Mark, the Canadian-born South Korean rapper from NCT, just kicked off his solo journey with a slick nod to Eminem. His debut album The Firstfruit dropped April 7, 2025, and the “1999” music video’s got Shady fans buzzing. Here’s why this K-pop star’s tipping his hat to a hip-hop icon.
Recreating an MTV Classic
In “1999,” Mark channels Eminem’s 1999 MTV VMAs moment—winning Best New Artist for “My Name Is.” Rocking a similar fit and clutching a Moonman, Mark nails the vibe of that iconic speech. It’s a spot-on tribute, blending nostalgia with his own flair. For longtime Eminem heads, it’s a trip back to Slim Shady’s breakout year, reimagined by a K-pop heavyweight.
Hip-Hop Meets K-Pop
Mark’s not just flexing fandom—this move screams his hip-hop roots. From NCT’s polished stages to this solo rap pivot, he’s bridging worlds. Honoring Eminem isn’t just a salute; it’s a statement of intent, showing he gets the game and respects its giants. Whether it’s pure love or a clever borrow, it’s working—proving Shady’s influence stretches from Detroit to Seoul.
