In a heartfelt episode of Democracy Pink Cabinet on the KBS Kpop YouTube channel, Yang Yo-seop and Son Dong-woon of Highlight opened up about their emotional connection to their former group name, BEAST. The conversation stirred memories of their early days, shedding light on how the past continues to shape their present.

When asked what BEAST still means to them, Yo-seop responded with deep affection. “It’s a name I missed dearly,” he admitted. “Because of the time we spent as BEAST, we’re able to be Highlight today. I’m so thankful for that name.” He noted that while it initially felt bittersweet to see the name resurface on streaming platforms, he now sees it as a chance to create fresh, positive memories. “At first it felt strange and even painful,” he said, “but now, it feels good—we’re able to make new memories with that name.”

Son Dong-woon also chimed in with nostalgic reflections, particularly on how promotional strategies have evolved since their debut. “In our early days, we used to go to newspapers and take all the promo photos ourselves. We did several interviews a day,” he recalled with a laugh. When asked what he’d do differently if he could return to their rookie days, he smiled and said, “From 2009 to 2010, we wore a lot of makeup. I wish I had embraced the debut vibe with more excitement.”

Referring to their debut single, he added lightheartedly, “Our debut song ‘BAD GIRL’ was cute and fresh, but I think we were actually the most ‘bad’ back then.” Dong-woon also shared a small regret—wishing he had taken the time to learn more foreign languages to connect better with global fans.

Their reflection comes on the heels of a major moment in the group’s history. Last year, Highlight reached an agreement regarding the rights to their former name, BEAST. On April 28, they officially released their sixth mini-album, From Real to Surreal, a symbolic title that captures the group’s journey from humble beginnings to artistic maturity.

With both nostalgia and forward-looking ambition, Yang Yo-seop and Son Dong-woon’s reflections remind fans that while the name BEAST may belong to the past, its legacy still beats strong in the heart of Highlight.