Popularly known Thunder of MBLAQ, Cheondung slowly disappeared from the music scene after he departed from the group in 2014. Eight years since his withdrawal, where is he now?
Thunder in 2009 to 2014: Debut in MBLAQ, Withdrawal
Raised in the Philippines, Park Sanghyun, also known as Thunder or Cheondung, was initially known as the younger brother of former 2NE1 Sandara Park in the country.
With her sister's influence, he became a trainee under LOEN Entertainment and had her first MV appearance through IU's "Lost Child."
In October 2009, he then debuted as MBLAQ under J.Tune Camp and gained domestic and international success. Thunder's popularity also skyrocketed in the fashion world, thanks to his androgynous visuals.
Unfortunately, his contract with his agency expired in 2014. At the time, he announced his withdrawal from the team as well, citing his desire to focus on studying music.
Thunder in 2015 to 2021: Acting, Solo Debut
Following his departure from the team, Thunder signed with APOP Entertainment where he made his entry into the acting scene. He used his birth name Park Sanghyun as his actor stage name, while he kept Cheondung as his name for music-related activities.
In 2016, he released his self-titled debut album introducing five songs with the title track, "Look at Me (feat. Basick)." He continued releasing songs until 2019, including his most recent single, "Loud Sound."
Where Is Thunder in 2022? Idol Transforms Into Rapper Through 'Show Me The Money 11'
Following inactivity in the music scene, Thunder surprised viewers with his appearance in the popular Korean rap competition, "Show Me The Money 11."
On October 21, the former idol transformed into a K-hip-hop artist and challenged himself as a participant. When he entered the gym, he immediately gained attention from Jay Park, producer and judge of the show.
He then explained the reason he applied to become a participant, saying:
"I applied to let people know quickly that I am doing hip-hop because I fell into the genre of hip-hop lately."
He then showcased his unaccompanied rap. Thunder stood in front of the producer as a rapper, not anyone's younger brother. He also expressed his feelings about challenging himself to stand alone, leaving behind past colorful idol activities.
Unfortunately, he was eliminated and Jay Park conveyed the reason he wasn't able to surpass the high wall of the show. The program particularly has high standards since it has been in the spotlight every year as the only survival audition for Korean rappers that have lasted more than a decade.
"I love all the gestures and things like this. But I think you're a little too prepared because you have been on the idol stage for a long time. There is an artificial tone, so I think it will get better soon if you make a lot of exchanges while meeting other rappers."
READ MORE: Dara Updates on Former MBLAQ Thunder, Their Story & Cute Conversation Will Make You Want to Have Siblings Like Them
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Written by Eunice Dawson.
