🥂 From Maknae to Main Event: KANG YUCHAN Pops Off in Solo Debut “Champagne Poppin’”

The champagne has officially been popped—and KANG YUCHAN is stepping boldly into his solo era. On July 10, 2025, A.C.E’s youngest member made his highly anticipated solo debut with the single “Champagne Poppin’,” a bold, stylish track that makes one thing clear: this isn’t just a side project—it’s a full-on transformation. Known for his bright stage energy and boy-next-door charm within the group, Yuchan now unveils a more mature, edgier image—complete with a confident smirk, sharp moves, and a dangerously addictive beat.

“Champagne Poppin’” blends the pulse of UK garage with the slickness of modern dance-pop, resulting in a rhythm-heavy track that’s impossible not to move to. The sound is layered and polished, but also carries a sense of freedom—there’s space in the production for Yuchan to flirt, flex, and finesse every note. The song’s rhythm hits hard, but it’s the lyrics that linger. With lines like “I love it when you doubt me,” Yuchan plays with vulnerability and ego in a way that feels fresh and provocative. He contributed to the songwriting himself, adding a personal layer to an already compelling debut. The track’s overall sonic direction was shaped by the powerhouse producing duo HELLO GLOOM and dogshampoo, both under his new label WAY BETTER, whose signature sleekness and edge give the single a distinct flavor that sets it apart from the usual solo idol fare.

Matching the intensity of the track is the music video, directed by artist and visual director from20. Known for his cinematic style and dynamic framing, from20 crafts a visual that feels like both a high-fashion film and a late-night fever dream. Yuchan doesn’t just perform—he inhabits every scene with a cool, unwavering presence. From shadow-lit rooftop moments to strobe-lit dance cuts, the video captures his shift from group member to full-blown soloist with total clarity. Adding even more star power to the screen is international fashion model Park Heejung, whose effortless charisma plays perfectly alongside Yuchan’s growing magnetism. The chemistry between the two adds a thrilling tension, pushing the concept of the video from slick to unforgettable.

The choreography—sharp, fluid, and confidently restrained—comes from Wootae, who fans will recognize from MNET’s Street Man Fighter. Rather than overloading the routine with fast tricks or flashy moves, Wootae’s choreography leans into controlled precision. Every beat hits with purpose. Every movement tells you: this is a man who knows who he is. For Yuchan, it’s a chance to show that performance doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. It's a showcase of his physical control and evolving artistic identity—and fans are here for it.

But while this single may feel like a sudden turn for casual listeners, long-time fans know KANG YUCHAN has been building toward this moment for years. He debuted in 2017 as the youngest member of A.C.E, quickly catching attention for his stage energy, charisma, and distinct vocal color. In 2018, he entered the competitive survival show The Unit and earned a spot as a finalist, later joining the project group UNB and expanding his fanbase further. As if that wasn’t enough, he also made waves as an actor—most notably for his breakout role as Son Bohyun in the beloved web drama Twenty-Twenty, where his performance earned praise for its emotional depth and nuance. In 2025, he took yet another leap—making his musical theatre debut in The Anarchist, showcasing his versatility as a performer who thrives across genres and formats.

Each chapter in his career so far has shown a new side of Yuchan, but this solo debut marks a defining pivot. According to a representative from WAY BETTER, the team behind his new era, “KANG YUCHAN is an artist with limitless potential to evolve from an idol into a true artist and global pop star. Starting with this solo debut, he will showcase his unique worldview and performance style to audiences around the world.” And with “Champagne Poppin’,” he’s doing just that—balancing sleek visuals with bold vocals, crafting his own lyrics, and stepping into a new creative lane with confidence.

His first live solo performance of “Champagne Poppin’” is set to take place this August at KCON LA, one of the largest global stages for K-pop artists and rising soloists alike. The anticipation is building—and with a debut this strong, it’s safe to say all eyes will be on Yuchan when he hits that stage.

You can experience it for yourself by watching the full music video for “Champagne Poppin’” on YouTube and streaming the single on all major platforms. Whether you’ve followed KANG YUCHAN since his debut days or you’re just discovering his artistry now, this solo debut is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for him!