K-Pop Legends H.O.T. Reunite for First Time in 7 Years on 'Newsroom'

The iconic first-generation K-pop group H.O.T. made a highly anticipated reunion on JTBC's 'Newsroom', appearing as a complete five-member unit for the first time in seven years.

Members Moon Hee-joon, Jang Woo-hyuk, Tony An, Kangta, and Lee Jae-won graced the broadcast on November 28th, sharing their feelings about being together again after such a long hiatus. Jang Woo-hyuk expressed his surprise, stating, "It feels surreal seeing the five of us together after so long," while Moon Hee-joon humorously likened the experience to "AI 합성 (AI synthesis)."

Kangta confirmed that it had been approximately seven years since their last full group broadcast in 2018. The members reminisced about their past achievements, including selling over a million albums with every release and the infamous "no-leaving-early" order implemented to control student absences to see H.O.T. perform. Moon Hee-joon recalled their debut stage as the most unforgettable moment, saying, "Even though it was almost 29 years ago, it still comes to me in dreams sometimes. The feeling of dancing hard with the members, the energy, it's still vivid."

When asked to pick a song everyone could sing together, Jang Woo-hyuk suggested "빛 (Light)" with the feeling of "starting anew." The group then performed the song, showcasing their undiminished vocal harmony and performance skills.

Addressing the influence of H.O.T. on the emerging group 'K-pop Demon Hunters' (K-Deheon), Tony An expressed his gratitude, saying, "I didn't expect the director to mention it directly. I'm thankful and really want to meet them someday." Kangta added with a laugh, "At first, I didn't know. I couldn't imagine we were used as a model. But after the director mentioned it, I noticed the hairstyles of Woo-hyuk hyung and Hee-joon hyung."

Regarding the reason for their reunion, Lee Jae-won explained, "We all secretly wished to promote together," but "it wasn't easy due to our different activities and paths." He continued, "We had a great opportunity with an event this time, and our hearts aligned, so we are very happy."

As they approach their 29th anniversary, Moon Hee-joon expressed anticipation for their 30th anniversary next year and suggested, "How about holding a concert once a year?" further exciting fans.

H.O.T. is set to headline the 'Hanteo Music Festival' at the Incheon Inspire Arena from November 22nd to 23rd.

Netizens flooded online communities with comments expressing their joy, such as "Seeing H.O.T. together again brings tears to my eyes," and "It feels like a dream to see them after 7 years." Many also voiced their strong desire for future concerts, especially in anticipation of their 30th anniversary.