Where Is Samuel Now? Former Seventeen Member Update

Hey guys! Ever wondered what happened to Samuel, that talented former member of Seventeen? Well, you're in the right place! Let's dive into his journey, from his early days to what he's up to now. It’s been quite a ride for this young star, and there’s a lot to catch up on. So, grab your favorite snack, and let's get started!

Samuel's Pre-Seventeen Days

Before we talk about Samuel's departure from Seventeen, let’s rewind a bit and see how he got his start in the K-pop world. Samuel Kim Arredondo, born on January 17, 2002, in Los Angeles, California, showed immense talent from a young age. His mixed heritage—a Korean mother and a Mexican-American father—gave him a unique charm and appeal that set him apart.

Samuel began his entertainment journey as a trainee under Pledis Entertainment, the same agency that formed Seventeen. He was initially slated to debut with the group. Imagine Samuel alongside S.Coups, Jeonghan, Joshua, and the rest of the crew! However, things took a different turn, and Samuel eventually left the agency, opting for a solo career instead. This decision, though surprising to many, paved the way for him to explore his individual artistry and musical style.

Even before his time with Pledis, Samuel had a taste of the spotlight as part of the hip-hop duo 1Punch in 2015, under a collaboration between Brave Entertainment and D-Business Entertainment. 1Punch, consisting of Samuel and One (who later joined YG Entertainment), released the song "I'm Ready." While the duo showed promise, they disbanded after just a few months, with One pursuing a solo career. This early experience, however brief, gave Samuel invaluable exposure and a glimpse into the competitive world of K-pop. It helped him build a foundation for his future endeavors, teaching him resilience and the importance of adaptability in the ever-changing music industry.

Why Did Samuel Leave Seventeen?

One of the biggest questions fans have is, "Why did Samuel leave Seventeen?" Well, the exact reasons were never explicitly stated by Pledis Entertainment or Samuel himself, leaving fans to speculate. However, it's widely believed that Samuel and the agency had differing visions for his career path. Samuel, being young and ambitious, likely wanted to explore his unique musical style and have more creative control over his work. This desire for artistic independence might have clashed with the group dynamics and established plans for Seventeen.

Another possible factor could have been the intense competition within the group. Seventeen is known for its large number of members, each incredibly talented and vying for the spotlight. Breaking out as an individual within such a big group can be challenging, and Samuel might have felt that going solo would give him a better chance to showcase his full potential. This decision, though difficult, reflects his determination and confidence in his abilities. It takes courage to step away from a promising opportunity and forge your own path, and Samuel's choice speaks volumes about his character and ambition.

Ultimately, whatever the specific reasons, it's clear that Samuel's departure from Pledis Entertainment and Seventeen was a pivotal moment in his career. It marked the beginning of his journey as a solo artist, allowing him to experiment with different genres, collaborate with various artists, and develop a unique identity in the K-pop landscape. While fans might always wonder what could have been if Samuel had stayed with Seventeen, his solo career has proven that he has the talent and drive to succeed on his own terms.

Samuel's Solo Debut and Career

After leaving Pledis Entertainment, Samuel didn't waste any time launching his solo career. In 2017, he participated in the second season of Produce 101, a highly popular survival show that forms temporary K-pop groups. Samuel quickly became a fan favorite, captivating audiences with his exceptional dance skills, vocal talent, and undeniable stage presence. He consistently ranked high throughout the competition, and many viewers were convinced that he would be a shoo-in for the final lineup.

However, in a shocking turn of events, Samuel was eliminated in the final episode, finishing in 18th place. This outcome was a surprise to many fans, who felt that he deserved a spot in the group. Despite the setback, Samuel remained positive and used the experience as fuel to propel his solo career forward. The exposure from Produce 101 had significantly increased his fanbase, and he was ready to show the world what he could do.

"Sixteen" and Early Success

Just a few months after Produce 101, Samuel made his official solo debut on August 2, 2017, with the mini-album "Sixteen," featuring the title track of the same name. The song is an infectious blend of pop and R&B, showcasing Samuel's smooth vocals and impressive dance moves. "Sixteen" was an instant hit, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success. The music video, with its vibrant visuals and energetic choreography, further solidified Samuel's status as a rising star in the K-pop scene.

The success of "Sixteen" was a testament to Samuel's hard work and dedication. He poured his heart and soul into the album, participating in various aspects of its production, from songwriting to choreography. His passion and commitment shone through in every performance, captivating audiences and earning him a loyal following. The mini-album also featured other standout tracks, such as "I Got It" and "With U," further demonstrating his versatility as an artist. Samuel's debut was a resounding success, proving that he had the talent and charisma to shine as a solo performer.

Continued Releases and Collaborations

Following the success of "Sixteen," Samuel continued to release new music and explore different sounds. He dropped his first full-length album, "Eye Candy," in November 2017, featuring the title track of the same name. "Eye Candy" showcased a more mature and sophisticated side of Samuel, with its smooth R&B vibes and sensual choreography. The album was another commercial success, further solidifying his position as a rising star in the K-pop industry. He followed up with several more singles and mini-albums, each showcasing his growth and evolution as an artist. Samuel experimented with different genres, from hip-hop to dance-pop, demonstrating his versatility and willingness to take risks.

Samuel also collaborated with several other artists, further expanding his musical horizons. He featured on the song "Excuse Me" by Kim Chungha, showcasing his rap skills and adding a unique flavor to the track. He also worked with the American rapper Silento on the song "Spotlight," blending K-pop and hip-hop elements in a seamless and exciting way. These collaborations not only broadened Samuel's audience but also allowed him to learn from other artists and further refine his craft. Each collaboration was a unique opportunity for Samuel to showcase his talent and creativity, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and dynamic performer.

Legal Battles and Hiatus

In recent years, Samuel has faced some challenging times, including legal battles with his former agency. In 2019, Samuel's mother filed a lawsuit against Brave Entertainment, alleging that the agency had failed to provide proper financial accounting and support for his career. The legal dispute dragged on for several years, causing a significant disruption to Samuel's activities. During this time, he was unable to release new music or perform publicly, leaving fans worried about his future.

The legal battle took a toll on Samuel's career, causing him to go on hiatus. It was a difficult period for him, as he was unable to pursue his passion for music and connect with his fans. However, Samuel remained resilient and focused on resolving the legal issues. He worked closely with his legal team to fight for his rights and ensure that he received fair treatment. Despite the challenges, Samuel never lost hope and remained determined to return to the stage as soon as possible.

Recent Updates: What is Samuel Doing Now?

So, what is Samuel doing now? After a long hiatus, there's good news for fans! Samuel has been working hard to overcome the obstacles he faced and is gearing up for a fresh start. While specific details about his future projects are still under wraps, he has hinted at new music and collaborations in the works. This has left fans buzzing with excitement and anticipation, eager to see what he has in store.

Beyond his music career, Samuel has also been focusing on his personal growth and development. He has been taking time to travel, learn new skills, and connect with his loved ones. This period of reflection and self-discovery has allowed him to recharge and gain a fresh perspective on his life and career. Samuel understands the importance of taking care of his mental and physical well-being, and he is committed to maintaining a healthy balance in his life.

Samuel has also been actively engaging with his fans on social media, sharing updates about his life and expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support. He understands the importance of staying connected with his fanbase, and he is committed to keeping them informed about his future plans. His interactions with fans are genuine and heartfelt, demonstrating his appreciation for their loyalty and encouragement. Samuel's fans have been a constant source of strength and motivation for him, and he is determined to make them proud with his future endeavors.

Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright

Despite the challenges he has faced, Samuel's future looks incredibly bright. He's a talented artist with a strong work ethic and a supportive fanbase. Whether he continues as a solo artist or joins a new group, one thing is certain: Samuel has the talent and determination to succeed. So, keep an eye on this young star – he's definitely one to watch! We’re all excited to see what he does next, and we're here to support him every step of the way. Let's cheer him on as he embarks on this new chapter of his career, and let's look forward to the amazing music and performances he has in store for us. Samuel's journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come!