MADTOWN Members Profile 2026: Ages, Bios & Interesting Facts
MADTOWN (매드타운) was a seven-member South Korean boy group that debuted under J. Tune Camp on October 6, 2014, with the title track “YOLO”. The group consisted of Moos, Daewon, Lee Geon, Jota, Heo Jun, Buffy, and H.O. Following their agency’s bankruptcy and a contract dispute, MADTOWN officially disbanded in November 2017. This article provides comprehensive profiles of all former MADTOWN members.
Who is MADTOWN? MADTOWN was a seven-member South Korean boy group that debuted under J. Tune Camp on October 6, 2014, with the song “YOLO”. The group consisted of Moos, Daewon, Lee Geon, Jota, Heo Jun, Buffy, and H.O. They disbanded in November 2017 following their agency’s bankruptcy and a contract dispute. Their official fandom name is MADPEOPLE.
Quick Facts Table
Table of Contents
Who Is MADTOWN?
MADTOWN was a South Korean boy band formed by J. Tune Camp, the agency behind MBLAQ. The group debuted in 2014 with a hip-hop-oriented sound -a seven-member lineup. Their name, MADTOWN, means “the gathering of seven bad boys who have passion, are carefree, love music, and know how to have fun”.
Despite a promising start and gaining some mainstream attention in 2016-partly due to member Jota’s appearance on the variety show “We Got Married”-the group faced significant challenges. Their agency J. Tune Camp closed in 2016, and the group’s contract was sold to GNI Entertainment. However, the members filed a lawsuit against the new agency for lack of support and unpaid wages, winning the case but ultimately disbanding shortly after in November 2017.
Group History
Formation and Pre-Debut
MADTOWN was formed by J. Tune Camp as the agency’s second boy group after MBLAQ. Prior to the group’s debut, two members-Moos and Buffy-had already debuted as the hip-hop duo Pro C in 2013.
On September 24, 2014, J. Tune Camp announced the debut of their new boy group through a teaser image. Over the following days, the agency introduced the members in two groups: first Moos, Daewon, and Lee Geon, followed by Jota, Heo Jun, Buffy, and H.O. The group’s name was chosen through an anonymous vote among the members and company staff-interestingly, their name almost became “Unicorn”.
Official Debut
MADTOWN made their official debut on October 6, 2014, with the release of their debut EP Mad Town and the title track “YOLO”. The EP was released digitally on October 6 and physically on October 9, 2014. The group held their debut stage on October 9, 2014, on Mnet’s M! Countdown.
The group was featured on Mad TV, a reality show that aired on J. Tune Camp’s official YouTube channel from October 30, 2014, to January 30, 2015.
Career Milestones
In March 2015, MADTOWN released their second EP, Welcome to Madtown, with the title track “New World”. Later that year, on November 12, 2015, they released their first digital single “OMGT”.
2016 was a significant year for the group. Member Jota was cast in the popular MBC variety show “We Got Married,” where he was paired with model Kim Jin Kyung. This appearance helped bring more public attention to MADTOWN. On June 21, 2016, the group released their third EP, Emotion, with the title track “Emptiness”.
Agency Change and Disbandment
On December 22, 2016, MADTOWN’s contract was sold to GNI Entertainment after J. Tune Camp closed. However, the members faced difficulties under the new agency, including lack of support and unpaid wages. In September 2017, the members filed a lawsuit against GNI Entertainment.
On November 8, 2017, the group’s legal representative announced that MADTOWN would disband. The members had won their lawsuit against the agency, but the group officially came to an end.
Agency and Management
| Period | Agency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 – December 22, 2016 | J. Tune Camp | Debut agency; also managed MBLAQ |
| December 22, 2016 – November 2017 | GNI Entertainment | Contract sold after J. Tune Camp closed |
The members filed a lawsuit against GNI Entertainment in September 2017 for lack of support and unpaid wages. They won the lawsuit, but the group disbanded shortly after.
Member Profiles
Moos (무스) Profile
Moos was the leader, main rapper, and vocalist of MADTOWN.
Early Life and Education: Moos was born in Hampyeong, South Jeolla Province. He trained for six years before debuting with MADTOWN (2007–2014). He was a former pre-debut member of MBLAQ and trained with them for three years but dropped out due to personal reasons-Thunder took his place instead.
Career Journey: Before debut, Moos worked as a backup dancer for various artists, including Boom, 2AM, K.Will, Lee Hyori, G.Na, 4Minute, and Sistar. He debuted as a member of Pro C in 2013 alongside Buffy before joining MADTOWN. He participated in writing MADTOWN’s songs “What’s Your Number?” and “I’m a Serious”.
After MADTOWN: Following the group’s disbandment, Moos focused on DJ activities under the name DJ MØØ$ and currently works as a DJ at club Panic Room Busan. He has several tattoos on his arms, chest, and shoulder.
Family Background: Detailed family information is not publicly available.
Relationship Status: There is no publicly confirmed relationship information available.
Net Worth: The member’s exact net worth is not publicly available.
Official Social Media:
- Instagram: @moos.1991
- SoundCloud: DJ.MØØ$
Interesting Facts:
- Moos trained for six years before debut
- He was almost a member of MBLAQ
- He was a backup dancer for many famous artists
- He participated in writing MADTOWN songs
- He has multiple tattoos
- His stage name “Moos” is derived from his real name Kim Sang Bae
- He debuted in Pro C before MADTOWN
Daewon (대원) Profile
Daewon was the main dancer and vocalist of MADTOWN.
Early Life and Education: Daewon was born in Cheonan, South Korea, and attended Cheonan Technical High School.
Career Journey: Daewon debuted as a member of MADTOWN on October 6, 2014. After the group’s disbandment, he and Lee Geon joined the idol survival program KBS’s “The Unit” in 2017. On the show, Daewon and Lee Geon confirmed MADTOWN’s disbandment during an episode.
After MADTOWN: Daewon continued his singer activities after appearing on “The Unit”. He has maintained a close friendship with Lee Geon, having been friends since childhood. He continues to be active as a singer.
Family Background: Detailed family information is not publicly available.
Relationship Status: There is no publicly confirmed relationship information available.
Net Worth: The member’s exact net worth is not publicly available.
Official Social Media:
- Instagram: @dw_317
Interesting Facts:
- Daewon attended Cheonan Technical High School
- He and Lee Geon have been close friends since childhood
- He joined “The Unit” after MADTOWN disbanded
- He confirmed MADTOWN’s disbandment on “The Unit”
- He is the main dancer of the group
Lee Geon (이건) Profile
Lee Geon was the main vocalist of MADTOWN.
Early Life and Education: Lee Geon was born in Cheonan, Chungcheongnam Province, and attended Cheonan Technical High School alongside Daewon. He has been close friends with Daewon since childhood.
Career Journey: Lee Geon debuted as a member of MADTOWN on October 6, 2014. After the group’s disbandment, he joined “The Unit” alongside Daewon.
After MADTOWN: In November 2018, Lee Geon’s new agency Soribada announced that he had officially changed his stage name to Lee Woo for his future promotions as a solo ballad singer. He continues to be active as a singer.
Family Background: Detailed family information is not publicly available.
Relationship Status: There is no publicly confirmed relationship information available.
Net Worth: The member’s exact net worth is not publicly available.
Official Social Media:
- Instagram: @lee_wooooo_92
Interesting Facts:
- Lee Geon changed his stage name to Lee Woo after MADTOWN
- He and Daewon have been friends since childhood
- He is ENTP according to his MBTI
- He confirmed MADTOWN’s disbandment on “The Unit”
- He transitioned to a solo ballad singer
Jota (조타) Profile
Jota was the lead dancer, vocalist, rapper, and face of the group.
Early Life and Education: Jota was born in Busan, South Korea. He attended Sinjae Elementary School, Gyeongbuk Physical Education Middle School, and Busan Dongji High School. His father lives in Busan.
Career Journey: Jota debuted as a member of MADTOWN on October 6, 2014. He gained significant public recognition through his appearance on MBC’s “We Got Married” starting in May 2016, where he was paired with model Kim Jin Kyung. He also appeared on MBC’s “Real Men”.
After MADTOWN: Following the group’s disbandment, Jota transitioned to acting. He continues to pursue acting activities.
Family Background: Jota’s father lives in Busan. Further family information is not publicly available.
Relationship Status: There is no publicly confirmed relationship information available. His appearance on “We Got Married” was a virtual marriage for the show.
Net Worth: The member’s exact net worth is not publicly available.
Official Social Media:
- Instagram: @jonghwaaaya
Interesting Facts:
- Jota was born on Valentine’s Day (February 14)
- He appeared on “We Got Married” with Kim Jin Kyung
- He also appeared on “Real Men”
- He is ISTP according to his MBTI
- He transitioned to acting after MADTOWN
- He was the face of the group
- He attended physical education middle school
Heo Jun (허준) Profile
Heo Jun was a vocalist and visual of MADTOWN.
Early Life and Education: Heo Jun was born in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, and attended Hanlim Multi Arts High School. He is the tallest member of MADTOWN.
Career Journey: Heo Jun debuted as a member of MADTOWN on October 6, 2014.
After MADTOWN: Following the group’s disbandment, Heo Jun transitioned to acting.
Family Background: Detailed family information is not publicly available.
Relationship Status: There is no publicly confirmed relationship information available.
Net Worth: The member’s exact net worth is not publicly available.
Official Social Media: Not publicly available
Interesting Facts:
- Heo Jun is the tallest member at 183 cm
- He attended Hanlim Multi Arts High School
- He is the visual of the group
- He transitioned to acting after MADTOWN
- His blood type is A
Buffy (버피) Profile
Buffy was the lead rapper and vocalist of MADTOWN.
Early Life and Education: Buffy was born in Hwagok-dong, Gyeonggi Province, and attended the School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA).
Career Journey: Before MADTOWN, Buffy debuted as a member of Pro C in 2013 alongside Moos. He then debuted as a member of MADTOWN on October 6, 2014.
After MADTOWN: In November 2017, Buffy announced his departure from MADTOWN and his plans to enlist in the military. He also pursued other activities after the group’s disbandment.
Family Background: Detailed family information is not publicly available.
Relationship Status: There is no publicly confirmed relationship information available.
Net Worth: The member’s exact net worth is not publicly available.
Official Social Media:
- Instagram: @hennexxi
Interesting Facts:
- Buffy debuted in Pro C before MADTOWN
- He attended the School of Performing Arts Seoul
- He announced his military enlistment plans in November 2017
- His blood type is B
- His stage name “Buffy” is derived from his real name Kim Ju Hyeon
H.O (호) Profile
H.O was the youngest member (maknae) and a vocalist of MADTOWN.
Early Life and Education: H.O was born in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam Province, South Korea. He is the youngest member of the group.
Career Journey: H.O debuted as a member of MADTOWN on October 6, 2014.
After MADTOWN: Following the group’s disbandment, H.O focused on his studies and also worked as an AfreecaTV BJ (broadcaster). He has also shared insights into idol life in interviews.
Family Background: Detailed family information is not publicly available.
Relationship Status: There is no publicly confirmed relationship information available.
Net Worth: The member’s exact net worth is not publicly available.
Official Social Media: Not publicly available
Interesting Facts:
- H.O is the youngest member (maknae) of MADTOWN
- He was born in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam Province
- He pursued his studies after MADTOWN disbanded
- He worked as an AfreecaTV BJ
- He is 181 cm tall
Discography
Studio Albums / EPs
| Release | Date | Type | Title Track |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mad Town | October 6, 2014 | 1st Mini Album / EP | “YOLO” |
| Welcome to Madtown | March 12, 2015 | 2nd Mini Album / EP | “New World” |
| Emotion | June 21, 2016 | 3rd Mini Album / EP | “Emptiness” |
Digital Singles
| Song | Release Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| “OMGT” | November 12, 2015 | First digital single |
| “Do You Know How I Feel” (feat. Joo-ie) | February 3, 2016 | Digital single |
Notable Songs
- “YOLO” – The group’s debut title track, released on October 6, 2014
- “New World” – Title track of their second EP Welcome to Madtown
- “Emptiness” – Title track of their third EP Emotion
Music Style and Artistic Evolution
MADTOWN was J. Tune Camp’s first idol group to focus on hip-hop music and powerful performances. Their music was described as “a lot more racier than other mainstream idol groups,” with much of their earlier works deemed inappropriate for mainstream airplay. However, the group started to gain mainstream popularity in 2016.
Awards and Achievements
MADTOWN did not receive major music show wins or significant awards during their active years. Their primary achievements include:
- Debut as J. Tune Camp’s first hip-hop-focused idol group
- Member Jota’s successful appearance on “We Got Married,” which brought attention to the group
- Participation in the sixth China International Student Festival K-POP concert (September 23–25, 2016)
- Members Daewon and Lee Geon’s appearance on KBS’s “The Unit”
Tours and Concerts
| Event | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| K-POP Concert at 6th China International Student Festival | September 23–25, 2016 | Participated alongside other K-Pop acts |
Brand Endorsements and Ambassadorships
No verified brand endorsements or ambassadorships are publicly available for MADTOWN as a group.
Social Media Presence
| Platform | Official Account |
|---|---|
| Fan Cafe | cafe.daum.net/madtown |
| Instagram (Moos) | @moos.1991 |
| Instagram (Daewon) | @dw_317 |
| Instagram (Lee Geon) | @lee_wooooo_92 |
| Instagram (Jota) | @jonghwaaaya |
| Instagram (Buffy) | @hennexxi |
| YouTube | Not publicly available |
| TikTok | Not publicly available |
| Weverse | Not publicly available |
| Official Website | Not publicly available |
Revenue Sources
As a disbanded group, MADTOWN no longer generates revenue as a group. During their active years, potential income sources included:
- Album sales – three mini albums and digital singles
- Streaming – music platforms
- Concerts – festival appearances
- Variety appearances – member Jota’s appearances on “We Got Married” and “Real Men”
- Merchandise – official group merchandise
20 Interesting Facts About MADTOWN
- MADTOWN’s name almost became “Unicorn”
- The group’s official greeting is “Welcome to Madtown!”
- Their official fandom name is MADPEOPLE
- Two members (Moos and Buffy) debuted in Pro C before MADTOWN
- Moos was a former pre-debut member of MBLAQ
- Moos trained for six years before debut
- Daewon and Lee Geon have been close friends since childhood
- Lee Geon changed his stage name to Lee Woo after MADTOWN
- Jota appeared on “We Got Married” with Kim Jin Kyung
- Jota also appeared on MBC’s “Real Men”
- Heo Jun is the tallest member at 183 cm
- H.O is the youngest member (maknae)
- MADTOWN debuted on October 6, 2014, with “YOLO”
- The group’s contract was sold to GNI Entertainment in December 2016
- MADTOWN disbanded in November 2017
- The members won a lawsuit against GNI Entertainment
- Moos is now a DJ at club Panic Room Busan
- Jota and Heo Jun transitioned to acting after disbandment
- Buffy enlisted in the military after MADTOWN
- H.O worked as an AfreecaTV BJ after the group disbanded
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the leader of MADTOWN?
Moos (Kim Sang Bae) was the leader of MADTOWN.
How many members does MADTOWN have?
MADTOWN had seven members: Moos, Daewon, Lee Geon, Jota, Heo Jun, Buffy, and H.O.
When did MADTOWN debut?
MADTOWN debuted on October 6, 2014, with the title track “YOLO”.
When did MADTOWN disband?
MADTOWN officially disbanded in November 2017.
Who is the oldest member of MADTOWN?
Moos (born April 29, 1991) is the oldest member.
Who is the youngest member of MADTOWN?
H.O (born June 18, 1995) is the youngest member (maknae).
What agency managed MADTOWN?
MADTOWN was managed by J. Tune Camp from 2014 to 2016, and then GNI Entertainment from 2016 to 2017.
What is MADTOWN’s fandom name?
MADTOWN’s official fandom name is MADPEOPLE (매드피플).
Who are the members of MADTOWN?
The members of MADTOWN are Moos, Daewon, Lee Geon, Jota, Heo Jun, Buffy, and H.O.
What is Moos’s real name?
Moos’s real name is Kim Sang Bae (김상배).
What is Jota’s real name?
Jota’s real name is Lee Jong Hwa (이종화).
What is Lee Geon doing now?
Lee Geon changed his stage name to Lee Woo and is active as a solo ballad singer.
What is Jota doing now?
Jota transitioned to acting after MADTOWN’s disbandment.
What is Moos doing now?
Moos is a DJ at club Panic Room Busan under the name DJ MØØ$.
What happened to Buffy?
Buffy enlisted in the military after MADTOWN disbanded.
Did any MADTOWN members appear on “The Unit”?
Yes, Daewon and Lee Geon appeared on KBS’s “The Unit”.
What was MADTOWN’s debut song?
MADTOWN’s debut song was “YOLO”.
What are MADTOWN’s mini albums?
MADTOWN released three mini albums: Mad Town (2014), Welcome to Madtown (2015), and Emotion (2016).
Where is MADTOWN from?
MADTOWN was formed in Seoul, South Korea.
What genre is MADTOWN?
MADTOWN’s music is primarily K-Pop and Hip-Hop.
Conclusion
MADTOWN was a seven-member boy group that debuted in 2014 under J. Tune Camp with a hip-hop-focused sound. Despite a promising start and some mainstream attention in 2016-largely due to member Jota’s variety appearances-the group faced significant challenges following their agency’s closure and a subsequent contract dispute. The members won a lawsuit against their new agency but disbanded in November 2017.
Today, the former MADTOWN members have pursued various paths: Moos is a DJ, Daewon and Lee Geon continue as singers, Jota and Heo Jun have transitioned to acting, Buffy enlisted in the military, and H.O focused on his studies. Though their time as a group was brief, MADTOWN left a mark as J. Tune Camp’s first hip-hop idol group.
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