Some artists resist being defined by one role. For Joo Wondae, known as a singer, model, and DJ, creativity is a constant thread that ties together the many stages he walks on. From global fashion runways to music festivals in Europe and Asia, he moves with ease between spotlight and sound.
Interview with Joo Wondae on DJing, Fashion, and Inspiration
We caught up with Joo Wondae at the Milan Loves Seoul event to discuss his journey into DJing, how fashion and music intersect in his career, and the playlist that inspires him right now.
Q: You have been introduced to the public as a singer, model, and DJ. Above all, how do you personally define yourself?
Joo Wondae: I’m doing what I like. I think I’m an entertainer. I want to be creative and express myself through various roles, including singing, DJing, and modeling. This allows me to work with a large number of brands all over the world: Versace, Calvin Klein, Mulberry, Adidas, and others.
Q: What made you first enter DJing, and what made you do that?
Joo Wondae: I liked music since I was young. I had a chance to learn it in 2015. Now I work as a DJ with luxury brands in South Korea, such as Valentino, Tom Ford, Burberry, and I have international projects. For example, this spring I worked at Milan Fashion Week, performed at VK-Fest — the largest music festival that was held in Moscow in July 2025. And I was very warmly received.
Q: When you enter the DJ booth, how does it feel compared to being on stage as a singer?
Joo Wondae: I’m always ready for being perfect. Actually, I’m a little bit nervous when I’m on stage as a singer. But I’m always excited when I’m on stage as a DJ. But the reaction of the public, when I see how they like my music, always gives me strength and inspires me.
Q: Is there a certain genre or sound that always comes back when you’re a DJ?
Joo Wondae: I usually play house music. But my favorite genre is techno. It’s a shame that we don’t have many opportunities to play techno music in Korea.
Walking down the main runway, you modelled for brands like MCM. Does fashion influence your music choices and stage persona?
I think music is included in fashion. As a person who loves fashion and music, I will continue to move without stopping. Currently, I have received numerous offers from Russia for significant events. Our collaboration with Inna Lubimova has opened many opportunities. I am very happy about this because music is what I have always wanted to do.
Q: Can you share three songs from your current playlist?
Joo Wondae: The Rose – Childhood, The Rose – She’s in the Rain, O.WHEN – Today
Joo Wondae: Between Fashion, Music, and the DJ Booth
For Joo Wondae, the intersection of music and fashion isn’t just about style—it’s about building new spaces for expression. Whether behind the decks at a festival, in front of the camera for a campaign, or in the studio as a singer, he continues to craft an identity that is as versatile as it is sincere.
As he looks ahead to more international stages and collaborations, Joo Wondae represents a new generation of Korean artists whose impact cannot be confined to one medium. Whether behind the decks, under the runway lights, or in front of the mic, he continues to build an identity that is as versatile as it is sincere—an entertainer in the truest sense.
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