Haon, who once said, “Everything perceived is passing,” joked, “Wait, does that mean I shouldn’t talk about money?” He mentioned that buying a house and car for his parents was already a story from five years ago, adding that “happiness is being able to rest comfortably at night.” Reflecting on his journey in ‘Show Me The Money’, he noted that his lyrics, “People say they’re already watching the final episode,” helped him rethink the meaning of his appearance on the show.
With views soaring for his “60-second rap mission” (5.6 million), “acapella rap” (2.63 million), “surprising verse” (1.77 million), and “Haon hitting legend status” (1.62 million), he remained the center of attention throughout the season. Ultimately, he emerged as the winner of ‘Show Me The Money 12’, stating, “Since I decided to appear on ‘Show Me The Money’, this moment is the only scenario I had imagined.”
We sat down for a written interview with Haon, who added another “win” to his hip-hop survival record after eight years.
Here is the Q&A.
Q1: After winning ‘High School Rapper 2’, you appeared on ‘Show Me The Money 12’. Having won a hip-hop survival show before must have been an honor, but also a burden. Do you remember the decisive moment you decided to join ‘Show Me The Money 12’?
A: Since the show returned after three years, I felt like every single person who raps in Korea would be appearing. I thought it would be frustrating to just watch from the sidelines, so I decided to join.
Q2: I believe musicians are people who tell “the stories they want to tell” through music. Did you get to say everything you wanted to on ‘Show Me The Money 12’?
A: Yes! And since then, I’ve found even more things I want to say.
Q3: Your acapella rap, featuring lyrics like “People say they’re already watching the final episode” and “Aspiring friends probably have to refer to me, 25 years old, sharp senses,” received huge cheers on site. While most of your stages were praised, the acapella rap had some mixed reactions from viewers. Are you aware of this? Why do you think opinions were divided?
A: It’s because there were elements that could be polarizing. However, the fact that those people couldn’t deny the lyrics was great data for me.
Q4: You have several shorts with over 1 million views, such as the “60-second rap mission,” “Haon proving himself once again,” and “Haon hitting legend status.” What did you focus on during each round?
A: Up until the second 60-second mission, I felt a strong need to show something incredible. During the third 1:1 mission, I immersed myself in the competitiveness I felt. In the team mission with Lee Woo-ju, Clutch, and Kim Gi-pyo, I felt that music is joyful when done together, which carried over to the team track mission. For the diss mission, I was greedy to make it worth watching compared to other diss battles I’ve seen. Finally, from the track missions onward, it was all about the things I wanted to say.
Q5: Viewers have praised your rap for being well-rounded and high-quality. What do you think is the strength of your rap? Conversely, what area do you think needs more development, and why?
A: I believe my rap taste, formed by listening to and practicing music my whole life, creates my current sound. Since most of the rap in the music I like has a clear and solid sound, I think that became a strength in the competition.
As for improvement, I feel I need to learn how to relax and take the pressure off. That way, I can better control the dynamics of my delivery.
Q6: Which of your own lyrics and which lyrics from others did you like most in ‘Show Me The Money 12’?
A: Mine: “On to the next, on to the next, on to the next, on to the next” (from Haon’s semi-final song ‘ON to the next’). Others: “Chyap cha chyapcha chachachyapcha” (from Milli’s final song ‘MSG’).
Q7: Many fans have loved your unique lyrics since ‘High School Rapper 2’. What do you focus on most when writing lyrics, and where do you get your inspiration?
A: I ask myself, “Is this fun to sing?” As for inspiration, I get it from things I encounter in life, media, and the emotions and experiences they give me.
Q8: Which stage were you most satisfied with this season, and why?
A: The final stage (R.I.L + King’s gambit)! I don’t feel like I made a single mistake.
Q9: After winning, you credited producers Zico and Crush, mentioning they helped you overcome various ups and downs. Could you tell us more?
A: First of all, the hyungs provided unstinting support for the entire Zico team’s stage compositions, even at their own expense. They suggested song themes and lyrics, and took care of everything from the dance team direction, stage, movement, lighting, and acting. I felt secure throughout the filming and could focus solely on rapping.
Q10: Is there a rapper you’ve come to respect through the competition? If so, who and why?
A: Milli was cool for being recognized globally with her own language and culture. From Rafsandu and Mav on my team, I learned the importance of controlling dynamics.
Q11: What is the biggest change in you before and after appearing on ‘Show Me The Money 12’?
A: I’ve gained more grit and tenacity. Money is just a bonus!
Q12: Your lyrics “Happiness isn’t expensive, it’s being able to rest comfortably at night” were impressive. What is happiness to you right now?
A: It seems to be the same. Peace of mind.
Q13: Many people are waiting for your new album. Could you give us a hint about any plans?
A: I’m thinking of making a group album, but I’m also planning a solo album.
Q14: Finally, do you have any words for the ‘Show Me The Money 12’ viewers and the fans who cheered you on?
A: I even went out of my way to look for the kind words people left. Every single one gave me strength, and I’m more grateful than words can express. I’ll be doing some fun things, so please keep an eye on me!
