#interview: The unconventional rise of Changmo - a story of identity and musical evolution

Ahead of his performance this week at ComplexCon Hong Kong, rapper Changmo - a prominent figure in the Korean hip-hop scene - talks to Hill Choi Lee about building a career on unconventional choices and a deep exploration of identity

Changmo's Instagram account has over 700,000 followers, yet it remains devoid of posts. This unusual approach to social media reflects his focus on real life over digital presence.

Despite that, a lone Instagram story about the "Brutalist" movie made it onto his account - the only sign that it was still remotely active. Why did he feel the urge to share this? Changmo explains, "I was drawn to things like architecture, brutalism, and the long runtime, which are unfamiliar to me." It reveals an inquisitiveness and openness toward unknown perspectives and experiences that continue to aid the artist in his craft. 

"I like human history," he adds. "The evolution of music is like human history, so I always explore and wonder what the next sound will be. It comes from a desire to know."

Changmo's rise to fame began with the song Meteor in 2019. Before this, the Korean rapper and music producer was known mainly among fans of club and concert venues. After Meteor, his recognition expanded beyond these circles, even to local supermarkets. This newfound fame made him wary, fearing it could disrupt his life. It made him think that "this fame could ruin my life". 

His music often explores themes of success and identity, which he describes as not something that comes to him easily. The artist says, "My life is like riding a dangerous horse that I can't control, not knowing where it will jump. So, I need to hold tight to the rope of identity - knowing who I originally was and where I started."

Collaborations with other artists like Chung Ha and HyunA have broadened his musical perspective. These experiences taught him to see the industry from multiple viewpoints, not just his own.

Changmo's "Underground Rockstar" album won several awards, balancing underground roots with mainstream success. His style has evolved from blaming the world to criticising only its deserving parts, acknowledging the good aspects as well.

"In the past, my style was like 'It's all the world's fault, screw the world', Now, it's more 'Screw the world, but only the parts that deserve it - there are good parts too'."

Feeling a sense of responsibility towards young artists, the 30-year-old Changmo strives to be a mentor who creates music as well as his younger peers. This role motivates him to work harder and maintain his relevance in the industry.

"I don't want to be a senior just because I have a long career. I want to be a senior who makes good music like the younger artists, so I work harder," he reveals. 

The song Hourglass reflects his philosophy of cherishing moments. Changmo spent ten years living freely but now seeks a more disciplined approach to enjoying each day.

Musically, the rapper is driven by a desire to explore new sounds, likening the evolution of music to human history. He experiments with styles from orchestral elements to UK drill, always seeking what comes next.

As he prepares for ComplexCon in Hong Kong, Changmo sees his role in representing Korean hip-hop on a global stage as modest. He believes some more talented artists will better represent the genre.

His fans may disagree.

Those who followed Changmo since the start of his career may appreciate his presence in Hong Kong this March. To others, this may be the first time getting acquainted with this artist, but where better to do so than at the vibrant scene and in the front rows at ComplexCon? 

Also see: Metro Boomin and ZICO headline ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025