Jeon Won-woo, known mononymously as Wonwoo, is a South Korean rapper and singer who has risen to international fame as a key member of the globally renowned boy band Seventeen. Born on July 17, 1996, Wonwoo is celebrated for his deep, resonant voice, sharp lyrical abilities, and composed stage presence, making him a standout figure in the competitive landscape of K-pop. As part of the hip-hop team within Seventeen, he has contributed significantly to the group’s diverse discography and reputation for self-produced music.
Wonwoo was born in Busan, South Korea, and later moved to Seoul to pursue his dreams in the entertainment industry. He trained under Pledis Entertainment, where he honed his skills in rap and performance alongside future groupmates. His journey to debut was marked by perseverance, as he participated in the reality show Seventeen TV and the group’s pre-debut project, which showcased his talents to a growing fanbase. In 2015, he officially debuted as a member of Seventeen with the extended play 17 Carat, which included the hit single “Adore U.” The group quickly gained recognition for their synchronized choreography, self-producing capabilities, and unique unit system, which divides members into performance, vocal, and hip-hop teams.
As a rapper in Seventeen’s hip-hop team, Wonwoo has been instrumental in crafting the group’s sound, often co-writing and composing lyrics for tracks that explore themes of youth, love, and self-reflection. His contributions to albums such as Love & Letter, Teen, Age, and An Ode have earned critical acclaim, with the latter winning the Album of the Year award at the 2019 Mnet Asian Music Awards. Wonwoo’s solo works, including the song “Spider,” which he performed for Seventeen’s special project, further highlight his versatility as an artist. His deep voice and emotive delivery have made him a fan favorite, particularly in tracks like “Don’t Wanna Cry” and “Home.”
In addition to his work with Seventeen, Wonwoo has expanded his artistic horizons as part of the sub-unit JxW, alongside fellow member Jeonghan. Formed in 2024, JxW released the single “OK,” which showcased a more mature and introspective side of the duo. This collaboration allowed Wonwoo to explore new musical styles and deepen his connection with fans. He has also been involved in various collaborations, including a cover of Lee Seung-gi’s “Because You’re My Woman” and features on tracks by other artists, demonstrating his adaptability as a musician.
Wonwoo’s influence extends beyond music, as he has become a style icon and a beloved figure in variety shows. He has appeared on programs such as Knowing Bros and The Return of Superman, where his calm demeanor and quick wit have endeared him to audiences. His philanthropic efforts, including donations to children’s charities and participation in environmental campaigns, reflect his commitment to using his platform for positive change. As of 2025, Wonwoo continues to thrive with Seventeen, releasing new music and embarking on world tours, solidifying his legacy as a multifaceted artist who has left an indelible mark on the global music scene.