"Many people told me, 'Why are you holding onto something that won't work?' But I never thought it wouldn't work."
After eight long years, Cha Woong-ki of the group AHOF has finally found his perfect fit. Meeting with TenAsia in Seoul, Cha shared his journey to achieving his dreams.
Since re-debuting with AHOF in July, Cha Woong-ki has been living a whirlwind life. "I practice until 2 AM and head to the makeup shop by 6 AM. Even without sleep, I love working. It feels right. Maybe it's because I'm not used to being busy, but I enjoy it," he said with a bright smile.
Cha Woong-ki first debuted with TO1 in 2020 after a survival show but didn't gain much attention. He later appeared on Mnet's 'Boys Planet' but faced elimination. Despite not making the debut lineup, his talent and positive energy left a mark on the audience. He then participated in SBS's 'Universe League,' where he was finally selected to re-debut with AHOF.
AHOF's debut album exceeded 360,000 initial sales, marking a successful start. "I checked the sales every day. I remember my previous group's debut album sold 8,000 copies. I never expected such a great result," Cha expressed.
The group also won several music show trophies. Cha Woong-ki was moved to tears when they were announced as winners. "I cried even more after the show. I didn't expect to win. It was a long-awaited moment. Many members, including myself, have been waiting for this," he shared.
This achievement is even more meaningful as Cha contributed to the songwriting. "The song reflects my earnest desire to chase my dreams. I poured my heart into it, rewriting until I was satisfied. I contacted producer EL CAPITXN at 4 AM, and he loved it. I cried tears of joy," he revealed.
Cha Woong-ki has participated in six survival shows. Despite advice to reconsider his idol dreams, he persisted. "People tried to dissuade me. At 24, I'm older for a rookie idol. But I wanted to give it one last shot. I fasted for 30 hours to look good for the 'Universe League' profile photo," he said.
As a veteran of survival shows, Cha advises newcomers, "People told me, 'What's not meant to be, won't be.' But it's up to you to decide if it will be or not."
Recalling his selection for the final debut lineup, Cha said, "Fans were crying. They waited longer than I did. I was happy but also felt sorry for making them wait."
Despite the challenges, these experiences shaped Cha Woong-ki. "The constant ups and downs were tough. I couldn't enjoy 'Boys Planet' as much. But I had fun with 'Universe League.' Now, I feel ready for anything," he joked.
AHOF is known for its strong relationships. Cha and fellow member Zhang Shuaibo, who also competed in 'Boys Planet,' had conflicts but are now close teammates. "We parted on good terms after the competition. I never thought we'd meet again," Cha laughed.
Once the youngest, Cha now looks after his younger teammates. AHOF held their first fan concert in Manila, meeting 10,000 fans. "I have experience, but I still felt nervous. I wanted to be brave for my younger members," he confessed.
Before taking the stage, Cha watched the fans from backstage. "Seeing the venue filled with fans was overwhelming. I realized how much I love performing," he said, eyes sparkling.
"I've achieved great results and am enjoying a happy time. It wasn't for nothing. I must have been waiting for this moment."
From his first day as a trainee to his first fan meeting, it took Cha Woong-ki eight years to find his place. During 'Universe League,' he received offers from other shows but chose AHOF. "I felt it was the right choice. People say I fit well with AHOF," he smiled.
Starting as a child actor, Cha has acting experience and a passion for songwriting. As a performer, he aims to excel in all areas. "I want to be known as a 'multi-talented all-rounder.' I want people to say, 'He can do that too?'" he said. Cha Woong-ki is set to shine in various fields.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr