It is not an understatement to say Han Seungwoo’s solo debut was one the most anticipated debuts of the year. After the disbandment of X1, most of the members started venturing into solo careers, which kept fans wondering what would be the next move of the former group’s leader. Taking a few months off work, Seungwoo made his return along with VICTON; the group returned with a mini-album, Continuous, later followed by the single album Mayday. Staying put with his group activities, Seungwoo hardly hinted at his solo debut and managed to keep the big news from his fans until the company revealed an unexpected poster of the album release.

Though fans were not sure what to expect from the jack-of-all-trades, it was assured that the singer wasn’t going to go easy with his debut. After weeks of excitement, Han Seungwoo released his first mini-album, Fame, featuring “Sacrifice” as the title. It’s no exaggeration—Seungwoo made his fans speechless.

The Single

“Sacrifice” is a combination of R&B and synth melody highlighting the singer’s dynamic vocals. The song sings about being ready to sacrifice anything for a loved one as the chorus states,"I just gotta sacrifice. Leave me be, I like it now. Oh she is mine. Starting from today, drive me crazy more and more." Being tormented by an obsessive love, the protagonist still decides to stay and endure the torture. "Obsessive, I’m more shameless than you think, I’m going crazy," sings Seungwoo, alluring the listeners to fall in love instantly.

The verses are well structured, fusing both sweet vocals and rap verses that let the song explore both sides of Seungwoo as a lead vocalist and a rapper.The chorus becomes the jewel on the crown, featuring the artist's crystal vocals hitting various sharp notes. With no doubt, the song brings out the exact persona of Seungwoo as an artist and instantly pleases its listeners' eardrums, staying on repeat.

Music Video

The music video succeeds in highlighting notable traits of the singer as a performer, capturing the sleek dance moves and heartthrob visuals of Seungwoo. Emphasizing the dark and murky theme of the song, the video is shot in a dull car parking space and dim lit settings. 

The plain backdrops throughout most of the video make Seungwoo the center of attention while he flaunts a line of fashionable outfits. The color of passion and desire, red is also seen flashing during regular intervals. While the long-shots capture the essence of the singer's sleek body structure and choreography, the close-up shots bring out his expressive acting and facial expressions. The choreography is shot in two versions, one with a bunch of background dancers while the other features Seungwoo's sensual solo performance in a shallow pool. The teasing doesn't stop with the choreography as the singer appears shirtless in multiple shots, leaving viewers breathless. 

The Album

The mini-album has six unique tracks, including the single, and has already become a notable EP in the market by topping various music charts.

With “Fever,” the album introduces us to a melancholic mood from the very beginning. Sounding familiar to the single, the song focuses on being caught in a complicated reality. The song may address a lover or even oneself with contradictory thoughts. "Don’t know why it’s so complicated, ring me out, find me, I'm trapped in it," sings the chorus, gradually leading the fans to relate and empathize with the singer. "Fever" instantly becomes a favorite in the album after the first listen.

"Reply" lightens the mood and shifts to the brighter side of being in a relationship. With mild piano notes and peppy beats, Seungwoo sweetly sings, "I am waiting for your reply," as he waits for a reply from his crush to officially start dating. 

At this point, it is clear that Seungwoo is craving love. "I Just Want Love" is a contemporary R&B track that expresses the singer's desire as he repetitively croons, "I just want love." 

"Forest" hits the listeners differently. The lyrics are more of a personal letter by Seungwoo to his fans, asking them to rely on him during hard times. "I'll be your forest. Lean on and take a rest. I'll be your forest. I wish you a shade," sings the singer promising to stand by as a reliable support. 

With "Child," Seungwoo seeks help during lonely and difficult times. The melody grasps the hearts of fans while reflecting on the tough journey the artist had to go through in his life. "I am afraid of everything, hide me. I'm like an immature baby that lives in this world," sings the chorus, letting out the raw and heartfelt feelings of the singer. Ending the album with "Forest" and "Child" helps the listeners bond with the singer and feel complete. 

For new listeners, the album brings out the whole package of the artist, inclusive of his deep feelings when Alice and OneIts can proudly pat their shoulders for his growth as an idol through the years.

Final Thoughts

Han Seungwoo has always been one of the unsung heroes in the industry. With the release of the mini-album, he can finally get the recognition he deserved through the years. Though the singer was caught in a web of misfortunes with Produce X 101 controversies, his determination to take the higher road is much appreciated.

If you haven't checked the album yet, we recommend it. If you have, let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Lyrics Translation: lyricstranslate.com