Kwon Hyuk, known by his stage name Dean, was born on October 11, 1992 in Seoul, South Korea. He discovered his passion for music at a young age, particularly drawn to hip hop during his middle school years. By the time he reached high school, he had already begun singing and exploring his vocal talents.
At the age of sixteen, Kwon Hyuk made his major debut in the music industry, performing alongside Keith Ape. This early exposure helped shape his musical style and laid the foundation for his future success as a singer-songwriter.
Dean's career took off when he released his debut EP "130 Mood : TRBL" in March 2016. The album showcased his unique sound and garnered critical acclaim, establishing him as a rising star in the Korean music scene.
His talent as a songwriter and collaborator soon caught the attention of industry heavyweights, leading to successful partnerships with artists such as Dynamic Duo, iKON, and Lee Hi. Dean's versatile style and ability to bridge Korean and American music markets set him apart as a truly global artist.
In 2017, Dean joined the popular Korean rap competition show "Show Me the Money" as a judge, further solidifying his reputation as a respected voice in the industry. His contributions to the show and his creative collaborations continued to expand his fan base and elevate his status as a musical innovator.
Dean's stage name was inspired by the iconic actor James Dean, known for his rebellious spirit and artistic independence. Like his namesake, Dean embodies a sense of defiance and originality in his music, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
Despite his growing fame and success, Dean remains grounded in his roots, staying true to his Korean heritage and upbringing in Hongeun-dong, Seoul. His passion for music and dedication to his craft have endeared him to fans around the world, earning him a devoted following.
In July 2015, Dean made his debut in the United States with the single "I'm Not Sorry," featuring Eric Bellinger. The song marked a new chapter in his career, expanding his reach to international audiences and solidifying his place as a global music sensation.