MONSTA X - JOOHEON
MONSTA X member JOOHEON, nicknamed the “idol to listen and trust” (믿듣퍼), will be the first STARSHIP Entertainment artist to make a comeback in 2026.
STARSHIP ENTERTAINMENT announced on December 17:
“Currently touring the U.S. Jingle Ball, MONSTA X member JOOHEON is actively preparing his comeback scheduled for early January next year. We are putting all our heart into this so fans can experience the full range of JOOHEON’s charms. We ask for your anticipation and excitement.”
This solo return comes about 2 years and 8 months after the release of his first mini-album “LIGHTS” in May 2023. That album featured entirely self-composed tracks and was praised for establishing JOOHEON’s unique musical universe. His new release is expected to showcase an even broader musical spectrum and artistic depth befitting his 10th year in the industry.
Since his debut, JOOHEON has served as MONSTA X’s main rapper, producer, and songwriter, shaping the group’s distinctive identity. He is widely recognized by both domestic and international audiences as a “versatile artist,” capable of delivering powerful rap, strong vocals, and handling writing, composition, and arrangement.
Before his official solo debut, JOOHEON made a mark internationally with his mixtapes. His 2018 release “DWTD (Do What They Do)” charted on iTunes and the Billboard World Albums in the U.S., achieving notable global success. In 2020, “PSYCHE” reached #2 on iTunes Top K-Pop Albums and Worldwide Albums charts across 30 countries, confirming his strength as a solo artist.
Having already established a global presence, JOOHEON is expected to bring his full musical expertise to this new album. Each previous release has demonstrated his versatility and limitless growth, and the beginning of 2026 will be the chance to see how he captivates fans both in Korea and internationally once again.
In addition to his musical activities, JOOHEON’s appearances on variety shows have heightened anticipation for this comeback. He was selected as the MC for his recently launched solo web show in October, “착한 심부름센터-심청이”, showcasing not only his charm and humor but also his entertainment skills, which are expected to synergize positively with his new solo activities.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: SNS MONSTA X
