HEYOON on seriously unserious (...and then some)

Music

In an industry that often rewards overthinking, HEYOON is choosing something far more instinctive. With the release of her new EP seriously unserious (…and then some), the global pop artist leans into a freer, more playful chapter, one that prioritises energy, movement and emotional release over perfection.

Having already built an international following through her time in Now United, and later carving out a distinct solo identity with a string of well-received releases, HEYOON now returns with music that feels deliberately unrestrained. Spanning club-ready beats and vibrant collaborations, including the standout track Swipe with Lou Garcia, the EP captures an artist embracing spontaneity while still maintaining a clear sense of direction.

Splitting her time between Seoul and Los Angeles, HEYOON operates within a global rhythm, one that blends sound, style and cultural perspective into a fluid, evolving identity. But beneath the high-energy production and carefree mantra lies something more intentional: a shift away from pressure, towards presence.

In conversation with Vingt Sept, the musician speaks with a sense of clarity about growth, collaboration and the importance of not taking everything so seriously.

seriously unserious (…and then some) feels like both a mood and a statement. What was happening in your life that made you want to lean into that sense of release and lightness?

I was feeling pretty overwhelmed navigating my own creativity, and I wanted to feel free from putting myself in a box. That led me to write such a straightforward, ‘no overthinking’ EP.

The EP encourages listeners to “leave your brain at home and party,” which feels almost radical in a culture obsessed with optimisation. Was this a conscious push against that pressure?

I think we’re all overwhelmed with too much information sometimes. I’m just trying to create art that feels personal to me. I know people will connect more in that way.

Each track carries its own identity while still feeling cohesive. How did you approach building a project that balances playfulness with intention?

The whole process behind this project was not to overthink, so I chose songs that made me live more in my body than my head.

Swipe with Lou Garcia has a very global energy to it. What drew you specifically to Brazil as a cultural and musical reference point?

The fans! I always want to learn more about my fans, and my Brazilian fans have always been my day ones <3

Your connection with Lou feels genuine beyond the track. How important is chemistry and friendship when you collaborate? 

I think energy transcends and is reflected in the music. Lou is such an inspiring artist, and she’s my girl! I can’t wait to celebrate this EP with her.

You’ve performed across more than 30 countries with Now United. How has that shaped the way you think about making music for a global audience today?

It changed me in every way. I have so much empathy for people after that experience, which is very important for my creativity. That experience also created new goals and dreams.

There’s a noticeable shift from your earlier solo releases like Pivot and ASAP to this more carefree, club-driven sound. What does this evolution represent for you creatively?

It reflects what I’m going through at that precise moment. They're all versions of me, and I think I needed this EP for myself more than anyone else, because I wanted to be able to create without overthinking things.

You split your time between Seoul and Los Angeles. How do those two cities influence your sound, your identity, and the way you approach your artistry?

Seoul will always feel like home to me, and LA has taught me so much about myself and my creativity. Being able to be inspired by different spaces is so critical to me.

Your work sits at the intersection of music and fashion. How intentional is that relationship for you when building your visual and sonic world?

I think it comes hand in hand. Music and fashion are both ways of expression and translations of the self. I’m always trying to show up as ‘myself’ as much as I can.

With such a strong digital following, how do you maintain a sense of authenticity while constantly being visible to millions?

Social media definitely helps me stay connected and get more personal with my fans. Also, having good people around you who keep you grounded is so important.

This EP feels like an invitation to let go, but what do you hope listeners take with them once the music stops?

I want them to feel free, fearless and want to replay it all over again :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxKN9Ok7qHI

seriously unserious (…and then some) is out now

Words by Jheanelle Feanny