After almost ten years as one of NCT’s most talented performers, Lee Haechan, known offstage as Lee Dong Hyuck, is finally stepping out on his own. This is a huge moment in his career as he gears up to release a solo album next month.
On August 18 at midnight, SM Entertainment dropped the 1st teaser for his upcoming full album along with the release date. As per the announcement, Haechan will drop his first-ever debut studio album, “Taste,” on September 8 at 6 PM.
Fans have been eagerly waiting for this since SM Entertainment confirmed the news on July 29.
Known as NCT’s main vocalist, Haechan’s solo album “Taste” is expected to showcase his smooth, emotional voice.
People are guessing he might blend styles like R&B, pop, and jazz—genres he has hinted at before in OSTs such as “Good Person” and “The Reason I Like You.” Fans also hope to hear some songs he wrote himself, since he has contributed to NCT’s music in the past.
Currently, he is juggling this solo debut while staying active with NCT DREAM and NCT 127. The group is currently on their world tour, visiting cities like Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Jakarta. Haechan just finished promoting NCT DREAM’s fifth album Go Back To The Future and appeared on Mark’s solo track “+82 Pressin’” earlier this year.
The 25-year-old K-pop star didn’t rush into going solo; he focused on group activities for a long time. But seeing his fellow members succeed with their own projects inspired him to start preparing in 2024.
From a shy rookie debuting at 16 in 2016 to a confident artist ready to shine on his own, “Taste” will show how much he has grown. He is now the seventh NCT member to release solo music, following the footsteps of Taeyong, Mark, Ten, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Yuta. Another member Jungwoo, is scheduled to debut solo later this year.
When the album drops in September, expect plenty of promotions, including music shows and live performances. If all goes well, a solo mini-tour might be on the horizon, too.
Meanwhile, Haechan’s “Taste” will hit major music platforms on September 8.