With an unmistakable presence and unwavering self-expression, HWASA has always carved her name clearly onstage. From the very beginning of her career, she refused to confine herself to any mold, choosing instead to charge straight into music with complete emotional honesty. Her powerful vocals, bold performances, and unfiltered sincerity have collectively defined her as one of the industry’s most formidable female artists.
HWASA first debuted as a member of the four-member girl group MAMAMOO, where she helped shape the group’s signature live-centered performances and genre-fluid musical spectrum. Praised as a “group you can trust with your ears,” MAMAMOO built its reputation on the organic chemistry of its members — and within that framework, HWASA steadily developed her own unmistakable vocal color and presence. As a solo artist, she pushed that identity even further. From “Twit” and “Maria” to “I Love My Body,” “I’m a B,” and “NA,” her music has consistently delivered raw reflections of her real struggles, emotions, and inner voice — honesty that has resonated deeply with listeners. Vulnerability and confidence, anxiety and boldness, softness and strength all coexist within her. On stage, she is daring; before music, she is unconditionally honest. That is HWASA.
Then on Oct. 15 this year, she released the ballad “Good Goodbye.” Choosing quiet restraint over explosive energy, the song avoided the fast-burn formula of typical hit singles and instead found its way slowly into people’s hearts. The result was historic: “Good Goodbye” debuted at No. 43 on the Billboard Global 200 and simultaneously claimed the first-ever No. 1 in the history of the Billboard Korea Hot 100. Yet HWASA remembers the achievement less by its numbers than by its emotional response. When listeners tell her, “I didn’t know a goodbye could feel this gentle,” or “This reminded me of a moment from my own life,” those reactions become the song’s truest destination.
How is she receiving this special moment? And what emotional texture did she hope to deliver through “Good Goodbye”? We hear it directly in her own words.
“Good Goodbye” reached No. 1 in the very first week of the Billboard Korea Hot 100’s launch. How do you feel about that achievement?
First of all, it’s such an honor, and I’m incredibly grateful. The timing aligned perfectly, and I became the very first No. 1 artist on Billboard Korea’s newly launched Hot 100 chart. I think anything that becomes a “first” always carries a special meaning. So I’m receiving this moment with even more gratitude and happiness.
Why do you think this song has been resonating so strongly with listeners?
Honestly, I never expected it to go this far. But from what I keep hearing around me, it seems like many people really connected with the song. Usually when we think about breakups, we only imagine sad ones. But people tell me that this song reminded them of a “good” farewell they once experienced, or that those who are approaching a breakup — or have already gone through one — felt, “So a goodbye can be this gentle too.”
I once said that I hoped this song could become a source of comfort for someone, and it feels like that wish has become reality. That makes me happier than anything. Beyond the No. 1 itself, the fact that people are finding comfort and strength through this song alone already makes me feel completely fulfilled.
If you had to describe the identity of your music in just one phrase, what would it be?
I don’t think I can confidently say that I fully understand myself yet. But I do know that the moments that inspire me the most are when happiness and sadness coexist — when I feel extremely happy but there’s still a trace of sadness, or when I’m deeply sad but somehow still feel a sense of warmth. Inspiration can come from everyday life so easily, but the moments that move me the most are always when those two emotions overlap. Those feelings resonate with me the strongest, and they naturally find their way into my music. I think the essence of my music reflects that emotional texture.
Following the song’s resurgence domestically, it’s now receiving attention on global charts including Billboard. Are there any plans for international activities?
If there’s an opportunity to meet fans, I’ll always give my absolute best. Wherever there are people who are waiting for my music and sending me love, I want to go to them as soon as I can. There aren’t any fully confirmed or concrete plans yet, but whenever a good opportunity comes, I’ll run straight toward it.
Lastly, do you have a message you’d like to share with Billboard readers?
I think I can honestly say that I’m a Billboard fan myself. As someone who genuinely loves Billboard, the fact that a Korea chart now exists already makes me incredibly happy. Thank you so much for showing so much love to “Good Goodbye,” and to me as an artist. I also want to send my love and support to everyone in the Korean music scene. I don’t know how big of a role I can play within this industry, but even if it’s just a small part, I will always do my very best to contribute. I’ll continue to work even harder.
