India, Feb. 13 -- In recent years, South Korean K-pop idols have amassed millions of fans worldwide, gaining influence that extends far beyond music; while many leverage their fame to promote albums, merch and endorsements, Yu Hyuk and Kim Seok, members of breakout group 1Verse (pronounced "universe") have a different vision, one that is deeply personal. The life they live now, full of music and dance is a far cry from the one they left behind.

Originally from North Korea, Yu Hyuk (25) and Kim Seok (24) defected at a young age and are now members of 1Verse, a uniquely global K-pop that also includes Aito from Japan, as well as Kenny and Nathan, who are of Asian-American descent. While the K-pop industry is saturated with groups fighting ...