They’ll treat us like we’re vandals, so let’s make art.
Zero label support, out of his own pockets and 100% full creative control, Kevin Moon of K-Pop boy group THE BOYZ releases debut EP FREECHILD after nine years, deeming it “a Queen-inspired, anthemic pop-rock EP about trading comfort for creative freedom”.
THE BOYZ and Their New Beginnings
Since their latest group multi-day fan concert “INTER-ZECTION” held at KSPO Dome in Seoul in April, each member of THE BOYZ continues to navigate a career according to their own personal goals and aspirations. Many signed with actor management agencies or other music labels, in Kevin’s case, he remains independent, spending this past year traveling with loved ones, volunteering with local businesses, and attending a song camp in Norway over the summer. After nine long years of dedicating himself to THE BOYZ, THE Bs (THE BOYZ’s fandom name) wish each member success on their journey, understanding the weight carried for the past two years of ups and downs.
Once he opened his personal X account back in February 2026 along with posting silly shower thoughts, Kevin announced his music release timeline in July, sharing updates regarding the rollout, process, and troubleshooting along the way. During his most recent stream of X posts, many of them sparked conversation among THE Bs and non-fans alike, highlighting his personal struggles with imposter syndrome, critiques about the K-Pop business model, and navigating the idol industry.
A Pop Music Emergency
Kevin echoed themes about awareness, role models, and striving for better from the system of the K-Pop industry: the idols, the trainees, the companies, and the fans alike. Many who came across his posts expressed outrage, believing that his posts shaded specific groups despite his post explicitly stating that he blames the system. Others agreed with his stance, recognizing the courage born from escaping the very system that discourages autonomy and freedom of expression, supporting him on his new beginning with nothing but his own two hands.
Releasing his concept photos, teasers, and reactions from his members and family, the recurring sentiment best described by Jacob, a fellow member who released his EP j. independently back in June:
I’ve known you for ten years and this is the happiest you’ve looked.
Watch the music video below!
Directed by Choānn, title track “FREECHILD” explores a highly fantastical inner world that is solely Kevin Moon and Kevin Moon’s only: edgy, silly, and a call-to-action for fellow creatives to rise up and take ownership over their freedom of expression and identity without fear.
After all, “they’ll treat us like we’re vandals, so let’s make art.”
Anyway! Magazine 
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