Joshua Hong, known simply as Joshua, has become a prominent figure in the K-pop scene since moving from Los Angeles to Seoul over a decade ago. At just 28 years old, he has risen to fame as one of the 13 members of the globally celebrated group Seventeen. This weekend, the group is set to perform at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles as part of their fourth world tour, aptly named Seventeen Right Here.
The journey from L.A. to Seoul was not just a geographical shift for Joshua; it marked the beginning of a remarkable career in the music industry. Seventeen has made waves in both the Korean and international music markets, achieving significant milestones such as topping the Billboard Artist 100 Chart last year and having multiple albums reach the Top 10 of Billboard’s 200.
Despite his success, Joshua remains deeply connected to his roots in Los Angeles. During a recent interview conducted via Zoom from Seoul, he reflected on his experiences and memories from his hometown. Although he was on holiday in South Korea, Joshua dedicated his day off to discuss the group’s upcoming world tour, showcasing his commitment to his fans.
In a lighthearted moment during the interview, Joshua was put on the spot with an “L.A. accent” quiz, which caught him off guard. He humorously expressed his concerns about potentially forgetting the nuances of his hometown’s culture and landmarks. As he prepared to pronounce various California cities, he was pleasantly surprised by the memories they evoked.
“Everything was way bigger than I remembered,” Joshua admitted, reminiscing about the places he frequented in L.A. He noted how the city felt smaller upon his return, as he had missed out on the changes that occurred while he was abroad.
One of the current trends on TikTok highlights the unique way Californians pronounce certain words, particularly the dropping of the “t” sound in a phenomenon known as “flapping.” Joshua took part in this playful challenge, tackling the pronunciation of various California landmarks, including “Monterey Park,” “Santa Ana,” and “Sacramento.” His enthusiasm was palpable as he correctly pronounced “Wilshire Boulevard,” a name often mispronounced by those unfamiliar with the area.
Growing up in Los Angeles, Joshua has a rich history with the city, particularly in Koreatown and downtown. Before his rise to stardom, he attended downtown Magnets High School and was actively involved in his church’s praise team, which laid the foundation for his passion for music. His childhood memories are filled with adventures at Disneyland, visits to Six Flags, and leisurely days at the beach with friends.
Reflecting on his everyday life as a teenager, Joshua shared, “I have a lot of good memories. I just hung out with my friends at and outside church.” His routine often included school, followed by trips to popular spots like Quickly’s in Chinatown for boba or local eateries in Koreatown. Some evenings were spent practicing music with his church group, while others were dedicated to enjoying the diverse culinary offerings in downtown L.A.
As Seventeen prepares for their highly anticipated shows in Los Angeles, Joshua’s journey from a local L.A. boy to a K-pop superstar serves as an inspiring testament to his dedication and passion for music. His story resonates with fans across the globe, showcasing the blend of cultures and experiences that define his artistry.
With the excitement building for their performances, Joshua and the rest of Seventeen are set to deliver unforgettable shows that celebrate both their Korean heritage and their deep-rooted connections to Los Angeles. As they take the stage at BMO Stadium, fans can expect a vibrant display of talent, energy, and the unique charm that has made Seventeen a household name in the music industry.
