CLEAUN: “I've never stopped challenging myself or chasing my dreams.”

CLEAUN describes starting a label, gratitude for his time in VAV, his past and future music, and more.

Photo courtesy of Layback Corp.

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “CLEAUN is ___” or “CLEAUN's music is ___”?
“CLEAUN is trend-driven, stylish, and authentic.” I've always been heavily influenced by American hip-hop, and that influence will always be part of my identity. Rather than making music simply because it's what the public wants, I want to create music that I personally believe is cool and timeless. My goal is for people to recognize CLEAUN as an artist with his own unique style and artistic identity.

Who or what first inspired you to pursue a music career?
The artist who first inspired me was Rain. Watching him perform made me think, “That's exactly what I want to become.” His stage presence, confidence, and charisma motivated me to dream of becoming a singer myself.

What is the story behind your stage name?
“CLEAUN” comes from the word “clip.” I wanted a name that symbolizes recording and preserving my music forever, as if every song is another clip of my life that will remain even after I'm gone.

Photo courtesy of Layback Corp.

I'm curious what it was like to start your own company. When and why did you officially decide to start PTMPIRATION RECORDS?
I've dreamed of building my own company since I was about 25, after debuting as an idol. I wanted to create a hip-hop label that could support talented artists who share the same passion for music that I do. After leaving VAV, I even took out a loan and traveled to the United States on my own to introduce my music and build connections. Through those experiences, I realized how difficult it can be for independent artists to access international opportunities. That's why I created PTMPIRATION RECORDS, to help artists who have talent but lack the network or infrastructure to release music and expand globally.

Can you explain the meaning behind the company name?
PTMPIRATION RECORDS was inspired by the symbolism and philosophy of Pluto. The “PTM” represents both the “P” for Pluto and the idea of a “Trademark,” reflecting my belief that every artist should become a unique and recognizable brand. The word “Playtion” is an original concept derived from the word “Inspiration,” symbolizing artists born from different inspirations who come together to create a new culture through music. Our vision is to connect creativity, individuality, and artistic energy into one global movement.

What have been the best and worst parts of running a record label?
Honestly, there haven't been many difficult moments yet. The most rewarding part has been seeing myself build relationships with well-known American hip-hop artists — something I never imagined would happen. Every new challenge and every opportunity to expand into a bigger global market motivates me even more. Building those connections and watching the label grow has been one of the most exciting parts of my journey.

Photo courtesy of Layback Corp.

What memories stand out the most from your time in VAV? Do you ever miss being in a group?
I still keep in touch with the members today. Although I left the group before completing my contract, which disappointed many fans, I will always cherish that chapter of my life. After six years of training, finally debuting as an idol was a dream come true. It proved that all of those years of hard work weren't wasted, and that experience will always remain one of the most valuable memories of my career.

Did time in a boy band teach you lessons that are helpful now as a solo artist? 
Absolutely. K-pop is respected all over the world, and although the musical style wasn't exactly what I personally wanted to pursue long-term, my time in VAV made me stronger both professionally and personally. It taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Those experiences became the foundation that allows me to confidently stand today as a solo artist. I consider it an incredibly valuable part of my journey.

Please talk about each of these songs:

“Unique Voice” with Ted Park: I first reached out to Ted Park through Instagram DMs and shared my music with him. Thankfully, he genuinely connected with the sound, and he gladly agreed to feature on the track. I'm still very grateful for that.

The “Feeling” Remix: The collaboration with legendary Korean artist Kim Wan-sun happened through Jihoon, a choreographer from the Korean dance team SLAM BEAT. At first, we were only planning to work on a remixed arrangement, but it naturally evolved into her recording vocals as well. Everyone loved the result, [so] we decided to officially release it.

“Air Resistance”: I've always wanted to release a club-oriented record, so producer Dax Hood and I created “Air Resistance” almost spontaneously. It started as a fun project, but I'm really happy with how it turned out.

“IN YOUR FACE”: My newest release was planned together with the SLAM BEAT choreography team over the course of a year. It represents my identity and the musical direction I want to pursue in the future. Ironically, the song itself was actually completed in just two days. Even though many people still haven't discovered it yet, I believe it perfectly represents who I am as an artist.

Do you plan to ever go back to uploading to SoundCloud?
At the moment, I don't have any plans to return to SoundCloud. Right now, my full focus is on officially releasing albums and continuing to build my discography.

What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
In the short term, I want more people to discover who CLEAUN is, both in Korea and internationally. I want to perform around the world and continue building my brand. Long-term, I hope to invite international hip-hop artists to Korea, organize large-scale concerts, and grow PTMPIRATION RECORDS into one of Korea's leading hip-hop labels and global entertainment companies.

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?
First of all, I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me and waited for me over the years. Because of those fans, I've never stopped challenging myself or chasing my dreams. Going forward, I want to create more than just music. I'm preparing projects that combine entertainment, business, and K-pop culture into something much bigger. More importantly, I hope all of us who share this world can live meaningful, valuable lives together. Thank you for believing in me, and I'll continue doing my best.

Check out CLEAUN’s newest single here!

View the Substack version of this piece here!

Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.