I’ve been a huge fan of Forestella — their blend of classical and crossover is just magical. Among the four members, Ko Woo-rim stands out with his rich, deep bass voice that beautifully anchors the group’s sound.
Recently, Woo-rim did his first photoshoot and interview after completing military service. He opened up about life after the army, working with Forestella again, and even shared a few personal stories that made me smile. In this post, I’d love to share some highlights from that interview and my thoughts as a fan. If you love Forestella — or just enjoy honest, thoughtful stories — I think you’ll enjoy this too.
Highlights of interview
About the photoshoot
In the interview, he was asked how he managed to look so natural and confident during his first photoshoot after the army. Woo-rim admitted he didn’t want to come off as trying too hard, so he asked his wife, Yuna, for some coaching. Since he didn’t expect to be great at it right away, he asked her what to avoid. She pointed out small habits he wasn’t even aware of — like pulling his neck back or tensing his mouth — and helped him look more relaxed and natural on camera.
Life after finishing the military service
Two months after his discharge, Woo-rim says his days feel “complex and dreamlike.” He compared it to the lyrics of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody — asking himself, “Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?” He feels that dreamy sense most when preparing to perform with Forestella, saying he had waited so long to be back on stage.
Woo-rim now sees this time as his “second musical life” — one that feels freer and more expressive. While serving in the military and turning 30, he spent a lot of time reflecting on his twenties. Back then, he felt pressure to be mature and perfect, avoiding anything he couldn’t do flawlessly. Now, he's letting go of those expectations and focusing on expressing his true self. With the uncertainty of military duty behind him, he feels lighter and more confident moving forward.
About his music life & Forestella
He still looks back in disbelief at the courage it took to audition for Phantom Singer. At the time, he was firmly rooted in classical music and focused on a stable path. Audition shows weren’t even on his radar — until one day, he thought, “Maybe this could help me grow, too.” He never imagined how much that decision would change his life.
Sometimes he wonders what would’ve happened if he had stuck with classical music. But every time, he ends up feeling that being part of Forestella was the right path. Why? Because it’s fun discovering and performing new genres. Seeing fans love and remember the songs they’ve created gives him a huge boost in confidence. And musically, having different voice types — tenor, soprano, bass — in one group adds drama and excitement to every performance, which he loves.
Forestella is kicking off their long-awaited nationwide tour on July 26 in Seoul, finally returning as a full group. Woo-rim says he’s most excited to show off the rich harmonies and improved musical quality they’ve built. He’s missed the energy of live performances and the catharsis that comes after a great show. He’s especially looking forward to performing their new single “Everything”, which showcases a new side of his voice. He says the song is a serenade to the fans who waited so patiently for their return.
About his life & thoughts
When asked what title he wants to earn next, Woo-rim said he hopes to become a better, more grounded person. As he gets older, that goal has become more meaningful. While he’s not sure what being a “cool adult” means exactly, he wants to better understand himself so he can be more honest and sincere with others. He also wants to become someone who can care more for the people around him — not just focus on his own tasks. He admits he’s still working on it, but that’s the direction he’s heading.
He’s also built a new daily routine that brings him peace. During his time in the military, he fell in love with hand-drip coffee. Now, each morning, he grinds beans, boils water, and slowly brews a cup. The process helps him focus and feels almost meditative — a quiet moment of calm before the day begins.
Through it all, one thing about Woo-rim hasn’t changed: his love for humor. He’s always admired people with a natural sense of wit and has dreamed of being someone who brings light and joy to others — both on and off stage.
One of his happiest recent memories was a peaceful day in Paris after his discharge, rowing a small boat on the lake at the Palace of Versailles. Everything about the moment — the weather, the view, the stillness — was so beautiful, it felt like a movie. It reminded him of a scene from his favorite film, The Notebook, and left him feeling creatively inspired.
For him, the sweetest moments in life are the quiet, simple ones—like the day after finishing a performance, when there’s nothing on his schedule and he can fully relax. Sharing a delicious meal with his wife on those days feels especially rewarding.
As a fan, it was such a joy to read this interview. I feel like I got to know him a little better — not just as a performer, but as a person. I’m going to Forestella’s concert on July 26. Really looking forward to it. it’s going to be an amazing experience!
You can read the full interview (in Korean) and check out his stunning photos from the shoot here. It’s definitely worth a look — he’s not only thoughtful in his words, but effortlessly charming in front of the camera too.
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