[GQ COVER Story] DOKYEOM, who spent 10 years with SEVENTEEN, polishing his youth into eternity said: "I don't think I'm anything special, but I'll do my best to share my positive energy to everyone."

dokyeomglobal
Sep 24
10 min read

10 year of turning the innocence of boyhood into a man’s resolve, and the passion of youth into legend. In 2025, phenomenon Korean boy group SEVENTEEN celebrates their 10th debut anniversary. This milestone isn't just a numbers, but a legacy woven from countless stages, sweat, and laughter. And on stage, there’s always one voice that lifts the crowd to its brightest peak, SEVENTEEN’s main vocalist, DOKYEOM.

From the atmosphere-maker who can set BSS’s subunit stages on fire, to the singer whose covers and drama OSTs go straight to the heart, DOKYEOM, the main vocalist of SEVENTEEN, possesses a voice that spans the spectrum from passionate to soulful, sometimes fiery/electrifying and sometimes calmly. His warm, rich voice is the most defining characteristic of SEVENTEEN's songs. Whether it's at the concert packed with tens of thousands of people or alone with just a microphone on a solo stage. His presence ignites sparks of feeling, making you believe that wherever DOKYEOM is, it is both a celebration and a confession of the soul.

Striped rugby shirt and orange sweater by Polo Ralph Lauren.

DK (도겸 ) | His real name is Lee Seok-min . He is the main vocalist of the South Korean boy group SEVENTEEN and also the leader of the subunit BSS. He is known for his highly emotive singing voice. Played King Arthur in the production of the Korean musical "Xcalibur", the youngest actor in that role.

10 years on stage, the true meaning behind the name of "DK"

DK’s real name is Lee Seokmin. His stage name “Dokyeom” (도겸) means “to embrace different paths and become a multifaceted artist.” The name is like a gentle promise: no matter what challenges he faces, he can adapt and transform them in his own way, walking his own path. Over time, the name has become a romantic proposition, embracing contradictions and possibilities, composing each step into a unique melody.

In the recent years, SEVENTEEN has garnered countless recognitions in South Korea and worldwide. From staging their 10th anniversary show on Seoul's symbolic Jamsu Bridge, drawing over 100,000 attendees, to winning the "Album of the Year" grand prize at MAMA; becoming the first K-POP act to headline the Pyramid Stage at the UK's Glastonsbury Festival; and being appointed as UNESCO Youth Goodwill Ambassadors, turning commitment and love into action. Each achievement has written a new line in K-POP history and shown the world their strength and spirit.

Striped rugby shirt, orange sweater, and khaki pants by Polo Ralph Lauren.

“I never imagined I would receive this much love.”

Looking back on the past decade, DOKYEOM’s first words are gratitude to the fans. In fron the camera, he’s the “Happy Virus” who lifts the mood with his bright smile. Behind the scenes, he quietly pushes himself to new challenges. Recently, he was preparing for a drum performance for their concert. Despite the unimaginable difficulty, he keep practiced over and over again, until calluses formed on his hands. For DOKYEOM, growth isn’t an overnight transforation, but rather a decade-long accumulation of mindset. He admits that the greatest growth he'd experienced since joinging the group is a steadier heart, one that allows him to bravely face challenges, bearing expectations and pressure, and finding unwavering faith through his interactions with members and fans.

Army green quilted jacket and jeans by Polo Ralph Lauren.

Together with SEVENTEEN, DOKYEOM has gone through the trials and has become a new person. Today, he carries both the steadiness and composire of a man while maintaining the innocence and sincerity of a boy, perfectly echoing the essence of his name, DOKYEOM.

The "Happy Virus" that brings laughter to the world

If one phrase could sum up DOKYEOM’s multiple charm, perhaps the term “Happy Virus” would fit the best. It was the nickname he gave himself in the early days of his debut because he love to smile. When he smiled, his white teeth shine, his eyes curved into playful arcs, as if happiness is spilling out of him.

This smile shines brightest in SEVENTEEN's original variety show "GOING SEVENTEEN". This program was originally meant to show behind-the-scenes life of the members, but later evolved into games, challenges and even mockumntaries.

That smile shines brightest in SEVENTEEN’s self-produced variety show GOING SEVENTEEN. Originally meant to show behind-the-scenes life, it evolved into games, challenges, and even pseudo-documentary.

Unlike typical variety shows, GOING SEVENTEEN feels more like a playground created by the members themselves. For SEVENTEEN, being funny isn’t a “task” but a genuine passion. Many clips and jokes that go viral among fans aren’t so much about effects/shows as they are about genuine enjoyment. Making each other laugh and making the audience laugh is the purest kind of joy.

I don't think I'm anything special, but I'll do my best to share my positive energy to everyone. - DOKYEOM of SEVENTEEN

Because the members give their all, the show has spawned countless iconic moments and characters, many of which were sparked by DOKYEOM, such as "Hungry Monster", "Zombie Ping Pong", and "Going Rangers". These flashes of absurd, endearing ideas make people chuckle just by remembering them.

SEVENTEEN’s fandom is called “CARAT,” in reference to the unit measuring diamond weight. It symbolizes the members as shining diamonds and the fans as the light that makes them shin. Because GOING SEVENTEEN is so authentic and funny, it even created a new fandom called "CUBIC". This is a rare phenomenon among K-POP groups.

In the atmosphere of breaking out of fans bubbles, DOKYEOM's innocence and wildly imaginative ideas spread laughter like a relay. At this point, "Happy Virus" is not just a nickname but his most unique strenth.

Talking about this popular show, we (GQ) congratulated him on becoming the new President. He laughs and said: "I never thought I'd be class president. I'm really grateful. I was shy at first, but it makes me want to do my best." He then shared his most memorable moment: "Mingyu and I prepared a snack truck for the staff. They were so happy, and it made me feel especially relieved/fulfilled. I'll work hard to be a reliable class president from now!"

The inheritance of love and courage to challenge

DOKYEOM’s bright spirit come from his family: "I think my ability to stay positive is mostly from my father. He always told me to think positively, so it became a habit. I've always liked being positive and cheerful, so when I see my fans, I can't help but smile!" When difficulties come, don’t be discourage. Change your perspective, and you might see a different view.

DOKYEOM was deeply influenced by his family, especially his father and grandfather. It was his grandfather who planted another seed in his heart, which is baseball. As a child, his grandfather often took him and his sister to the stadium. The roar of the crowd and the players running under the sun are still vivid in his mind. "Even then, I thought the playes looked so cool, and naturally I fell in love with baseball."

In 2024, DOKYEOM was invited to throw the first pitch for the KBO League. Not only did he wow-ed the crowd, but he also shown his dedication and charisma off the stage. He added with a smile, “I deeply respect players who constantly challenge themselves and never give up, and I sincerely cheer them on. Someday I'd like to play in a match myself." (laughs)

Face everything with a grateful heart, give your all at work, and live fully when you rest. - DOKYEOM of SEVENTEEN

Perhaps it's the family atmosphere and influence that gives DOKYEOM his endless energy to share love and joy with those around him. He always wears his feelings openly: on stage, when the members say "I love you" to him, his nose wrinkles and his eyes glisten with tears. With friends, staff or fans, he is like a big puppy, whose eyes light up when he sees someone or something he likes, running forwad without hesitation.

Because of this, fans have given him many nicknames, from "Happy Virus" to "Aegyo Fairy." To DOKYEOM, these are not heavy or burdensome lables, but more as a loving gestures. "Rather than feeling pressure, I feel happy just being able to bring positive energy to everyone. While I don't think I'm particularly special, I hope to share as much positive energy as I can.” Among all the nicknames, his favorite is still the affectionate and endaring "Kyeomdungie" (겸둥이).

Self-Discipline: the brightest base color

However, the cuteness fans see in only one aspect of DOKYEOM. When he stands on the stage, he switches instantly: sharp eyes, clean and stable high notes, like a ray of light cutting through the darkness, his explosive presence instantly stun the whole venue. Yet when the spotlight goes out, he is back to another self.

DOKYEOM says that privately he's actually quite quiet, most of the time he usually just watching TV in his room, eating good food, and after practice going to the gym for a few sets of abs training. "Sometimes I just do nothing at all, just rolling around at home and let my mind wander." That simple ease contrasts sharply with his onstage power.

Sure, we all know ease doesn't mean slacking off. The traces of his hard work are most evident in his hands. DOKYEOM recently took on drumming for the first time for a concert, practicing until his hands peeled and callused. "It was harder than I imagined. Although I was nervous about performing on stage, but as I practice more, I feel sense of accomplishment and satisfaction."

Behind those brief moments on stages, lies countless of repetitive efforts and persistence. This discipline extends to his daily life. As the main vocalist, he must train his voice more than anyoen to keep it a its best. After practice he still goes to the gym for weight training and running. But DOKYEOM never treats these activities as fomality/chores. He says it is a sign of respect for the stage, and importatnly, a commitment to his professin as an idol. Hard work doesn't mean there is no fatigue. DOKYEOM admits that the repetitive daily routine sometimes makes him feel tired. "But I still try to face everything with a grateful heart. I give my all when I work, and I make sure I live a fulfilling life with I'm resting."

What is friendship? It’s SEVENTEEN’s members themselves. - DOKYEOM of SEVENTEEN

When stress comes, he chooses the simplest way to heal: "When things are hard, I will eat something delicious, then I will feel better. If the members are tired, we will eat together and work hard together get through it." That is how he coexists with pressure/stress: keeping pace in the hardships, and recharging through food and laughter of his members.

The most romantic definition of friendship

The only constant in the world is change. Ten years on, SEVENTEEN’s members are no longer the inexperienced teenagers they once were. They've walked shoulder to shoulder through every stage and rehearsal. The world keeps turning, but their friendship stays the same.

Oxford shirt and dark blue pants by Polo Ralph Lauren.

“When we're performing together, we still laugh and play around like we did in the past. Those happy moments make me feel our bond even more deeply and realize how rare and precious it is.” DOKYEOM said that what touched him most about the group life is not the grand stages, but the indescribable fragments of daily life.

SEVENTEEN members constantly expresses "I love you," "Thank you," "Thank you for your hard work." They can't help but pinching each other's cheeks and give kisses, and generously praise one another. In low times they give each other space, and when needed they say honestly, "I need attention too." Even after all these years since their debut, they never take anything for granted. Whether it's the kindness of their members or the lvoe of their fans, they remain eternally grateful.

Dark blue suit, Oxford shirt, and striped tie by Polo Ralph Lauren.

The 13 members of SEVENTEEN call each other by name like friends, bantering using informal speech. To maintain their bond, they've agreed that no matter how busy their careers, they would gather at least once a month, for a private get-together. This commitment made their group friendships more genuine and strong.

What is friendship? Is it a close friend who stay with you through thick and thin? Or is it someone who is the first to cheer you on when good things happen? DOKYEOM offers the simplest yet powerful answer: "Friendship is the SEVENTEEEN members themselves."

Next Journey, still shoulder to shoulder

People often say that a person is established at the age of 30, after reaching the age, the surrounding always places high expectations on him. But it is just another day on the calendar. No one can becomes a superman overnight. True growth is the one that occurs unnoticed, and every effort leaves a mark.

With the members enlisting in the military, SEVENTEEN's world tour this year began in Incheon with 9 members on stage. DOKYEOM said, "We know we will be together again eventually, so we're not too sad. I hope fans don't worry too much either. I will face my service well. Let's cheer together!" He clenches his fishting in a "Fighting!"" post and says brightly. "Please look forward to seeing me at my 30!"

Gray hoodie, plaid shirt, gray-beige shorts, and blue baseball cap by Polo Ralph Lauren.

Even if there is a brief separation, their bond won't be severe. After all, beyond 30 there will be 40, 50 and just like SEVENTEEN's friendship, it will only grow deeper and stronger with time. Maybe there's no "forever" in this world, but SEVENTEEN is willing to challenge it, because no one loves each other more than they do.

The group has reached the ten-year milestone, and they will still continue their journey shoulder to shoulder for the next decade. DOKYEOM knows his path as an artist will never stop. He will going forward, turning the unknown into scenery, and challenges into music. Even if the world turns against him, he’ll never lose his way. Let's keep walking together!