WayV stands as the Chinese-language sub-unit of the global mega-group NCT, operating under Label V and SM Entertainment. Since their January 2019 debut with the digital EP The Vision, the group has carved out a distinct identity defined by sleek R&B-infused pop, intricate choreography, and active multilingual promotion across Mandarin, Korean, and English.
Understanding WayV requires looking past generic group descriptions to examine individual member positions, musical contributions, and group history. This guide breaks down each active member, their specific artistic roles, and how the sub-unit fits within the broader NCT universe.
Understanding WayV Within the NCT System
To grasp WayV's place in the industry, it helps to understand NCT's overarching structure. NCT operates on a concept of limitless expansion with fixed and rotational sub-units, including NCT U, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, and WayV. WayV was specifically launched to target the Chinese music market while maintaining a firm footing in global K-pop streams.
Unlike units tied strictly to Seoul, WayV's members hail from China, Macau, Hong Kong, and Thailand. They record primarily in Mandarin, though they frequently release Korean and English versions of their title tracks to connect with international fandoms. Their discography spans hit albums like Take Off, Awaken The World, Phantom, and Give Me That.
Meet the Members: Profiles and Positions
WayV currently consists of six active members, each bringing distinct vocal, dance, or rap colors to the group.
Kun (Leader, Main Vocalist)
Qian Kun serves as the dependable leader and main vocalist of WayV. Born in Fujian, China, Kun is known for his stable, warm vocal tone and his extensive work behind the mixing board. He holds a degree from the Beijing Contemporary Music Institute and frequently contributes to song arrangement, production, and mixing for WayV's B-sides and cover tracks. Beyond music, Kun is a licensed pilot, a hobby he pursued and documented for fans through official SM Entertainment media channels.
Ten (Main Dancer, Main Vocalist, Rapper)
Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul, known professionally as Ten, is a Thai artist of Chinese descent who debuted across multiple NCT sub-units as well as SuperM. Renowned as one of the top dancers in contemporary K-pop, Ten combines contemporary dance, hip-hop, and sharp stage execution. Alongside group activities, he has built a strong solo discography with English-language digital singles like "Dream In A Dream," "Paint Me Naked," and his self-titled solo mini-album TEN.
Winwin (Lead Dancer, Vocalist, Visual)
Dong Si Cheng, known as Winwin, brings a background in traditional Chinese dance to the group, having graduated from the prestigious Central Academy of Drama in Beijing. His fluid, graceful movement style forms a core pillar of WayV's choreography. In recent years, Winwin has expanded his career into acting, starring in Chinese television dramas such as Sweet Games, balancing his drama filming schedules with group comebacks.
Xiaojun (Main Vocalist)
Xiao Dejun, or Xiaojun, joined the group during their 2019 debut alongside Hendery and Yangyang. Hailing from Guangdong, China, Xiaojun possesses a soaring, theatrical rock vocal delivery that anchors WayV's dramatic chorus lines. Coming from a musical family—both his father and brother are involved in the local entertainment industry—he is also proficient in piano, guitar, and songwriting.
Hendery (Lead Rapper, Sub-Vocalist, Dancer)
Wong Kun-hang, known as Hendery, was born in Macau. Known for his deep vocal tone and dynamic rap delivery, Hendery adds rhythmic texture to WAYV's tracks. Offstage, he is recognized for his expressive personality and active involvement in lyric writing and concept ideation for the group's variety content and performances.
Yangyang (Main Rapper, Main Dancer, Sub-Vocalist)
Liu Yang-yang is the youngest member of the group. Raised in Germany before moving back to Taiwan and eventually training in South Korea, Yangyang is multilingual, speaking English, German, Mandarin, and Korean fluently. His rhythmic, fast-paced rap verses and stage presence give WAYV's hip-hop tracks their energetic drive.
Key Milestones and Discography Evolution
WayV's musical trajectory highlights a steady maturation from experimental trap-pop to mature R&B and melodic dance tracks.
- 2019 Debut Era: The release of The Vision and the mini-album Take Off established their signature high-energy performance style, earning them the "Best New Asian Artist" award at the 2019 Mnet Asian Music Awards.
- First Full-Length Album (2020): Awaken The World featured the explosive title track "Turn Back Time," cementing their commercial presence across Asian charts.
- Recent Releases: Albums like Phantom and Give Me That showcase a shift toward sophisticated, vocal-heavy tracks and retro-funk grooves, reflecting the members' growing artistic control.
According to official updates reported by Billboard, WayV continues to expand its global touring footprint, connecting with fans through arena fanmeetings and world tours across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WayV part of NCT?
Yes. WayV is the Chinese-language sub-unit of NCT. While managed by Label V in partnership with SM Entertainment, all members are officially integrated into the broader NCT brand, participating in full-group NCT projects and albums like NCT 2020: Resonance and NCT Universe: The Golden Age.
What languages do WayV members speak?
Because of their diverse backgrounds, the members speak multiple languages. Mandarin is the primary language for their music and group communication. Additionally, members are fluent in Korean, English, Thai, and German, making multilingual broadcasts and global interviews common for the group.
How many members are currently in WayV?
Following line-up adjustments in May 2023 when Lucas departed the group, WayV promotes as a six-member ensemble consisting of Kun, Ten, Winwin, Xiaojun, Hendery, and Yangyang.
Do WayV members release solo music?
Yes. While group comebacks are the primary focus, members actively release solo projects. Ten made his official solo debut with his mini-album TEN in early 2024, and members frequently release OSTs, digital singles, and self-composed tracks through SM Station and SoundCloud.
