Hongjoong of ATEEZ Makes Directorial Debut in New Film 'Hallucination'

On May 7th, 2026, Kim Hongjoong, leader and main rapper of the 8-member K-pop group ATEEZ ATEEZ K-POP GROUP ATEEZ is an eight-member K-pop boy group known for powerful performances, intense choreography, and a strong global fanbase. Since debuting in 2018, they have built a reputation for cinematic concepts and commanding stag , attended the special screening for the premiere of Hallucination at the 27th Jeonju International Film Festival. Hongjoong, who is known for his work as a producer in ATEEZ ATEEZ K-POP GROUP ATEEZ is an eight-member K-pop boy group known for powerful performances, intense choreography, and a strong global fanbase. Since debuting in 2018, they have built a reputation for cinematic concepts and commanding stag 's music and beyond, acted as the musical director for the film, composing the two main theme songs and overseeing the rest of the score.

The film, directed and written by Homeón Lee, focuses on a fashion editor named Ralphie (played by Kim Bumjoong, Hongjoong’s real-life older brother) who codes a male Al personality named Call, whom he develops feelings for. The Al creation then becomes a media star independent of its creator. The film appears to analyze the relationship between human creativity and artificial intelligence. The screening was followed by a discussion panel with the creators of the film, including Hongieong. During talks, Honsieong mentioned that while composing the tracks, he thought a lot about the relationship between real musicians and Al. 

Many fans have gone on to point out that Hongjoong's creative involvement in Hallucination also showcases his longstanding support of the LGBTQ+ community, as the film has been categorized as a BL. The writer and director, Homeón Lee, is the editor in chief of DAZED KOREA magazine and debuted his first film, Armerald, at the 13th Seoul International Pride Fitm Festival in 2023. Hongioong has consistently shown support for various queer media, and now he takes a leading role in the creation of this new, innovative film.

Hallucination marks the 27-year-old rapper's first musical director role, though he is certainly no stranger to the world of production and composition. Hongjoong is ranked among the most credited songwriters in the K-pop industry, with 178 songs registered with the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA), placing him among the top 10 most credited artists as of March 2026.