“My Musical Journey Has Only Just Begun” — ILHOON Opens Up About ‘The Adam’ in Exclusive Interview

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Get an inside look at ILHOON’s journey through his first full-length album, as he opens up about its creation in this exclusive interview.

ILHOON has long been recognized as an artist who crafts music with intention, seamlessly blending R&B, hip-hop, and pop to create a sound that is uniquely his own. As a producer, singer-songwriter, and rapper, he is deeply involved in every aspect of his music, from topline writing to rap making and track production. ILHOON has shown time and again that his talents go beyond just performing; he is an artist who brings his entire vision to life. His work consistently pushes boundaries and evolves with every release, showcasing a level of creativity and depth that resonates with listeners. With each new project, ILHOON continues to demonstrate an exceptional ability to connect with his audience through both his sound and his artistry.

Released on April 30th, 2025, ‘The Adam’ marks a significant milestone in ILHOON’s career as his first full-length album. Featuring twelve tracks, including previously released singles like “Lullaby,” “moonwalk,” and “jamesdean,” the album introduces the mesmerizing title track, “Michaelangelo.” As the driving force behind the album’s production, ILHOON has poured his creative energy into crafting a cohesive, immersive experience, blending sounds inspired by light, darkness, art, and nature. The album not only highlights his evolution as a solo artist but also unveils his unique aesthetic, awakening the listener’s senses with every beat and lyric.

In this exclusive interview, ILHOON discusses ‘The Adam’ and how it represents an artistic and personal milestone. He shares his approach to crafting an album that not only reflects his growth as a solo artist but also pushes his creative boundaries. From the concept behind the title track, “Michaelangelo,” to his experience as the driving force behind the album’s production, ILHOON gives us a closer look at the vision behind the music.

Hellokpop: Hi ILHOON! Thank you for chatting. It’s been about six months since we last spoke around the release of “Lullaby.” How have you been lately, both personally and musically

ILHOON: I’ve been releasing songs as singles that tell the story leading up to ‘The Adam’ album! Personally, I’ve spent a lot of time either working on CPTZ’s tasks or creating new music and artwork for the regular album. I also went to shoot the music video for the new album! These days, it feels like I don’t have time to relax except when I’m exercising.

HKP: You’ve been steadily releasing music and reconnecting with fans. How would you describe the energy surrounding you right now? What has been the fan reception to your return?

ILHOON: First of all, I’m most grateful to my fans, both those who have continued to love me and those who are just starting to. Everything that’s happened has gone beyond my expectations, and I look forward to even more good things in the future. I’m truly happy that so many fans appreciate and support my new music.

HKP: Your first full solo album was released on April 30th. What kind of stories or emotions were most important for you to capture, and is there a particular song that feels especially personal or pivotal?

ILHOON: The title track, “Michelangelo,” served as the foundation for planning the ‘The Adam’ album, so it contains a core message connected to Michelangelo. I wanted to convey a message about new pledges and hope gained through past experiences. I also put a lot of effort into including my emotional message not only in the lyrics but also in the music video, and I hope you enjoy it.

HKP: Was there anything new you tried creatively, whether in sound, writing, or production, that challenged or surprised you this time around?

ILHOON: Yes, in addition to the retro and acoustic feel of the old music, I worked to harness the advantages of both analog and digital. I minimized the musical arrangements and instrument compositions while focusing on maintaining the richness of the sound. In the past, I seemed to have calculated a lot while making music, but now I’m trying to work more intuitively and instinctively. I’ve come to feel more attracted to a natural feel.

HKP: What kind of journey do you hope listeners experience when they hear the album from start to finish?

ILHOON: This album is one that reflects my values and thoughts through my experiences. It constantly poses the question, “What is truly important in life?” Material and pleasure are not the themes of this album. Through sound, lyrics, and video, I hope that everyone can solidify their own dreams.

HKP: Were there any recurring themes, lyrically or musically, that naturally revealed themselves as the album came together?

ILHOON: If I were to summarize it in a few sentences, they might be: “Imagination becomes reality” and “What is there to worry about?”

HKP: You’ve now released three singles since your return. How would you describe the emotional or thematic arc that connects “Lullaby,” “moonwalk,” and “jamesdean”?

ILHOON: I don’t want to explain the work in detail because I believe every listener might experience it completely differently in their own life, and that feeling is the most important part of experiencing any art. I think saying, “This song is like this,” limits the imagination of the experiencer. However, since this music comes from a time of struggle, I sang about loneliness and love. In particular, “moonwalk” was made for me and my beloved fans who have been far away.

HKP: Across your recent releases, there’s a consistent thread of vulnerability. Has returning to music changed the way you express yourself in songwriting?

ILHOON: As I sing about the mind and the ideal rather than what is visible, my expressions tend to be largely abstract. I write lyrics and create songs as they come to me, without any planning involved in the process anymore.

HKP: What role does solitude or introspection play in your creative process these days? Do you find inspiration more in stillness or movement?

ILHOON: Inspiration arises in every moment. Personally, I feel that inspiration is not just something that suddenly comes up while doing something; rather, it emerges after various experiences accumulate together. I do not try to control this. I only write when I feel a strong urge to produce a song at irregular intervals. I’m not sure how much tranquility and inner reflection influence my musical activities, but my perspective on life has changed, so my experiences may feel different as a result.

HKP: How has your relationship with music evolved over the past six months, especially after putting out new work and reconnecting with listeners?

ILHOON: We’ve certainly become closer! Each single is a part of ‘The Adam.’ Since ‘The Adam’ showcases music created during solitude, I can’t change that mood. But thanks to the fans who love and listen to the songs, the new works I’m creating after the release are becoming brighter and fresher. It’s like when I’m expressionless in solitude, but when I meet people, I laugh.

HKP: You recently passed your 13th debut anniversary. When you reflect on your career so far, what moment feels most defining to you now?

ILHOON: Since I’m answering this before the release, I hope my first full-length album, ‘The Adam,’ becomes a defining moment. I believe it marks the intersection of the past and the future.

HKP: With your fan meeting, <1DAY ART CLASS>, coming up soon, how are you feeling about seeing fans in a more intimate setting? What are you most excited to share or experience together?

ILHOON: I want to have fun and engage with my fans, laughing and talking together. As both an artist and a fan, and as people, I want to share human emotions and let off steam with them. Art class is really just an excuse—it’s a gathering I created because I want to spend time with my fans.

HKP: Many international fans are hoping to see you live. Are there any plans or aspirations of meeting fans outside of Korea sometime in the future?

ILHOON: I also eagerly await opportunities to meet with global fans. If you call me, I will go there.

HKP: Is there anything else you’ve been thinking about or working on that you’d like to share before we close?

ILHOON: I’m currently preparing for both the album and the fan meeting at the same time, and my main focus is on that. However, my musical journey has only just begun, and you’ll get to see many different sides of me in the new works to come.

HKP: And lastly, is there anything you’d like to say directly to your fans who’ve been on this journey with you?

ILHOON: Thank you to Hellkpop for conducting this interview. I am always moved when I think of the fans who consistently support me. I will continue to love you without change, and I am endlessly grateful. Through music and our encounters, we will grow closer and stronger. Thank you once again.