Time moves quickly in K‑pop, and nowhere is that more apparent than with idols who debuted at an incredibly young age. Fans often find themselves stunned when the “kids” they once watched on stage suddenly return with a completely different aura taller, sharper, and unmistakably grown. Recently, one third‑generation idol became the center of attention for exactly that reason: NCT DREAM’s Jisung.
NCT debuted in 2016, and later that year introduced NCT DREAM, a unit originally designed around a youthful, rotational concept. With an average debut age of just over 15, the group stood out for its bright, age‑appropriate image. Their early performances even featured hoverboards, a detail many fans still associate with the group’s innocent beginnings. Among them, maknae Jisung drew particular affection only 15 at the time, he already had experience as a child performer and looked even younger than his age.
Fast forward to today, and the contrast is striking. Now 23, Jisung recently made his debut appearance at Paris Fashion Week, attending SYSTEM’s event and instantly commanding attention. Dressed in a sleek all‑black ensemble, he showcased his height and proportions, projecting a calm, confident presence that felt worlds apart from his early days.
Photos from the event quickly circulated online, sparking an outpouring of emotional reactions from fans. Many expressed disbelief at how much he had changed, with comments reminiscing about the “baby” who once rode hoverboards on stage. Others simply marveled at his refined visuals, praising how naturally he has grown into his features.
Jisung’s transformation is more than just a physical glow‑up it represents the passage of time shared between idols and fans. For longtime supporters, watching him step onto a global fashion stage felt both surreal and sentimental, a reminder that the young idols they once cheered for are now carving out new identities as fully grown artists.
From youthful charm to mature elegance, Jisung’s journey encapsulates one of K‑pop’s most emotional experiences: growing up together.
Sources: Koreaboo