Majoring in K-pop is finally possible! Howon University has officially debuted its first girl group under the Department of K-pop. Comprising of seven first-year students, the group aims to focus on talents rather than visuals.
Established in 1977, Howon University is a private university located in Gunsan, South Korea. Split into six colleges, Howon University has been home to big names in K-pop, namely, Park Jinyoung (GOT7), RAVI (VIXX), Raina (After School), Park JaeHwan (WANNA ONE), Jun Ho (2PM) to name just a few.
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| GOT7's Jinyoung and 2PM's Jun Ho are Howon University alumni |
With the impressive list of alumni is was not surprising when the University opened the Department of K-pop in 2019. Typically most idols start training at a young age, however, Howon University aims to help aspiring idols branch out into the industry at a later age. The four-year course teaches students various styles of dance, singing, acting, songwriting, self-development and creative thinking.
Putting these skills to use, the rookie girl group, Azer, released the track "Elegante" on 4th March 2021. The moombahton track focuses on showcasing powerful yet feminine choreography and emphasizes each member’s individual voice.
The project was led by a former Big Mama member and head professor of the Department of K-Pop, Shin Yeon Ah. Wishing for Azer's bright future, Yeon Ah stated, "Through this process, I hope [Azer] carry the courage and sense of accomplishment not only through the rest of their school years but into the world of popular culture and art."