Kihyun’s “Rheu Li Student Eo Nam Line” Reveals a Hidden Passion for Traditional Korean Calligraphy

Monsta X’s Kihyun graced the set of E Channel’s ‘Ryu Student Earnam Line’, showcasing his culinary talents.Photo courtesy of E Channel.

Kihyun of MONSTA X Concludes Successful Run on ‘Ryu Student Earnam Line’

Kihyun from the popular K-pop group MONSTA X has wrapped up a successful stint on the E Channel entertainment program ‘Ryu Student Earnam Line’. The show, which concluded its run on the 21st, focused on creating unique recipes with a special “kick.”

This marked Kihyun’s first fixed entertainment program as his global debut. Throughout the season, he captivated audiences with his image as a “Yosec Nam” adn the endearing “youngest” member.

Kihyun dedicated himself to crafting perfect “Ryuhak recipes.” This involved exploring the culinary traditions of various countries, sampling local delicacies, and meticulously documenting recipes learned from master chefs.

His thorough readiness and remarkable ability to connect with castmates earned him praise. He formed a strong bond with co-hosts Ryu Soo-young and Yoon Kyung-ho,frequently enough referred to as the “strong but cute youngest,” adding a vibrant energy to each episode.

Reflecting on the show’s conclusion, Kihyun expressed his disbelief that the program was already over. “I’m a little bit sad,” he admitted, describing the experience as “vrey enjoyable.”

He further shared how the show deepened his passion for cooking. Kihyun also extended his gratitude to his co-hosts, the crew, and the fans, known as Monbebe. He is eager to showcase more of his talents with MONSTA X.

MONSTA X, Kihyun’s group, recently held their ‘2025 MONSTA X Connect X’ concert series at KSPO DOME from the 18th to the 20th. The group is also gearing up for a new album release on September 1st, promising continued activity.

What did you enjoy most about Kihyun’s journey on ‘Ryu Student Earnam line’? Share your thoughts and favorite moments in the comments below!

How does the past context of *seoye*, notably its roots in Confucianism, Buddhism, and taoism, perhaps influence its artistic expression?

The Unexpected Connection: Kihyun and Seoye

Recent observations surrounding MONSTA X’s kihyun and his participation in the “Rheu Li Student Eo Nam Line” (류리 학생 어남선) segment on a popular Korean variety show have sparked meaningful interest – not in his game strategy, but in a subtle, yet captivating detail: his evident passion for traditional Korean calligraphy, known as seoye (서예). Fans and viewers alike noticed Kihyun consistently incorporating calligraphic elements into his challenges and interactions, hinting at a dedicated practice beyond the demands of his idol career. This article delves into this fascinating side of Kihyun, exploring the history of seoye, its cultural significance, and how it appears to influence his artistic expression.

Understanding Seoye: A Deep Dive into Korean Calligraphy

Seoye isn’t merely beautiful handwriting; it’s a highly respected art form deeply rooted in Korean history and philosophy.

Historical Roots: Originating from Chinese calligraphy during the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE – 668 CE), seoye evolved into a distinct Korean style, influenced by Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism.

The Four treasures: Mastering seoye requires proficiency with the “four Treasures of the Study” (munbang seyu 문방세우):

Brush (pensu 붓)

Ink (meok 먹)

Paper (hanji 한지)

Inkstone (dolsot 돌솥)

Styles of calligraphy: Several distinct styles exist,including:

Kaishu (楷書): Regular script,known for its clarity and precision.

Hangsul (행서): Semi-cursive script,offering a balance between legibility and artistic expression.

Choseo (초서): Cursive script, characterized by its fluidity and abstract forms.

Seoseo (해서): Ancient script,the oldest form of Korean calligraphy.

Kihyun’s Subtle Demonstrations on “Rheu Li Student Eo Nam Line”

Throughout his appearances on the show, Kihyun’s appreciation for seoye manifested in several ways. Viewers noted:

Brushstroke mimicry: During drawing challenges, Kihyun’s hand movements often mirrored the deliberate, controlled strokes characteristic of calligraphy.

Character Formation: When asked to write or illustrate, his approach prioritized the aesthetic balance and structure of characters, reminiscent of seoye principles.

Ink & Paper Preference: Subtle choices, like a preference for darker inks or textured papers, suggested a familiarity with the materials used in traditional calligraphy.

Compositional Awareness: His arrangements and layouts demonstrated an understanding of negative space and visual harmony, key elements in seoye composition.

These weren’t overt displays, but rather nuanced indications of a practiced eye and a deep-seated understanding of the art form. Fans quickly began sharing examples of Kihyun’s handwriting from fan signs and letters, further solidifying the connection.

The Cultural Significance of Seoye in Modern Korea

While seoye might seem like a relic of the past, it continues to hold significant cultural weight in modern Korea.

Preservation of Heritage: Seoye is actively preserved through dedicated organizations, museums, and educational programs.

Mindfulness and meditation: The practice of seoye is often viewed as a form of meditation, promoting focus, patience, and self-discipline.

Contemporary Art: Many contemporary Korean artists incorporate seoye elements into their work, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.

Gift-Giving Tradition: Calligraphic works are frequently given as gifts, symbolizing respect, good wishes, and artistic appreciation.

Kihyun’s interest in seoye contributes to the ongoing appreciation and revitalization of this crucial cultural tradition.

kihyun’s Artistic Expression: Beyond the stage

This newfound awareness of Kihyun’s seoye practice offers a fresh outlook on his broader artistic endeavors. His meticulous attention to detail in choreography, his expressive vocal delivery, and his involvement in songwriting all seem to resonate with the principles of balance, harmony, and deliberate execution inherent in seoye. It suggests a holistic artistic sensibility shaped by a deep connection to Korean cultural heritage. The discipline required for mastering seoye likely translates into his dedication to perfecting his craft as an idol.

Resources for Learning About Seoye

For those inspired by Kihyun’s passion and interested in learning more about Korean calligraphy:

The National Hangeul Museum: https://www.hangeul.go.kr/ (Offers exhibits and details on Korean writing and calligraphy)

* Korean Cultural Centers: Located in major