Samuel Kim Arredondo, known professionally as Samuel, is an American singer who first captured attention as a member of the K-pop duo 1Punch. Born on January 17, 2002, in Los Angeles, California, his journey into the music industry began at a remarkably young age, setting him on a path toward international recognition within the competitive world of pop music. His career, marked by early promise and a dedicated fanbase, showcases the trajectory of a performer navigating the complex landscape of global entertainment.

His early life in Los Angeles was tragically marked by the murder of his father, Jose Arredondo, in July 2019, a profound personal loss that occurred as Samuel was building his professional career. His entry into the Korean entertainment industry came when he was just a teenager. In 2015, he debuted as one half of the co-ed duo 1Punch alongside rapper One. The group, known for blending hip-hop with pop elements, released the single "Turn Me Back" but was short-lived, disbanding in 2017. This initial foray provided Samuel with valuable experience and exposure to the rigorous K-pop training and promotion system.

Following the dissolution of 1Punch, Samuel pursued a solo career, leveraging the visibility he had gained. He participated in the popular survival reality competition Produce 101 Season 2 in 2017, where his skills as a vocalist and performer were showcased to a massive audience. Although he did not secure a spot in the resulting project group Wanna One, his appearance significantly boosted his profile and solidified his standing as a promising solo artist. He subsequently released solo music, including his debut EP "Eye Candy" in 2017, which featured a bright, pop-oriented sound aimed at a growing international audience.

As an American-born singer who found his initial success in South Korea, Samuel represents a bridge between different music markets and fan cultures. His musical genre is primarily pop, often infused with contemporary production styles. While specific details about recent projects may vary, Samuel remains a figure of interest for fans who followed his career from its beginnings with 1Punch through his solo endeavors. His story is one of youthful ambition, resilience in the face of personal tragedy, and the pursuit of a musical career across cultural boundaries.