Lesser-Known Facts About Kang Hyewon That IZ*ONE Fans Need to Know

Did you know Kang Hyewon can devour a cup of noodles in just three bites? This quirky talent is just one of the many fascinating aspects of the multifaceted K-pop star.

While many know her as a former IZONE member who secured 8th place with 248,432 votes on Produce 48, there's much more to her story. Beyond her "Innocent Rapper" image and successful debut with IZONE in October 2018, she's also a skilled musician who plays piano, guitar, recorder, and flute.

From her acting debut in "Best Mistakes Season 3" to her special album "W" release in December 2021, Hyewon continues to surprise fans with her diverse talents.

Kang Hyewon's Hidden Musical Talents Beyond IZ*ONE

Initially, Kang Hyewon's musical foundation extends beyond her public persona as a rapper and vocalist. Her official profile lists piano as her primary talent, setting the stage for her diverse musical journey.

Hyewon's Piano Skills

Beyond casual playing, Hyewon demonstrates remarkable piano proficiency through her cover performances. Notably, she has performed renditions of "Rewrite the Stars" and Lauv's "Never Not", showcasing her instrumental capabilities. Her piano skills stem from her early musical education, including participation in her school orchestra.

Hyewon's Guitar Journey

Furthermore, Hyewon's guitar expertise emerged during IZ*ONE performances. She particularly shined during the group's renditions of "Really Like You", where she demonstrated her growing comfort with the instrument. Her guitar skills complement her musical repertoire, which includes mastery of four instruments:

Piano
Guitar
Flute
Recorder

Hyewon's Vocal Development

Consequently, Hyewon's vocal journey marks significant growth. Her unique bouncy vocalization style particularly suits bright atmospheric songs. In "FIESTA," she transitioned from rap to vocal parts, demonstrating her expanding range. Her distinctive soft, calming tone garnered praise from fellow members, particularly evident in songs like "With*One" and "Secret Story of the Swan" where she tackled challenging high notes.

The Story Behind Her 'Innocent Rapper' Nickname

The nickname "Innocent Rapper" emerged from an unexpected turn of events on Produce 48 in 2018. Despite being trained as a vocalist, Kang Hyewon found herself volunteering for a rap position when no other contestants stepped forward.

Hyewon's Produce 48 Journey

Her journey began with a unique self-introduction, where she confidently declared "Innocence is number one". This pure image, combined with her subsequent rap performances, created an intriguing contrast that captured viewers' attention. She secured 8th place with 248,432 votes, earning her spot in IZ*ONE.

Hyewon's Unexpected Rap Skills

The turning point came during the BLACKPINK "Boombayah" performance, where she tackled the main rapper position. Her performance with The Promise team, alongside Miyawaki Sakura and Wang Yiren, marked her first-ever rap attempt. Despite being a novice, she impressed trainer Cheetah, who noted her progress from "babbling to actual talking".

Hyewon's Rap Evolution

Her development as a rapper continued through:

Writing original lyrics for "Don't Know You" performance
Receiving praise for camera presence from trainer Choi Young-joon
Maintaining a unique style that balanced her innocent image with powerful delivery

Despite facing initial challenges, her determination to improve earned her recognition. Her motto "Radiating quirky energy" perfectly encapsulated her journey from a hesitant vocalist to an established rapper within the group.

Her Pre-IZ*ONE Almost-Debuts

Prior to her IZ*ONE success, Kang Hyewon's path to stardom included several near-debut experiences with different entertainment companies. Her journey began at Music K Entertainment, where she trained alongside established artists.

DAYDAY Group Story

In 2017, Hyewon almost debuted as part of DAYDAY, a five-member girl group under HYWY Entertainment. The group included talented members like Lee Soo-hyun from Produce 101 and Jeon Min-joo from K-Pop Star season 6. Although the group revealed all five members by April 30, 2017, their debut plans were ultimately canceled on October 21, 2017.

TheArk Training Period

Following this setback, Hyewon's connection to TheArk emerged through her close relationship with former member Jeon Minju. Although she was considered for the group's potential lineup, she ultimately left the company before debut.

Music K Entertainment Experience

At Music K Entertainment, home to singer Hong Jinyoung, Hyewon underwent significant training. This experience, combined with her subsequent nine-month training period, shaped her foundation as a performer. The company, though smaller in size, provided her with essential industry exposure before her eventual move to 8D Creative.

These pre-debut experiences, spanning multiple companies and potential groups, ultimately led to her participation in Produce 48, where she would find her path to success.

Lesser-Known Family Details

Born in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang, Kang Hyewon's family life reveals a close-knit support system that shaped her journey in entertainment.

Relationship with Brother

Her younger brother Kyeong-woo shares striking facial features with Hyewon. Their sibling bond manifests through heartwarming moments, as seen during her preparation for IZ*ONE dorm life. Fundamentally, their relationship extends beyond typical siblings, with Kyeong-woo offering emotional support during her career transitions.

Family Support System

Her family unit consists of her mother, father, and younger brother. Altogether, their backing played a crucial role in her pursuit of an entertainment career. The family maintains a modest approach to their lifestyle, reflecting values of humility and hard work. Their support enabled her transition from Bokwang High School to Hanlim Multi Art School.

Pet Stories

Zeze, the family's beloved dog, holds a special place in their household. The pet's presence often features in Hyewon's social media updates and variety show appearances. Ultimately, Zeze became known to fans through "IZONE CHU," where the dog's playful nature added warmth to family scenes. Fellow IZONE members Sakura and Minju have also shared fond memories of interactions with Zeze.

Behind Her 'Pure Image'

Beneath the surface of Kang Hyewon's carefully curated public image lies a multifaceted personality that often surprises both fans and industry professionals.

Natural vs Perceived Image

Fundamentally, Hyewon's public persona centers around her reputation as a pure-faced beauty with an innocent charm. In essence, this image contrasts sharply with her straightforward personality and blunt communication style. Her stage presence, often described as reserved, masks a caring individual who consistently puts other members' needs before her own.

Image Evolution

Throughout her career, Hyewon's image has transformed from a mysterious figure on Produce 48 to a more authentic representation of herself. Her down-to-earth personality and warm demeanor have endeared her to fans worldwide. Primarily, her genuine interactions with supporters through social media and fan meetings showcase her natural charm rather than a manufactured image.

Real Personality

Behind the scenes, Hyewon demonstrates remarkable depth and authenticity. Her straightforward approach and blunt personality create an intriguing contrast with her elegant appearance. Off camera, she reveals herself as:

The most caring and physically affectionate member
A friend to numerous idols despite her reserved appearance
Someone who embodies the AKB mantra of being an "everyday girl performing for people"

This duality between her public image and genuine personality has become part of her unique appeal, making her relatable to fans who appreciate authenticity in their idols. Her humility and approachable nature have carved a special place for her in K-pop, proving that true charm lies in embracing one's authentic self.

Training Period Stories

Fundamentally, Kang Hyewon's journey at 8D Creative marked a pivotal nine-month period before her Produce 48 appearance. This relatively brief training duration, as opposed to the industry standard of several years, showcased her natural talent and quick learning ability.

8D Creative Days

At 8D Creative, Hyewon's determination shone through her consistent practice sessions. In addition to her vocal and dance training, she focused on developing her stage presence. Her path to 8D Creative included valuable experiences at Music K Entertainment and HYWY Entertainment, which shaped her foundation as a performer.

Practice Routines

Above all, Hyewon's dedication manifested through her rigorous practice schedule. Her typical routine included:

Late-night practice sessions focusing on gestures and expressions
Mirror practice for movement refinement
Continuous self-evaluation and improvement

Trainee Friendships

Throughout her training period, Hyewon formed lasting bonds with fellow trainees. Her connection with Choi Yena, though they attended the same school, blossomed during their Produce 48 journey. Ultimately, these relationships proved invaluable during her preparation for debut, providing emotional support and motivation during challenging practice sessions.

The training period at 8D Creative, though shorter than most, proved transformative for Hyewon. Her commitment to improvement and willingness to tackle new challenges set the stage for her successful debut with IZ*ONE.

Concert Preparation Rituals

Markedly different from her off-stage persona, Kang Hyewon's concert preparation reveals a dedicated performer focused on delivering her best. Her strength lies in maintaining a strong mentality, enabling her to execute tasks without external pressures.

Pre-Performance Habits

Primarily, Hyewon relies on member interactions to calm pre-show jitters. Her preparation involves intense focus on choreography, often appearing deep in concentration before taking the stage. This dedication shows through her meticulous attention to performance details, straightaway transforming from her usual calm demeanor to a focused artist.

Stage Presence Tips

Throughout her career, Hyewon's stage presence has evolved significantly. Soon after debut, she incorporated subtle expressions like winks and sly smiles into her performances. Her growth became apparent through:

Mastering challenging choreographies with precision
Developing signature hair flips
Maintaining synchronicity with group members

Nervous Moments

Thus far, Hyewon's approach to managing performance anxiety stands out for its effectiveness. Thereafter, her blank expressions often mistaken for nervousness actually reflect her intense concentration on perfecting movements. Her genuine approach to performances sets her apart - when she smiles on stage, it comes from authentic joy rather than obligation. This authenticity, combined with her improved confidence, has established her as a reliable performer who consistently delivers quality performances.

Solo Music Journey

December 2021 marked a significant milestone in Kang Hyewon's musical journey with the release of her winter special album "W". The album, featuring "Winter Poem" as the lead single, showcased a different emotional voice than her IZ*ONE days.

W Album Creation

The winter special album comprised five distinctive tracks:

W
Winter Poem
눈이 오는 날 (Snowy Day)
First Love Letter
내년 겨울에도 기억해줘 (Remember Next Winter Too)

Musical Direction

Fundamentally, her musical direction expanded through collaborations, primarily evident in her single "Like A Diamond" featuring Stella Jang. Henceforth, her artistic influence extended beyond music, as she continued working with Roem throughout 2023, contributing to a 30% increase in sales after becoming their brand muse.

Future Plans

Still, Kang Hyewon's relationship with music remains complex. In a December 2023 interview, she expressed having no immediate plans for singing activities. Whereas she cherishes good memories from her musical career, she maintains hope for future opportunities, stating, "I hope there will be a day when I can finally do it". Whether pursuing acting or music, she emphasizes working hard to achieve her goals.

Her current focus lies in acting projects, unless opportunities arise that align with her artistic vision. Whenever discussing her musical journey, she reflects on it with fondness rather than regret, keeping the door open for potential future musical endeavors.

Unique Fashion Preferences

Remarkably, Kang Hyewon's fashion sense stands out for transforming affordable pieces into designer-looking ensembles. Her ability to elevate a 5,900 won (~$5.00) dress into a stunning look caught widespread attention on social media.

Style Evolution

Fundamentally, Hyewon's fashion journey showcases her talent for making budget-friendly choices look luxurious. Her airport fashion notably gained attention when she wore a dress under $30, proving her knack for stylish yet economical choices. Her charismatic presence in photoshoots demonstrates her natural affinity for fashion modeling.

Fashion Inspirations

Primarily influenced by western fashion elements, Hyewon's style aligns with her distinctive facial features. Her model-like fashion sense and charisma have earned her recognition in the fashion industry. Her preference for straight hairstyles emerged during the "Buenos Aires" era, marking a departure from her earlier wavy looks.

Iconic Looks

The most memorable fashion moments include:

Her vintage actress-inspired photoshoot for 1st Look Magazine
The dramatic fast-fashion collaboration with stylist Lee Min Gyu
Her luxurious aura in recent photoshoots that perfectly complement her body proportions

Ultimately, Hyewon's fashion journey reflects her versatility, from affordable finds to high-fashion moments. Her ability to maintain a classy image while experimenting with different styles has established her as a fashion influence in the K-pop industry.

Variety Show Behind-the-Scenes

In August 2021, Kang Hyewon joined the star-studded cast of "How a Family Is Made," alongside notable artists like Super Junior's Yesung and BTOB's Eunkwang. The show's unique concept paired her with AB6IX's Daehwi in a virtual marriage scenario.

WE Became A Family Stories

The virtual couple established eight distinctive house rules, ranging from sharing daily meals to resolving conflicts on camera. Their chemistry manifested through playful interactions, with Hyewon and Daehwi sharing a common background from different seasons of the Produce series.

Show Preparations

At length, Hyewon approached filming with remarkable authenticity. "The staff made the filming atmosphere comfortable. It didn't feel like we were filming but just felt like we came to hang out," she shared in a cast interview. Furthermore, her natural ability to adapt to various situations made her a standout performer among the diverse cast.

Co-star Relations

In the meantime, Hyewon formed meaningful connections with fellow cast members, particularly with Im Nayoung and Yesung, who formed another virtual couple on the show. As time passed, the cast developed genuine familial bonds, with child actor Kim Kang Hoon noting, "It feels like we have really become a family". The show's international appeal played a significant role in cast selection, with Yesung specifically mentioning the importance of reaching global audiences.

Ultimately, despite initial concerns about constant camera presence, Hyewon's genuine personality shone through, making her segments particularly engaging for viewers. Her participation in the show demonstrated her growing confidence in variety programming, establishing her as a versatile entertainer capable of authentic connections with both cast members and audiences.

Hidden Variety Show Talents

Throughout her career, Kang Hyewon's variety show presence has evolved from a quiet participant to a confident entertainer, primarily through her appearances on numerous shows since 2018.

Show Appearances

Her variety journey spans multiple platforms and formats:

Music Shows: Weekly Idol, Idol Room, The Show Mini Game
Reality Programs: IZ*ONE CHU, EAT-TING TRIP, Cheating Trip
Comedy Shows: Comedy Big League, JTBC Human Intelligence

Memorable Moments

Remarkably, Hyewon gained recognition for her unique variety style on Idol Room, where her honest reactions and natural humor caught attention. Her performance on Comedy Big League stood out as she displayed unexpected comedic timing. Occasionally, her wit shines through spontaneous moments, such as her quick response to Doni's bell-ringing on Idol Room.

MC Skills

Ultimately, her hosting abilities developed through various platforms. On How A Family is Made, she demonstrated growth in presentation skills. Her self-awareness and genuine reactions became her trademark, earning praise from veteran MCs. Rather than putting up a facade, she embraces authenticity, openly showing embarrassment and creating relatable moments for viewers.

Post-IZ*ONE Acting Journey

First and foremost, after IZ*ONE's disbandment in April 2021, Kang Hyewon embarked on her acting journey with determination and versatility.

First Drama Role

In December 2021, Hyewon made her acting debut in Best Mistake Season 3 as Jin Se Hee, a business student with both looks and brains. Her character's determination to achieve goals at any cost showcased her ability to portray complex personalities.

Acting Style Development

Simultaneously, Hyewon refined her acting skills through diverse roles. In Seasons of Blossom, she portrayed Yoon Bo Mi, the school queen known for her kindness. Her performance captured the essence of her character, demonstrating remarkable synchronization with the original webtoon persona.

Recent Projects

Ultimately, Hyewon's acting career reached new heights with Boyhood in November 2023, which became a significant success. The series experienced a remarkable 2,914% increase in viewership during its finale compared to its first week. This success led industry insiders to name her among the '2024 Rising Actresses to Look Forward to'.

In 2025, she secured a role in the mystery thriller Friendly Rivalry, where she portrays Joo Ye Ri, the calculating queen of gossip at Chaehwa Girls' High School. Her performance brings depth to the character, skillfully depicting Ye Ri's shrewd nature.

Key achievements in her acting career include:

Successful transition from idol to actress
Consistent main role castings in web series
Recognition for character portrayal authenticity
Rising popularity in the thriller genre

Unexpected Academic Excellence

Behind the entertainment spotlight, Kang Hyewon harbors remarkable academic prowess, fundamentally rooted in her passion for mathematics and analytical thinking.

Math Genius Background

Remarkably, Hyewon's love for mathematics extends beyond basic calculations. She actively solves problems from "The Art of Mathematics" textbook during her free time, even while filming. Her mathematical inclination manifests through complex problem-solving sessions, demonstrating an intellectual side that contrasts with her public persona.

School Life Stories

Throughout her academic journey, Hyewon attended several prestigious institutions:

Habuk Elementary School
Bokwang Middle School
Bokwang High School (initial enrollment)
Hanlim Multi Art School (transfer)

Evidently, her academic dedication showed in her consistent performance, ranking 10th or 11th in her entire school four times throughout the year. Therefore, her leadership qualities emerged when she volunteered as vice-captain during her middle school years.

Academic Achievements

Ultimately, Hyewon's academic journey faced a turning point after entering high school, where she chose to focus more on her entertainment career. However, this shift didn't diminish her intellectual capabilities, as she continued solving mathematical problems between filming sessions. Her commitment to academics while pursuing an entertainment career showcases her ability to balance multiple responsibilities effectively.

Personal Growth Stories

Reflecting on her journey from IZ*ONE to present day, Kang Hyewon's growth story exemplifies thoughtful career evolution and personal development.

Self-Development Journey

Throughout her career transition, Hyewon's approach to self-improvement became increasingly focused. "I think I'm getting more serious as I get older," she revealed in a recent interview. Her maturity manifests in her dedication to acting, where she strives to evoke various emotions through her performances.

Career Evolution

Fundamentally, Hyewon's career path took a decisive turn after IZ*ONE's disbandment in 2021. While most of her former groupmates pursued solo music careers or joined new groups, she chose to focus on acting. Her decision stems from a genuine interest in the field, stating, "Fortunately, I had many opportunities [to act], and since it was a field I was interested in, I decided to challenge myself".

Future Aspirations

Currently, Hyewon maintains a clear vision for her future. Instead of setting rigid goals, she emphasizes staying true to the present moment. Her approach to future projects reflects this mindset: "Even if I don't do a lot of work, I will work more seriously and focus on the work I do". Primarily, she expresses interest in exploring comedic roles, noting, "I usually like comedy, so even though I'm not a funny person in real life, I think it would be nice to try a funny role". While music remains part of her memories, she keeps the possibility open for future musical endeavors, though her immediate focus remains on developing her acting career.

Secret Gaming Skills

Beyond her entertainment career, Kang Hyewon's passion for gaming runs deep, with her League of Legends prowess standing out. Her gaming journey began in middle school with frequent visits to PC Bang.

League of Legends Expertise

Her dedication to League of Legends shines through her impressive rankings, reaching Diamond 4 with 70 LP in Season 2 and maintaining Emerald 3 with 14 LP in Season 3. Indeed, her commitment to improvement shows in her marathon gaming sessions, once playing for 10 hours straight.

Favorite Characters

Certainly, Teemo holds a special place as her preferred champion. Accordingly, she once passionately defended her choice during a live broadcast when fans questioned her selection. Her mastery extends to other champions as well, with notable achievements including:

Yasuo (288,333 Mastery Points)
Zed (239,529 Mastery Points)
Vayne (188,757 Mastery Points)

Gaming Partners

Afterward, she formed the unofficial "Gamer Alliance" with fellow IZ*ONE members Sakura and Yena. Chiefly, this gaming trio strengthened their bonds through various online sessions, with Nako joining as an honorary member for PUBG team battles. Generally, her gaming encounters include memorable moments with fans, such as her contemplation to reveal her identity during an online match when facing a challenging opponent.

Lesser-Known Achievements

Throughout 2024, Kang Hyewon's career reached new milestones with significant achievements across multiple domains. Her dedication to acting and brand representation garnered widespread recognition in the entertainment industry.

Awards

At the '2024 Brand Customer Loyalty Awards' ceremony held at Conrad Seoul, Kang received the 'Female Actor (Newcomer) Award' in the Personality and Culture category. Furthermore, she secured the "Rookie of the Year (Female) award" at the 2024 Korea Drama Awards for her role in Boyhood.

Recognition

Primarily, Kang's influence in brand collaborations showcased her growing market impact. Her partnerships include:

MLB's Varsity spring collection through Vogue Korea
Vaseline Korea's Lip Therapy campaign as their 24th brand ambassador
Narciso Rodriguez Korea's summer perfume collection

Under her influence, Roem experienced a remarkable 30% increase in sales after selecting her as their muse. The collaboration created a new slogan, "Romantic Is Everywhere," reflecting her impact on brand identity.

Special Moments

The success of Boyhood marked a defining moment in Kang's career, with the drama experiencing a 2,914% increase in viewers during its finale compared to the first week. This achievement solidified her position among the "2024 Rising Actress to Look Forward to" according to Entertainment Industry Insiders. Throughout her acceptance speeches, she consistently expressed gratitude to directors, writers, and fellow actors, demonstrating her professional growth and humility.

Unexpected Skills

Beyond her entertainment pursuits, Kang Hyewon possesses remarkable analytical abilities that manifest in unexpected ways. Her problem-solving prowess extends far beyond the stage, revealing a multifaceted talent.

Puzzle-Solving Abilities

Fundamentally, Hyewon's mathematical background translates into exceptional puzzle-solving capabilities. Her analytical mind excels at complex problem-solving, demonstrating remarkable efficiency in solving intricate puzzles. This skill set complements her academic achievements, showing practical applications of her mathematical aptitude.

Escape Room Expertise

Primarily, Hyewon's enthusiasm for escape rooms showcases her strategic thinking. Despite her proficiency, an unexpected moment occurred during Cheat-Ing Trip 2, where she found herself trapped at the first obstacle. This experience, correspondingly, led to her role as the secret project manager for Cheat-ing Trip 3, though she ultimately couldn't participate due to drama filming commitments.

Hidden Talents

Likewise, Hyewon's photography skills have earned her recognition among IZ*ONE members as their master photographer. Her expertise shines through various activities:

Taking full responsibility for member photos during school outings
Creating and editing the Ithin Trip Sokcho video
Conducting selfie tutorials in episode 47 of Enogicam

Her photography talents extend to Polaroid photography, as demonstrated in behind-the-scenes footage from October 8, 2020. This skill has earned her the nickname "Selca Queen", reflecting her mastery of both sides of the camera lens.

Secret Hobbies

Among her diverse interests, Kang Hyewon's passion for Japanese animation stands out as a defining aspect of her personality.

Anime Passion

Firstly, her love for anime manifested publicly during her "Idol Room" appearance, where she boldly promoted "Attack on Titan Season 3". Given these points, her enthusiasm extends beyond casual viewing, as she openly identifies as an otaku, demonstrating her genuine connection to anime culture. At this point, her dedication to anime became evident when she performed a "ONE PIECE" character Luffy imitation during her Produce48 audition.

Drama Watching Habits

Primarily, Hyewon dedicates significant time to watching Korean and Chinese dramas. Her recent viewing preferences align with her acting career, as she studies performances in Boyhood, which experienced a 2,914% viewership increase during its finale. Her drama-watching habit serves a dual purpose - entertainment and professional development.

Collection Interests

Analogous to her gaming achievements, Hyewon maintains an impressive collection of anime merchandise. Her interests span multiple genres, with a particular focus on action and adventure series. Ultimately, her collection reflects her authentic appreciation for Japanese animation, despite occasional controversy surrounding her public promotion of certain titles. This genuine enthusiasm has helped her build connections with fans who share similar interests, creating a unique bond within her fanbase.

Hyewon's Special Bond with Sato Minami

One of the most touching friendships from Produce 48 blossomed between Kang Hyewon and AKB48's Sato Minami, transcending cultural and language barriers.

Their First Meeting

The duo's connection sparked during their collaboration on the "Boombayah" stage performance. Subsequently, their friendship flourished even though Hyewon couldn't speak Japanese and Minami couldn't communicate in Korean.

Friendship Development

Their bond evolved into a unique mother-daughter dynamic, with Hyewon assuming a maternal role. This relationship became a highlight of the show, symbolized by their matching couple hairpins at the second ranking announcement ceremony. Moreover, their emotional connection peaked during eliminations, where Hyewon delivered a heartfelt message: "I am so happy to be your friend and to be with you in one team. Even if we have to be apart, I hope one day we'll meet again".

Current Relationship

After the show, their friendship continued to thrive. Specifically, Minami demonstrated her support by creating handmade cheering placards with Korean text. Their connection remains strong through social media interactions and regular communication. Additionally, Korean fans showed their appreciation for this friendship by collecting funds worth USD 400,000 for gifts to Minami.

The relationship between Hyewon and Minami stands as a testament to the show's original purpose - fostering friendships that transcend national boundaries. After Minami's elimination, Hyewon channeled her maternal instincts toward Wonyoung, the next youngest member she encountered.

Her Special Connection with TWICE

A unique professional connection links Kang Hyewon to TWICE through their shared former manager, creating unexpected bonds between the artists.

Sadness Manager Connection

The connection stems from Kim Na Yeon, affectionately known as "Sadness Unnie" or "Sadness Manager". This experienced manager, who previously guided TWICE's career, later became Hyewon's dedicated manager. Hence, this professional relationship opened doors for meaningful interactions between the two acts.

TWICE Interactions

Meaningful encounters between Hyewon and TWICE members occurred frequently at award ceremonies and music broadcasts. Most notably, her interactions with Jihyo caught attention at music shows, where the TWICE leader demonstrated senior artist warmth through welcoming gestures. Meanwhile, these interactions went beyond typical sunbae-hoobae (senior-junior) relationships, as evidenced by their comfortable hugging exchanges.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories

Ultimately, their backstage encounters revealed genuine camaraderie. At various music shows, Hyewon's natural ability to form connections shone through, particularly during award ceremonies where she interacted comfortably with members from different groups. Nonetheless, her appreciation for TWICE extends beyond personal connections, as she openly expressed admiration for the group during her YouTube content creation.

Language Learning Journey

Through dedication and persistence, Kang Hyewon's language journey showcases her commitment to bridging cultural gaps. Her experience with Japanese began during Produce 48, where she faced initial communication challenges with Japanese contestants.

Japanese Study

In contrast to typical K-pop idols who rely heavily on translators, Hyewon demonstrates remarkable dedication to Japanese language acquisition. During her Japan fan meetings, she makes considerable effort to communicate in Japanese, often pausing to learn correct pronunciations from MCs. Her commitment shows through her willingness to practice Japanese even during casual conversations with former IZ*ONE members.

Communication with Foreign Members

Primarily, Hyewon's determination to overcome language barriers stems from her desire to connect genuinely with everyone. As time passed, she developed effective communication strategies with Japanese members, particularly evident in her friendship with Sakura. Their shared meals, including bulgogi and shabu-shabu outings, demonstrate how food became a universal language for bonding.

Language Goals

Fundamentally, Hyewon's language aspirations extend beyond basic communication. She expresses interest in Japanese culture, particularly wanting to explore Osaka and experience local cuisine. Her language goals align with her broader interest in Japanese sensibilities and desire to travel. Ultimately, her progress in Japanese communication reflects in her ability to conduct portions of interviews in Japanese, demonstrating significant improvement from her early days when communication seemed impossible.

The Truth About Her MBTI Changes

Kang Hyewon's personality type has undergone significant changes throughout her career, reflecting her personal growth and evolving perspective. Her MBTI journey reveals a fascinating progression from an extroverted performer to an analytical thinker.

Initial ESFP Results

At her early career stage, Hyewon displayed classic ESFP traits during fan signs. As an ESFP, she exhibited a natural inclination toward performing for larger audiences and maintained a spontaneous approach to situations. Fundamentally, this personality type aligned with her initial public image as an energetic performer.

Transition to ISFP

Essentially, her shift to ISFP marked a period of introspection. This transition highlighted her growing preference for individual performances and a more control-based approach to activities. As an ISFP, she demonstrated heightened awareness of her personal values and exhibited stronger concerns about others' perceptions of her art and creativity.

Current INTP Personality

Presently, Hyewon identifies as an INTP, characterized by analytical thinking and intellectual curiosity. This personality type manifests in her approach to problem-solving and communication style. Her INTP traits include:

Pride in unique perspectives and vigorous intellect
Natural inclination toward questioning established norms
Preference for logic-driven decision-making

Significantly, this evolution to INTP aligns with her growing confidence in expressing individual viewpoints and her dedication to continuous self-improvement. Undeniably, her current personality type reflects a deeper, more contemplative side that combines intellect with originality.

Special Friendship with Choi Yena

A surprising coincidence marks the friendship between Kang Hyewon and Choi Yena, who attended Hanlim Multi Art School together for three years without crossing paths.

School Connection

First of all, both Hyewon and Yena graduated from Hanlim Multi Art School on the same day. Their paths nearly intersected multiple times, with occasional glimpses of each other in school corridors. In an episode of IZ*ONE CHU, their graduation photos surfaced, revealing they belonged to different majors within the same institution.

IZ*ONE Days

As time passed, their friendship blossomed during their IZ*ONE tenure. Together with Chaeyeon and Yujin, they formed the unofficial subunit "Suspenderz," known for their playful antics during V-Live sessions. Their bond strengthened through shared interests, particularly their passion for gaming.

Current Friendship

At present, Hyewon and Yena maintain their connection through regular League of Legends gaming sessions. Their gaming alliance, which includes Sakura, demonstrates the endurance of their friendship beyond IZ*ONE's disbandment. This relationship exemplifies how shared interests can forge lasting bonds, transcending their initial coincidental school connection.

Her Unique Eating Habits

Food plays a central role in Kang Hyewon's public persona, with her enthusiasm for eating becoming a signature trait throughout her career.

Three-Bite Noodle Challenge

Remarkably, Hyewon gained attention for her unique ability to finish a small cup of noodles in just three bites. This talent first surfaced during TQ SHOW, where she demonstrated her impressive eating speed. In fact, her genuine happiness after completing such food challenges stems not from the achievement itself, but from the simple joy of eating.

Food Preferences

Her culinary preferences reveal an interesting mix of likes and dislikes. As a result of her distinct taste, Hyewon prefers Western and Japanese cuisines. Nevertheless, she maintains a clear list of foods she avoids:

Dislikes raw seafood, pollacks, and fermented soybean sauce
Avoids pig's trotters and coffee of any kind
Cannot tolerate wasabi

Memorable Food Moments

Similarly to her other talents, Hyewon's relationship with spicy food sets her apart. On "The Shop Next Door," she emerged as the only cast member who could handle an extremely spicy jjambbong made with three different chili peppers. Her most entertaining food moment occurred during her YouTube channel launch, where she passionately expressed disappointment over a cheese stick that failed to stretch properly. This incident showcased her genuine connection with food, as she directly addressed the snack, saying it "should be sorry".

Social Media Secrets

On May 18, 2021, Kang Hyewon launched her personal Instagram account, marking a new chapter in her digital presence. Subsequently, her social media footprint expanded with strategic brand collaborations and fan engagement initiatives.

Content Creation Process

Primarily, Hyewon's content strategy revolves around authentic personal updates and professional milestones. Her YouTube channel gained significant attention with the release of her winter special album "W" teaser video. Her content creation extends to brand collaborations, including successful partnerships with Roem, which reported a 30% increase in sales after choosing her as their muse.

Fan Interaction Style

In July 2021, Hyewon joined the "Dear U Bubble" platform, offering personalized messages to fans through a private messenger service. Her interaction style stands out through:

Direct responses to fan messages in a group chat format
Personalized content sharing
Regular updates about daily activities

Platform Preferences

Notably, Hyewon maintains an active presence across multiple social platforms. Her Instagram account serves as the primary channel for professional updates and personal glimpses. In March 2023, she expanded her digital presence through gaming content creation, becoming a special character for Nexon's "Sudden Attack". Ultimately, her platform selection reflects her commitment to maintaining authentic connections with fans while showcasing her professional achievements.

Project Management Experience

Stepping into project management, Kang Hyewon demonstrated exceptional organizational capabilities through her involvement in various entertainment ventures. Her managerial journey gained prominence through Adola Travel Agency: Cheat-ing Trip, where she served as a regular member across multiple seasons.

Cheat-ing Trip Role

Primarily, Hyewon's involvement spanned three seasons of Cheat-ing Trip, starting with her role as a regular member in Season 1. Subsequently, she advanced to become a project coordinator in Season 2, where her analytical skills proved invaluable for trip planning and execution. For Season 3, she was designated as the secret project manager, though filming commitments prevented her full participation.

Leadership Style

Fundamentally, Hyewon's leadership approach reflects her mathematical background and systematic thinking. Her management style encompasses:

Detailed pre-production planning
Systematic task delegation
Clear communication channels
Efficient resource allocation

Organization Skills

Within the entertainment industry, Hyewon's organizational prowess extends beyond variety shows. Her systematic approach to project coordination stems from her experience at Music K Entertainment. Notably, her ability to balance multiple responsibilities while maintaining quality performance demonstrates her exceptional time management skills. Through her involvement in various projects, she developed a reputation for meticulous attention to detail and efficient workflow management.

Special Fan Interactions

Preparing for her first solo fan meeting tour since debut, Kang Hyewon demonstrates exceptional dedication to creating meaningful connections with supporters. Her upcoming fan meeting series "Hyem's Diary" spans three major cities.

Fan Meeting Stories

Primarily, the tour schedule encompasses strategic locations:

Seoul: Sungshin Women's University (February 3, 2025)
Taipei: February 18, 2025
Tokyo: February 25, 2025

In particular, her Japanese fan meeting attracted approximately 4,000 attendees across two sessions. Furthermore, she impressed audiences with her linguistic efforts, actively learning proper Japanese pronunciations during the events.

Memorable Fan Moments

Notably, one unique interaction occurred during an online gaming session, where Hyewon encountered a player with "IZ*ONE" in their username. She contemplated revealing her identity to request leniency in the game. This genuine moment showcased her playful approach to fan interactions.

Connection Style

Her connection with fans extends beyond formal meetings. During live broadcasts, she maintains authenticity by showing her bare face and responding naturally to playful comments about her favorite game characters. The biggest goal in her fan interactions remains simple yet meaningful - exchanging genuine greetings and creating lasting connections.

Ultimately, her first photobook "Beauty Cut" served as another avenue for fan engagement, demonstrating her commitment to providing diverse ways for supporters to connect with her. Her approach to fan interactions reflects her genuine personality, creating an environment where both artist and fans can share authentic moments.