Joohoney

Joohoney is a South Korean rapper, singer-songwriter, and producer best known as the main rapper and a key creative force in the K-pop group Monsta X. He debuted with the group in 2015 under Starship Entertainment and has since become a core creative contributor, co-writing and producing numerous tracks. In 2023, he launched his solo career with the mini-album Lights, showcasing his versatility beyond group activities. Known for his powerful rap delivery and a warm vocal tone that earned him the nickname honey-voice rapper, Joohoney has built a reputation as both a fierce performer and a dedicated artist. After completing mandatory military service in January 2025, he returned to the entertainment scene, resuming activities with Monsta X and pursuing solo projects. His journey from trainee to main rapper and soloist reflects steady growth and a deep commitment to music. He is also recognized for his songwriting and production contributions to the group's discography, and his impact on the K-pop industry through mentorship and pioneering solo work within Monsta X. As of 2026, he continues to be an active member of Monsta X while pursuing individual endeavors, maintaining a strong global fanbase known as Monbebe. [edit]

Born Lee Ho-joon on October 6, 1994, in Seocho District, Seoul, Joohoney grew up primarily in Daegu as the oldest of two brothers. From his teens, he developed a strong interest in hip-hop, rap, and music production, which shaped his early path. He joined Starship Entertainment as a trainee and was part of the pre-debut hip-hop unit NUBOYZ (also stylized Nu Boyz) in 2014 alongside other trainees, releasing mixtapes and performing at concerts for early stage experience. His pivotal breakthrough came through Mnet's 2014–2015 survival show No.Mercy, where his confident rapping, self-produced tracks, charisma, and warm vocal tone stood out. He also auditioned for Show Me the Money in 2015, advancing to the third round, and participated in the project group Y TEEN, a collaboration between Starship and CJ E&M. These experiences secured his spot in Monsta X's final lineup. He speaks Korean and English, and his MBTI is ENFJ (previously ENFP). He stands at 179.2 cm (5'10.5") tall. [edit]

Joohoney debuted as Monsta X's main rapper on May 14, 2015, with the EP Trespass, establishing the group's aggressive hip-hop sound. He quickly became a key creative contributor, co-writing and producing many of the group's Korean and Japanese releases, including hits like "Gambler," "Rush Hour," and "Love." In February 2019, he changed his stage name from Jooheon to Joohoney. In 2018, he released the mixtape DWTD (Dreams Come True), which charted on Billboard's World Album and Top Heatseekers charts and topped iTunes in multiple countries, making him the first Monsta X member to release a full solo mixtape. In 2020, he released a second mixtape, Psyche. In May 2023, he debuted as a solo artist with the mini-album Lights, emphasizing his songwriting and vocal range; the album reached No. 6 on South Korean charts. He also served as a battle rap trainer on Produce X 101 in 2019 and as a DJ on MBC's Idol Radio in 2021. After enlisting for military service on July 24, 2023, he was promoted early to corporal in March 2024 and served as company commander and assistant drill instructor. He was discharged on January 23, 2025, and promptly resumed group and solo activities, including a free fan event and a performance at SuperPop Korea 2025. In 2025, he won the Digital Content Award at the KBS Entertainment Awards for his work on Idol 1N2D. [edit]

Joohoney is widely known as the 'honey-voice rapper,' a nickname that captures his distinctive blend of powerful, aggressive rap delivery and warm, melodic vocal tones. On stage, he commands attention with intense charisma and high-energy performances, while off stage he is perceived as affectionate, playful, and sincere. His fashion style often incorporates bold streetwear and statement accessories, particularly his signature hats, reflecting his confident and trendy aesthetic. Media and fans alike celebrate his versatility as a producer, lyricist, and performer, noting his ability to seamlessly transition between fierce hip-hop and emotional balladry. The Monsta X fandom, Monbebe, regards him as a core creative force, and his representative emojis are the bee (🐝) and tiger (🐯). Fan culture includes enthusiastic support during his rap verses and appreciation for his production credits. On social media, Joohoney maintains a direct and appreciative tone, frequently engaging with fans through playful updates and heartfelt messages, reinforcing his image as a dedicated artist who values genuine connection.[edit]

The Monbebe fandom distinguishes itself through logistical precision and an emotional reciprocity that often overrides commercial metrics. Known for organizing massive streaming parties, purchasing subway advertisements, and executing charity drives in Joohoney's name, the group transformed into a protective force during his 2020 health hiatus. This era cemented a unique dynamic where fans prioritize the artist's well-being over comebacks, responding to his vulnerability with overwhelming support rather than criticism. Joohoney reciprocates this bond by frequently engaging in playful 'aegyo' behavior, a trait that has become legendary among supporters who cherish the contrast between his fierce rap persona and his affectionate off-stage personality. His direct communication via social media and heartfelt letters during his military enlistment further deepened this connection, creating a community defined by mutual respect and shared history. Despite this intense cultural footprint, iFANN's Global Fame Engine has evaluated Joohoney, but he does not currently hold a placement in the published rankings (Global Top 1,000 or a Top-100 scope list).[edit]

Joohoney legally changed his birth name from Lee Ho-joon to Lee Joo-heon before debuting as Jooheon, later adopting the Romanization Joohoney in 2019 to align with his signature vocal tone. Fans affectionately call him the 'honey-voice rapper' due to his unique blend of aggressive delivery and warm vocals. An intense obsession with hats defines his fashion sense, complementing his bold streetwear aesthetic. Beyond music, he is a dedicated gamer and film enthusiast who cites Michael Jackson as a major influence on his ad-libs. During his mandatory service, he earned an early promotion to corporal and served as both company commander and assistant drill instructor. His first major exposure came through the survival show No Mercy, where he was recognized as the top rapper among Starship trainees. A defining legend involves his 2020 anxiety hiatus; rather than abandoning him, MONBEBE rallied to create a safe space, turning his struggle into a story of resilience. Another iconic moment is his 'King of Aegyo' reputation, where he subverts expectations with exaggerated cute gestures on variety shows. His solo debut EP *Lights* in 2023 marked a triumphant return, with the music video for 'Freedom' celebrated for its raw emotional depth.[edit]

Joohoney is the oldest of two brothers. He grew up primarily in Daegu after being born in Seocho District, Seoul. Details about his parents and sibling are not widely publicized; his family life remains largely private with limited public details. He completed mandatory military service from July 2023 to January 2025, during which he excelled in leadership roles. [edit]

Joohoney is closely associated with his Monsta X bandmates and Starship Entertainment artists. He was part of the pre-debut unit NUBOYZ and the project group Y TEEN, which included members of Monsta X and WJSN. [edit]

Joohoney has not publicly confirmed any romantic relationships. There are no documented reports from credible sources of dating, engagements, marriages, divorces, flings, or children. As of 2026, he is considered single with no known partner. [edit]

Updated for 2026, research by the iFANN Editorial Team puts Joohoney's net worth at $4 million. His primary income streams stem from Monsta X activities, including album sales, global concerts, tours, and merchandise. Additional revenue flows from songwriting and production royalties generated by both his group contributions and solo projects. The release of his solo mini-album *Lights* provided a significant boost through digital sales and streaming platforms. He also generates income through variety show appearances, brand endorsements typical for K-pop idols, and OST contributions. Since his debut in 2015, his financial standing has grown steadily, driven largely by international touring success and his 2023 solo launch. No specific figures regarding real estate holdings, production companies, or individual endorsement contracts are publicly detailed.[edit]

Joohoney has won several awards as a member of Monsta X, including music show trophies and K-pop industry honors. Specific individual awards are not detailed in available sources. [edit]