RIIZE's Wonbin Pre-Debut Journey: From Ulsan Athlete to K-Pop Idol

RIIZE member Wonbin's pre-debut stories are currently generating significant buzz in Korea, driven by recent revelations from interviews and fan discussions. His journey from an Ulsan track and field student to a K-pop idol, coupled with his striking visuals and all-rounder talents, has captivated fans and bloggers alike, eager to learn more about his background.

Born Park Wonbin on March 2, 2002, he spent his school years in Ulsan after being born in Seoul. He was a track and field athlete in his student days and wore glasses until high school. His casting by SM Entertainment began with an Instagram DM, and an interesting anecdote from SM staff mentions them masking him and covering his uniform name tag when he first came to Seoul to prevent other agencies from noticing him. In a YouTube interview, Wonbin shared that he initially felt burdened by his name due to actor Wonbin and wished for the English name 'Alex' instead.

Local bloggers express fascination with the contrast between his athletic past and his current idol persona. The unique SNS casting story is frequently highlighted as a particularly eye-catching detail. Fans found his candidness about his name concerns and the 'glasses off' anecdote from his school days to be fresh insights into his pre-debut struggles and personality, appreciating the authentic glimpse into the early stages of his journey.