THE WIND
From school desks to the spotlight of the K-pop stage, the members of THE WIND are reaching a crucial milestone: coming of age. A look back at the graduation ceremonies of HAYUCHAN and HANBIN.
It all begins early in the morning, in the intimacy of a car ride. For HAYUCHAN and HANBIN, the members born in 2007, the emotion is palpable. Between excitement and melancholy, they realize it’s the very last time they’re putting on their high school uniform.
“I feel like I’ve been in a meltdown since last week. Thinking that my student life is ending makes me a little sad. It’s a bittersweet feeling.” — HAYUCHAN
Arriving at the famous Hanlim Arts High School, HAYUCHAN plays along with the photo wall with disarming professionalism before heading to his classroom. There, we discover a brilliant young man who successfully balanced his career and studies, even receiving an academic excellence award for his results in mathematics and Japanese.
The idol shared a funny anecdote about his early days at school: on the day of his transfer exam, he had forgotten his water bottle and had to drink tap water in the bathroom out of sheer stress! His friends, present to support him, are full of praise: “Even in the middle of summer, he wore his full uniform. He was a real role model.”
A few days later, it’s HANBIN’s turn to say goodbye to high school. For the occasion, the other members of THE WIND organized a big surprise. HANBIN made sure to order flowers and buy chocolates (the favorites of HAYUCHAN and the others) to mark the moment.
In HANBIN’s classroom, the atmosphere is electric. His friends describe him as a warm student, affectionately nicknamed “Conan” by the members because of his style that day. But the most touching moment remains the appearance of his parents, whose tears surprised the young artist.
“Why are you crying, mom? I didn’t think she would cry!” — HANBIN, moved in front of his family.
The day ended, as tradition dictates, around a good meal (a celebratory Jjamppong!). For the older members of the group, seeing the “babies” of the “07 line” become adults is a shock. CHANWON even promised to organize a special ceremony within the agency for those who couldn’t experience a traditional graduation.
HANBIN, now looking toward the future, concludes with maturity:
“Up until now, I’ve only shown my youthful side. From now on, I hope to show new charms as an adult.”
A page is turning for THE WIND, but the future looks brighter than ever for these young artists who keep growing, both on stage and in life.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: YouTube THE WIND