Hwanhee Reinvents Himself as a Trot Prince on ‘My Little Old Boy’

K-pop’s ballad king Hwanhee is making waves once again — but this time, with his transformation into a trot sensation. On the June 20 episode of SBS’s variety show My Little Old Boy, Hwanhee appeared alongside singers Lyn and Lee Jung, delivering both humor and heartfelt emotions that resonated deeply with viewers.

During the show, Hwanhee opened up about his recent pivot to trot music, saying, “I struggled with whether I should pursue traditional trot or carve out my own unique style.” Demonstrating his vocal versatility, he introduced his “ironing-style” singing method where he smooths out vocal techniques to bring a cleaner, more sincere sound to his performances.

His rendition of the hit song Even If It Hurts captivated audiences with its emotional depth and unwavering vocal strength, reaffirming his place as a powerhouse performer. He also breathes new life into the classic song Devotion (사모) with his unique color and evolved soulfulness, leaving a lasting impression throughout the episode.

More than just his voice, Hwanhee’s natural flair for talk and quick wit brought a fresh energy to the show, proving he’s as entertaining in conversation as he is on stage.

Following recent appearances on the survival show The Current King of Singing 2, Hwanhee has been praised for pioneering a “soul trot” genre, evoking enthusiastic reactions with each performance. He now boasts nicknames like “Trot Macho Man” and “Trot Prince,” reflecting his newly embraced role in the genre.

Hwanhee’s ever-evolving artistry and fearless approach to reinvention have audiences eager to see what’s next. With upcoming broadcasts and live performances on the horizon, his musical journey continues to inspire fans around the globe.