance of pursuing one's dreams.
Further emphasizing the importance of personal development, Handong advised, "Don't compare yourself to others. Just keep working hard and improving yourself." This perspective underscores her focus on self-improvement rather than competition. She also shared insights on resilience, "It's okay to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them and move on," which showcases her pragmatic approach to challenges and setbacks.
Handong's determination is palpable when she asserts, "Never give up on your dreams. No matter how hard it gets, keep fighting for what you want." These words serve as a powerful reminder of her relentless pursuit of her goals, encouraging others to stay committed to their aspirations.
Discography
Solo Singles
Handong's solo career has been highlighted by several impactful releases. She debuted with "First Light of Dawn" in 2020, followed by other singles such as "That Day" and "Start Over". These tracks not only showcase her vocal abilities but also her versatility as a solo artist.
Collaborations and Covers
Handong has also participated in various collaborations and cover songs, enhancing her repertoire. Notable collaborations include "I Long For You" and "Be the Future". Additionally, she has been involved in covers for OSTs like "Two Of Us" and "Not a Dream". Her involvement in Dreamcatcher's special clips, covering songs from artists like Maroon 5 and Shawn Mendes, further displays her adaptability and broad musical range.
Conclusion
Throughout her illustrious career, Handong has emerged as a formidable force within the ever-evolving landscape of the K-pop industry, seamlessly blending her multicultural background with her artistic prowess. Her journey from a hopeful artist in Wuhan to a celebrated member of Dreamcatcher has been marked by notable achievements, including her successful solo ventures and significant group contributions. By exploring both her personal and professional experiences, we've gained insight into the sheer determination and talent that propels her forward. Handong's story not only reflects her individual accomplishments but also underscores the collaborative spirit and cultural exchange intrinsic to the global reach of K-pop.
As Handong continues to navigate her multifaceted career, her impact extends beyond music, influencing fans worldwide and contributing to the ongoing dialogue between Eastern and Western music scenes. The significance of her achievements invites further exploration into how artists like Handong shape the cultural and artistic landscapes they inhabit. Her journey encourages aspiring artists to persistently pursue their passions, while her unique contributions to Dreamcatcher and K-pop at large highlight the rich tapestry of talent within the industry. Handong's enduring legacy serves as a beacon for creativity, resilience, and cross-cultural understanding, setting a precedent for future generations to follow.
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