The Journey of Ren: Embracing An Aesthetic That Defies Norms
K-pop’s visual appeal often stirs conversation—sometimes for good, sometimes not so much. Ren, the shining star of the boy group NU’EST, is a case in point. While celebrated for his looks, he has faced unusual critiques, often mistaken for a woman due to his strikingly delicate features.
Debuting in 2012 under Pledis Entertainment, NU’EST quickly made a name for themselves with the track “Face” on March 15. Among its members—JR, Baekho, Minhyun, Aron, and Ren—it was Ren who cemented himself as the visual standout. While the other members sported shorter hairstyles, Ren often wore his shoulder-length blond locks in a playful ponytail, accentuating his softer appearance.
As the group evolved through various concepts, Ren didn’t shy away from blurring gender boundaries. Even in their first comeback, “Action,” he embraced both masculine and feminine styles. One notably memorable moment came when he joined members of other boy groups to perform a cover of Girls’ Day’s “Something,” dazzling audiences dressed in glamorous attire traditionally associated with women.
Despite the admiration from fans, Ren’s unique aesthetic sometimes faced backlash. Comments labeling him “a girl” or “a woman” surfaced, particularly after modeling outfits for China-based online mall VIP Shop. For Ren, these remarks didn’t deter his self-expression. He embraced his individuality, continually experimenting with his look.
In 2019, a surprising transformation took place as Ren bulked up, which he showcased in the musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, where he played a schoolboy who triumphs over bullying and embraces his identity as a drag queen. His versatility was further highlighted in his role in the musical Hedwig And The Angry Inch, stunning audiences with both his talent and beauty.
After NU’EST departed from Pledis in 2022, fans eagerly anticipated Ren’s solo debut. In May 2023, it was announced that he would launch his solo career with Ren’dezvous, revealing teaser images that showcased an eclectic and unexpected array of looks, proving yet again his ability to surprise and captivate.
Currently, Ren is serving in the military after enlisting in September 2024, with an expected discharge in June 2026. As he navigates his military service, fans are already looking forward to his return and what spectacular aesthetic journeys await him in the future.
Ren’s ability to challenge norms and embrace his multifaceted identity continues to inspire not only his devoted fanbase but also the broader K-Pop community.
