Welcome to the 67th article of Kpopmap's weekly series exploring the amazing duality of K-Pop idols, actors, models, and more! Every week, we shine the spotlight on one artist who embodies the very essence of duality and has mastered the flair of harnessing their multifaceted talent to create the most brilliant, versatile art we have ever seen. As effortless as they make their craft look, there's a universe of talent that brings their hard work to fruition, and we must show appreciation where it's due.

You can find all of our "Bias Duality" articles in one place by clicking here!

This week's "Bias Duality" article is dedicated to a brand new star in the universe of limitless talent, TNX's TaeHun. With 79.1% of the total votes cast by Kpopmap readers on the poll in our previous "Bias Duality" article, TaeHun was chosen by an overwhelming majority of fans to appear on this series!

To participate in choosing the artist who will be featured in our next "Bias Duality" article, you can vote for your favourite idol/actor below! If you would like to see a different idol/actor (one who is not mentioned in the poll) featured in the series, please leave their name in the comments section, and we will add them to the vote lineup next time!

Note: The following "Bias Duality" poll will be open until January 5, 2023, and the next "Bias Duality" article will be posted on January 9, 2023!

Now onto our bias!

Sunshine & Lightning - Choi TaeHun's Personal Duality

Fire in his eyes, warmth in his smile, light in his art. When the Creator was working on TaeHun, They must have had the Sun in mind. TNX’s leader, vocalist, main dancer, and all-rounder TaeHun is a rising star in the industry, all set to summon a whole new wave in K-Pop and for everyone who is coming along for the ride, we have one thing to say: buckle up!

TaeHun debuted as a member of TNX after his incredibly successful stint on the survival reality show “LOUD”. Hosted by PSY (P NATION) and J.Y Park (JYP Entertainment), “LOUD” aimed to create a multi-talented group of aces who were skilled in all possible artistic fields. In this context, TaeHun was one of those contestants who always brought out the most fascinating reactions from our judges. Not only would you see them grooving to his beat, but they were also genuinely in awe of his talents. He shone just as much in his group stages as he did in his stellar solo stages, which speaks volumes of how masterful he is at the art of performance.

Similarly, viewers of the show couldn’t help but gush over his kind, sincere and amicable personality. At times, he was a true pillar of support, other times, he leaned on others for help. He comforted those around him and uplifted them but also never hesitated to ask for help.

Many fans even noted that they could see qualities of a great leader in him even before his debut, especially in the way he took care of his team members selflessly, making sure they didn’t get hurt, communicated effortlessly with them, and facilitated important discussions when needed. In fact, he naturally gravitated towards the position of the leader even when it was not assigned, and this initiative was not only accepted but also appreciated by his fellow contestants. Rather than exercising this impact to highlight himself, TaeHun encouraged everyone around him to be their best so they could grow together and move forward with conviction. If that’s not a born leader, we don’t know what is!

Another endearing personality trait in TaeHun is that he is infinitely charming but in an innate sense. TaeHun has a way with words that reflects his inner composure and calm disposition. So, anyone who has ever had the pleasure of interacting with him would vouch for the fact that just listening to him alone could wash away their problems.

The way TaeHun soothed and consoled the other contestants, even when he needed it the most, is a true example of altruism. Very rarely throughout the show’s runtime is TaeHun seen thinking solely of himself. Instead, you’ll find him hyping everyone up, praising them and reminding them of how amazing they are. His eyes would light up with pride every time his team was complimented by the judges, and he was always filled with gratitude.

To get to this success, TaeHun paid attention to the smallest details, working with his team to create a unique stage. In terms of his own performance, TaeHun boasted of a razor-sharp focus and a knack for perfection, which made him stand out. He is competitive and unwaveringly concentrated on improvement at all times, which is why his stages keep getting better and better every time you see him. J.Y Park even mentioned that he exudes star quality and that his gestures and facial expressions keep him on his toes.

Now, as a member of one of the most acclaimed new 4th generation K-Pop group, TNX, we’re seeing even more sides to TaeHun’s inherent duality. He might be the official leader of TNX, but he is also their precious Peach who never misses an opportunity to flash the brightest smile in the world. Idol TaeHun may be known for his poised appearance and cool-headed leadership, but Choi TaeHun lets his face show it all.

Despite his mature and elegant aura, with TNX, TaeHun doesn’t hold back his vulnerability or his playfulness. If he’s excited, he shows it, and if he’s upset, that is evident too! His members might tease him about running to the vocal room, locking the door, and sulking later on, but they will also be the first ones to lift his mood.

TaeHun is unexpectedly mischievous too, and unabashedly demands love and affection. Of course, he returns it manifold by constantly being mindful, checking up on them, and accommodating their needs, but he is also brimming with sass to no end. However, when he’s on the receiving end of his members’ teasing with his patience being tested, he will often simply give in with a grin, especially when what they’re saying is actually true.

One moment, you might catch him doing a random little happy dance, and in another, he’s napping on his member’s shoulder. Their synergy is so iconic that it almost feels as though the TNX members have known each other forever. Now, that’s the sign of a “soulmate” dynamic if we’ve ever seen one.

Putting The Muse In Music - TaeHun's Vocal Duality

Have you ever felt the rush of discovering a hidden gem and watching them shine more and more with time? TNX's TaeHun is one such diamond. With a voice as velvety and golden as TaeHun's, every song becomes a spell that enchants us. From his first appearance on "LOUD" to TNX's first mini-album "Way Up", TaeHun has evolved as a vocalist by leaps and bounds. His husky tone and versatile vocal color are two of his biggest strengths, and with his skill set, we're certain there will be many more in the future.

In terms of technicality, Choi TaeHun strives for excellence. He is consistently seeking to become the best version of himself, which in essence, means that he keeps leveling up as the best of the best. Both his higher and lower registers are well-refined, which gives his vocals a seasoned touch. Moreover, when TaeHun alternates between pitches, you can audibly discern the change in timbre, which in turn transforms the entire mood of the song.

TaeHun is immaculate in his melismas, can belt the highest notes, and at the same time, is delicate and gentle with his falsetto. On the lower range, he adds a rich, warm, addictive tint to his voice that makes us melt into puddles. This switch between his bright and dark vocal hue is truly a rare feat, and given the astounding rate at which TaeHun keeps polishing and upgrading his skills, we're looking at a future master vocalist right in front of us.

To further dive deep into TaeHun's vocal duality, you can listen to 'Move' versus 'Your Favorite Melody', TaeHun's cover of his role model EXO BaekHyun's 'Bambi' versus his "LOUD" stage for '10 Out Of 10'.

While 'Move' is the perfect example of the pitch switch we mentioned above, with TaeHun employing his mix voice in contrast with his chest voice with moments of his baritone mixed in, 'Your Favorite Melody' brings out a sweeter tone, highlighting his outstanding harmonization. Similarly, TaeHun's cover of 'Bambi' is easily one of the best in the world, and that's saying a lot, given how technically challenging BaekHyun's original is, but even then, he blends in his own unique touch, transforming it gently. On the contrary, '10 Out Of 10' gave us deep-voiced rapper TaeHun delivering one of the most memorable and viral moments from the show: "that girl neomu yeppeo~". For more where that came from, check out this compilation of Choi TaeHun on "LOUD".

At the dawn of his musical career, TaeHun is already turning heads wherever he goes. It is only a matter of time before he is recognized and acknowledged as a global figure leading the future of K-Pop. Until then, we will be here, enjoying his stages on repeat.

The Binary Of Brilliance - TaeHun's Stage Duality

K-Pop fans who fall in love with their idols' personalities first and then explore their music would feel this one in their bones. The way TaeHun, with his sunshine-like personality, transforms into a beast-mode performer on stage never fails to surprise us in the most pleasant way possible.

TNX is a group that has established a hard-hitting, passionate, and fierce soundscape with their first mini-album, and as such, their stages have also evoked a similar impression. In keeping with this sonic identity, TaeHun has shaped his stage persona to express power, vigor, and intensity. However, even within this context, TaeHun has a sharp ability to pepper in nuances that reveal his stage duality.

Before anything else, high praise is due to the incredible dancer that Choi TaeHun is. With his buttery smooth movements, seamless transitions, crisp isolations, and unbeatable stage presence, any choreography, regardless of the genre, becomes magically bewitching. Be it open style or hip-hop, popping locking, street or contemporary, TaeHun appears to be an expert in all of them!

Speaking of stage presence, the key to TaeHun's duality lies in his gaze. It can be piercing but captivating, smoldering but endearing, iintimidating and lovely all at once! Similarly, a slight smirk, as opposed to a beaming smile, can take the mood of a song from cute to dynamic. TaeHun teases his audience with these subtle differences, and we're more than glad to be mesmerized by him.

To illustrate TaeHun's stage duality even further, let's look into some of his best stages so far. For starters, we cannot forget TNX's "Be Original" 'Move' fancam. Most notably here, TaeHun's offstage charm intersects with his onstage charisma in the blink of an eye. Once TaeHun gets into character, the world is his stage, and his steady eye contact with the camera serves to transport us into this world.

With 'Move' being a bold and assertive song, TaeHun maintains the gravity of a panther but makes sure to sprinkle in playful, smug chuckles here and there, as if to give off the impression that he is thoroughly enjoying this game that he's acing. He controls his energy carefully, making those bursts of emotion when he's center stage seem even more impactful. Watching TaeHun performing is like witnessing fire and ice co-exist, and needless to say, it is a vision to behold.

On the other hand, in TaeHun's fancam of '180sec' at "SBS Inkigayo", you can see a reversal of the above. This time around, TaeHun amplifies the appeal of the song by underlining a spirited and lively image with a magnetic irresistibility. Choi TaeHun knows exactly what he's doing and he does it all too well.

Some more performance videos that we highly recommend if you want to jump down the spiraling vortex of swooning over TaeHun's duality are ‘No More Dream’ with special attention to his dance break, "I'm Your Brother" and 'Growl +Lazenca, Save Us' on "LOUD" and TNX's 'Your Favorite Melody' at "Music Bank". Also, don't forget to follow the group's Lives for dance practice videos that will blow your mind.

When The Fluffy Peach Met The Curious Cat - TaeHun's Aesthetic Duality

P NATION / Kpopmap

Finally, we couldn't possibly gloss over the most awe-worthy duality of them all - TaeHun's aesthetic duality. From the moment Choi TaeHun stepped into the entertainment industry, he received immense love and attention for his striking visuals. At first glance, TaeHun is known for serving pure, angelic, baby cupid vibes - which earned him the nickname "Peach". However, a closer look into his aesthetic mood board will reveal a more alluring, mysterious, older college boyfriend energy - more fitting with his alternative nickname of TNX's "Cat".

When it comes to fashion, TaeHun has a keen sense of his personal style. If we had to describe it in a few words, it would be street-style campus-core. Hoodies, jackets, and snapbacks in denim, brights, and plaid are staples of TaeHun's everyday look. However, the TaeHun who can pull off this effortless-chic aesthetic can also rock a suit and tie, all-black leather fits, and even pink cat-ear gamer headsets! Can this man get any more perfect?

Besides style, there are even more aspects of TaeHun's aesthetic versatility that make us swoon left and right. His radiant smile reminds us of cherry blossoms in spring, whereas his sparkling eyes bring summer to mind. TaeHun's self-assured confidence echoes the abundance of fall, and his quiet wisdom is like the tranquility of winter. TaeHun quite literally embodies all four seasons, and at any given moment, he could invoke any/all of them. Perhaps that is why it is so fulfilling to watch TaeHun in his artistic element - it is a complete expression of his individuality that encapsulates all his dualities.

At the end of the day, no matter how much we wax lyrical about TaeHun's duality, it is an ever-expanding universe of wonders that never fails to amaze us. Whether it be in his eyes, his smile, his art, or his drip, TaeHun's person and persona have their own unique, addictive charms that constantly keep us on our toes. As we bear witness to the start of the history that TaeHun is set to make, we cannot wait to see what he has in store for us next. All we can say is, THX for being just the way you are!

What is your favorite thing about TaeHun's duality? Tell us in the comments section down below!

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