When discussing North Korea's entertainment industry, the most famous girl group that comes to mind is Moranbong, personally selected by Chairman Kim Jong-un in 2012. Among them, lead singer Hyon Song-wol (in the middle) is the name most frequently mentioned.
In addition to her role as the leader of the Moranbong Group, Hyon Song-wol also leads the Samjiyon Orchestra. She was previously the lead vocalist of the electronic music group Pholbo, a popular pop group in North Korea in the early 2000s.
Information about Hyon Song-wol is scarce; there is no precise information about her year of birth, with some sources saying she was born in 1977 and others suggesting 1972.
According to Japanese media, Hyon married a North Korean officer whom she had known since childhood.
Hyon Song-wol is not only a singer but also a politician. In 2017, she was appointed to the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of North Korea. She also holds the rank of Colonel in the Korean People's Army.
In early 2018, she played a key role in the North Korean delegation (as the only woman) that twice visited the inter-Korean demilitarized zone (DMZ) to negotiate Kim Jong-un's unexpected proposal to send a delegation of athletes to the Pyeongchang Olympics.
Group leader Moranbong is praised for her natural, gentle appearance. When not in uniform, she often chooses modest, elegant outfits.
