WOODZ’s ‘Drowning’ Tops Melon Chart Despite Military Service

K-pop soloist WOODZ (Jo Seung-yeon) is making waves even during his military service. His self-produced track ‘Drowning,’ originally released in April 2023 as part of his fifth mini-album ‘OO-LI,’ has claimed the No.1 spot on Melon’s TOP100 chart as of 12 AM on the 7th.

The slow-burn success story of ‘Drowning’ began in October last year, gradually rising up the charts and maintaining a steady grip on the upper ranks. In addition to Melon, the track now tops several major streaming platforms including Genie, YouTube Music, and Apple Music, underscoring WOODZ’s broad digital influence.

The soaring popularity of ‘Drowning’ extends beyond the charts. A performance clip from the KBS2 variety show Immortal Songs, where WOODZ performed the song as part of a special honoring Armed Forces Day, has now surpassed 12.6 million views, highlighting its ongoing resonance among fans.

What makes the ascent of ‘Drowning’ even more remarkable is that it continues amid WOODZ’s mandatory military service. The song’s deeply emotive lyrics and passionate composition—crafted entirely by Jo Seung-yeon himself—capture the pain of separation and the weight of longing, deeply connecting with listeners worldwide.

As he continues to build a unique musical identity, WOODZ is proving that artistry transcends physical presence. Fans are eagerly anticipating his return to the stage; he’s set to be discharged from the military on July 21, with a highly anticipated appearance at Summer Sonic 2025 in Japan lined up for August.

WOODZ’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of heartfelt music—solidifying his place as one of K-pop’s most dynamic and emotionally resonant solo artists today.