Biography
Kang Daniel burst onto the scene as a magnetic South Korean pop performer after claiming first place on the 2017 season of Produce 101, which quickly led to his prominent role in the chart-topping boy band Wanna One. Born Kang Eui-geon in Busan, South Korea, he changed his name to Daniel following repeated mispronunciations throughout his early years. As a teenager he started training in dance and vocals, first with B2M and then under MMO Entertainment. Representing that agency on Produce 101, his blend of skill, appeal, and striking presence secured the top ranking. The program’s finale assembled Kang and ten fellow contestants into Wanna One, where he handled vocals, dance, rap, and served as the group’s central presence. They launched in August 2017, and over the following year each of their four multi-platinum EPs debuted at number one on South Korean charts. Their run concluded with the full-length album 1¹¹=1 (Power of Destiny) in November 2018, months before the group disbanded. Kang’s personal popularity surged during this time, marked by his starring turn on the variety show It’s Dangerous Beyond the Blankets and appearances on the covers of leading fashion magazines.
While preparing his solo path after Wanna One, he discovered in early 2019 that LM Entertainment had transferred his contract rights to third parties without his knowledge or agreement. After prolonged legal proceedings he secured his independence and founded Konnect Entertainment. His solo debut, the Color on Me EP, arrived that July and immediately topped the Gaon Albums Chart while posting record Hanteo sales. A wave of promotions followed, spanning major Asian cities, multiple award wins, the launch of his radio show, and the release of the hit single “Touchin’,” which ultimately prompted a self-imposed hiatus at year’s end due to struggles with anxiety and depression. Two further color-themed EPs arrived in 2020, Cyan and Magenta, both reaching number one on the Gaon Album Chart, with a third, Yellow, following in 2021.
While preparing his solo path after Wanna One, he discovered in early 2019 that LM Entertainment had transferred his contract rights to third parties without his knowledge or agreement. After prolonged legal proceedings he secured his independence and founded Konnect Entertainment. His solo debut, the Color on Me EP, arrived that July and immediately topped the Gaon Albums Chart while posting record Hanteo sales. A wave of promotions followed, spanning major Asian cities, multiple award wins, the launch of his radio show, and the release of the hit single “Touchin’,” which ultimately prompted a self-imposed hiatus at year’s end due to struggles with anxiety and depression. Two further color-themed EPs arrived in 2020, Cyan and Magenta, both reaching number one on the Gaon Album Chart, with a third, Yellow, following in 2021.
Albums
Singles
