South Korea’s music industry has seen many stars rise and fall. But few have captured hearts like Park Gunwook. This talented singer, rapper, and dancer signed to Jellyfish Entertainment has been on a roller-coaster journey to stardom.
![[페이스캠4K] 제로베이스원 박건욱 'In Bloom' (ZEROBASEONE PARK GUNWOOK FaceCam) @SBS Inkigayo 230716](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6eqhdKmWM0U/hqdefault.jpg)
제로베이스원 박건욱 ‘In Bloom’ (ZEROBASEONE PARK GUNWOOK FaceCam) @SBS Inkigayo
In August 2021, Gunwook first stepped into the limelight as a contestant on the MBC survival show Wild Idol. His rap skills were undeniable, earning him a spot in the finale. Unfortunately, despite his talent, he missed out on the chance to debut in TAN. But as they say, when one door closes, another opens.
Fast forward to December 29, 2022. Gunwook returned to the survival show circuit, this time on Mnet’s Boys Planet. Representing Jellyfish Entertainment again, he showed off his determination and skills. By the show’s end, he placed fifth and secured a spot in the debut lineup. As part of the fifth-generation group ZEROBASEONE, Gunwook has been on a winning streak. He and his members clinched numerous awards, including the coveted K Global Super Rookie Award in 2023.
What truly sets Park Gunwook apart
But what truly sets Gunwook apart? A former Wild Idol staffer shared a heartwarming account of their brief interaction with him. The staffer reminisced, “When I first saw Gunwook, it was such a pleasant memory. Most trainees were shy, so they barely greeted us. But as soon as he entered, he shouted, ‘I’m Park Gunwook from Jellyfish! Thank you for this opportunity!'”
야생돌 때 티저 촬영 스탭분께서
디엠으로 남겨주신 건욱이 일화 .ᐟ티저 촬영 때 앞 순서가 딜레이 됐어서 꽤 기다렸을 텐데도 “뒤에 분들도 딜레이 되지 않을까요?” 하며 교복 말고 춤+개인기 때 입으려고 준비해 온 의상이 있는데도 춤도 교복 입고 춰도 된다며.. 본인이 먼저 배려해 놓고는… pic.twitter.com/8gdojUAvvv
— 아로 (@parkgw__) August 18, 2023
The staffer continued, “Even though Gunwook had to wait a while because the previous segment was delayed, he was concerned about the delay for those scheduled to shoot their teasers after him. He had prepared outfits for his dance and individual talent, but he said he could dance in his school uniform. It turned out he wore his outfit under his school uniform because he thought he might not have time to change due to the delay.”
Gunwook‘s dedication was evident throughout the shoot. “He jumped rope multiple times,” recalled the staffer. “Even though he must have been exhausted, he kept doing it when the staff told him to rest. He also prepared multiple dances, songs, and raps on his own.”
His pleasant nature
But it wasn’t just his work ethic that stood out. His gratitude and thoughtfulness were impressive too “The lighting director at the time adjusted the background color to match the trainee’s image or outfit. When asked if pink was OK, he said, ‘I love it! I love pink.’ After finishing, he thanked all the staff. He made a point of going over to the lighting director to thank him for his consideration.”
![[극한데뷔 야생돌 퍼포먼스] 야생돌 16호 댄스_Stray Kids ' 神메뉴 ' , MBC 202109 방송](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/60UDmfArqPE/hqdefault.jpg)
Wild Idol No. 16 Dance_Stray Kids ‘God’s Menu’, MBC 202109 broadcast
The staffer concluded with a touching memory. “When he left, he drank all the remaining water in one go and even separated the plastic wrapping for recycling. He was such a considerate young man. I remember that. Even though five to sixty trainees who didn’t make it on the broadcast also shot individual teasers, Gunwook was sincerely my top pick. I still support him so much!”
Gunwook‘s actions during that shoot said a lot about his character. In the entertainment industry, talent is essential, but character is what truly endears an artist to everyone around them. Gunwook is proof that genuine dedication and kindness can leave an indelible mark. As he continues to do well in ZEROBASEONE, colleagues and fans alike can attest to the pleasant nature of this rising star. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: He’s not just charming, he’s considerate too. Source: Twitter/@beeforyou0110.