Long before he was performing in sold-out arenas around the world and representing brands like Prada, ENHYPEN’s Jay called the Puget Sound region home. Born Jay Park (not to be confused with the other famous K-pop star of the same name, who is also from Seattle) in Seattle and raised in nearby Federal Way before moving to South Korea at age 9, the ENHYPEN (pronounced “En-high-pen”) member has since become part of one of K-pop’s biggest global acts. Since debuting under HYBE in 2020, ENHYPEN has amassed six Billboard 200 Top 10 albums, headlined stadiums, made history as the fastest K-pop boy group to perform at Coachella, and cultivated a massive global following of fans called ENGENE. The six-member act has accumulated more than 33 million followers on TikTok, 21 million on Instagram, 14 million YouTube subscribers, and more than 10 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

For Jay, however, returning to Western Washington still carries special meaning. During ENHYPEN’s 2024 FATE PLUS stop in Tacoma, he enjoyed a hometown welcome that included throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a Seattle Mariners game. Now, the group is set to return to the Tacoma Dome on July 26 as part of its BLOOD SAGA world tour, following the release of its latest album, THE SIN : VANISH, with a companion release, THE SIN : BLISS, arriving Aug. 21.

Ahead of ENHYPEN’s return to the Pacific Northwest, Jay spoke with Seattle magazine about his roots in the Seattle area and the group’s upcoming show.

ENHYPEN performs for a massive crowd during its BLOOD SAGA world tour in Seoul.

Courtesy of BELIFT LAB (HYBE)

You were born in Seattle before moving to Korea. What are some of your favorite childhood memories of the city?

Every moment is memorable to me, but I especially recall the frequent rain, the smell of wet ground and grass, and the beautiful roses that were always in bloom. I really loved clam chowder and cherries, and I grew up rooting for the Seahawks and the Mariners.

ENHYPEN performed in Seattle in 2024. What stands out most when you think back on that show, and what did it mean to receive such a warm welcome from ENGENE?

Performing in my hometown has always felt more special to me than any other stage. After traveling to many places, gaining new experiences, and growing along the way, coming back to where I was born felt indescribably meaningful. Seeing fans welcome me in the place where I grew up was both a proud and deeply emotional moment.

I always ask: Do you have any favorite Seattle restaurants or foods? Were there any new places you got to try during your last visit?

I have a close acquaintance who runs a Tokyo-style teppanyaki restaurant, and that place is one of my special memories. And while it might be a familiar spot for locals, the first place that came to mind when I left Seattle was Ivar’s. Their clam chowder really hits differently.

When you’ve had the chance to show other members around Seattle, what were they most surprised by or what ended up being their favorite part of the city?

I took our members to that teppanyaki restaurant, and they were a bit puzzled at first by this unexpected choice in America, but in the end they really enjoyed the experience and the food.

Is there anything you’re hoping to explore, eat, or experience during this upcoming visit to Seattle?

I mostly stick to the same routine, so this time won’t be too different from last time. Since I visited T-Mobile Park for the Mariners last time, I’d really like to visit Lumen Field again if possible. After all, the Seahawks are the Super Bowl champions this season, haha.

Is there a particular song from THE SIN : VANISH that you’re especially excited to perform live?

“Stealer” and “Knife” are the tracks I’m most excited about, since I think they’ll be really fun to perform and enjoy with the crowd.

Do you have any favorite souvenirs or keepsakes you’ve collected from Seattle over the years?

The ball and jersey I received when I threw the ceremonial first pitch for the Mariners are among my most treasured items.

Finally, do you have a message for Seattle ENGENE and anyone who will be seeing ENHYPEN live for the first time?

Although I’m traveling all around the world and currently living in Korea, my heart and soul always feel connected to Seattle. As it’s my hometown and the place where I grew up, our upcoming show in Tacoma will feel especially meaningful to me as well. I’m truly grateful to everyone who will come to see us, and I hope we can create a special memory together that stays with both you and me for a long time.

ENHYPEN performs at 7:30 p.m. on July 26 at the Tacoma Dome. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.