MODYSSEY Exclusive Interview: The 'Home Race' Winners Leading K-Pop’s Next Global Wave

by - 16:34:00

In the neon-lit backstage corridors of Kansai Collection Spring/Summer 2026, a new chapter in K-pop quietly began. MODYSSEY (모디세이), Hengyu, Fan Zheyi, Li Zihao, Lynnlynn, Suren, Yichen, and Rowan are not just another debut group; they are the product of resilience, precision, and a second chance taken at full force.

The seven-member act, created through PLANET C: HOME RACE, following their near breakout on Boys II Planet, has already caught the world’s attention. Their debut single “HOOK”, produced by Stray Kids’ 3RACHA, brings a sharp, high-energy sound that signals the arrival of a new K-pop force.

This exclusive interview is brought to you by OTS Magazine UK in collaboration with our international partner InstyleAsia ahead of their upcoming performance at KCON Japan 2026.
MODYSSEY Exclusive Interview: The 'Home Race' Winners Leading K-Pop’s Next Global Wave
Your impressions of Kansai Collection 2026SS in Osaka?
HENGYU:
“Thank you for inviting us to such a meaningful event. We feel deeply honoured and grateful. Being able to stand on such a large stage even before our official debut feels like an incredible beginning.”

FAN ZHEYI:
“This was my first time visiting Osaka. I feel truly honoured to have such a valuable opportunity before my debut; it feels like a wonderful start. The atmosphere at the venue was vibrant and unforgettable.”

LI ZIHAO:
“I’ve always wanted to visit Japan, so I’m very happy to have had this opportunity through Kansai Collection. Standing on stage for the first time before debut meant a lot to me.”

LYNNLYNN:
“This is my first time in Osaka, and it feels refreshing and exciting. The food is especially amazing.”

Three things you love about Osaka?
YICHEN:
“Osaka is a food capital, so I would recommend three must-try dishes: takoyaki, kushikatsu, and sukiyaki.”

HENGYU:
“The beautiful scenery and the abundance of food left a strong impression on me. Most importantly, I was able to create wonderful memories with the members.”

ROWAN:
“The streets, the atmosphere, and the warmth of the people. The city feels harmonious; even with so much happening, nothing feels overwhelming.

Someone once approached me outside a convenience store and asked if I was a singer or an idol. Since we hadn’t debuted yet, I said I was just visiting, but they still complimented me. I had heard Osaka people were warm, and it was truly heartwarming to experience that firsthand.”
MODYSSEY Exclusive Interview
The most challenging moment in your artistic journey?
SUREN:
“Each member had a different training period, so it was difficult to stay aligned. But by supporting one another, we were able to grow together and find our rhythm.”

LYNNLYNN:
“The language barrier has been the most challenging for me. I’m working hard to improve every day.”

YICHEN:
“Both in my career and in life, I’ve faced many challenges. I see them as part of the process of growth. The most important thing is to never give up; each challenge brings you closer to who you want to become.”

Your future goals and dreams?
FAN ZHEYI:
“I want to continue improving and share more with our fans, MODU. I hope more people will come to love our music, and that we can create many unforgettable stages together.”

HENGYU:
“Our fans are called MODU, which means ‘everyone’ in Korean. Our goal is to create a world where everyone can be happy together.”

LI ZIHAO:
“I would love to expand our activities in Japan, including fan concerts, autograph events, TV appearances, and even releasing a Japanese album.”

YICHEN:
“First, I want to ensure our debut is successful. Then I’d like to explore different creative fields, such as acting and YouTube.”
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MODYSSEY
If you could perform in the UK, where would be your preferred location?
SUREN:
“I would love to perform in London.”

LYNNLYNN:
“London is very appealing; it’s a large city full of art and culture.”

ROWAN:
“I would be happy anywhere I can meet fans. I’d love to try street performances and, one day, perform at Wembley Stadium like artists such as Taylor Swift.”

HENGYU:
“Wherever we can meet fans is meaningful to me. I would also love to try street performances.”

FAN ZHEYI:
“I believe every place where we meet MODU will become a wonderful memory.”

Where and how do you find inspiration?
SUREN:
“I often find inspiration in night views; my senses feel more alive at night.”

LI ZIHAO:
“I draw inspiration from emotional experiences, as well as from the knowledge and ideas I encounter.”

ROWAN:
“My imagination and dreams inspire me. When I have an idea, I act on it immediately so I don’t lose it.”

Lessons from working globally?
HENGYU:
“I’ve learned that even across languages and cultures, sincere communication is what matters most.”

SUREN:
“Knowing that people around the world support me is something that makes me incredibly happy.”

LI ZIHAO:
“Sincerity is the most important thing wherever you go. I want to connect with people and bring joy through performance.”

Interests beyond music?
LYNNLYNN:
“I enjoy listening to other artists and playing games.”

HENGYU:
“I’ve been fully focused on preparing for our debut.”

ROWAN:
“I’m interested in creative expression—writing, visuals, music, and performance. I want to express my inner world and connect with people through it.”

Recent and upcoming projects?
ALL:
“Our first song and music video were released on April 13. Please listen and support us.”

FAN ZHEYI:
“It has a catchy and addictive melody. We hope it stays with you and that you’ll continue to support us.”
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MODYSSEY
A message to global fans?
LI ZIHAO:
“Let’s continue walking this path together toward our goals.”

LYNNLYNN:
“Thank you for your support; I will repay you with my best performances. I love you.”

YICHEN:
“We are preparing with everything we have. Please continue to support us.”

FAN ZHEYI:
“I’m so excited and a little nervous to finally meet you as an official idol. I will keep growing and show you even better sides of myself.”

ROWAN:
“Will you come and see us before the cherry blossoms fall?”

SUREN:
“Please believe in MODYSSEY.”

HENGYU:
“Thank you for always supporting us. I will continue to grow; let’s meet often.”
_________
ABOUT MODYSSEY
MODYSSEY is a seven-member global K-pop group formed through PLANET C: HOME RACE (2025), a second-chance survival series spotlighting standout Chinese trainees from Boys II Planet.

The group operates under a major joint venture between CJ ENM, JYP Entertainment, and Tencent Music Entertainment.

They officially debuted on April 13, 2026, with their single album:
“1. Got Hooked: An Addictive Symphony.”

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OFFICIAL CHANNELS 
Instagram: @MODYSSEY.OFFICIAL 
X: @MODYSSEYWORLD
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Magazine: @otsmagazineuk
InstyleAsia: @instyleasia

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