Former U-KISS member Kevin Woo has taken a significant step in his expanding global career by signing with United Talent Agency (UTA), one of the world’s leading entertainment and talent representation firms based in Beverly Hills, California. This partnership marks a pivotal moment for the Korean-American performer, symbolizing his transition from K-pop idol to a multidisciplinary artist with growing influence in film, music, and global pop culture. UTA’s decision to represent Kevin across all areas worldwide signals both the agency’s recognition of his international appeal and its commitment to promoting diverse, transnational talent. This move also positions Kevin as part of an elite network of Asian creatives shaping Hollywood’s evolving narrative landscape.
UTA’s Growing Asian Talent Roster
UTA, one of the “big four” global talent agencies (alongside CAA, WME, and ICM), represents a powerful lineup of artists, directors, and musicians across entertainment sectors. The agency’s recent roster expansion has focused on Asian and Asian-American talent, reflecting Hollywood’s increasing interest in cross-cultural storytelling. Notably, UTA already represents Maggie Kang, the creator and co-director of the animated hit “KPop Demon Hunters,” and Rei Ami, who voiced Zoey, one of the film’s lead characters. Kevin’s inclusion strengthens UTA’s growing “K-pop to Hollywood” network, highlighting the agency’s dedication to cultivating voices that bridge Eastern and Western creative markets.
From U-KISS to Solo Stardom
Kevin Woo first entered the global spotlight as a member of U-KISS, the iconic boy group that debuted in 2008. Known for hits like “Man Man Ha Ni,” “Neverland,” and “0330,” U-KISS gained a strong international fanbase, especially across Japan and Southeast Asia. As one of the group’s main vocalists, Kevin became renowned for his clear tone, emotional delivery, and bilingual communication skills, often serving as the group’s English-speaking representative during global promotions. His natural charm and warm personality also made him a regular fixture in Korean variety shows and radio programs. After departing from U-KISS in 2017, Kevin began cultivating his solo identity, shifting toward independent artistry and cross-cultural collaboration. His solo music leaned toward pop-rock and R&B influences, reflecting his personal taste and Western upbringing. Over time, Kevin’s identity evolved from “idol singer” to self-made creative, unafraid to explore different media formats.
‘KPop Demon Hunters’: Kevin’s Breakout in Voice Acting
Kevin’s recent acclaim comes from his participation in “KPop Demon Hunters,” a globally celebrated animated feature that has become a cultural phenomenon in 2025. The film tells the story of two K-pop idols who secretly fight demons while navigating fame and identity, combining fantasy, action, and music in a way that resonates with both anime and K-pop audiences. Kevin provides the singing voice for Mystery Saja, the lead vocalist of the fictional boy group Saja Boys. His performance earned praise for capturing the emotional depth and energy that K-pop is known for, while also showcasing his vocal versatility. The movie’s success—both critically and commercially—helped solidify Kevin’s presence in voice acting and animated musical cinema, a genre that is quickly expanding in both Korea and the United States. The film’s creators have expressed interest in developing follow-up projects and crossovers, positioning Kevin as a returning voice talent for future installments or spin-offs.
Expanding Horizons: Acting in Anderson .Paak’s ‘K-Pops’
In addition to his voice acting success, Kevin Woo is set to make his feature film debut in Anderson .Paak’s directorial debut film “K-Pops.” The movie, scheduled for theatrical release in January 2026, has already been showcased at prestigious festivals including TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) and the Tribeca Film Festival. “K-Pops” is described as a music-driven comedy-drama exploring family, fame, and cultural identity through the lens of the Korean diaspora. Kevin’s role in the film has not yet been fully disclosed, but his involvement reflects how Korean pop artists are increasingly participating in global film projects, further blurring the line between Hollywood and Hallyu (the Korean Wave). The collaboration with Anderson .Paak—a Grammy-winning artist celebrated for blending R&B, hip-hop, and soul—aligns with Kevin’s long-standing interest in fusing genres and breaking artistic boundaries. It also underscores the growing intersection between K-pop and global music cinema, where artists like Kevin can represent a new hybrid form of pop artistry.
Upcoming Projects: Live Performance and Nostalgia
Beyond film and voice acting, Kevin Woo is preparing for his first ticketed U.S. solo concert at the iconic Troubadour in West Hollywood on November 25, 2025. This performance marks a full-circle moment: returning to his roots in live music while performing in one of Los Angeles’s most legendary venues known for hosting rising stars and legendary acts alike. The concert is expected to blend original solo material, fan favorites, and acoustic renditions of classics from his U-KISS era, appealing to longtime supporters while introducing his artistry to new Western audiences. Adding to the excitement, Kevin recently appeared on MBC’s “The King of Mask Singer,” a show famous for featuring hidden celebrity performances. His appearance sparked widespread attention—not only for his vocal prowess but also for his subtle hint at future U-KISS group activities. Fans immediately began speculating about a potential reunion, which could coincide with U-KISS’s anniversary celebrations or a collaborative performance project. While unconfirmed, this tease has reignited nostalgia among the group’s loyal international fanbase. By signing with UTA, Kevin aligns himself with a global institution that values cross-media storytelling, effectively opening doors to opportunities in Hollywood, digital content creation, and international collaborations. His trajectory signifies how Korean pop artists are becoming transnational creatives, shaping narratives that reach far beyond music charts.
