0613magazine

[0613magazine]

082223 Arena Korea

FINALLY V

파리 외곽의 스튜디오, 뷔가 카메라와 눈을 맞춘다. 어떤 형식도 제약도 없이 있는 그대로의 가장 자연스러운 모습으로. 그저 치열한 청춘의 절정, 뷔와 셀린느의 가장 젊고 빛나는 오늘에 대하여.

셀린느라는 브랜드를 대표하는 기분은 어떤가요? 대표한다는 게 참 부담스럽긴 한데 재미있습니다. 기분 좋아요.

뷔가 본 에디 슬리먼은 어떤 사람이었습니까? 재미있는 에피소드가 있나요? 에디는 정말 따뜻한 사람이에요. 재미있는 에피소드는… 에디를 처음 만났을 때 조명이 어두운 레스토랑에서 선글라스를 쓰고 이야기를 나눴어요. ‘어두운데 선글라스라니, 이게 패션의 시작이구나’ 싶었어요. 요즘 저도 따라 하고 있는데, 앞이 잘 안 보입니다. (웃음)

평소에도 셀린느 옷을 입은 모습이 자주 노출됩니다. 뷔 님이 셀린느가 어울리는 때는 언제라고 생각하세요? 저는 좋은 곳, 좋은 자리에 갈 때 셀린느를 입습니다. ‘록 시크’ 스타일을 좋아하시는 분은 저랑 똑같이 입으면 좋을 것 같아요.

이야기를 나누는 지금은 더운 계절입니다. 좋아하는 피서 방법이 있나요? 여름에 어디 가는 걸 별로 안 좋아하고 집에서 에어컨 틀고 누워 있는 걸 좋아합니다.

지금 소소한 관심사는 어떤 게 있나요? 요즘은 맛집 정보 좀 알고 싶어요.

요즘은 어떤 책을 읽고 있나요? 책을 고르는 기준은 무엇인가요? 전 아직 판타지 소설, 만화책을 좋아합니다.

재즈를 좋아하시죠. 오늘 날씨에 듣고 싶은 재즈곡을 추천해주실 수 있나요? 에타 제임스의 ‘At Last’요. 제가 정말 많이 좋아하는 곡입니다.

요즘도 악기 연습을 하세요? 어떤 악기를 연습하시나요? 목관악기를 계속해서 연습하고 싶은데 결국에는 제 목소리가 악기가 되는 게 가장 좋아서 열심히 제 목을 수련하고 있습니다.

앞으로 어떤 활동이 예정되어 있나요? 아주 많은 활동이요! 기대해주셔도 좋아요.

오늘 이 인터뷰를 마치고 나면 무엇을 하실 건가요? 친구들이랑 밥 먹기로 했어요.(웃음)

앞으로 어떤 음악인으로 기억되고 싶으세요? 다양한 도전을 하고 싶고, 좋은 작품으로 기억에 남는 아티스트가 되었으면 합니다.

자세한 인터뷰와 화보는 <아레나> 9월호에서 확인하실 수 있습니다.

English Translation

FINALLY V

How does it feel to represent (be an ambassador for) the brand called Celine?

Representing [the brand comes with] quite a lot of pressure/responsibility, but it’s fun. I feel good/am happy.

In V’s eyes, what kind of person is Heidi Slimane? Do you have any fun anecdotes [with him]?

Hedi is really a warm(-hearted) person. As for a fun anecdote… When I first met Hedi, we talked in a restaurant with dark lighting and [he] had sunglasses on. I thought ‘[can’t believe he’s wearing] Sunglasses even though it’s dark? I guess this is the beginning of fashion’. These days, I too am following/imitating [it], but I can’t see very well. (Laughs)

Even in your day to day life, you’re frequently seen wearing Celine clothes. When do you, V, think Celine [clothes] go with well/is well suited (i.e. on what occasion/setting do you think Celine clothes are well suited for?)

As for me, I wear Celine when I go to a good place or a good occasion/setting. For people who like “rock chic” style, I think it’d be good to dress (style oneself) the same [way] as me.

Right now, when we’re talking(having this interview), we’re [in the middle of] a hot season. Is there a way of avoiding the hot weather that you like?

I don’t like going around to places in the summer that much, and I like laying down at home with the air conditioner on.

What kind of small interests do you have right now?

These days I want to know information about good/tasty restaurants.

What kind of books are you reading these days? What are your criteria for choosing a book?

I still like fantasy novels and comic books.

You like jazz right? Can you recommend a jazz song that you want to listen to in today’s weather?

Etta James’s ‘At Last’. It’s a song that I really like a lot.

Do you still practice (musical) instruments these days? What kind of instrument do you practice?

I do want to keep practicing woodwind instrument(s), but, ultimately, I like my voice becoming the instrument the most, so I’m diligently training/practicing my throat/voice.

What kind of (promotional) activities do you have planned moving forward?

A LOT of activities! You can look forward to it.

What are you going to do after this interview today?

I [have plans] to go eat with my friends. (Laughs)

In the future/hereafter, what kind of musician do you want to be remembered as?

I want to take on various challenges/try various things, and I hope to become a memorable artist with good works.

Source: Arena Korea English Translation by: @btsbaragi_jk

#2023 #bts #v #뷔 #arena korea

[0613magazine]

082223 W Korea

‘요즘 행복하다’ 뷔와 나눈 이야기

부드럽게 다가와 속삭이는 나직한 음성, 방탄소년단 뷔의 자유로운 몸짓들

뷔의 나른한 아름다움은 오늘도 여지없이 목격되었다. 눈을 깜박거릴 때마저 슬로 템포로 움직일 것 같은 사람. 그를 둘러싼 조명과 파인 주얼리가 호화롭게 반짝거릴수록 뷔 특유의 침착한 공기가 두드러졌다. 9월 8일 솔로 앨범<Layover(레이오버)> 발매를 앞두고 선공개된 ‘Love Me Again’ 뮤직비디오에서의 뷔는 언뜻 글램 록스타처럼 보인다. 하지만 광활하고 낯선 동굴을 배경으로 선 모습은 신화 속 나르키소스의 현대판 버전 같기도 하고, 마침 드리워진 조명 빛은 꼭 태양처럼 강렬하다.

두 번째로 선공개된 ‘Rainy Days’ 뮤직비디오의 느낌은 한마디로 ‘오늘도 감수성 농도 매우 짙음’. 그 동안 뷔는 그 무엇보다 자신의 ‘새로움’을 발견하는 데 목말라 있었다. 스스로 또 누군가와 더불어 찾아낸 그 모습을 이젠 세상에 보여줄 차례다. 앨범에 실린 다섯 곡 모두 뮤직비디오가 제작되었다는 사실은 어쩌면 자연스럽고 당연해 보이기까지 한다. 노래하는 뷔의 연기 자욱한 음성과 카메라 앞에 선 뷔가 발산하는 분위기란 아미는 물론 프로듀서나 비주얼리스트라면 맹렬하게 탐닉하고 싶은 거니까.

몽환적인 눈부터 매혹적인 손가락, 늠름한 뒷모습까지, <더블유> 역시 바라보는 각도마다 또 다른 뷔의 면면을 하나하나 카메라로 좇았다. 그리고 조명 혹은 태양이 진 후 돌아온 답장에서 그는 ‘요즘 재밌는 하루들을 보내고 있어 행복하다’라는 말로 운을 뗐다.

<W Korea> 앞서 멤버들이 하나씩 솔로 앨범이나 싱글을 발표했죠. 방탄소년단은 2022년 6월 그간의 역사를 차곡차곡 담은 앨범 <Proof>를 내고 한 챕터를 마무리했고요. 그 이후 멤버들의 솔로 활동을 지켜보면서 어떤 생각이 들었나요?

V 멤버들 무대를 지켜보며 자랑스럽기도 하고 울컥하기도 했어요. 집에서 멤버들의 활동을 재밌게, 하나도 빠짐없이 다 챙겨 보았습니다.

이젠 뷔의 차례입니다. 9월 8일에 솔로 앨범 <Layover>를 낸다는 소식이 막 들려왔어요. 작업을 집중적으로 하는 동안, 가장 큰 고민이나 화두는 뭐였나요?

‘솔로 앨범으로 오랜만에 아미들이 내 얼굴을 볼 텐데, 이거 다이어트를 어떻게 해야 하나···.’ 이 생각을 가장 자주 했네요(웃음).

<Layover>는 뉴진스를 낳은 ‘어도어’의 민희진 대표와 뷔의 만남이기도 합니다. 어떤 끌림과 이유에서 민희진 총괄 프로듀서와 작업해보고 싶다는 판단을 내렸는지 궁금해요.

저는 지금까지와는 다른 새로움을 보여주고 싶었고, 제 감성을 극대화해줄 이와 앨범 작업을 하고 싶었어요. 제가 f(x)의 앨범 <Pink Tape>를 정말 좋아했거든요. 문득 그 점이 떠올라서 연락을 드려봤습니다. 같이 많은 이야기를 나누고, 사소한 아이디어도 공유하고, 작업 과정이 정말 좋았어요. 앨범 작업에 진심이었죠. 따뜻하고 좋은 분이세요.

그동안 많은 녹음 과정을 거쳤겠지만, 온전히 솔로로 작업하는 경험은 여러모로 달랐을 듯합니다. 본인만이 알고 느끼는 디테일이 있잖아요. 작업 과정에서 스스로에 대해 새롭게 발견한 게 있을까요?

발성 연습을 처음부터 다시 시작한 것 같아요. ‘이렇게 소리를 내니까 새롭고 좋다’, ‘이렇게 발음하니까 좀 더 잘 나오는 것 같다’ 식으로 저만의 목소리를 찾은 기분이 들었어요.

데뷔한 지 얼마 안 됐을 때 <방탄가요>에서 설운도의 ‘사랑의 트위스트’를 부른 적 있죠? 올 6월에는 재즈곡을 부르는 영상을 공개했고요. 뷔는 여느 20대 보컬에게서 찾아보기 힘든 유니크한 음색을 가졌어요. 저음에서는 울림 있고 중후한 소리가 납니다. 자신의 매력이 가장 돋보일 수 있는 음역대나 보컬 방식을 잘 알고 있나요?

워낙 다양한 장르에 호기심을 갖고 좋아해서 그냥 흥얼거리는 거죠(웃음). 네, 저의 음역대나 보컬 방식에 대해선 이번 솔로 앨범 작업을 하면서 정말 확실하게 알게 됐고, 그래서 행복했습니다.

솔로 앨범 <Layover>는 뷔가 잘할 수 있는 것과 좋아하는 것 중 어느 쪽의 집합에 가까울까요?

제가 잘하고 좋아하는 것 두 가지 다 볼 수 있을 거예요. 이런 분위기는 정말 자신 있거든요! (웃음) 구체적인 것은 아직 비밀입니다.

팀 멤버 정국과는 서로 음악 작업한 걸 종종 주고받는다면서요? 정국이 어느 영상 콘텐츠에서 말하길, 7월에 낸 솔로 싱글 ‘Seven’ 녹음을 마치고 뷔에게 가장 먼저 들려줬을 거라면서 이렇게 덧붙였어요. ‘그런데 저랑 음악 결이 안 맞아요. 그 형은 차분하고 멋들어진 거 좋아해요.’ 뷔에게 ‘멋짐’은 어떤 거예요?

푸하하하하. 제가 생각하는 멋짐은 엄청 다양해요. 예를 들면 남준이 형(RM) 미발매곡이 있는데, 그 곡은 제가 ‘언젠가 나도 저런 곡을 불러보고 싶다’는 생각이 들 정도로 굉장한 ‘멋짐’을 나타내는 음악이죠. 얼마 전 남준이 형이 슈가 형 앙코르 콘서트에 깜짝 등장해서 부른 노래예요.

아티스트가 세상에 뭔가를 선보이기까지 남들은 모르는 여러 과정과 단계가 있어요. 그중에서 어느 때 큰 희열을 느끼나요?

저는 뮤직비디오나 화보에서 상상의 이미지를 만들어낼 때 큰 성취감과 희열을 느끼는 듯해요.

베테랑들에게도 긴장되는 순간이 있죠. 긴장감을 어떻게 떨쳐내나요? 그거 남이 어떻게 해줄 수 없는 혼자만의 싸움이잖아요.

오히려 어느 정도 긴장감을 갖고 무대에 서는 게 재미있어요. 무대에 임할 때의 떨림은 행복한 떨림이라, 저는 좋아합니다.

어떤 칭찬을 들을 때 유독 기분이 좋아지나요?

음··· 칭찬이면 뭐든지 다 좋습니다. 칭찬을 들은 날은 집에 가는 길에 춤추면서 들어갑니다.

스스로가 생각해도 마음에 드는 자신의 기질이나 성격은 뭐예요?

느릴지언정 단단한 느낌의, 탱커(Tanker) 같은 면이 아닐까 해요.

당신의 약점은 뭔가요?

좀 느리다는 것? 그래서 아미들이 답답해할 수도 있어요. 사실 제 솔로 앨범만 해도 아미 분들이 정말 오랫동안 기다려주었죠. 저도 정말 죄송했거든요. 원래는 작년 12월에 발표하려 했는데 작업 과정이 길어져서, 계속 미안한 마음이 있었습니다.

인생에서 중요한 선택을 할 때 자신의 감과 판단을 믿는 편인가요, 주위의 의견을 듣는 편인가요?

제 감과 판단을 믿으면서, 동시에 주위의 의견도 적극적으로 듣는 편입니다. 둘 다 중요하게 생각해요.

거대한 사랑을 받고 사는 슈퍼스타는 무수한 스포트라이트 속에서, 자주 환상적인 경험을 하죠. 한편으로는 그런 시간이 쌓일수록 이전보다 감동과 고마움의 정도가 조금씩 무뎌질 수밖에 없지 않을까 싶기도 합니다.

맞는 말인 것 같아요. 그래서 무대에 정체기가 온 적도 한 번 있었는데, 저는 감동하고 고마워하는 감각을 잊지 않으려면 저의 새로움이 필요하다고 생각했어요. 새로움, 나만의 것을 더 찾으려 했고, 그걸 이번 앨범을 통해 보여드리고자 했습니다.

나이가 들수록 다양한 경험을 하고 변화를 겪어도, 잘 생각해보면 내 안에 변치 않고 유지되는 뭔가가 있다고 생각해요. 뷔 혹은 김태형 안에 기둥처럼 자리 잡고 있는 그것은 뭘까요?

그날 하루 웃을 일이 많으면 뭐든 다 잘되더라고요. 현장 분위기나 멤버들의 컨디션도 중요하고, 뭐 내일의 휴가, 오늘 먹을 밥 메뉴를 생각하는 식으로 저는 소소하더라도 ‘하루를 행복하게 보내는 것’을 아주 중요하게 여깁니다.

그럼 현재 뷔에겐 어떤 욕망이나 욕구가 크게 자리하고 있나요?

욕망, 욕구라고 할 것까지는 별로 없습니다. 저, 욕심이 정말 없다는 얘기를 많이 들어요. 어느 정도의 욕심은 있어야 하는데 그냥 하루의 행복 농도에 따라 ‘잘 살았다, 오늘도 행복했다’ 정도로 마무리합니다. 음··· 그런데 화보 찍을 때는 좀 욕심을 내는 것 같네요(웃음).

환경과 조건이 갖춰진다면 언젠가 정말 펼쳐보고 싶은, 상상하는 꿈의 무대가 있나요?

뭐든 다 좋으니 많은 아미 분들을 보고 싶습니다.

English Translation

Fresh Interview Of BTS V

Find out V’s statements and thoughts

V’s serene radiance once more unfurled—an effortless presence suspended in time’s gentle cadence, even in the flutter of his lashes. Amidst the lavish lighting and intricate jewelry gracing him, V’s poised demeanor exuded an irresistible allure. In the prelude of the ‘Love Me Again’ music video, a glimpse into his forthcoming solo debut album Layover, his aura resonated with the glitz of a glam rock icon. Surrounded by the mystical cavern’s grandeur, where stalactites dangled otherworldly, however, he stood as a modern embodiment of Narcissus—illuminated by suspended luminance that blazed as fiercely as the sun.

In the subsequent preview of ‘Rainy Days’, the very essence of the music video can be distilled into ‘an intensity of sentiment’. Throughout album creation, V’s aspiration was to unveil new dimension within himself, and the diverse personas nurtured through shared experiences. The seamless harmony of music videos for five album tracks appears almost as a foregone conclusion—an homage to artistic brilliance. From V’s mellifluous vocal expressions to the aura, he commands before the lens, it beckons not just ARMY, but also producers and visual artisans eager to plunge into his creative depths.

Be it the entrancing glimmer in his gaze, the captivating grace of his fingers, or the elegant contour of his silhouette, W Korea captured each essence of V through the lens. As the sun descended casting its gentle hues, ‘In these days, happiness flourishes and joy fills.’ V casually imparted.

<W Korea> As BTS members embarked on individual pursuits, June 2022 served as the month of an elegant tapestry, weaving together nine years of collective history; the anthology album Proof. You’ve watched the septets embark on their solo ventures since then, what emotions and insights have emerged for you?

V Every time they hit the stage, I’m literally proud of how far they’ve come. They bring something fresh and it’s just amazing to see. Honestly, I’ve been all in, soaking up every scene they’ve been in and on.

With the spotlight now on V, the buzz is all around – Layover, your forthcoming solo album is set to drop on September 8th. Delving into the solo venture, what thoughts held prominence during the last few months of the creative process?

It feels like forever since I’ve been solo and connected with the ARMY on stage. The burning question in my mind? ‘Do I need to diet for this grand return?’ Trust me, that thought was non-stop (Laugh)

Layover features a notable collaboration with Min Hee-jin, the president of ADOR and the creative genius behind NewJeans. What sparked that move to get her in the producer’s chair for this project?

I wanted to show a different side of my music compared to my past works and collaborating seemed like the best way to achieve that.  F(x)’s Pink Tape was a big inspiration, I reached out to her the moment I recalled it. Our collaborative discussions were productive, encompassing every detail, and the entire collaboration process was seamless. She brought sincerity and expertise to the table. She has such a warm presence.

You’re certainly no stranger to the recording booth. Yet, spearheading a solo project is uncharted territory. Were there self-revelations, nuances you discovered in your craft throughout this journey?

The entire process was reminiscent of revisiting my early vocal training days. It was like rediscovering my vocal identity. I stumbled upon my new vocal identity – certain tonalities and pronunciations seemed to resonate more now.

Flashback to your early days: you nailed ‘Love’s Twist’ by Sul Woon-do on <BTS Gayo>. Fast-forward to this June, and we’ve seen you serenading with jazz classics. Your voice has this rare, mature tone, especially in the lower registers, setting you apart from many vocalists in 20s. Do you recognize the vocal techniques that highlight your charm?”

My love for diverse genres often has me humming away. While creating this solo album, I truly discovered my vocal essence, and that’s what makes me incredibly fulfilling.

With Layover, is the solo venture more a collection of what V is good at or what V loves?

It’s a mix of both. In Layover, I’ve melded my strengths with my passions. I am second to none in this kind of mood (laughs). But as for the finer details… well, let me keep them under wraps.

You and Jung Kook often share musical drafts, correct? Following his recent solo endeavor, ‘Seven’ in July, he mentioned you were the first one to get a listen. Yet, he candidly expressed a sonic disparity between you both noting ‘ Honestly, our music tastes don’t quite align. V leans towards the calm and the cool.’ What does it mean by ‘the cool’ in V’s lexicon?

Hahaha, in my perspective, ‘cool’ carries various nuances. Take RM, for example. He’s got this amazing unreleased track, the one he unexpectedly rocked up at SUGA’s encore concert and just freestyled for everyone. Every time that song hits my ears, I’m thinking ‘I’ve got to sing something cool like that someday.’

As an artist, there are numerous stages and steps before presenting something to the world. At which point do you experience the most profound thrill?

There’s an undeniable thrill and profound satisfaction in bringing an envisioned aesthetic to life, whether in music videos or editorial shoots.

Even the global icons sometimes grapple with nerves. How do you stay in your comfort zone? It’s the struggle no one can help.

I must confess there’s a certain allure to the jitters before a performance. It’s an exhilaration, a joyous anticipation. I like that kind of tension.

Are there any compliments that especially uplift your mood?

Well… every compliment is welcome. On such days, I find myself dancing all the way home.

When reflecting upon your own persona, which traits or aspects resonate most positively with you?

While I may not always operate at a rapid pace, there’s a steadfast and unyielding resilience within me, akin to that of a tanker.

We all have vulnerabilities. Where do you feel your Achilles’ heel lies?

Perhaps my pace? I tend to move at my own rhythm, which might test ARMY’s patience at times. For instance, with my solo album – the wait was extensive. My initial intention was a release in December of the previous year; but the process was extended, leaving me with an enduring sense of apology.

In the crucible of life’s defining moments, do you predominantly lean on your intuition, or do you find someone to counsel in your circle?

I deeply trust my instincts, yet I remain open and absorbing the insights of those around me. Both are important to me.

With a life awash in the limelight, moments of magic are frequent. However, as sands shift, do you feel a diminished sense of wonder compared to the early days?

Insightful. Indeed, there have been instances when the stage felt less electrifying. To keep that sense of wonder and gratefulness alive, I should seek unveiled side of me and evolve. This drive to rediscover and redefine myself fueled the spirit of my latest album.

As you evolve and accumulate various experiences as an artist, if there’s one essence, within V or, shall we say, Kim Taehyung that remains steadfast, what would it be?

It’s the pursuit of joy, however fleeting or minor it is. Be it the camaraderie among members, the ambiance of a set, or even fleeting thoughts of a forthcoming day off or today’s meal – cherishing moments of happiness, no matter how small, is important to me.

With life unfurling, what aspirations are kindling within V at present?

Strikingly, I’m not one swayed by intense ambitions. I’ve been told my desires are tempered. There’s merit in ambition, of course, but my barometer often measures the day in degrees of happiness. That said, when it’s a photoshoot, that’s the moment I reveal ambition (laughs).

Given the perfect confluence of time, space, and opportunity, is there a dream stage you’ve envisioned, one you’d wish to breathe life into?

It’s about the ARMY, always. Being in their presence, feeling their energy – that’s paramount.

Source: W Korea ENG: W Korea

#2023 #bts #v #뷔 #w korea

[0613magazine]

072423 Rolling Stone UK

Check out our exclusive images as Jung Kook tells us about solo summer anthem ‘Seven’

BTS' Jung Kook talks about his summer anthem 'Seven,' performing at Wembley and his signature style

BTS member Jung Kook has revealed how he’s aiming for a summer anthem with his new solo hit ‘Seven’

The track, featuring Latto, which is defined by an upbeat tempo and a catchy chorus you might belt out in the bars of Ibiza, has got all the trappings of a perfect summertime song. It’s also caught fire on the all important platform, TikTok, being the perfect soundtrack for the insanely popular K-Pop fan-cams.

Jung Kook has been over to England on the promotion trail, where Forbes reported that he has become only the fifth Korean act to chart in the UK top ten (landing in at number 3.)

The success in Britain seems less of a surprise when you listen to the sonic influences of ‘Seven’ too – with a brilliantly nostalgic nod to UK garage and the Born To Do It heyday of Craig David.

We wanted to find out more from Jung Kook about the reciprocal love between himself and the UK, so read our Q&A with the man himself below.

There is a UK Garage influence to this sound too. Do you feel connected to the UK? What do you love about London/The UK? 

As soon as I heard ‘Seven,’ I was immediately drawn to the track and became interested in UK Garage.  I still have vivid memories of us going to the UK to perform at Wembley Stadium. It’d be exciting to have opportunities to visit again in the future!

Do you have any fond memories from the UK with the rest of the band? 

When I think of the UK, I think about our Wembley Stadium concert a lot. It’s a dream come true for artists to perform at Wembley Stadium, so I can’t forget the moment when I was there performing on stage with our members and fans.

How did you feel before you went on stage at Wembley? Some of the greats have performed there.

I remember watching the movie ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ before our concert at Wembley and I liked it very much. The movie made me realize how significant this Wembley concert meant to us and feel proud to perform there.

You’re used to being part of BTS. How does it feel going solo? Is it daunting? Do you get to be more creative/Involved with making a song and music video? 

Since it’s my official solo debut, everything is a challenging yet refreshing experience for me. I’m both nervous and excited to know how people will respond. I practiced diligently and was hands-on throughout the process to be able to show the best version of myself. I especially paid a lot of attention to recording the song and acting in the music video.  

What was it like collaborating with Latto?

While I was looking for a rapper who would fit well with “Seven,” one of the producers recommended Latto, and we ended up working together- (Latto’s) verse fits the vibe of the song perfectly, and Latto’s favourite number is 7!

This track is a summery track, what do you like do in the summer?

I actually don’t prefer summer because I get hot very easily (laughs) I like winter!

What would you say your personal style is? What are you drawn to? Favourite colours, brands and fits? 

It’s hard to define my style as one thing. I love any outfit that looks right on me and makes me feel confident when I wear it (laughter). My favorite colors are purple, black, and blue. I like to get dressed in black, so I often go for all-black outfits. Also, I’m not saying this because I’m an ambassador (laughter), but I really like Calvin Klein. 

Source: Rolling Stone UK

#2023 #bts #jung kook #rolling stone uk

[0613magazine]

072023 Weverse Magazine

정국 “제 스스로가 좀 바뀌고 있는 것 같아요”

정국 솔로 데뷔 싱글 ‘Seven’ 발표 인터뷰

방탄소년단의 멤버로 10년을 살았다. 하지만 정국은 바로 지금, 가장 격렬한 변화의 순간을 보내고 있다. 

언젠가부터 밤에 위버스 라이브를 장시간 하곤 해요. 

정국: 원래 라이브를 할 때 회사에 알리고 좀 준비해서 진행하거나 했는데 그냥 폰 켜고 해버린 거예요. 그 다음부터는 언제든 하게 된 거죠.  

팬들이 보는데서 그냥 잠든 적도 있어요.(웃음) 

정국: 이게 제가 날마다 단순해져 가는 모습 때문인데 별 생각이 없어요. 그냥, 그때 내가 뭘 하고 있는지 어떤 일이 있었는지 가볍게 하는 거에요. 

말 그대로 방탄소년단의 멤버인데, 있는 모습을 그대로 보여줄 수 있다는 게 오히려 놀라운 일 아닌가요? 

정국: 팀 활동을 할 때는 일부러라도 사람을 만날 때가 많잖아요. 집에 들어가면 일 끝나고 확 쉬었는데 요즘엔 그러지 않으니까 생활이 붕 뜨는 기분인 거예요. 한동안 쉬기도 했고, 멤버나 친구를 만나는 것처럼 사람 얼굴도 좀 보고 싶고요. 그래서 다른 사람들 얘기도 듣고 싶었고요. 

‘Seven (feat. Latto)’에 대한 스포일러를 말할 때 “내가 이 얘기를 하면 회사에서 난리가 나겠지?” 하는 식으로 발언해서 지켜야 할 선을 재밌게 건드렸어요. 되게 편하게 얘기하는데, 그렇다고 무리한 발언은 없고요. 

정국: 솔직해야 진짜 내가 될 수 있다고 생각하거든요. 내가 하고 싶은 대로 하자는 마음으로 바뀌고 있는 것 같아요. 제가 행동을 잘하면 많은 사람들이 그걸 받아들여주실 거고, 그럼 저는 더 제 모습을 제대로 보여드릴 수 있으니까요. 

‘내가 이 정도는 해도 되겠지?’라는 판단이 자연스럽게 되는 것 같은데, 일을 할 때의 태도일 것 같기도 해요. 

정국: 그렇죠. 항상 팀의 막내였다 지금은 솔로 곡을 내게 됐고, 혼자가 돼 보니까 일할 때 느낌도 달라요. 사람들이 나를 봤을 때 내가 그 사람들한테 하는 행동에 대한 책임감도, 사고의 중심도 다른 것 같아요. 내가 결정해야 하는 부분도 많고, ‘아 모르겠어요.’ 하고 회피하면 안 되니까요. 팀에서는 제가 먼저 나서지는 않았는데, 지금은 뭔가 해야 하거나 할 수 있는 게 많아진 거죠. 그러면서 자연스럽게 달라진 것 같아요.

회의를 한다거나 할 때 스태프들이 모두 정국 씨만 보고 있거나 하는 상황들이 있겠어요. 

정국: 그럴 때 부담스럽기도 해요. 하지만 제가 전하고 완전히 달라진 건 아니고, 여전히 스태프들에게 의지할 때가 되게 많아요.(웃음) 다만 ‘내가 편하면 안 되겠다.’는 생각을 조금 하게 된 것 같아요. 스태프들이 모두 각자의 일에서 전문가니까 그냥 믿고 맡기고 싶은데, 그래도 내가 생각하는 부분에 대해서는 이야기하고 나머지는 스태프들이 준비해주시는 대로 열심히 하는 경우가 많기는 해요. 나는 춤과 노래를 하는 사람이지, 모든 업무를 다 아는 건 아니니까요. 다만 내가 하는 일인 거니까 조금이나마 제 생각들을 이야기하고 그래서 상황에 따라 눈치껏 융통성 있게?(웃음) 하는 것 같아요. 제가 처음부터 끝까지 다 관리하고 뭘 어떻게 하자고 할 건 아니라고 생각하고, 싫기도 해요. 모두 각자 잘하는 걸 살짝... 교집합시키자는 느낌으로 일하고 있어요.

그렇게 맞추는 게 참 쉽진 않을 것 같아요.

정국: 그렇죠, 그렇죠. 타협을 좀 잘 끌어내야 하지 않을까… 아직 잘 모르겠어요.(웃음) 타협이란 게, 상대방에 대해 인정을 잘하면서 해줄 건 해주고, 얻을 건 얻는 밸런스를 유지해야 하는 게 아닐까 생각하고요. 

최근에 위버스 라이브에서 “내 감을 믿고 해볼 거다. 나중에 실패로 이어질 수도 있지만 그냥 나를 믿어보려고 한다.”라고 했는데, 그 말이 지금 정국 씨 같단 생각도 들었어요. 다른 사람들하고 맞추면서 본인 ‘감’대로 하고 싶은 걸 추구해보는 것 아닌가 싶던데요. 

정국: 맞아요. 

그 ‘감’이 아티스트로서는 어디로 가고 있는 거 같아요?

정국: 뚜렷하게는 없어요. 저는 뭔가… 거대한 팝스타라는 큰 목표만 있지, 다음엔 어떤 콘셉트를 보여주겠다거나 하는 생각은 없어요. ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’도 미리 계획을 세운 게 아니라 방시혁 PD 님이 곡을 들려줬는데 너무 좋아서 “아, 이건 무조건 해야 돼요.” 했어요. ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’을 하기로 하면서 앞으로 제 활동을 어떻게 구상해야 할지 정리가 된 거죠. 이것도 감이에요. 사람마다 그런 게 있잖아요. 듣고 ‘엇... 좋은데?’ 하는 것.(웃음) 참 신기한 게, 곡 장르가 다 달라도 좋은 곡들은 좋아요. 물론 난 좋아서 발표했는데 별로라는 반응을 얻을 수도 있지만 그런 적은 한 번도 없었으니까요. 저는 계속 그렇게 살았던 것 같아요. 지금은 좀 더 체계적으로 감을 잡는 거고, 옛날에는 그냥 아무것도 모르는 상태에서의 감이었던 것 같고. 그래서 생각을 많이 하기 보다 제가 끌리는 걸 하고 싶은 거예요. 

왜 거대한 팝스타죠? 지금도 거대한 팝스타잖아요?(웃음)

정국: 아니요. 저는 그렇게 생각 안 해요. 그냥 욕심 아닐까요? 더 인정받고 싶고 더 잘하고 싶은 욕심? 단순하게, 멋있잖아요. 제가 지금 이 일을 하는 이유예요. ‘한 번 그런 팝스타가 되고 싶다.’, ‘그런 느낌의 감정을 나한테 느껴보고 싶다.’ 내가 제3자의 입장에서 나 스스로를 봤을 때 인정할 수 있는 날이 왔으면 좋겠어요. 그렇게 됐을 때의 모습이 그런 팝스타인 것 같아요. 

카타르 월드컵 개막식에 ‘Dreamers’로 섰던 경험이 좀 비슷한 느낌 아니었을까요?

정국: 이것도 어떻게 보면 감인 것 같아요. 월드컵도 저에게 기회인 거잖아요. 제안받았을 때 ‘이건 마다할 이유가 없다.’고 생각했어요. 근데 ‘Dreamers’ 무대에 대해 좀 아쉬움이 있어요. 사람들은 좋아해주셨지만 ‘내가 좀 더 잘 했으면 어땠을까?’ 하는 생각을 했었어요. 

비하인드 영상에서 “공연은 100%는 항상 해본 적이 없어서 만족은 못하지만 그래도 큰 실수 없이 적당히 괜찮은 무대를 하고 내려온 것 같다.”고 말했는데, 평소에 준비 열심히 하고 무대는 ‘그냥 올라가서 잘하자.’(웃음) 이런 마음가짐이 있는 것 같았어요.

정국: 그 부분은 옛날이랑 많이 달라졌어요. 옛날에는 실수하면 그 순간에 얽매여서 계속 괴로워하고 그랬는데, 지금은 내가 못하면 ‘더 잘해야지.’ 하고 그냥 연습해요. 사람이 엄청 단순해졌어요. 그냥 못해도, ‘못하는 것도 나’라고 인정을 해버리는 거죠. 그러니까 잘하려고 하는 거고. 

무대 위에서 잘한다는 건 어떤 뜻일까요?

정국: 훨씬 더 자연스러워지고 싶어요. 제 몸에 밴 나쁜 습관 같은 것을 별로 안 좋아하는데, 그런 것들이 저한테는 계속 보이니까요. 제 움직임 자체가 한정적이지 않았으면 좋겠어요. 춤 동작을 디테일하게 잘 추고 이런 것보다, 비슷한 동작을 보여주더라도 움직임 하나하나가 다 달랐으면 좋겠어요. 그런 모습이 자연스럽게 계속 나왔으면 좋겠어요. 

‘Seven (feat. Latto)’의 퍼포먼스도 요즘의 생각이 많이 반영됐다고 할 수 있을까요? 테크닉적인 동작들이 많기 보다 동작을 깔끔하게 소화하면서 곡의 분위기를 잘 연출한다는 느낌이 들던데.

정국: 자연스러운 게 좋기도 하고, 힘도 좀 빼고 싶기도 했어요. 여러 안무 시안을 받고선 제가 결정했는데, 퍼포먼스적으로도 좀 가벼워지고 싶었어요. 저만의 차별점을 두고 싶었으니까요. 그러면서도 조금은 무게감을 더할 수 있으면 좋겠고요. 사람들이 무대를 볼 때 ‘���, 저 친구 봐라?’ 약간 이런 느낌을 받게.(웃음)

가볍다고 표현했는데, ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’은 방탄소년단 곡이나 정국 씨의 그간 솔로곡 등과 사뭇 달라요. 지금까지와는 다른 모습을 표현한다는 점에서 어땠어요?

정국: 좋았어요. 이 곡을 온전히 그냥 받아들이기만 했을 뿐, 그 이상으로 뭔가 더 생각하진 않았어요. 그냥 하면 하는 거.(웃음) 

창법도 굉장히 많이 바뀌었는데, 날렵한 팝의 느낌을 내면서 거친 목소리나 바이브레이션을 사용하지 않았어요. 이런 접근을 선택한 이유가 있을까요? 

정국: 녹음하기 전에 일단 가이드 버전을 듣잖아요. 그 안에서 내가 도움을 받을 수 있는 거, 내가 더해야 할 부분과 빼야 할 부분을 생각해서 녹음해요. 제 색깔을 만들어 나가는 건데, 이제는 듣기 좋으면 되는 것 같기도 해요. 거부감 없고, 과하지 않고. 녹음을 할 때 곡마다 어울리는 느낌을 자연스럽게 찾게 되는 거 같아요. 노래 부를 때는 기술적으로 어려운 부분이 있으면 ‘어떻게 불러야 되지?’ 하면서 어려울 때도 있는데 결국 자연스럽게 부르게 되는 거 같아요. 이번에는 녹음하는 동안 짧은 시간 안에 는 게 있는 것 같긴 하고요. 영어 노래를 부를 때의 디테일이 조금 더 생기지 않았나 싶어요. 발음할 때 ‘나 이렇게 소리내는 구나?’ 하는 것도 알게 되고, 어떻게 불러야 할지에 대해 알게 된 것 같아요. 

변화의 계기가 있었나요?

정국: 일단 재밌었어요. 녹음 방식을 바꿔봤거든요. 노래를 녹음할 때마다 끝까지 한 번에 쭉 불렀는데, 그게 도움이 많이 됐어요. 프로듀서가 노래를 한 번에 녹음하면서 제 목소리를 그대로 듣고 “어? (좋은 소리가) 나온 것 같아.” 하고 넘어가는 게 너무 좋았어요. 중간에 다른 작업 없이 계속 노래 부르고, 좋은 게 나오면 오케이 하고, 다시 불러보고. 코러스가 필요하면 그 자리에서 바로 만들어서 불러보고. 작업 과정이 굉장히 빨랐던 게 너무 좋았어요.

여러 테크닉을 많이 안 쓰면서도 고음까지 깔끔하게 내야 해서 오히려 부르기 쉽지 않았을 듯해요. 그만큼 가수로서 가지는 무기가 많다는 생각도 들었어요. 다양하게 노래 부르는 데 관심이 있는 건가요?

정국: 관심이 없다고는 못할 것 같아요. 왜냐하면 다양한 소리를 내고 싶긴 하니까요. 그래서 다른 분들의 노래를 따라 불러보는 건 되게 좋은 거 같아요. 제 상황에서는 목을 잘못 쓰는 거라도 해보는 건 되게 좋은 것 같아요. 잘못된 길이 나중에는 올바른 길이 될 수도 있는 거니까. 하지만 내 게 없어지면 안 되니까 제 색깔을 만들어야죠. 그래서 ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’으로 무대에 서봐야 알게 되는 부분들이 있을 것 같아요. 곡이 나오고 무대에 서고 반응을 보거나 해야 앞으로 내가 어떻게 해야 할지 느낌이 올 거 같아요.

‘Seven (feat. Latto)’의 가사에서 “너의 어깨에 이 세상의 무게를 짊어져”라는 부분이 있는데, 방탄소년단의 멤버라는 건 그런 위치잖아요. 혼자 무대에 서게 된 지금은 어떤가요?

정국: 혼자니까 팀일 때보다 압박감이 더 있는 거 같아요. 근데 성격이 많이 바뀌다 보니까 받아들이는 방식이 좀 달라진 거 같아요. 왜 그렇게 바뀌었을까? 그냥 바뀔 때가 된 거 아닐까요?(웃음) 

왜 바뀌게 됐을까요? 

정국: 내가 왜 사랑을 받는지 이유에 대해 생각했어요. ‘내가 이렇게 사랑을 받는 이유를 나는 잘 모르겠다만 그게 있으니까 사랑을 받고 있겠지?’ 하고 납득을 하는 그런 시기였던 것 같아요. 제가 사랑 받고 있다고 인정을 해버리는. 그래서 위버스 라이브에서 물어봤었어요. 왜 우리를 좋아하냐고. 

“여러분은 왜 (우리를) 응원해줘요?”라고 물어봤었죠.

정국: 네. 그때 이후로 좀 많이 바뀌지 않았나 싶어요. 나를 조금은 인정하게 되면서 ‘항상 저자세일 필요는 없겠구나.’ 하는 마음가짐이 생겼죠. 

사랑받는다는 게 기쁘기도 하지만 더 책임감이 생기는 것도 있을 듯해요. 

정국: 그래서 좀 다른 거죠. 옛날에는 그냥 더 잘해야 한다고 생각했어요. 더 잘해야 인정받으니까. 그런데 이제 반대가 된 거죠. 인정을 받은 걸 아니까, 내가 이 사람들한테 더 좋은 모습을 보여주고 더 열심히 해서 달라진 모습을 보여주고 싶어요. 

그런 마음이 기부 활동하고도 관계가 있을까요? 어린이 환자를 위해 10억 원을 서울대학교 어린이병원에 기부했어요. 

정국: 하고 나니까 기분이 좋아요. 너무. 어린 친구들에게 마음이 쏠렸어요. 그래서 어린이병원에 집중하고 시설들이 만들어지거나 하면 좋을 거 같아서 했는데, 하고 나니까 너무 기분 좋더라고요. 

책임감의 한 부분이 자기 관리인 것 같기도 해요. 위버스 라이브 하면서 식사하는 중에도 먹는 양을 신경 쓰더라고요. 저렇게 야식을 먹는 순간에도 몸 관리를 신경 써야 하는구나 싶더라고요.

정국: 제가 제 마음대로 하는 것처럼 보여도 그리고 되게 단순해 보여도 그렇게 제 안에서의 생각들은 따로 하는 편이긴 하죠. 

그래서 밤에 위버스 라이브로 팬들과 만나는 건가 싶기도 했어요. 뭐든 자유롭게 하는 것 같지만 뭘 해야 할지 생각하니까 그걸 팬들에게도 편하게 보여줄 수 있는 거 같아요. 위버스 라이브를 켜든 안 켜든 운동하고, 빨래 개고, 요리하면서 행복해하고.(웃음)

정국: 모든 걸 놓은 느낌은 아닌데, 외적으로나 내적으로나 좀 자유로워진 것 같아요. ‘이게 나 같다. 진짜 나 같다. 나 이렇게 살아야 되겠다. 그냥.’ 

요리는 언제부터 자주하게 됐나요? 위버스 라이브에서 한 요리들이 화제가 되기도 했는데.

정국: 유튜브로 보다 맛있는 거, 맛있어 보이는 거 해 먹어요. 유튜브 보다 ‘먹어봐야지?’ 그렇게 단순하게 해 먹고. 그게 습관이 되다 보니까 ‘내일은 뭐 먹지? 뭐 해 먹지?’ 이렇게 되는 거죠. 해보고 ‘너무 맛있는데?’ 하면 다음 날 한 번 더 해 먹고. 제가 레시피를 갖고 요리를 하는데, 그때 재료가 없는 게 있고 또 있는 게 있어요. 레시피와는 다른 재료도 있고. 그러면 ‘이거 너무 맛있지 않을까?’ 하��서 넣고 싶은 대로 넣어보는 게 재밌어요.

위버스 라이브에서 공개했던 ‘꼬소한 불마요 들기름 막국수’도 그렇게 탄생한 건가요? 소스 배합이 한 번에 찾을 수 있는 배합이 아닌 거 같은데.

정국: 그냥요. 한 세 번 만들어 봤나? 소스 간만 봤어요.(웃음) 처음에는 일반 들기름 막국수를 좋아했어요. 고소하고, 별로 안 짜고, 살짝은 느끼한. 그러다 ‘뭔가 매콤했으면 좋겠는데?’ 하면서 ‘매운 거? 불닭’. 간장이랑 불닭 맛만 나게 해서 먹었는데 뭔가 밍밍한 거예요. 뭔가 크리미했으면 좋겠다, 꾸덕했으면 좋겠다 해서 막 우유도 넣어봐, 마요네즈도 넣고. 근데 하… 또 뭔가 부족해요. 그래서 불닭 마요를 넣자. ‘우유는 묽으니까 달걀노른자를 넣자. 좀 더 꾸덕하게 하려면 여기에 다진 마늘이랑 양파를 넣자.’ 해서 소스를 만드니까 맛있더라고요. 간장은 그냥 진간장 쓸 때도 있고 양조간장 쓸 때도 있는데 그냥 진간장이 제일 나은 것 같고요. 쯔유는 간장 베이스로만 먹을 때 맛있고, 불닭을 섞을 때는 무조건 진간장, 그 다음에 참소스. 참소스가 아주 좋은 역할을 했어요.(웃음)

인터뷰 때문에 야식 먹을 만한 시간에 만들어 봤는데, ‘단짠’ 조합에 매운맛이 들어 있는데 동시에 새콤한 맛까지 들어가 있어서 계속 먹어도 안 질렸어요. 면 처음 먹을 때 식감도 너무 좋아서, 만들 때마다 여러 가지를 생각하면서 만들었을 거 같았어요.

정국: 맞아요, 맞아요.(웃음) 요리도 그냥 하는 거긴 한데, 한 번 하면 제대로 해 먹어요. 제대로 해서 먹으려면 진짜 꽤 시간이 걸려요.(웃음) 

만들 때 하나하나 간을 보면서 판단했다는 거잖아요? 추구하는 맛이 확실하단 건데. 

정국: 그러니까 내가 먹고 싶은 맛이어야 되는 거예요. 원하는 맛에 최대한 가깝게는 만든 것 같아요. 요리하면서 재료를 맛보잖아요. 그러면 뭐가 들어갔을 때 이런 맛이 나겠다는 걸 좀 알게 되는 거 같아요.

대충 먹자고 하지만 절대 대충일 수 없는 (웃음)

정국: ‘편하게는 하되 대충 먹지는 말자.’(웃음) 쉽진 않아요. 1인분 양을 정해서 소스 양을 맞춰야 하니까. 근데 그렇게 하는 거까진 너무 귀찮아서 조금 낭비를 하더라도 편하게 소스를 넉넉하게 만들어 놔요. 제가 딱 1인분만 먹진 않으니까. 만드는 과정에서 그렇게 조금 편한 방법을 찾죠.

일도 그렇게 하는 걸까요? 편안하게 하는 것 같지만 꼼꼼하고, 원하는 것도 확실하고.

정국: 그렇지 않을까요?(웃음)

그럼 다시 본격적으로 무대 위에 올라가는 기분은 어때요?(이 인터뷰는 7월 6일 진행됐다)

정국: 설레요. 새롭게 시작하는 거니까요. 근데 그만큼 또 걱정이 되죠. 일단 내 게 아직 세상에 나오기 전이니까 이렇게 밖에 얘기를 못해요. 나오고 나서 내가 어느 정도 간을 봐야(웃음), 해봐야 알 것 같아요. 아직까지는 긴장도 되고, 기대도 너무 많이 되고, 내가 무대에 섰을 때 어떤 느낌이 날지 다 궁금한 시점인 것 같아요. 

‘My You’의 가사를 쓴 배경에 대해 ‘가끔 이 모든 것들이 사라진다면 혹은 꿈이라면 어떡할까’ 이런 생각을 한 적이 있다고 했는데, 그런 생각이 들 만한 삶인 거 같아요. 데뷔해서 10년이 지나는 사이 세계적인 스타가 됐고, 10년 만에 첫 솔로 활동을 하고. 

정국: 약간은, 제 현실이 현실이 아닐 때처럼 느껴질 때가 있어요. 가끔  ‘내가 지금 살고 있는 게 현실이 맞나?’ ‘내가 한 게 맞나?’ 이렇게 현실을 약간 부정할 때가 있어요. ‘My You’를 쓸 때도 약간 ‘이게 (현실이) 아니면 어떡하지?’ 하는 생각이 들었던 것 같아요. 

그래서 아미가 생각났던 건가요? ‘My You’가 팬에게 보내는 이야기잖아요. 지금의 현실에서 늘 함께 있는 사람들이니까.

정국: 저는 이제 제 인생에 아미가 없으면 없죠. 그러니까 항상 있어요. 저는 이제 아미와 거의 동기화가 됐죠. 그래서 술 마시고 “저 왔어요.” 하면서 하는 게(웃음) 엄마 아빠한테 술 먹고 전화한 적은 없는데 아미한테는 가니까. 그게 내가 돼버린 것 같아요. 그런 느낌이 너무 자연스러운 거라. 그냥 더도 말고 덜도 말고 서로 좀 특별했으면 좋겠어요. 그분들은 저를 응원해주는 사람들이고, 제 모습을 편히 보여주고, 서로 거리는 멀리 있지만 동시에 가깝고도 되게 편한 사이였으면 좋겠어요.

그럼 아미가 왜 정국 씨를 응원하는지 이젠 좀 알 것 같나요?

정국: 저는 제 자신을 봤을 때, 솔직히 잘 모르겠어요. 자존감이 그렇게 높지는 않은 것 같아요. 그런데도 ‘내 인기가 왜 많을까?’, ‘그냥 목소리가 마음에 들어서 그런가?’ 아니면 ‘춤이 마음에 들었나?’ 그 이유는 진짜 모르겠어요. 왜 내가 이렇게 많은 사랑을 받을 수 있는 건지에 대해서. 그런데 아미는 저를 인정해주고 있는 사람들인 거잖아요. 제가 이렇게 많은 사랑을 받고 있는지에 대해서는 몰라도 그분들이 저를 인정해주는 건 알아요. 그러니까 ‘내가 당당하지 않으면 그렇게 나를 인정하고 응원하는 사람들은 뭐냐’ 이런 생각이 들었어요. 그래서 제 스스로가 좀 바뀌고 있는 것 같아요. 아직까지도 솔직히 잘 모르겠긴 하지만요. 

하지만 사랑을 받는 건 인정하니까 더 돌려주겠단 거군요. 

정국: 그러니까 오케이, 그렇게 된 거죠.

English Translation

Jung Kook: “I’ve been changing a bit”

Jung Kook’s debut solo single “Seven” release interview

He’s been a member of BTS for 10 years. Now, Jung Kook’s undergoing the biggest changes of his life.

You’ve been doing long Weverse Lives at night a lot lately.

Jung Kook: I used to tell the label before I was going to do a Live and get myself ready, but one time I just fired up my phone and did it. Ever since then, I just turn it on whenever I feel like reaching out.

You even fell asleep in front of the fans one time. (laughs)

Jung Kook: That’s because I’m becoming simpler every day. I don’t give things too much thought. I just, you know, keep it casual and shareabout what I’m up to or what’s happening.

It’s amazing how you’re able to present yourself exactly the way you are, even though you’re literally a member of BTS.

Jung Kook: You know, I meet a lot of different people when I’m working with the group, whether intentionally or not. I used to go home and get some rest after finishing up work, but it’s not like that lately, so I’ve been feeling adrift . I’ve been taking it easy, and now I want to be around other people—like hanging out with the other members or someone else. I want to hear from other people.

It was funny the way you walked a tightrope as you were dropping hints for “Seven (feat. Latto)”, saying that “the company will go crazy” if you said anything about it. You just kept it casual and didn’t go overboard.

Jung Kook: I think I can only be the real me when I’m speaking my mind honestly. I feel like I’m changing in a way. Now I think I should do things the way I want to do them. Because, if I do things right, lots of people will accept that, and then I can be more open about the real me.

I guess you’re getting a feel for making a judgment call about what would be appropriate to do. Maybe that’s your mindset when you’re working, too.

Jung Kook: Right. I was always the youngest one in the group. Now I’m releasing my own solo song. It feels different working by myself too. I think the responsibility that comes from how I interact with other people and the center of my thinking have both changed. There are a lot of decisions I have to make that I can’t just sidestep by saying, “Ah, I don’t know.” I wasn’t usually the first in the group to speak up but now there’s a lot I need to and can do. I think I naturally changed as a result.

​There must be times like meetings where the staff all look to you or something.

Jung Kook: Sometimes I feel the pressure in moments like that. But it’s not like I’ve changed completely from how I was. I still end up relying on the staff all the time. (laughs) But I sort of told myself I shouldn’t get too comfortable with things. I want to just trust everything to the staff since they’re all pros at what they do, but there’s still many times where I bring up things I have thoughts on and do my best with everything else the staff puts together. I’m a dancer and a singer—I don’t know about every single aspect of the business. It’s my work though, so I give them some ideas, and then just try to basically stay flexible depending on how the situations looks? (laughs) I don’t expect myself to be able to handle everything from start to finish and tell people what to do, and I wouldn’t want to anyway. I sort of feel like … everyone does what they’re best at and then we allow it all to intersect.

There’s no way keeping everyone on the same page like that can be easy.

Jung Kook: Indeed, indeed. Maybe I need to find a way we can all meet in the middle … I’m not really sure. (laughs)I think it’s about maintaining a balance between giving what you can and taking what you can while properly acknowledging others.

You said something similar on Weverse Live recently: “I’m just going to trust myself and do it even in the future … That might result in failure in the future, but I’m going to trust myself.” It seems like you’re looking to work well with others while still pursing what you want and trusting yourself.

Jung Kook: Right.

Where does trusting your instincts lead you as an artist?

Jung Kook: It’s hazy. I just … I only have one, big goal, and it’s to be a giant pop star. I’m not thinking about what the next concept I pursue is going to be or anything. “Seven” wasn’t something I planned in advance either—Producer Bang Si-hyuk just played it for me, and it was so good, I said, “Oh, I definitely have to do this one.” I figured out what kind of promoting I’d do once I decided to do “Seven.” That’s all instinct too. Everyone’s got it, you know? You just hear the song and say, Whoa … That’s a good one! (laughs) What’s amazing is that it doesn’t matter what genre a song is—if it’s good, it’s good. Of course, it’s possible I release a song just because I like it but it doesn’t get that great of a response, but that’s never happened. I think I’ve been living that way all along. I think now I’m more systematic when it comes to listening to my instincts, whereas my instincts used to come from a place of not knowing anything at all. So I want to do the things I’m drawn to and not overthink it.

Why a giant pop star? You’re already a giant pop star, aren’t you? (laughs)

Jung Kook: No. I don’t see it that way. I guess it’s just my ambition—the ambition to be more appreciated and be even better. In a word: cool. That’s the whole reason I’m doing this. I want to be that kind of pop star someday—I want to be able to really experience that feeling. I hope the day comes that I can look at myself from a third-person perspective and give myself that kind of recognition. I’ll know I’m that kind of pop star once I can do that.

​Did performing “Dreamers” for the Qatar World Cup opening ceremony come close to that feeling?

Jung Kook: I think that’s also instinct, in a way. The World Cup was another big opportunity for me. When they gave me the offer, I thought, “There’s no reason for me to turn this down.” I wish I could’ve done better when I performed “Dreamers” though. People liked it, but I still wondered if I could’ve done better.

You said this in a behind-the-scenes video: “I’ve never been 100% satisfied as you all know by now so I’m not satisfied, but still, I didn’t make mistakes and I think it was alright.” It seems like you always practice really hard and then say you’ll just get up on stage and do a good job. (laughs)

Jung Kook: I’m a lot different about that now than I used to be. In the past, if I made a mistake, I felt weighed down by that moment and tortured myself with it, but now if I do something wrong I just tell myself to do better and keep practicing. I started to keep things nice and simple. If you mess up, you just accept it and say, “I make mistakes too.” That’s why I keep trying to do a good job.

What does it mean to you to do a good job on stage?

Jung Kook: I want to be a lot more natural. I don’t like the bad habits I already developed. They’re all I can see. I don’t want my movement to be limited in any way. I want every single movement I make to be different, even if the dance moves are similar, rather than to get every little movement right. I hope I can naturally give off that kind of image.

​Would you say that your performance for “Seven” reflects that way of thinking? It’s not so much full of technically challenging moves—more you successfully capturing the atmosphere of the song with cleanmoves.

Jung Kook: I like when things look natural and I wanted to do something a little more relaxed. I made my decisions after seeing a number of different proposals for the choreography. I wanted the performance to feel a little lighter. I wanted to show what makes me different. At the same time, I wanted to add some parts that were a little heavier so that, when people watch the performance, they’d be like, Are you seeing this guy? (laughs)

You described “Seven” as being light. It’s pretty different from BTS’s songs and your other solo songs too. What was it like expressing something different from what you’ve done before?

Jung Kook: It was good. I just embraced the song fully. I didn’t think about it much beyond that. Just do it. (laughs)

Your singing style is a lot different as well. You didn’t make your voice sound hoarse or use vibrato, giving off a sleek pop vibe instead. What made you approach it in that way?

Jung Kook: Before recording anything, you always listen to the demo. I think from there which parts I can get help with, what I should add and which parts have to go, and then record. It’s all about making it my own, and once it sounds good, I think that’s enough. Nothing off-putting; nothing over the top. I naturally end up finding the right mood for every song when I’m recording. When it comes to singing, if there’s a part that’s technically hard, I’ll have trouble thinking how I should sing it, but in the end I always end up making the song my own. And I think I improved a lot in a short time while recording this one. I think I learned more about the details to put in when singing in English. Now I know exactly what I sound like when I use English and I figured out how to sing in it.

Was there a specific reason why you changed it?

Jung Kook: First of all, it was fun. I tried switching up my recording style: I sang the whole thing from start to finish every time I did a take, which was a lot of help. The producer heard my voice on one of the takes and said, “Oh, I think we got it,” and we moved on. I loved it. I didn’t do anything else but sing during that time. If something turned out well we said okay, or else I tried again. And if I needed to do the chorus, I sang it right on the spot. I really liked going through the whole process quickly like that.

It couldn’t have been easy to sing. You had to hit all those high notes perfectly without using too many special techniques. It made me realize how many tools you have at your disposal as a singer. Are you interested in singing in a variety of different ways?

Jung Kook: I certainly wouldn’t say I’m uninterested. I want to use my voice in all kinds of different ways. That’s also why I think it’s a great idea to sing along to other people’s songs. I think it’s a really good idea for me to try something new even if I’m technically using my voice wrong. The wrong way could turn out to be the right way later on. But I can’t lose what makes me unique, so I have to find my own voice. There’s some things I’ll only learn from performing “Seven” on stage. I’ll have to wait for the song to come out and get up on stage and gauge the reaction to feel out what direction I should head in going forward.

​There’s a line in the “Seven” lyrics that says, “Weight of the world on your shoulders.” That describes what it’s like to be a member of BTS, I’m sure. How do you feel now that you’re performing alone?

Jung Kook: I feel more pressure now than when I’m with the group. But I think the way I come to terms with that has changed a bit seeing as my personality has changed so much. What made it change like that? Maybe it was just time? (laughs)

What do you think made it change like that?

Jung Kook: I thought about why people love me. It gave me a chance to think about and accept that there must be a reason why they love me so much, even if I don’t know what it is. I could finally acknowledge that they love me. So I asked on Weverse Live: Why do you guys like us?

“Why do you guys cheer for us?” That’s what you said.

Jung Kook: Right. I feel like I’ve changed quite a bit since then. As I started to acknowledge myself, I started to feel like I don’t have to be so timid all the time.

It seems like you’re happy to be loved but at the same time you feel a stronger sense of responsibility.

Jung Kook: That’s the part that’s sort of different. I used to think I just needed to try and do better—that I had to be better to receive recognition. But now it’s like it’s the other way around. I know people embrace me so I want to show those same people a better side of me. I want to work harder and show them something different.

Do the donations you’ve made tie into that at all, like the billion-won donation you made to the Seoul National University Children’s Hospital?

Jung Kook: I feel good about doing that. Really good. My thoughts have been turning to the younger kids these days, so I turned my attention to the children’s hospital thinking it would be good for some new resources and facilities to get built. I’m really happy I could do that.

I think another part of being responsible is taking care of yourself. You’re careful about how much you eat while on Weverse Live. I was impressed how you’re careful about your body even when it’s that time of night for a snack.

Jung Kook: Even if I seem to just do things without much forethought or come across as really simplistic, I usually have serious thoughts going on in my head.

​I wondered if that’s why you hang out with the fans on Weverse Live at night. You seem to do everything as you please, but you’re also thinking about everything you have to do, and that’s why you’re able to show that to the fans so easily. You’re happy working out, folding laundry and cooking even when you’re on Weverse Live. (laughs)

Jung Kook: I don’t feel like I’ve just let everything go but I do feel a little freer inside and out. This is me. The real me. This is how I should be living. Just living.

When did you start cooking so much? The things you cooked on Weverse Live even started trending.

Jung Kook: I watch YouTube and make things that look and taste good to eat. I just see something on YouTube and think, I should try that. That became a habit of mine, so now it’s like, What should I have tomorrow? What should I cook? If I cook it and it turns out really good I’ll make it the following day too. I use recipes when I cook, and sometimes I have all the ingredients, but sometimes I don’t. And sometimes I use ingredients that aren’t in the recipe at all. It’s fun to just put in whatever I think might taste good.

Is that also the origin story of the savory hot mayo perilla oil mak-guksu you described on Weverse Live? It’s not the sort of mix of sauces you can easily figure out.

Jung Kook: Well, I think I’ve made it like, three times? I just felt out the sauce. (laughs) I always liked regular old perilla oil mak-guksu: savory, not too salty and just a little oily. And then I thought, What if it was a little spicy? And then, what’s spicy? Buldak. I tried it with just soy sauce and buldak but it was weak somehow. I wanted it to be kind of creamy or thick so I added a bunch of milk and mayo. But, hmm … Something was still missing. So I said, Let’s throw in some buldak mayo. The milk makes it watery, so in goes some egg yolk. Let’s put some minced garlic and onions in to thicken it up a bit, too. I finished making the sauce and it was delicious. For the soy sauce, sometimes I use the regular stuff and other times I try brewed soy sauce, but the regular soy sauce tastes best. Tsuyu’s great when it’s got just a soy sauce base but if you mix in buldak, it has to be regular soy sauce. Next comes the cham sauce. That really played its part well. (laughs)

I tried making it as a late-night meal because of this interview, and adding something spicy to the already sweet and salty mix, along with something tart makes it the kind of thing you can keep on eating without ever growing tired of it. The texture of the noodle was really good, and when I was eating it I thought you must’ve really thought this through thoroughly to come up with it.

Jung Kook: Exactly, exactly. (laughs) I do sometimes just cook quickly, but when I really need to, I do it properly. It takes a really long time to make something properly like that. (laughs)

That means you taste test what you’re making continuously, right? To make sure it’s what you’re aiming for?

Jung Kook: I mean, it should taste just the way I want it to. I think I got it as close to the taste I was going for as I could. Everyone checks the taste of each ingredient as you go along. That way you learn what it’s going to taste like depending on what you put in.

You say, “Let’s just eat,” but there’s nothing simple about it. (laughs)

Jung Kook: Let’s keep it simple, but don’t just wing it. (laughs) It’s not easy. Because I have to make the right amount of sauce for one person. But I’m too lazy to get that specific about it so I just make sure to make enough sauce and don’t worry if there’s anything left over. And anyway, I don’t eat just one helping. I’m always looking for ways like that to make things a little easier.

Does that apply when you work too? It looks like you’re keeping it simple but you’re actually detail-oriented and have a clear vision of what you want.

Jung Kook: I guess you could say that? (laughs)

So how do you feel to really be getting back on stage again? [Note: This interview took place on July 6.]

Jung Kook: I’m excited. It’s a fresh start. But I’m also nervous for the same reason. That’s all I can say for sure because my thing’s not out there in the world yet. I’ll have to gauge things once it’s out. (laughs) I’ll have to give it a go to be sure. It’s that period of time where I wonder how I’ll feel on stage. I get nervous but also really excited.

​You’ve said that the idea behind the lyrics you wrote for “My You” was thinking about what would happen if everything were to disappear, or if it were all been a dream. I guess you’ve had the kind of life that would make you think things like that. You’ve become a star worldwide since you debuted 10 years ago and you’re having your solo debut.

Jung Kook: Sometimes it sort of feels like my life is surreal. Sometimes I almost can’t believe it’s real, like, “Is this real life? Am I really doing this?” It was similar when I wrote “My You”: What if none of this is real?

Is that why you were thinking of ARMY? “My You” is directed toward your fans, after all. They’re the ones who are always with you in this life.

Jung Kook: My life would be meaningless without ARMY now. I mean, they’re always there for me. ARMY and I are almost perfectly in sync now. When I’ve been drinking, I never call my mom and dad and say, “I’m home.” (laughs) I do it to ARMY though. That’s just the person I’ve become. It’s such a natural feeling. I just want us to be each other’s special someone—nothing more, nothing less. They’re the ones who support me, so I want to be comfortable showing them who I am, and while we might be physically far apart, I hope we can feel like we’re right next to each other, just like friends.

Do you understand a little better now why they support you, then?

Jung Kook: When I look at myself, I honestly can’t tell. I’m not someone with very high self-esteem. Why am I so popular? Is it just because they like my voice? Or maybe the way I dance? I still can’t figure it out—about why I’m loved by all these people. But, you know, ARMY appreciates me. I might not know why all those people love me but I always remember they appreciate me. So I started to think, What’s the point of all those people appreciating and supporting me if I don’t have confidence? I think that’s why I’ve been changing a bit. Even though I’m still not quite sure …

But you’re giving back because you can see that you’re loved.

Jung Kook: I mean, okay, that’s how it happened.

Source: Weverse Magazine ENG: Weverse Magazine

#2023 #bts #정국 #jung kook #weverse magazine

[0613magazine]

071923 Esquire Korea

j-hope, out in the Street

How was the shoot today? Behind the lens stood Mario Sorrenti.

He is a famous artist and photographer, so I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t burdened. It was an atmosphere and shooting approach I’d never experienced before; it was fresh and enjoyable. I think he captured aspects of j-hope that aren’t normally visible, so I had a lot of fun working on this. I think I was also slightly nervous, this being my first proper advertorial content after becoming a Louis Vuitton ambassador.

Were you able to discover a new aspect of j-hope thanks to this particular collaboration between Louis Vuitton and Sorrenti?

I think the collaboration showed j-hope’s usual vibes even better, as well as expertly evoking faces and poses from j-hope you couldn’t see before, through a wide array of compositions and atmospheres. Personally I prefer to avoid angles that show the right side of my face. But even those angles came out great thanks to Mr. Sorrenti’s ability to stylistically capture them.

Which Louis Vuitton look from today do you remember the most?

There was an outfit that was so glamorous, regardless of who was looking at it. The Louis Vuitton logo shone on this top-to-bottom set-up denim look. I thought the look demonstrated what ‘gorgeous’ is. Actually, this outfit had made the biggest impression on me during this Paris show, so I was proud to wear it during the shoot. I felt like a human Louis Vuitton.(laughs)

Let’s talk about your single that came out in March. There are too many things to talk about here. Your single features J. Cole. It’s J. Cole! Your first meeting with him was in Lollapalooza, right?

No. It was in my dreams.(laughs) J. Cole was someone that I had always longed for and met in my dreams. The first time we met in actuality was during Lollapalooza, that’s right. It was like fate. The Lollapalooza festival was the most important part of my solo album promotion last year, and as fate would have it, my muse J. Cole was the headliner. That’s when everything started. Even while meeting, talking and working with him, I couldn’t believe all of this was real.

The first time you met was recorded in the Disney+ documentary, 〈j-hope IN THE BOX〉. From that first scene, I’d wondered whether he had promised to feature in your song – the encounter seemed too fateful to be a coincidence.

Not at all. I think I was busy trying to convey my sincere feelings. I really wanted him to know, “You have been my muse since I was young.” Once we met, I realized, “If I had to pick my dream collaborator, he would be it!” Afterwards, I focused on writing music, while thinking only about J. Cole. That’s how the song ‘On the Street’ was born.

After that, what kind of conversations took place before this great single came out, as a result of your collaboration?

I sent Cole messages carrying my heart. Very fortunately, Cole ‘hyung’(‘older brother’ in Korean) came back with a positive response. I even sent him a video message at the end of the year. I’d really tried a lot to convey my sincerity. After that, while waiting for Cole’s verses, there was a period of ‘hope torture,’ where I endured moments of waiting and hoping that ‘He will call me soon.’ Right at the moment I was about to give up, Cole’s verses arrived. And then many things happened very quickly. As soon as we met on site for the music video shoot, Cole hyung complimented me a lot on the song. I felt like I owned the whole world.

Do you remember any trivial conversations between you two?

If my English had been better, we would have talked more on set. It’s a pity. I expressed these feelings to Cole more actively through text. He messaged me, “I heard that you will be starting your mandatory military service soon. I wish you good health and hope you wrap everything up well.” Something really trivial included a question about whether the music video for ‘On the Street’ was an homage to his music video for ‘Simba.’ He texted me his gratitude, saying, “That’s so amazing.” I also found it amazing that I was exchanging text messages with Cole, so I wrote to him about all those feelings. Everything was trivial, but when you think about it again, these were special moments whose meanings were anything but trivial.

In the post-credit scenes of the Disney+ documentary, you briefly talk about ‘Hope on the Street’. And the single released right after that was ‘On the Street’. It all fits exquisitely. Is there a reason you really wanted to collaborate with J. Cole on this song, which is also a fan song?

It started with the question, “What is the big driving force and center for artist j-hope to finish Chapter 1 of his life and move onto Chapter 2?” Ultimately, I remembered the fact that my roots lie in dance; through dance, I encountered music and began to rap; when studying rap, the first artist I had come to like was J. Cole. Everything seemed to fit right in at the time. I looked back at the things that took up a big part of my growing up. I studied them and started creating myself again. All this also had a huge impact on the musical direction of ‘On the Street.’ Basing the song on the framework of the lo-fi boom bap that I’d listened to while dancing as a child, I got to work, thinking of the result with Cole’s featuring. I had no doubt that the enterprising lyrics and weight J. Cole possesses as an artist would make this song shine even more. In the end, it seems like the song was born to express gratitude to Cole, who gave me tremendous musical inspiration.

This single can also be read in many different ways. It's fun to think of it in conjunction with ‘Pandora’s Box.’ It’s like hope has come out of the world. When something fits just right, we say, ‘That makes a story.’ Everything about j-hope’s journey makes a story. Since when, how, and with whom did you think of all this?

The method of making one’s own plans and deciding, ‘This is cool, so let's just do it!' is important. However, I think I prefer a style where I personally see, feel, experience; where I pour into the work the parts that carry my heart, and continue to refine it.

The foundation of your work is sincerity.

That way, from the position of an artist who produces the work himself, sincerity gives the artist the dignity to talk about the work. [After completion] the process of reflecting, learning, correcting and realizing something is different from learning what’s good in someone else’s work from the beginning. I am sure that my life and the steps I take will become my music, content and performance; that they will continue to be the driving force for organic, creative activities in the future. This is confidential, but I think I rather enjoy creating stories and big pictures (laughs). I’ve been in the business for a decade; has my body absorbed the style of ‘K-contents’? (laughs) I’m still embarrassed to compare myself to other great producers. I’m just going to continue to have fun creating and will try hard to show good aspects of myself.

Lollapalooza is the festival where Chicago grunge was born. On a stage like that, you showed tremendous presence with grunge-like arrangements. You also broke the Lollapalooza record for the biggest ever ticket sales. How do you feel when you think of that day? Tell me everything, even the temperature and humidity of the air that day.

Festivals still feel very foreign to me, even though I’ve performed on so many stages, as a BTS member. Festivals have this peculiar energy of ‘rawness’ that only flows through festivals. That’s why I wanted to try. I prepared for this without sleeping a wink; I couldn’t eat well even until the day before the performance, because the pressure dominated my mind. I endured and prepared through this raggedy, exhausted state.(laughs) Even while I was working on the album 〈Jack in the Box〉, I thought, ‘Ah! These songs will definitely radiate tremendous energy on stage.’ I was already visualizing myself on stage while working on the songs. These mental images materialized during Lollapalooza. Within this space called the festival, which is still unfamiliar to me, I wanted to show people the roughness of my musicality. I think the music in the album blended wonderfully with the characteristics of that space. Lollapalooza truly became an unforgettable moment in my music history. In general, I’m quite harsh to myself, but I want to praise the person I was in that moment.(laughs)

I heard that you will be releasing a physical version of 〈Jack in the Box〉 to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the original album that was only released digitally. How did it feel when you saw the results for the first time, and to whom did you show them to first?

I had a lot of worries while working on 〈Jack in the Box〉. I had to come out into the world and show j-hope, so not only was I worried musically, the hardships and realizations I’d experienced during the period were always on my mind. As you can see from the music and activities during that time, I was going through a dark period. The friend that witnessed this process, listened to the album and cheered me on was none other than RM. RM was a big help to me mentally. Throughout the process – ideation, creation, promotion –〈Jack in the Box〉 was an album that taught me huge lessons. The album is like my baby. It is a work that has made me deeply realize that there is no end to learning. As you said, that album is now out in a physical form to commemorate its one-year anniversary. My heartfelt messages are contained in the album. I hope you look forward to it.

Last question. Isn’t life incredible?

Life really is a series of incredible events. This little child from Gwangju debuted as a member of the Bulletproof Boy Scouts (BTS), achieving great success, even trying solo activities and exploring j-hope’s own music. I’ve even become a Louis Vuitton ambassador and am doing this interview with 〈Esquire〉.(laughs) I’m thankful for everything. I want to continue living an incredible life! Everytime I feel it, it’s so thrilling!

Source: Esquire Korea

#2023 #bts #j-hope #esquire korea

[0613magazine]

071323 Variety

Jung Kook of BTS Launches Solo Single, ‘Seven,’ With a Surprise Latto Feature: ‘I Want to Show a More Mature and Grown Version of Myself’

Jung Kook launched his first major solo single, “Seven,” at the stroke of midnight ET Friday morning, as promised. It came with a surprise that was unpromised: the appearance of one of the hottest female rappers of our day, Latto, making a featured appearance on the track. The lyrics talk about some hot action that is due to go down between the two, but the music, however, high-energy, feels deeply chill. In other words, it feels designed to be a late entry in the “songs of the summer” derby.

In an email interview with Variety, Jung Kook acknowledges the summery vibe but sounds almost surprised to hear a hit-status projection for the tune, as if this crossed his mind about the Andrew Watt/Cirkut co-written and -produced track belatedly. “I honestly didn’t have a huge goal in mind, but since you said that, I’d be ecstatic if it becomes a ‘hit,'” he says. It’s not just a distant possibility — “Seven” won’t disappoint the fans who’ve waited to see whether he would come out with a bop as well as a bang, as well as find favor with a lot of pop radio listeners who haven’t yet declared their BTS fandom.

Due to translation issues, Jung Kook did the interview with a translator sending his answers via email. In it, he vows — or at least hopes — that the BTS ARMY can expect a solo album before 2023 is up, without giving too much away about how much is already in the can and how much remains to be done. In the meantime, fans can see how his solo charisma comes off, minus group chemistry, as he performs “Seven” in an appearance on “Good Morning America” Friday morning.

Even though “Seven” is officially your global solo debut, you’ve had songs that have already topped a billion streams on Spotify. And you recently re-released “Still With You” and “My You” to more platforms, and “Still With You” has kind of been a streaming hit in its own way. Was the strategy to use these to help ramp up hunger for “Seven”? Did you have confidence that having fans support those songs would not take anything away from the thirst for a new song?

“Still With You” and “My You” were released as free tracks, meaning they weren’t officially released. I thought it’d be nice for fans to listen to my previous solo tracks on streaming platforms before the release of “Seven,” which marks my official solo debut. It’s like a token of gratitude, so to speak. It wasn’t a strategic move or didn’t had anything to do with my confidence. 

Were you working on a lot of songs, and “Seven” ended up being the strongest to put out as your first global single after you had a selection — or was it always going to be “Seven” and you just focused on perfecting that?

Upon hearing “Seven,” I thought, “This is it.” After that, I focused on practicing and recording the track multiple times to perfect it. I hope that many people can feel as I felt when I first heard the song.

These are two big-name producer-writers on the track. What would you say about their contributions?

Andrew (Watt) and Cirkut worked on the songwriting and producing for “Seven.” When recording, Andrew was so passionate about giving directions, which led the recording to go very smoothly. I’m truly grateful to them for helping me debut as a solo artist with great music.

You could have had your choice of a number of guest artists. What was it about Latto that made you want her to be the featured artist?

We thought about who would be the best rapper for this summer song, and one of the producers recommended Latto. So, we reached out to her, and she gladly agreed to work together for “Seven.” I personally like her rapping voice, and I thought her voice adds another layer of liveliness.

The whole song is sexy, but the lyrics of Latto’s rap make it a little more overtly sexual. That’s typical with a guest rap. But were you good with her taking it just a little more direct or extreme than you did?

I thought it’s important that it suits the overall mood of the song, and Latto’s unique charm came through very well.

Something about the acoustic guitar in combination with the rhythm will feel breezy to people — in other words, summery. Were you looking for a “summer single,” per se?

The song does have the breezy and summery vibe. I hope that anyone who listens to “Seven” can have a fun summer whenever they listen to it.

As far as BTS members releasing solo material, you are kind of in the middle of the pack, with some preceding you, some to follow. Do you have any thoughts about where you have ended up in the release schedule?

I don’t place a great deal of significance to which order among others my solo work is out. Each person is putting out his solo work at the time of its completion. Personally, I really enjoyed being able to watch the other members’ music, story and promotions that express their own uniqueness and tastes. That was a fresh source of inspiration for my own solo endeavors.  

Some of the group members are using their solo albums to explore sides of themselves that are maybe darker or at least don’t get as much play in group situations. But you seem very comfortable with mainstream pop music, judging from this song. Do you feel like you have a side of yourself, musically or personally, that you hope to be able to show that hasn’t gotten as much spotlight?

It’s my official solo debut, so everything is a challenge and feels new and fresh. Of course, I think a lot about delivering good music and performance while working on my music. But above all, as this is my first step forward in the spotlight as a solo artist, I want to show a more mature and grown version of myself.

This feels like it could be a big song… I’m sure expectations are high. Do you have goals you’re setting for it?

Thank you for your compliment! I’d love it to be a “big hit” (laughter). I honestly didn’t have a huge goal in mind, but since you said that, I’d be ecstatic if it becomes a “hit.”

The BTS book that just came out spotlights some of the relationships within the band. Are you aware of how much fans love to hear about interpersonal friendships even within the band, like the one you apparently have with Jimin, and that means as much to them as the whole-group dynamic?

Yes, I’m aware of it. I love that our members can create great chemistry no matter which member they are with, and that our fans love each and all of us’ chemistry. 

What’s going to follow this single — how much more is in the pipeline?

I’m working hard to release a solo album this year. It’s early to mention anything specific, but look forward to it!

You’re going to be doing the “GMA” summer concert series on Friday morning, not many hours right after the single comes out. Does it feel like it comes naturally, to be the sole focus, or does it feel a little strange to not have to think about how the balance with others comes out?

When I performed “Dreamers” on a big stage like the FIFA World Cup opening ceremony, I did feel the members’ absence. But to be precise, I’d say I have a different mindset going in. When I’m on stage with the members, I focus on the balance as a team, and when I’m on stage alone, I focus on filling up the stage with my own energy. No matter when, it’s always good, if I have our fans with me or BTS.

Everyone always talks about how the group got little or no rest over the years. What’s it been like to get some of that? Or do you feel like you’ve still been too busy preparing a solo career to really know what rest is yet?

Lately, I’ve been quite busy again working on “Seven.” It’s good that we all have time to grow individually, including our solo projects. Whether we are getting rest, learning what we wanted to learn, or focusing on our own music, I think it’s important that we all take some time off like this for us. And after this period, I think we’ll be even greater BTS.

Source: Variety

#2023 #bts #jung kook #variety

[0613magazine]

070323 Vogue Japan

BTS SUGAが出演した『VOGUE JAPAN』8月号の本誌未公開カットを公開

6月30日（金）発売の『VOGUE JAPAN』8月号の表紙と中面に単独で初登場したSUGA。ウェブ限定のスペシャルカットと、本誌未掲載のQ&Aをお見逃しなく。

──文学や映画など、ほかのジャンルへの挑戦は考えていますか？

チャンスがいただけたらそのときに考えたいと思います。

──余暇があれば何をしたいですか？ 今夢中になっている趣味があれば教えてください。

天気の良い場所でリラックスしたいと思います。

──これだけは欠かせないというエッセンシャルアイテムは？

携帯電話と（クレジット）カードではないでしょうか。

──ARMYからのメッセージで、もっとも印象に残っていることは？

以前行ったサイン会の時、ある方に「私が小学生の時、BTSを初めて好きになったのですが、今大学生になりました」と言われました。その言葉がとても記憶に残りました。彼女はおそらく今は社会人になっていると思います。今でもBTSのファンでいてくださっているかどうかはわかりませんが、ファンと歌手が一緒に年を重ねていくことは理想的だと思います。

English translation

Are you thinking of trying other genres like literature or films/movies? If I get the chance, I would like to think about it then.

If you get a free time, what would you like to do? If you have any hobbies you’re into to (doing) please tell us. I want to relax in a place where the weather is good.

Do you have any essential item? I think smartphone and credit card.

What was the most memorable message from ARMY? Before when we did a fansign event, an ARMY told me saying, “I started to like/became a fan of BTS when I was in primary school, and now I’ve become a university student.” Those words were the most memorable (words) for me. She’s probably a member of the society/working adult now. I don’t know whether she’s still a fan of BTS, but I think it’s an ideal thing for fans and singers/artists to grow old together.

Source: Vogue Japan English translation by: @061313purple

#2023 #bts #suga #vogue japan

[0613magazine]

062423 Vogue Japan

「生きていくうえで、心が自由であることが最も重要」──BTSのSUGA、本誌撮り下ろし＆独占インタビュー全文公開

BTSのメンバーとして世界を魅了してきたSUGA（シュガ）は、Agust D名義のソロ活動で初のワールドツアーを行うなど、新しい歴史を切り開き続ける唯一無二のアーティストだ。多彩な才能を秘めた彼を迎え、『VOGUE JAPAN』史上初となる男性が単独で表紙を飾る特別な撮影が実現した。彼の人間性に迫るインタビューや直筆メッセージとともに、“INNER SPACE”をテーマにSUGAのさまざまな表情を撮り下ろす。

世界的トップアーティストとして、その一挙手一投足が多くの注目を集める韓国発の7人組グループ、BTS。RM、SUGA、JIN、J -HOPE、JIMIN、V、JUNG KOOKの7人で2013年にデビューした彼ら。グローバルな活動基盤を固めていく中で、2020年にリリースした初の全編英語��曲「Dynamite」が世界的な大ヒットを記録。あらゆる国の老若男女を夢中にした。

BTSのメンバーであり、数多くの楽曲の作詞・作曲やプロデュースを手がけているSUGA。ソロアーティストのAgust D──逆さから読むと、韓国��南部にある彼の出身地、大邱広域市（Daegu town）のSUGAという彼のアイデンティを込めた名でも活躍している。過去の自己実現に関する苦悩や、社会に対する考え、成功者としての葛藤をさまざまな楽曲に込め若者の道標となってきた。

今年4月、ソロアルバム『D-DAY』をリリースしたところ、発売初日でミリオンを達成。全世界67の国と地域のiTunes「トップアルバム」チャートで1位を記録し、さらにタイトル曲「Haegeum」は86の国と地域のiTunes「トップソング」チャートで1位になるなど、ソロアーティストとしても絶大な人気を見せつけた。

革命的なアルバムを引っ提げた初のソロワールドツアー「SUGA | Agust D TOUR 'D-DAY'」の日本公演（6月2〜4日）のために来日したSUGAは、撮影スタジオに颯爽と登場すると、丁重に会釈をした。撮影では、アンバサダーを務めるヴァレンティノの2023-24年秋冬コレクションのルックの数々を纏っている。ブラックタイというドレスコードの慣例を打ち破り再解釈したルックは、現状を打破し、もがきながらも前進し続けてきたSUGAのアティテュードと共鳴する。 凛とした佇まいでカメラの前に立ち、クール、セクシー、イノセント、ビューティー……多彩で魅力的な表情が次々とモニターに映し出され、そのナチュラルでしなやかな反射神経の良さに圧倒される。多忙なスケジュールの真っ只中にもかかわらず、時折リラックスした表情でBGMのビートに合わせ、自然と体を揺らす。やはり、SUGAの体には脈々と音楽が流れているのだ。

日本公演の前に、初のソロワールドツアー、ソロアルバム『D-DAY』、キャリア、パーソナルなことなど、さまざまな質問に答えてくれた。

3部作の集大成となる最新アルバム『D-DAY』

──『D-DAY』には、どのような意味が込められていますか？

Agust Dのトリロジー（2016年のミックステープの『Agust D』、2020年の『D-2』）を締めくくり、「ミン・ユンギ（SUGAの本名）」チャプター2に進むのに十分なアルバムだと思います。

──タイトル曲の「Haegeum」は、“解放”がテーマだと伺いました。SUGAさんにとっての心の解放は、人生においてどんなことを指すのでしょうか？

（これまで生きてきて）多くのことを経験し、見て、聞いてきたと思います。心のリラックスと同じくらい重要なことがあるかと思うほど、心が自由で不快感のないことこそ生きていくのに最も重要だと思います。今回のアルバムの作業をしながら特にそんな思いがしました。

──前回の『D-2』ではＲＭさんと、今回はJ-HOPEさんとフィーチャリングをしていますね。その経緯やビハインドエピソードを教えてください。

今回のアルバムにもラッパーのフィーチャリングが必要な状況で、最も信頼してお願いすることができるラッパーが誰かを探し、10年以上ともに音楽作業をしてきたJ-HOPEさんに任せることになりました。

──坂本龍一さんともコラボレーションし、来日時に対面していますが、特に印象的な会話や言葉はありましたか？

長い間音楽活動をしてきた大先輩でもあり、僕がとても好きだったミュージシャンなので、お会いできたことだけでも光栄でした。僕より先に道を進まれた方としてのアドバイスもたくさんいただきましたし、そのとき（坂本龍一さんと）交わした会話が、今回のアルバムを仕上げるのに大きな助けとなりました。

──『D-DAY』はドリルにチャレンジされていましたが、今後チャレンジしたいサウンドアプローチはありますか？

大衆音楽に携わる者として、最もトレンディな音楽、サウンドを探して挑戦しなければならないと思っています。

──ソウルでの『D-DAY』の制作作業に行き詰まって、ひとりで山籠もりをしたそうですが、その経験はメンタル面にどのような作用をもたらしましたか？

ソウルにいるとすることが多く、楽曲制作をして行き詰まったらほかのことをしてしまったりなど、弱さが出てしまう気がします。ほかの場所に行くと音楽作業以外にできることが多くないので、改めて「音楽を作るのは面白いな」と感じました。

──『D-DAY』の制作を追ったドキュメンタリー映画『SUGA: Road to D-DAY』では、スティーヴ・アオキやホールジー、アンダーソン・パークといったミュージシャンのもとを訪れる姿が収められていましたが、それらの経験からどのような学びがありましたか？

音楽に携わる人々と音楽の話をするのは面白いです。何かを悟り学ぶよりも、心地よく話しながら楽しい時間を過ごせます。

──同ドキュメンタリー映画の中で今回のアルバムの曲「Snooze」を入院中に作ったと話していました。食事も摂れないようなつらい状態下でも、人を励まそうと楽曲制作を続けるのは、どんな思いからでしょうか？

もちろん、つらいときは休むことも大切です。ただそのときは、いずれ時間が経てば回復するだろうから休んでいるのはもったいないと考えて、やるべきことをやっただけです。ほかの方も、僕と似たような状況であればそうするだろうと思います。

──BTSのアンソロジーアルバム『Proof』のFAQで、一番大切にしている感情にコンプレックス（劣等感のようなネガティブな感情から力が生まれるから）を挙げていましたが、Agust Dとしての区切りになる今作が完成した今、感情に変化はありましたか？

Agust Dトリロジーを通じて、一層成長できたと感じています。ソロアルバム『D-DAY』を通じてコンプレックスやトラウマは克服したと思います。今は初公演も無事に終えてリラックスしており、大きな心配もなく、ツアーを楽しんでいます。

待望の初ソロワールドツアー、楽曲に込めたメッセージ

──ソロツアーで一番こだわったことは？

一人ですべてのセットリストを消化しなければならないツアーなので、体力が重要だと思い、公演準備期間に運動をメインに頑張りました。もちろんライブの練習もたくさんしました。

──アルバムやツアーに関して、メンバーからどのようなメッセージがあったのでしょうか。

メンバーたちはみんなツアー公演が容易ではないことを知っているので、健康には気を付けてほしい、と話してくれました。

──今まではワールドツアー時に楽曲制作をしていましたが、今回も作業はしていますか？  また、新たにできた曲はありますか？

曲作りは常に行っているので、特に時期を決めて作ることはありません。

──ドキュメンタリー映画『SUGA: Road to D-DAY』では「伝えたいメッセージがない」と、スランプに陥った様子も映し出されていました。ツアーで各国を回る中で、新しいメッセージは浮かんできましたか？

制作作業をするときは、「どんな話をするか」「どんなメッセージを入れるか」をいつも悩んでいます。それから伝えたい話ができてきたら、すぐに作業を始めます。ソロアルバム『D-DAY』を制作する過程でも伝えたい言葉ができ、作業を進めました。これからまた、（伝えたい言葉は）出てくるのだと思います。

──日本の公演で楽しみにしていることはありますか？

日本での最後のツアーは2019年でした。その後も日本で公演をしたかったのですが、できる状況ではありませんでした。今回とても久しぶりに公演ができるので、待ち望んでいてくれた方々に存分に公演を楽しんでもらえたらと思います。

音楽とキャリア、メンバーに対する信頼と想い

──音楽活動のスタートとしてラップを書き始めてから約20年が経ちますが、ご自身にとって“音楽”という存在はどのように変化していきましたか？

最初は「運命」だと思いましたし、曲を書いて活動するときは「嫌いな友達」だと思いました。今は永遠にともに過ごす「家族」だと思っています。

──これまでのキャリアで、ターニングポイントとなったと感じる出来事は？

2017年にビルボード・ミュージック・アワードの授賞式に初めて行ったことが、僕にとって最大のターニングポイントとなりました。

──今年の6月でBTSとしてデビューして丸10年が経ちます。この10年で最も多く感じた感情は何でしょうか？

「感謝」です。デビュー前から作曲家として活動しながら音楽をやってきましたが、その頃は聴いてくれる人がいない音楽を作る、名もなき作曲家の一人でした。今はファンの方々に出会い、僕の音楽を聴いてくださる方が多くなりました。いつも感謝しながら生きています。

──この10年間で一番の思い出は？  多岐にわたる活動の中で一番楽しい瞬間は？

メンバーと一緒にツアーをまわったときがたくさん記憶に残っています。一番楽しかった瞬間も、舞台の上にいるときです。

──「BTSのメンバー7人でずっと一緒にいる未来を想像する」と度々おっしゃっていますが、その未来のために大事にしていることはありますか？

僕たちは7人がずっと一緒にいると固く信じています。そのためには、それぞれの領域でできることが明確にあると思います。それぞれ独自の領域を持ちながら、お互いを尊重し合っています。「尊重」が最も重要だと思います。

──2年前の『GQ KOREA』のインタビューでは「今の僕には夢がない。でもそれが楽だ」とおっしゃっており、ドキュメンタリー映画『SUGA: Road to D-DAY』の中でも「やりたいことがない」とおっしゃっていましたが、今は夢がありますか？  今を大事にしたいとも語っていましたが、SUGAさんの次の「夢」はなんでしょう。

僕たち7人が長い間一緒に舞台に上がり、音楽をやっていくということ以外の夢は、ほぼすべてかなえられたと思っています。

──SUGAさんが後輩たちに贈りたいメッセージを教えてください。

すべてうまくいきます。今が最悪だと思うときもあるでしょう。僕にもそんなときがありました。でも、時間が経って振り返ってみれば思い出になるし、そこから学ぶこともあります。とにかく、すべて大丈夫になります。

切り離せない「心」と「体」、メンタルとの向き合い方

──後悔は過去、不安は未来、今ここに集中する、というコメントをたくさん耳にしましたが、その考えにはどのようにしてたどり着いたのでしょうか？  マインドフルネスを学んだのでしょうか？

幼い頃から過去も未来も心配で、不安でした。自分ではどうすることもできないのに、悩んで心配していました。ある瞬間、そんな感情を取り除けば楽になるという気がして、瞑想をしたり勉強をしたりして、いろんなことをしました。

──等身大のままでいることが重要視される世の中です。しかし、何も努力せずそのままい続けることが「等身大」とは言えない気もします。SUGAさんが思う、「素敵な等身大」とはどんな人物像ですか？

自然体の人です。もっと上手くこなそうと苦労せず、できないことは隠さず、ありのままを見せてくれる人です。

──「心」と「体」はキャッチボールしていると言われます。SUGAさん自身は、どんなときにそれを感じますか。

メンタル的にあまり良くなかったり心配事があったりすると、体力は回復しても体にすぐに反応が出るほうです。逆に体調が悪いとメンタルにも影響があります。なので、メンタルと体のバランスを保つことが重要だと思います。

��フステージのSUGA、ミン・ユンギの素顔

──自分の性格を3語で表すと？

うーん……難しいですね。

1、不明  2、無頓着  3、観察者。

──ドキュメンタリー映画『SUGA: Road to D-DAY』では、各国の友人に会いに行っていましたが、今はどのような友人が多いでしょうか？  前回の『D-2』収録の「Dear my friends」では、変わってしまった友人関係について歌っていました。今、友人付き合いはどのように変わりましたか？

今親しい友達は皆、お互いがお互いに対して望むことがない人たちです。そんな関係が一番理想だと思います。

──どのような人に魅力を感じますか？

自然体な人と前向きな人です。

──自分のファッションを表現すると？

リラックス。

──透き通るような肌の持ち主ですが、ビューティー・ルーティンを教えてください。

ルーティンは何もないです。シンプルにローションを塗るだけです。

──最後に、ARMY（BTSのファンダム名）はどんな存在でしょうか？

音楽を作って舞台に立つことは楽しいですが、それはファンの方々がいらっしゃるからこそできることだと思います。大きな舞台にたった一人で立っても、意味がないんです。僕の活動の半分を、ARMYの皆さんが満たしてくれていると思っています。

English Translation

SUGA IS A VOICE OF AUTHENTICITY IN A SUPERFICIAL WORLD

VOGUE JAPAN’s first ever solo male cover star SUGA opens up about mindfulness, procrastination, and how his relationship with music has changed.

For VOGUE JAPAN’s August issue, our theme is “INNER BEAUTY”; in other words, searching beyond the surface to see what really drives our dreams and desires. What better icon to represent this than SUGA? By navigating an industry obsessed with the superficial, the megastar is a voice of depth and authenticity, fearlessly candid about the internal struggles he’s faced, and the expectations he carries as one of Asia’s most successful artists.

SUGA is also the first man to appear solo on the cover of VOGUE JAPAN in its 24 year history. Wearing Valentino’s Fall/Winter 2023 Black Tie collection, the South Korean artist is a celebration of a world where the connections between gender, fashion, and music are increasingly intertwined.

When it comes to music, SUGA is a true multi-hyphenate. A member of BTS, a rapper, a songwriter, and a producer for various global artists, he also performs solo under the stage name Agust D. His solo moniker is derived from SUGA spelled backwards, with the D referring to Daegu Town, a city in South Korea where he grew up.

In a Q&A with VOGUE JAPAN, before his Japan tour which was held on the 2nd-4th June, we asked SUGA about his first solo world tour, his solo album ‘D-DAY’, and what he does to stay motivated when it all feels like too much. He also opened up about how his approach to making music has changed over the years, offering his answer on a personal handwritten note. It reads: “At first I thought it was fate. Then, when I was writing songs and working, I thought of it as a kind of frenemy. Now I’ve come to think of writing music as family – something that I will spend eternity with.”

The culmination of a trilogy The latest album D-DAY

-What’s the meaning behind the album ‘D-DAY’?

Solo Album ‘D-DAY’ completes the Agust D trilogy (the Agust D mixtape from 2016, and the D-2 mixtape from 2020). It’s like the second chapter of my story as Min Yunki.

-The title track "Haegeum" is about liberation. What does liberation mean to you?

I think I have experienced, seen, and heard a lot [in my life]. Just as essential as relaxing, I think the most important thing in life is to liberate your mind so that it’s free of negative emotions. I felt that way especially while working on this album.

-You featured RM on the last album "D-2" and this time you’re featuring J-HOPE. How did the collaboration come about behind the scenes?

We needed a rapper to feature on this album as well, so we looked for the most trustworthy rapper we could find. I’ve been working with J-HOPE on making music for over 10 years, and so we decided to entrust it to him.

-You also collaborated with Ryuichi Sakamoto and met him when you visited Japan.

He had been doing music for such a long time, and was someone I hugely admired and looked up to, so it was an honor just to meet him. He gave me a lot of advice as a mentor, and the conversations we had together were a great help in finishing the album.

-You experimented with drill music on D-DAY. Are there any particular sounds you would like to take on in the future?

As people involved in pop music, I think it’s our job to challenge ourselves to seek out the trendiest music and sound of the moment.

-I heard that you were stuck working on D-DAY in Seoul, so you went to Dangjin City by yourself and spent some time up in the mountains. How did that help?

When I’m in Seoul there are so many things to do, and so when I get stuck working on a song I tend to procrastinate and beat myself up about it. But when I go somewhere else, there’s nothing to do except working on the music, and I can start to feel the passion again.

-In the documentary film SUGA: Road to D-DAY, you visited musicians such as Steve Aoki, Halsey, and Anderson Paak. What did you learn from these experiences?

It's interesting to talk about music with other people who are involved in it too. More so than realizing and learning something, it’s really just about talking and having a good time together.

-You mentioned in the documentary that you wrote the song ‘Snooze’ for this album while you were in the hospital. What motivates you to continue writing songs to cheer people up, even when you were in a situation that you couldn’t even eat?

Of course, it’s important to take a break when times are tough. But I just did what I had to do, thinking that it would be a waste to take a break, because I knew I would recover eventually. I think anyone else would do the same if they were in a similar situation.

-In the FAQ for the BTS anthology album "Proof," you mentioned feeling inferior as the most important emotion. Have your feelings changed now that you have completed this album, which marks the end of your career as Agust D?

I feel that I have grown even more through the Agust D Trilogy, and I think I have overcome my complexes and traumas through making this album. Now, I’m feeling relaxed after my first show, and enjoying the tour without worrying too much.

Long-awaited first solo world tour The message behind the music

-What was the most important thing you focused on for your solo tour?

Since I’d be going through the entire setlist solo, I thought it was important to be physically fit so I exercised a lot during the preparation period. I did a lot of live practice too of course.

-What kind of messages did you receive from the BTS members regarding the album and the tour?

All of the members know that touring isn’t easy, so they told me to take care of my health.

-In the past, you have worked on songs during your world tours. Are there any new songs that have been created?

I wouldn’t say I write more songs during any specific time. I’m always writing songs.

-The documentary SUGA: Road to D-DAY showed you when you were in a slump, saying that you had no message to convey with the album. Did you come up with a message as you went around the country on tour?

When working on the production [of an album], I always worry about what kind of story I’m telling and what kind of messages to include and so when have a story I want to tell, I immediately start working on it. While working on this album, the words I wanted to convey started to come to me, and I’m sure they’ll keep coming.

-What are you looking forward to seeing in Japan?

Our last tour in Japan was in 2019. I wanted to perform there after that too, but it wasn't possible, so this will be the first time for a while. I hope that everyone who has been waiting for me there will be able to enjoy the show to its fullest.

Music and career Relationship with the members

-It has been about 20 years since you began your career and started writing rap songs. How has your relationship with the music changed over that time?

At first I thought it was fate [for me to make music]. Then, when I was writing songs and working, I thought of it as a kind of frenemy. Now I’ve come to think of writing music as family – something that I will spend eternity with.

-Is there a moment in your career that was a turning point?

The biggest turning point for me was my first visit to the Billboard Awards in 2017.

-This June marks a full 10 years since your debut as BTS. What feeling defines that decade for you?

Gratitude. I have been working as an artist and making music since before my debut, but back then I was one of those nameless artists who made music that no one would listen to. Now, I’ve been able to meet my fans and see many people that listen to my music. I am always grateful for that.

-What are your fondest memories of the past 10 years? What were the most enjoyable moments?

I have a lot of good memories of touring with the BTS members. The most enjoyable moments are when we’re all on stage.

-You often say that you “imagine a future where the seven members of BTS will be together forever”.

We really believe that the seven of us in BTS will always be together, and I believe there are clear things we can do in each of our respective areas. Each one of us has their own unique sphere, and there’s a mutual respect there. I think having that respect is the most important thing.

-In an interview with GQ KOREA two years ago, you said, “I have no dreams now, but that makes it easier.” Then, in the documentary, you said, “There is nothing I want to do”. You also said that you want to cherish the present. What is your next “dream”?

Apart from the seven of us making music together and being on stage for a long time to come, I think I have fulfilled almost all of my dreams.

-What is something you would like to tell your juniors, or the people that look up to you?

Everything will be fine. There will be times when you feel at your worst. I’ve had that kind of time too. But when you look back at it, it becomes a memory, and you can learn from it. It’ll be okay in the end.

The inseparable mind and body, Dealing with internal struggles

-How did you arrive at the idea that regret is in the past, anxiety is in the future, and  to focus on the here and now? Do you practice mindfulness?

From a very young age, I was anxious about both the past and the future. I was worried and concerned even though I had no control over it. At one point I felt that it would be easier if I just got rid of those feelings, so I did a lot of things, like meditating and studying.

-We live in a world that places a lot of importance on remaining authentic. What kind of person do you think is an authentic person?

A natural person. Someone who doesn't struggle to do everything well, who doesn't hide the things they can’t do, and who shows their true self to the world.

-How do you feel about your own mind/body connection?

When my mental condition is not so good or when I’m worried about something, my body reacts to it immediately, even if I’m physically fine. On the other hand, if I’m not in a good physical condition, it also affects my mental health. So I think it’s important to maintain a balance between mental and physical health.

Off-stage SUGA, The real Min Yunki

-If you were to describe your personality in three words, what would they be?

Hmmm... that's difficult. 1, hard to figure out. 2, calm. 3, an observer.

-In the SUGA: Road to D-Day documentary, you visited friends all over the world. In ‘Dear My Friends’ from the last D-2 record, you sang about friendships that have changed. How have your friendships changed this time around?

All of my close friends now are people who doesn’t force others to be or to do something they don’t wish to. I think that kind of relationship is the ideal.

-What kind of people do you find attractive?

People who are spontaneous and positive.

-How would you describe your style?

Relaxed.

-You have such clear skin – what’s your beauty routine?

I don't have a routine. I simply apply lotion and that’s it.

-Finally, what does ARMY [BTS’s fandom name] mean to you?

I enjoy making music and performing on stage, but I’m only able to do that because of my fans. There is no point in standing alone on a big stage. Half of everything I’m able to do is possible because of ARMY.

Source: Vogue Japan ENG: Vogue Japan

#2023 #bts #suga #vogue japan

[0613magazine]

051623 Vogue Korea

모든 순간, 진심의 RM

아름다움을 찬양하는 기쁨, 낮추고 배우려는 열정, 안일함을 물리치는 의지, 그것이 청춘이자 RM이다.

서면 인터뷰의 답변은 인터뷰이가 편안한 상태에서 쓰곤 합니다. 지금 어느 시간대, 어느 공간에 있나요? 고개를 들면 무엇이 눈에 띄나요?

이런 서면 인터뷰는 휴대폰으로 쓰고 싶지 않아 작업실에 와서 컴퓨터를 켤 때까지 기다렸습니다. 지금은 토요일 오후 10시 30분이고, 운동과 작업 후에 작업실 의자에 앉아 있어요. 고개를 들면 늘 걸려 있는 윤형근 선생님의 그림과 각종 작업 장비가 눈에 띕니다. 제 손때가 묻은 가장 익숙한 물건이 많죠.

한국가구박물관에서 <보그> 커버 촬영을 함께 합니다. RM은 단순히 ‘멋진 모습을 촬영한다’를 넘어 화보 촬영 하나에도 확고한 주관이 있을 것 같습니다. 이번 <보그> 커버 작업에서 달성하고 싶은 목표 혹은 바람은 무엇인가요?

개인 커버는 처음인 데다 <보그> 커버라서 부담이 큽니다. 맞아요. 단순히 외양이나 느낌이 멋있다기보다는, 정서나 정신이 같이 담길 수 있는 사진이었으면 좋겠다는 생각입니다. 저보다 외형이 멋진 분은 많으니까요. 그리고 보테가 베네타와 함께하는 만큼, 그들의 감도나 철학이 같이 은은히 비치면 좋겠다는 바람입니다.

아티스트는 홀로 창작과 표현의 영역을 감내하지만, 이번 화보 촬영처럼 여러 스태프와 함께 하는 일도 많습니다(두 개가 함께 간다고 봐야겠죠). 하나의 결과물을 위해 여러 사람과 작업할 때 고수하는 원칙이 있나요?

최근에 아주 다양하고 새로운 사람들과 함께 하고 있어요. 전에는 혼자 끌고 가거나 적은 인원과 일하는 경험뿐이어서 이번 기회에 신선한 자극과 영감을 많이 받는데, 원칙을 세우는 중이에요. 다만 제 이야기가 담긴다면 어디에서건 저의 크리에이티브를 지켜야 한다고 믿습니다. 그러기 위해서는 삶을 다각도로 조망하고, 충실하고 빼곡하게 매일의 페이지를 채워야 한다고 생각해요. 삶에 충실하고 노는 것에도 충실해야, 작업과 창작도 잘할 수 있겠죠. 창작도 결국 하나의 직업일 뿐이라는 것을 잊지 않으려고 해요.

보테가 베네타의 크리에이티브 디렉터 마티유 블라지와 인스타그램에서 서로를 향한 코멘트를 주고받았죠. 마티유는 RM의 보테가 베네타 캠페인 사진을 올리면서 ‘가족’이 된 것을 환영했고, 당신도 일원이 돼서 기쁘다는 글을 올렸습니다. 지난 2월 밀라노에서 열린 보테가 베네타의 2023 F/W 컬렉션에도 참석했죠. 올 블랙 룩이 브랜드 이미지와 부합하면서도 RM다웠습니다. 그간 음악과 미술에 대한 당신의 열정은 여실히 드러났지만, 패션에 대한 생각은 읽기가 쉽지 않았어요. 당신에게 패션은 어떤 의미인가요?

언젠가 “패션은 사상이다”라는 말을 접하고 굉장히 인상적이었습니다. 과장됐다 싶으면서도 일견 고개를 끄덕이게 하는 부분이 있었어요. 늘 패션을 일종의 태도나 자세에 가깝다고 여겨왔습니다. 옷을 벗고 다닐 수는 없으니까요. 남들에게 강요하지 않으면서도, 우아하게 스스로를 드러낼 수 있는 날개이기도 하고요. 그러나 요즘에는 너무 많은 의미를 부여하지 않으려고 해요. 가끔은 그런 생각이 저를 잡아먹는 것 같아서요, 하하. 그러나 저는 여전히 패션을 사랑하고, 중요하게 여깁니다. 저의 패션사도 계속 변해왔거든요. 스트리트에서 고딕, 아메리칸 캐주얼로, 또 미니멀에 꽂힐 때도 있었고요.

당신의 예술 사랑, 특히 한국 예술 사랑은 유명합니다. 지난 <보그> 인터뷰에서도 “집에 미술품을 거는 건 영적 체험”이라고 말했어요. 제게 미술이 처음 다가온 때는 2015년 한가람미술관에서 열린 마크 로스코(Mark Rothko) 전시였어요. 그의 빨간 추상화에 빨려 들어갈 것 같았거든요. 그 작품을 보고 “나도 색깔 그림을 그리고 싶어”라고 말한 꼬마도 기억나요. 미술과의 강렬한 첫 만남을 묘사해주세요.

기억은 계속 편집되기 때문에 정확하지는 않지만, 제가 기억하는 처음은 시카고 아트 인스티튜트에서 모네와 고흐, 쇠라의 그림을 접할 때였어요. 아마도 2018년 말쯤으로 기억됩니다. 투어 중이었는데 ‘뮤지엄 한번 가보자’는 생각으로 갔던 게 강렬한 체험이 됐죠. 교과서나 컴퓨터에서만 보던 그림을 실제로 마티에르까지 접하게 되니 ‘아, 역시 직접 가서 보는 게 맞구나’ 싶더라고요. 제가 그림에 소질이 전혀 없어서, 생전 처음 보는 대가들의 색채 감각과 작업물에 경탄하면서 정신없이 봤던 기억이 나요. 특히 ‘그랑 드 자트 섬의 일요일 오후’가 아주 강렬했어요.

당신이 찾아가는 전시, 인스타그램에 인증한 작품은 단연 화제예요. 그것이 부담스럽기도 하고, 좋은 전시를 대중에게 알렸다는 뿌듯함도 느낄 것 같은데, 어떤가요? 관람한 전시를 대중에게 소개하는 특별한 이유가 있나요?

몇 번 얘기한 적 있는데, 각자 인스타그램, 특히 퍼블릭 피겨의 피드는 일종의 큐레이션 아닐까요. 그 사람이 무엇을 좇는지, 무엇을 드러내고 싶은지 어느 정도 여실히 보여준다고 생각해요. 워낙 전시를 많이 다니고 이쪽의 인플루언서로 소개되다 보니 부담스러운 면도 없지 않지만, ‘제게 관심 있거나 절 좋아하는 분들이 한 분이라도 더 좋은 체험을 할 수 있다면…’ 하는 마음으로 포스트를 올리는 편이에요. 특히 한국 근현대 미술이나 고미술에 대해 저와 같은 젊은 세대의 관심이 절실하다고 생각합니다.

미디어아트나 퍼포먼스 쪽보다는 회화, 공예에 관심이 많아 보여요. 마음이 그 방향으로 가는 이유를 생각해봤나요?

글쎄요. 아무래도 보통 미디어아트나 퍼포먼스 쪽으로 가는 과정이 좀 더 번거롭고 어렵긴 하겠죠? 그리고 전시관에 가서 보는 것도 일종의 체험인데, 미디어나 영상은 1시간가량 되는 무거운 분량이 많아서 아무래도 조금 힘들게 느껴지기도 해요. 그러나 점점 미술을 좋아하면서 그쪽에도 나름의 관점이 생기지 않을까 생각합니다. 그래도 백남준이나 이승택, 슈타이얼, 브루스 나우먼 등은 아주 흥미롭게 봤습니다. 퍼포먼스는 아무래도 직접 목격할 일이 많지 않아서 그런지 영상으로는 조금 약하게 느껴져요. 제게는 전시에 가는 것도 일종의 취미이자 일상의 환기인데, 회화나 공예는 보면서 스스로 마티에르라든지, 얽힌 이야기라든지 좀 더 해석과 감상의 여지가 많지 않나 싶습니다. 그리고 사실, 일단 더 예쁘고 쉽고 편하잖아요. 하하. 이걸 부정하면 안 되겠죠.

<알쓸인잡>을 보면서 더 느꼈는데, 지식과 지혜를 흡수하고자 하는 열정이 커 보여요. 보통 사회생활을 오래 하거나 일가를 이루면 ‘자신만의 기준’(고집에 가까운)이 생기기 마련이라 귀를 닫곤 합니다. 특히 슈퍼스타라면 그렇게 되기 더 쉽다고 생각해요. 그래서 당신이 마음을 열고 배우려는 태도가 신기하고 대단합니다. 지식과 지혜를 탐구하는 이유는 무엇인가요? 근래 탐닉하는 영역은요?

50·60·70대에도 여전히 새로운 것에 열려 있는 분들을 보면 경외감부터 듭니다. ‘정보 과잉’ 시대에 갓 서른도 젊은 꼰대가 되기 십상인 시대잖아요. 제 결함이나 부족을 제대로 알려고 노력합니다. 새로운 체험이나 결과물을 접할 때 처음 드는 불쾌감이나 프레임에 갇히지 않으려고 애쓰는 편입니다. 지적 욕망은, 저는 당연하다고 생각해요. 공부는 평생 하는 거라고들 하잖아요. 세상에 제가 모르는 것들, 흥미로운 분야가 정말 많아요. 미술사, 미학, 건축, 세계사, 한국사 등을 통해 더 지혜로운 사람이 될 수 있다고 믿어요. 최근에는 사진과 고미술에 탐닉하고 있습니다.

얼마 전 황소윤(So!YoON!) 앨범에 함께한 곡도 좋았고, 솔로 앨범에서 체리필터 조유진, 박지윤과 함께한 트랙도 좋아합니다. 들으면서 ‘이 아티스트는 제한 없는 사람이구나, 자유로워 보인다’ 싶었어요. 어떤 뮤지션과 함께하고 싶나요?

예전에는 그런 기준이 있었던 것 같은데 지금은 잘 모르겠어요. 다만 어느 위치에, 어느 정도의 확신을 갖고 서 있든, 무언가를 향해 더 나아가려는 사람들. 단순히 욕망만이 아니라, 실현할 수 있는 역량과 재능을 갖추고 길을 찾아 헤매는 사람을 좋아해요. 결국 저는 그런 사람들로부터도 제 이야기를 찾고 있지 않을까요? 대가든, 신인이든 말이죠.

“현재를 사는 것이 꿈”이라고 말했습니다. 이런 꿈을 가진 계기는 무엇이며, ‘지금 여기’에 집중하기 위해 어떤 노력을 기울이나요?

아트를 오래 접하고 음악도 오래 해오다 보니 결국 영원성으로 귀결되는 것 같아요. 그런데 어느 순간, 아이러니하게도 영원성에 가장 가깝게 가닿는 방법은 현재에 푹 잠식되는 것이라고 느꼈어요. 이 시대에는 특히나, 혹은 한국의 사회 환경 탓인지는 모르겠지만요. 우리의 정신적 시제가 늘 과거나 미래에 가 있잖아요. 후회하거나, 아쉬워하거나, 욕망하거나, 꿈꾸는 것들 모두 현재였고 현재일 것들인데, 정신이 계속 다른 시제에 가 있다 보면 지나갔거나 오지 않을 것들에만 집착하게 돼요. 하루에 딱히 어떤 성취감이나 달성한 느낌이 없더라도, 하루의 끝에 오늘 있었던 일을 상기하면서 ‘이렇게 많은 것을 하고, 많은 생각을 했구나’ 하고 달래줍니다. 그리고 좋은 일은 시작하기도 전에 아쉬워하거나, 아니면 나쁜 일을 두려워하거나 하는 것을 경계하려는 편이에요. 루틴이 무척 중요한 것 같아요. 요즘은 작업, 술, 전시, 운동, 산책… 이런 키워드를 기둥처럼 세워놓고 곁가지를 뻗어나가며 살고 있어요. 나쁘지 않습니다.

“워라밸을 중시하고 안 지켜지면 스트레스를 받는다”고 말했는데요. 아티스트로서 쉽지 않습니다. 당신이 생각하는 워라밸의 의미는 무엇인가요?

누차 말씀드리지만 예술도 결국 삶에서 나오는 자기 것이에요. ‘삶’과 ‘놂’이 병행돼야 멋진 창작물도 나올 수 있겠죠. ‘음악을 위한 음악’ ‘바이브를 위한 바이브’ 이런 것들에 잡아먹히면 안 되겠죠. 라이프가 선행되고, 그것이 워크를 만들어낼 수 있는 그런 균형감이라고 할까요. 늘 평균대 위에 있다고 생각하고 살아요. 그것을 즐기는 수밖에 없어요. 창작은 천형이나 형벌 같은 거니까요. 그래도 즐겁고, 이런 직업인으로 살 수 있어서 행운입니다.

요즘 김애란의 단편 ‘서른’의 문구를 자주 떠올려요. “그동안 나는 뭐가 변했을까, 그저 좀 씀씀이가 커지고, 사람을 믿지 못하고, 물건 보는 눈만 높아진, 시시한 어른이 돼버린 건 아닌가.” RM은 ‘더 나은 사람’이란 방향성을 반복해 자각할 거 같아요.

더 나은 사람이 되는 것은 패시브 스킬처럼 갖고 가는 삶의 총체적 키워드가 아닐까요. 늘 더 나은 사람이 되고 싶죠. 그런데 사랑한다는 말 자체보다 사랑의 내용이 훨씬 더 중요한 것처럼 먼저 ‘더 나은 사람’에 대한 정의를 갖고 있어야 한다고 봐요. 사람마다 다르겠죠? 말씀드린 것처럼 전 삶의 키워드를 적어놓고 균형 감각을 갖기 위해 노력하고, 또 모르는 것을 공부하고, 친구들과 열심히 놀고 주변 사람들도 챙기려 해요. 더 나은 사람이 된다는 것은 정말 어렵죠. 평생 해야 하는 거니까요. 그래서 그런 목표와 마음으로 오랫동안 살아온 사람을 볼 때 우아하다고 느끼는 것 같아요. 그들에겐 어떤 후광 같은 게 느껴지지 않나요. 그렇게 사는 사람이 많아진다면 좀 더 나은 세상이 되지 않을까요?

근래 안 해봤는데 해봐서 좋았던 일은 무엇인가요? 아니면 안 해봤지만 언젠가는 꼭 하고 싶은 일은요?

요즘은 새로운 사람들과 부딪치고, 친구가 되고, 또 작업도 해보고 있어요. 인간관계를 놓고 봤을 때 지난해 중반까지는 좁고 폐쇄적으로 살아오지 않았나 싶어요. 그런 자극이 힘들고 낯간지럽고 때로는 무겁기도 하지만, 무언가 제 안에서 조금씩 변하는 게 느껴져요. 제가 이 균형을 잘 잡으면 그것을 좋은 변화로 이끌 수 있겠죠? <보그> 커버도 제게는 큰 도전이자 새로운 체험이었어요. 기회를 주셔서 감사합니다. 건강하세요. (VK)

English translation

RM stays truthful to every moment

The joy of admiring beauty, the passion to humble oneself and learn, the determination to fight complacency: The essence of youth, the essence of RM.

As this is a written interview, I imagine that you’re answering these questions at your convenience. Could you tell the readers where you’re writing and what time it is? What do you see around you now?

I didn’t want to type my answers on my phone, so I waited until I could return to my studio and turn on my computer. It’s 10:30 p.m. on a Saturday, and I’m sitting on a chair in my studio, having worked out in the gym and worked on some songs. Looking around me, I notice a painting by Yun Hyong-keun that’s been decorating my wall for some time, and the studio equipment. I’m surrounded by familiar objects.

You’re scheduled to do a Vogue Korea cover shoot at the Korea Furniture Museum. Your fans expect you to take part in such photo ops for some sort of purpose beyond just producing nice pictures. What are you aiming for with the upcoming Vogue cover?

It’s actually my first time to appear on a cover all by myself. And the publication is Vogue, of all things! My fans are right to expect not just photos that are pleasing to the eye, but photos that express who I am, what I’m thinking, what I believe. There are so many other people who’d be more pleasant to look at on the cover than me. Since I’m doing this with Bottega Veneta, I also hope the brand’s philosophy will come through, but in a less obvious way.

An artist often suffers alone during the process of creation and expression, but some creative processes, like the upcoming photo shoot, can be very collaborative, involving many people. What are your rules on collaborating with others to achieve a certain artistic outcome?

I find myself meeting and working with a wide range of new people these days. This is quite refreshing and inspiring because I was used to working either alone or with just a few people. As for the rules … I’d say that I’m still working on them. The only rule I can think of now is to make sure that any stories about me convey my creative convictions, whatever the outlet may be. In order to convey these convictions, I believe I must consider my life from multiple viewpoints and live each day as fully as possible. I believe creativity comes from a commitment to life and a commitment to play. I try not to forget the fact that artistic creation is a job, just like any other.

You’ve exchanged comments on Instagram with Matthieu Blazy, Bottega Venetta’s creative director, with Blazy welcoming you to the brand family by posting pictures of your campaign. You responded that you were happy to join the effort. And you attended Bottega Venetta’s Fall/Winter 2023 fashion show in Milan this past February. Your all-black look was both Bottega Venetta and RM at the same time. You’ve spoken at length about music and art on many occasions, but you haven’t shared many of your thoughts about fashion. What does fashion mean to you?

I remember being quite impressed when I heard somewhere that “fashion is ideology.” This might sound like hyperbole, but I saw some truth in it. I’ve always thought of fashion as a statement of one’s attitude. You can’t walk around naked, can you? Fashion seems to give you an elegant and subtle tool for self-expression, but not in a way that forces others to consider and follow you. These days, though, I try not to read so much into anything, partly because I’ve learned that that kind of habit can eat away at me. Nevertheless, I still love fashion and see its importance. My own fashion has evolved over time, from street style to gothic, to American casual, to minimal.

You’re known for your love of fine art, especially works by Korean artists. You mentioned, in your last interview with Vogue, that “hanging a work of art at home is a spiritual experience.” Personally, I had my first intimate encounter with art at the Mark Rothko exhibit held at the Hangaram Art Museum in 2015. His red abstractions seemed to swallow me whole. I even heard a kid standing nearby say, “I want to paint colors like that.” Have you had a similar experience? A powerful first encounter with art?

Since our memories tend to edit themselves, I can’t vouch for the accuracy of mine, but I believe I had a moment like that while viewing paintings by Monet, van Gogh and Seurat at the Art Institute of Chicago. I think it was toward the end of 2018. I was on tour at the time, but I decided to use some free time to visit a museum that day. When I saw those famous paintings that I’d only seen in art textbooks or on the Internet, and actually felt their matières and presence, I knew I’d made the right choice. I have no artistic talent, so I couldn’t help but marvel, with my jaw on the floor, at the incredible colors and techniques of those master artists. For some reason, I was quite shaken by A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.

The exhibitions you visit and the works of art you photograph and post on your Instagram page have gone viral. This phenomenon probably puts pressure on you while also making you proud to be able to use your platform to introduce great works of art to the public. Are there any particular reasons you like to share the art you see at exhibits with the public?

I’ve spoken about this a few times elsewhere, but I think of an Instagram account — especially that of a public figure — as a channel of curation. It shows what the account holder is interested in, what they want to reveal and express about themselves. Yes, I do find my role as some kind of art influencer burdensome at times, but I post about these art shows and works in the hope that people who like me and follow me on social media will also get some enjoyment out of it. Especially so because I’d like members of the young generation, including myself, to take more interest in modern and contemporary Korean art as well as ancient art forms.

You seem to be more interested in paintings and crafts than in media or performance art. Why’s this?

Well, it seems to me that media and performance art is harder and takes more effort to appreciate. I think it’s important to view and experience art in the spaces where it’s meant to be shown, such as a museum. But it’s difficult for me to spend an hour or more watching a media show or some performance art at a certain venue. As I grow fonder of art, though, I expect I’ll develop more of an interest in those forms of art. I do find the works of Nam June Paik, Lee Seung-taek, Hito Steyerl and Bruce Nauman quite fascinating. I haven’t seen any performance art live yet. What I see on YouTube feels a bit weak to me. I enjoy going to art exhibits not just for the sake of art, but also as a pastime, for a change of surroundings. While viewing paintings and crafts, I love interpreting and analyzing the matières and the background stories. To be honest, paintings and crafts are prettier and more accessible, aren’t they? I think it’s hard to deny.

Your passion to learn and gain wisdom was on full display when you appeared on the Korean talk show The Dictionary of Useless Human Knowledge (Alsseulinjab). As people gain experience, and even attain a certain reputation or level of success in their line of work, they can become stubborn and stop listening to others. Being a global superstar like yourself can probably have that effect, too. So, it’s all the more refreshing and amazing to see you striving to stay open-minded and continuing to learn Why do you want to learn so much? What are you learning these days?

Likewise, I’m amazed by people who stay open-minded in their 50s, 60s or even 70s. Being bombarded with information as we are these days can make even a 30-year-old close-minded. I try to be aware of my shortcomings and weaknesses. I try to go beyond the initial sense of discomfort or prejudice that I might feel when encountering new things. As for my desire to gain knowledge, I think it’s only natural to want to learn and study throughout one’s life. There are so many things I hardly know anything about and find interesting. I do believe that I can become better and wiser by studying art history, aesthetics, architecture, world history, Korean history and other subjects. These days, I’m fascinated by photography and ancient art.

I like the song you worked on with So!YoON! for her most recent album. I also enjoy the tracks on your solo album featuring youjeen and parkjiyoon. As I listen to these songs, I can’t help but think that you’re limitless and free-spirited as an artist. What kind of musicians do you like to collaborate with?

I think I had standards in the past about whom I wanted to work with, but I’m not so sure anymore. In whatever I do, though, I tend to be drawn to people who are self-assured and who strive for something bigger at the same time, to people who have not just desire, but also the capability and talent to forge their own path. It’s probably through such people that I try to find my own story, whether they have well-established names or not.

You’ve said your dream is to live in the present. Where did this dream come from? What efforts do you make to focus on the here and now?

Now that I’ve been involved in music and art for some time, I keep thinking that all these efforts are attempts to exist in timelessness. At some point, though, you kind of realize that the ironic shortcut to eternity is to be fully immersed in the present. In this day and age — or maybe particularly in Korea — our minds tend to wander toward the past or the future. We regret, long for, desire and dream about things that are gone or that may never materialize even though we’re stuck in the present. I may pass a day without doing anything significant, but I try to tell myself at the end of the day that I’ve done so many little things and thought so many little thoughts. I also consciously try to avoid being either too excited about good things ahead or too afraid about bad things that might happen. It’s extremely important to set a routine and stick to it. These days, I maintain a routine based on a few keywords, such as work, drinking, art exhibits, working out and taking walks, adding a few more and subtracting others when necessary. It’s not so bad.

You’ve said that you value having a work-life balance, and that you get stressed out when that balance is upset. It’s not so easy for artists to maintain such a balance, is it? What does work-life balance mean to you?

I say this over and over again, but art ultimately comes from life. I believe I can create something awesome only by continuing to put living and playing at the forefront. I don’t want to pursue music for music’s sake, art for art’s sake, etc. Life always comes first, and that creates the balance needed to work fruitfully. I always think of myself as standing on a balance beam, and try to enjoy it as much as I can. Creating is like punishment. But I try to endure it with pleasure, counting myself lucky to have a creative job.

I try to become a better person. In her short story 30, Kim Ae-ran writes, “How have I changed thus far? I fear all I have managed to become is someone who spends a little more, someone who distrusts others, someone who is discerning only when it comes to the quality of the goods she is about to buy. I fear I have become a pathetic adult.” What would becoming a better person mean to someone like you?

I think trying to become a better person is a passive skill we all apply to our lives. We all want to become better people. But we do need our own definition of what a better person is, just like what love actually entails is much more important than the words ‘I love you,’ for example. I bet the answer differs from person to person. I’ve mentioned the keywords that I base my routine and life around. I try to stay focused on these keywords to remain balanced, continue learning, keep playing and interacting with friends, and be kind to those around me. It’s very difficult to become a better person, not least because it is a lifelong journey. That’s why I admire those who’ve lived a long time but still continue trying to better themselves. It’s almost as if I can see halos around their heads. If there were more people like that, wouldn’t the world be a better place?

Have you tried anything new recently and found yourself enjoying it? Is there anything you haven’t tried yet but want to try in the future?

These days, I’m constantly meeting new people, befriending them and starting to work with them. I think my social life was pretty limited until about the middle of last year. Getting to know new people can feel like a lot of work at times, making me feel embarrassed and even shy at times, but I do feel these new interactions are changing me. As long as I keep my equilibrium during all these new encounters, I think the results will be positive for both me and my audience. Becoming a solo cover model for Vogue is a huge new experience for me, too. I’m grateful for this opportunity. Stay healthy, everyone. (VK)

Source: Vogue Korea ENG: Vogue Korea

#2023 #bts #rm #vogue korea

[0613magazine]

050923 LA Times

BTS’ SUGA on going solo, his love of hip-hop and the band’s future: ‘We’re real brothers, period’

However you look at the current purgatory for K-pop superstars BTS — a long-expected pause for military service, a renewed focus on solo careers or an existential crisis for the genre — there are significant stakes not just for the group, but for the global music industry.

While the seven members of the most successful act in South Korean history take turns, based on their respective birthdates, performing mandatory 18-month stints in the military — Jin and j-hope are currently serving — those not yet conscripted have the chance to reestablish themselves as solo acts, after six chart-topping Billboard albums and six No. 1 Hot 100 singles.

For the band’s label, Hybe, in the midst of a global acquisition spree, billions of dollars are potentially on the line. Bang Si-hyuk, Hybe chairman, recently stated that there is no set date for BTS’ comeback as a group, though he hopes they can return in 2025.

Before beginning his military term later this year, group member SUGA is touring U.S. arenas on the back of his solo debut album, “D-Day,” performed under the alias Agust D (he has two other mixtapes as Agust D). The dark, smoldering rap album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200.

This week, SUGA will perform three sold-out shows at Inglewood’s Kia Forum, on May 10, 11 and 14. However, he swears, he’s not competitive about it with his bandmates.

“Are you competitive with your family members? Do you get jealous if your brother or your sister does well?” he asked with a laugh during a Zoom interview (SUGA spoke through a Korean translator). “We’re real brothers, period. If I do well, that’s good. If my family members do well, that’s even better.”

SUGA’s Agust D alias has long turned heads within the BTS solo-project sphere. Sometimes, those heads nearly get decapitated via giant ritual temple sword, as in his 2020 video for the rowdy “Daechwita.” Other times, they get stabbed right through with a pair of chopsticks, as Suga does himself in the deliciously grisly, “Oldboy”-worthy video for the new single “Haegeum.”

It’s tough to square this genuinely transgressive solo artist with the snazzy-suited, fleet-footed heartthrob harmonizing on a Hot 100 hit like “Butter.” Devoted BTS ARMY fans know that SUGA has an underground streak from his pre-BTS days, cribbing production notes from pioneering Korean rap acts like Epik High.

“Some bright and cheerful songs go into BTS,” he said. “But I’ve been doing music without any filter all the time, so I wouldn’t differentiate between Agust D or SUGA, because all those are all me.”

Still, “D-Day” is a standout, and not just for the sub-shaking production and gory videos. “Haegeum” is lacerating about modern life in South Korea: “Maybe we do it to ourselves/ Slaves to capitalism, slaves to money/ Slaves to hatred and prejudice/ Slaves to YouTube, slaves to flexin’.”

Then he turns his blade on the internet culture that fascinates and destroys young people (including other K-pop artists, like the late Moonbin): “Endless influx of information prohibits freedom of imagination/ And seeks conformity of thought/ All these painful noises blind you.”

“We’re living a life that’s better than ever before,” SUGA said. “Some say we all live better lives than the king hundreds of years ago. But everything we worry about is coming too fast. Everyone’s lonely without having a sense of belonging, we can’t relate to the things that our parents have experienced, like being obsessed with accomplishments. Nobody feels a sense of belonging.”

SUGA’s not immune from self-criticism, either. On “People Pt. 2,” with K-pop R&B singer IU, he sorts out his wariness around intimacy. “Selflessness can actually be selfish too, it’s true/ It’s actually my greed when I say that it’s all for you.”

“This thing called love … it’s conditional,” he sings. “Wasn’t loved enough as a kid, that’s why I’m the cautious type.”

SUGA, born Min Yoon-gi, famously broke down in tears after seeing his formerly reluctant parents attend a BTS show in 2016. What did they make of that song?

“I don’t actually let my parents listen to my music before it’s released because there’s so many swear words,” SUGA answered with a laugh. “My parents listen to BTS songs. Things are good with us.”

On one hand, being in a globally famous act means any slip-up could be perilous. On the other, BTS-size stardom and a reputation for real artistry allow for uncommon candor, said Sang Cho, co-founder of the L.A.-based K-pop distribution and event firm KAI Media.

“SUGA and RM are to BTS what Lennon and McCartney were to the Beatles. [RM is expected to be the next BTS member to enlist.] Every member is talented, but these two are definitely the driving force behind their music,” Cho said. “I think SUGA is a bit more Lennon — more explicit in his antiestablishment sensibilities. ‘Haegeum’ is a double entendre of a traditional Korean string instrument and wordplay on ‘liberation from restrictions.’”

“D-Day” also reflects on the music that helped SUGA become a serious artist. His track “Snooze” was one of the late Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto’s last collaborations, an artful yet stern track that brought SUGA back to his teenage days learning to sample.

“I’m not really good at piano, but I remember playing ‘Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence’ all day when I was young,” SUGA said. “It’s impossible not to be influenced by him if you’re born in Korea. When I was young, I needed instrumentals without voice to sample, so I reversed and chopped his music. I am very grateful I can call him a mentor even though I only met him once.”

While SUGA is playfully cynical about accolades like Grammy Awards — “Isn’t that a local thing?” he joked, echoing South Korean director Bong Joon Ho’s quip about the Oscars — he has nuanced thoughts about his place in hip-hop.

“I did have that differentiation when I was younger. I hoped that [rap fans] would approve of my music,” he said. “But I have this very firm belief that if I go to a hip-hop concert, where there’ll be only hip-hop fans, well, BTS fans are hip-hop fans too. I’m a huge fan of hip-hop, but what’s important here is that it’s not empty words to do music for the people that have sent you love and support.”

As the members of BTS sort out these years in transition, they’re still in one another’s lives. BTS’ Jimin debuted atop the Hot 100 with “Like Crazy” in March. Suga can’t wait to be in the crowd cheering for his bandmates when their times come.

“If you live for 13 years in one house under the same roof 24/7, you become a family,” SUGA said. “A lot of people think that the relationships between K-pop band members are kind of fake, but that’s not true. For me, it’s more like, ‘Oh, Jimin, hi! You made it to the Hot 100, I’m so proud of you!’”

Source: LA Times

#2023 #bts #suga #agust d #la times

[0613magazine]

042423 Rolling Stone

‘I Poured My Soul Into This Album’: How SUGA Let Go of the Past and Stepped Into His Future

The BTS multi-hyphenate describes the emotional process behind recording the final album in his Agust D series, finding freedom through music, and collaborating with his hero, the late Ryuichi Sakamoto

OF ALL THE BTS members, SUGA is probably the one who is most familiar with the daunting feeling that comes before dropping a solo project — but he’d never released something the size and scale of D-DAY before. 

The 30-year-old rapper/producer/songwriter born Min Yunki has two full-length mixtapes using his alter ego Agust D — his 2016 debut, named after his second alias, and 2020’s D-2, both which established him as a ferociously introspective artist. Through his emotionally wrenching raps, he’s also emerged as a bold K-pop star, unafraid to share his reflections on mental health and inner struggles.

But last summer, BTS announced that they would be focusing on solo projects instead of group albums. SUGA was already in the midst of working on the final installment of his planned Agust D trilogy, and he realized that the whole world would be paying extra close attention to what was supposed to be his side project. Suddenly, he felt pressure to stay true to his raw, explosive rap persona as Agust D while still living up to the name of SUGA, the BTS member who speaks at the U.N. and the White House and collaborates with pop giants like PSY, Halsey, and Coldplay. 

“Since I had to finalize the trilogy, I wanted to push Agust D by any means,” he tells Rolling Stone on a Zoom call from the HYBE office in Seoul. “Yet in reality, in terms of marketing, SUGA has more presence. There was a heavy pressure to synchronize [the personas of] Agust D and SUGA, and it took a toll on finishing the album.”

In his solo work and across more than 100 songs that he’s helped write for BTS, SUGA has always worked to reconcile different identities and competing desires, wrestling between striving for success yet rebuking material desires, aspiring for honesty yet fearing overexposure, and wanting to meet expectations of the public yet feeling being misunderstood by critics. But on his new album D-DAY, which arrived on April 21 alongside a behind-the-scenes companion documentary, SUGA: Road to D-DAY, streaming on Disney+, he reveals that he’s learned how to conquer these inner conflicts. On the opening title track, he declares that he’s forging a new future, defined only by himself. “Comparing yourself to those floundering in life, inferiority, and self-loathing / Starting today, aim your gun at these things,” he raps.

Across the 10-track project that blends hard-hitting drill beats, affecting R&B, and angsty emo rap, he unleashes philosophical verses that unpack his personal traumas, love and loss, the impossibilities of living under late capitalism and, as always, the hypocrisies of his haters — now with a wisdom that comes with self-knowledge. If 2016’s Agust D represents a SUGA who used rap as an outlet for his intense emotions, and 2020’s D-2 captured a version of him learning to accept himself despite uncertainty, then D-DAY is the sound of a musician who finally understands who he is, comfortably moving through life’s chaos and changes. 

Throughout D-DAY, SUGA reflects on the idea of “liberation,” rapping about his search for freedom from the structures of the world and his own anxious thoughts. Yet the album posits that music, and the emotional process of making it, might be a form of freedom in itself. On the single “Haegeum,” a Korean word for “lifting a ban” that is also the name of a Korean traditional string instrument, he makes incisive cultural commentary about digital overconsumption. “Everyone’s been blinded by envy and jealousy / Without realizing that they’re putting shackles on each other / Don’t get swept away by this tsunami of info,” he spits. But when he pleads for everyone to “get on” the track’s grimy drill beat in the hook, it’s as if he’s urging listeners to live in the present by losing themself in the raucous music.

SUGA also proposes liberating yourself from regrets of the past on “Amygdala,” a mournful rap song inspired by the part of your brain that stores fragmented memories of traumatic events. The verses see him making his most personal admissions yet, as he raps about the hardest parts of his life in a frantic string of visions: His mom’s heart surgery she underwent soon after he was born, the motorbike accident he endured as a teenage delivery worker, and “the call I got during work about dad’s liver cancer.” Yet making the song, and taking out those “unpleasant memories” to reorganize them again, facilitated the process of healing, he says in Road to D-DAY. “It’s part of the treatment to bring back bad memories from your past and learn to control those memories,” he explains in the film.

Growing up in Daegu, South Korea, SUGA taught himself how to rap and produce long before he dreamed of becoming a K-pop idol. As a teen, he would practice sampling by making beats from the instrumental scores of Ryuichi Sakamoto, the famed composer and Yellow Magic Orchestra member who died in March at the age of 71. D-DAY marks a full-circle moment for SUGA, who was able to meet and collaborate with his music hero on the album cut “Snooze,” which also features Korean indie rock singer Woosung of The Rose. 

Road to D-DAY captures SUGA and Sakamoto’s first meeting, in which they discuss their motivations for music-making and take turns playing each other Sakamoto’s “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” on the piano. The delicate piano chords of that classic song and Sakamoto’s string scoring style were SUGA’s inspirations while making “Snooze,” a moving trip-hop song that is dedicated to all the emerging artists who were inspired to create because of BTS, he tells Sakamoto in the documentary. “I wanted this song to give them some strength. ‘I know it’s hard, but it’ll be okay […] I’ll catch you if you’re afraid to fall,’” he explains. It’s a masterful example of SUGA’s ability to offer words of solace to his listeners, as he does on “Life Goes On,” BTS’ Billboard No. 1 hit song that he reinterprets into alternative hip-hop on D-DAY.

SUGA joined Big Hit Entertainment in 2010 under the belief that he wouldn’t have to learn complex choreography. Now, through his years in BTS, he’s become a well-rounded performer, able to pull off slick dance moves, unleash fiery raps, and also play some guitar, which he’s been learning in recent years. Though he’s the first BTS member to embark on a headlining solo tour, which will kick off April 26 in North America, before heading to Asia this summer, he’s humble almost to a fault when discussing his goals for the stage. “I am just a rapper,” he says. “I worried a lot about what’s the best way for me to express myself. But I am not that terrible at playing guitar, so if I showed that to people I thought maybe they would like it.” 

Ahead of the album and tour, SUGA spoke to Rolling Stone about collaborating with IU and j-hope, his production philosophy, and whether the Agust D moniker will live on. 

In the Road to D-DAY documentary, you said, “When I was working on this album, I wondered if it may be the last piece of work under the name Agust D.” Just to confirm, D-DAY is not your last album as Agust D? No. If you buy the album and look at the “thanks to” section in the liner notes, then you’ll know [the answer to that question]. And if I say it’s the last, then it has to really be the last. A lot of musicians will say they’re retiring and then they make another comeback — I definitely don’t want that to happen. It’s the last of the trilogy, not the last of Agust D. 

The stories that I have to tell as Agust D are heavier than those of SUGA, right? I don’t have much energy left in me to continue to tell those heavier stories, because I poured out my soul in this album. But after a couple of months, maybe I’ll have some more stories to tell as Agust D, or I can put stuff out as Yunki, or release things as SUGA. No one knows what’s possible in the future. 

So I can’t tell you that this is the last of Agust D. My next album could come out next year, in a decade, or right before I die. Maybe the company said that it would be the last? But this is not where I’m wrapping up. There was the Batman Dark Knight trilogy, but then Batman came back again [in a new movie]. It’s that kind of vibe.

You collaborated with IU again for “People Pt. 2,” after producing, and appearing on, her 2020 single “eight.” What do you admire about her as a collaborator and what kind of synergy do you have together? We needed to work on synchronizing [the personas of] Suga and Agust D, since from a marketing perspective, there was no reason for me to release this as Agust D. But because I have told stories about myself, Min Yunki, through the persona of Agust D, I now had to match it [with the brand of SUGA]. I put a lot of thought into which artist would be the best for this synchronization.

I could’ve included BTS members. Jung Kook actually recorded vocals as a guide for the demo. But If I did the track with Jung Kook, I didn’t want to give the impression of, “Oh, this is another BTS thing!” So I searched for an artist to feature. I already had collaborated with [IU] for “eight.” We already had synergy, and a lot of people loved that song because of our connection. Also, me and her have a good relationship. We are already friends and we are the same age. So I requested that she appear on my song. Because she’s such a busy person, I worried that she wouldn’t accept. Thankfully, she accepted without any hesitation. I’m pretty satisfied with “People Pt. 2.” 

For “HUH?,” featuring j-hope, did you give him any sort of direction on how to write his verse?I’ve been doing music for 17, 18 years, but when I’m working with someone else I never pressure them. The genre of that song is drill. I made it with Yijeong [HYBE songwriter-producer EL CAPITXN]. The beat is very difficult. j-hope told me that it was hard [to write on], but I was like, “Just do whatever you want. I’ll organize it all for you later!” 

It’s similar to when I was working with PSY, or on “eight,” or making music for commercials. When producing music for others, I would ask them: “What would you like? What kind of song do you want? What do you want me to write?” When someone’s writing a song for me, the same applies and I would tell them, “Do whatever you like” or “Write what you want.” When I first heard j-hope’s verse, I wanted to use it right away. I said, “Wow, you really said what you wanted to say, and it worked!” We just went with it without any edits.

Did you play the album for any of the other BTS members, and did they give you any feedback?The other members don’t really give me feedback. They do, but their feedback feels like, since the documentary film is with Disney(+), I will say it in terms of Disney, their feedback is Disney-like. Always positive. They just say something like, “Wow, the album is sick!” I can’t really feel certain that it’s objective, so I try to rely on external feedback. The members always tell me it’s good. If I show them something that’s not good, they won’t tell me it’s not good. [laughs] I always appreciate them though. They motivate me and give me courage.

For “Snooze,” you collaborated with Woosung of The Rose and Ryuichi Sakamoto, who recently passed away. How has Sakamoto inspired you as an artist and what was it like collaborating with him? This might be a little complicated, but there is this method of reversing samples, chopping and splicing which is commonly used among songwriters a lot. Some people would see this and ask, “Is this really composing?” And it actually is because all these samples are being taken from their original sources and then recorded again. For example, for “eight” with IU, I made the theme in the beginning by reversing and chopping a piece of audio. This process is very common in hip-hop — many hip-hop musicians have used, and are still using, this method. And, in order to do this, you need instrumental songs, songs without vocals that can be put into different structures. 

I needed to practice that kind of production through sampling, and I ended up using Sakamoto’s songs for practice. Even before I started producing, ever since I was young, I really admired his compositions, like “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” or the score from The Last Emperor. And I used these kinds of instrumental tracks to make my own beats when I was in seventh grade or something. So Sakamoto naturally was one of the legends that I dreamed of meeting, and when I expressed my interest in meeting him, he accepted without hesitation. 

I am very saddened by his passing. But when I met him, it was so nice. We didn’t meet musician to musician. It just felt like he was an adult, and I was a child. I really miss him. He was one of my role models. He gladly participated in my album, and the collaboration went so smoothly. We both worked happily on the song. 

Also, that song isn’t necessarily me telling just my own story. When people listen to the lyrics, they’ll probably see that. Not only is it about the artists who have come up after me [and BTS], but there’s also the many people around the world who have found solace in Sakamoto’s work.

The theme of the album is “liberation.” What does liberation mean to you? In the past, I knew what that theme meant, and I figured out my thoughts were already resolved in the process of recording it. There was this K-drama called My Liberation Notes [from 2022] that did really well. I had started working on the album three years ago — and then I noticed that it really matched thematically with the drama. I felt and hoped that people were looking for more stories, more discussion on this topic of “liberation.” 

Honestly, I didn’t write the song [“Haegeum”] because I was so obsessed with the concept of “liberation.” Haegeum is an instrument. But a while ago, I was playing this rhythm video game a lot. In the game, there’s these songs called “haegeum songs.” [Editor’s note: “Haegeum songs” are songs that you can only unlock in the game by reaching a certain stage.] That was originally the meaning of the song. So I wrote the hook to “Haegeum” about three years ago while I was working on “Daechwita.” Back then, I was composing many songs using traditional Korean instruments. Also yes, I made that beat for “Daechwita,” people seem to not know. 

Once I asked myself about what my definition of liberation is, I started unpacking that idea of liberation more [through my songs]. I think viewers will think it’s very fun and entertaining—considering the other kinds of promotions I’ve done. I have confidence. In the video, I’m just living very freely. [Laughs]

The “D” in Agust D stands for Daegu, your hometown. Since you’ve lived in Seoul for a while and traveled all around the world, what kind of place is Daegu to you now?  People will always ask me why there’s a space after Agust, and there’s a D. They say, “Is that a One Piece thing?” [Editor’s note: The protagonist of the One Piece manga is named Monkey D. Luffy.] Daegu is very important — of course, it’s my hometown. I feel very comfortable there. And you know, musicians have this pride about where they’re from. I go there pretty often. I go there for makchang [grilled chitterlings]. Also, my parents just like it a lot. It’s a dreamlike place. 

Source: Rolling Stone

#2023 #bts #suga #agust d #rolling stone

[0613magazine]

042423 NME

SUGA of BTS: “You have to find what makes you happy, what brings you joy”

As he prepares for his first solo tour and shares his debut solo album ‘D-DAY’, the BTS rapper talks to NME about his Agust D alter-ego and the importance of living in the moment

To be honest, I had this sense of being a victim when I was very young,” BTS’ SUGA says, taking a sip from the big cardboard cup in his hand. It’s an early April morning in Seoul and the rapper, producer and songwriter is discussing his alter-ego Agust D on a video call with NME as he prepares to return under the moniker for the final part of a trilogy of records. “I came up with the name because I had [this] hate, [this] anger inside me […] I couldn’t control that anger.”

When he first introduced us to Agust D back in 2016 with his self-titled debut mixtape, SUGA used the alias as a vehicle to express those fiery emotions. Although he had spent years in his hometown of Daegu passionately pursuing music, when he debuted with BTS in 2013, he felt the rejection of other artists and fans outside the K-pop realm; his rap credentials not taken seriously now he was a member of a boyband. It fuelled his early solo music, that first mixtape full of barbed lines positioning him as mightier and fiercer than those who spurned him. “I’m the thorn in the side of those hyungs that are far from success,” he spits in one such lyric on the record’s title track.

“I’m just trying to say that you’re enough [as] yourself and you deserve to be loved on your own, and I’m also saying this to myself too.”

As we grow up, get older and experience more, we often learn how to control the fire that blazes in our gut and, in the intervening seven years since ‘Agust D’, SUGA has gone on his own journey with that. You can trace it in the evolution of his solo music, from the soul-searching of 2020’s ‘D-2’ mixtape, to his debut solo album ‘D-DAY’. The flames still burn at times – “Fuck that shit you think you know ’bout me,” he declares on the shadowy ‘HUH?!’, featuring j-hope. But there’s also an undercurrent of peace, not least in him ending the new record on ‘Life Goes On’, a more tranquil track that opens with his verse from the BTS song of the same name.

Although he acknowledges there has been a transformation in him and Agust D since 2016, he rejects that it’s because his life has changed – “I still live as SUGA of BTS and, as a person, Min Yunki,” he reasons. Instead, he characterises it as a natural part of our life cycle: “Things change, situations change – people have no choice but to change.” Later in our conversation, he returns to this idea. “Everybody changes, but what’s important is the way that we change,” he says, cracking a small smile and adding with a chuckle: “I think I changed very nicely.”

One such metamorphosis – and one that informs ‘D-DAY’ as a whole – that SUGA has gone through over the last few years has been the rapper’s attitude to focusing on the present; living in the moment rather than fretting over regrets from the past or the unknowns of the future. “I think we should be the subject in the life that we’re living now,” he explains. “You might think, ‘Future me is going to live in this big house, a nice house’ and, of course that would be nice. But, I think, in that process, the most important thing is me.” He leans forward in his seat slightly, widening his eyes to emphasise his next point: “I’m going to be the person that’s going to be in the future, so I’m just trying to say [I] should focus on the me now.”

It’s a perspective that SUGA adjusted to during the pandemic, when our lack of control over our days, weeks, months and years ahead came into excruciatingly sharp focus. For the members of BTS, that meant, in part, being forced to cancel the ‘Map Of The Soul’ world tour they’d already sold tickets and begun preparing for. “I thought, ‘Well, what can I do right now at this moment?’” he says. After listing out his concerns to himself and “things I was in pain with”, he decided to do something about the old shoulder injury he’d sustained in a motorcycle accident in his trainee days and underwent surgery – an act in the present moment only he was in charge of.

“We must be educated in how to find happiness from an early age, like learning the alphabet, but we haven’t learned it like that.”

Focusing on the now could be seen as something of a survival tactic; a way of living that makes the stresses and strains of our modern world a little more bearable. In SUGA’s mind, love is another part of that handbook to endurance, and an antidote to the loneliness he details on the IU collaboration ‘People Pt.2’. “I just hope that people simply love,” he says, explaining that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be in love with another person. “It can be a simple thing, like loving coffee or you can even love your internet community. But I just hope that people love people – let’s hate less, let’s be angry a little less, because we all feel lonely.”

The gentle, comforting boom-bap of ‘People Pt.2’, a thematic sister song to ‘D-2’’s ‘People’, offers consolation and solidarity with anyone feeling isolated, SUGA rapping: “If you can’t hold it back, it’s OK to cry / You’re already more than enough to be loved.” He quotes these lyrics to NME and rubs the back of his neck with a sigh. “I’m just trying to say that you’re enough [as] yourself and you deserve to be loved on your own, and I’m also saying this to myself too. I just hope that everyone gets loved from the moment they’re born until they die.”

They’re powerful words in a world where it can feel like toxicity reigns and the nature of our chronically online lives, sifting through divisive misinformation and comparing ourselves to others on social media, can easily wear you down. ‘D-DAY’’s main track, the urgent ‘Haegeum’, provides a rallying cry to free ourselves and our existence as “slaves to capitalism, slaves to money / Slaves to hatred and prejudice / Slaves to YouTube, slaves to flexin’”. “This song’s a haegeum,” Suga raps in the chorus, using the Korean word for both liberation and the traditional string instrument that features on the track. “Get on board now.”

The song, he notes again, is as much a message to himself as it is to the wider world. “I’m a slave to capitalism, to YouTube, to money, and I have to say that to myself so I won’t be like that,” he shares. Does he really think, in this day and age, that music can still inspire big change in our society? He smiles wryly and replies: “Music certainly has the power, but we cannot be free.” Not all hope is lost, though. We can still find some form of emancipation by “being less conscious of other people[’s opinions]” and “find[ing] a way to make ourselves happy”.

Much like his views on love, happiness doesn’t need to be something big and complicated. “If eating makes you happy, just eat,” he explains. “If making music makes you happy, just keep making music. You don’t have to put too much meaning to it.” Perhaps if locating this “ephemeral emotion” was instilled in us from childhood, we’d be better off, he suggests: “We must be educated in how to find happiness from an early age, like learning the alphabet, but we haven’t learned it like that. Smart people actually find a way really, really fast, so we must be smart – if we tell people to be happy, they’re not going to be. You have to find what makes you happy, what brings you joy.”

From next week, SUGA will bring more joy to ARMYs across the US and Asia as he kicks off his first solo tour. He is the first member of BTS to embark on such a run and some of the stops will see him return to venues he previously performed in with the group. “On top of being the first one among the BTS members to go on a solo tour, I’m more excited because it’s been a long time since I went on a world tour with multiple stops in various countries,” he says.

The tour poster shows the musician’s face split in two – one half largely blue, the other half mostly orange-red. Both the names SUGA and Agust D sit in the top left corner, all combining to hint at a show made up of two distinct halves. Although he’s not ready to spill many details yet (“Too many spoilers will make it less fun”), he says there will be a third part too. “This tour will show SUGA and Agust D as an artist, and Min Yunki as a person,” he explains. “I’ll just put it like this, ‘SUGA, Agust D and Min Yunki’s tour that will burn it up’. I dare say it’ll be a totally different tour from previous BTS tours, and a tour beyond what everyone can imagine.”

As he prepares to head out on the first leg in America, the Disney+ and Weverse documentary SUGA: Road To D-DAY captures a different, more personal kind of tour. The film follows the artist on a journey across the US, Korea and Japan as he searches for fresh inspiration for his solo album. Although he admits both to NME and in the documentary itself that he was never one for travelling before, the voyage gave him new revelations and valuable experiences.

“Just finding joy in travelling is itself a new discovery for me,” he explains. “Also, I gained a lot from having genuine interactions with greatly renowned international musicians [Halsey, Steve Aoki, Anderson .Paak and the late Ryuichi Sakamoto all receive visits from SUGA in the film] who I had a chance to collaborate with or was very close with personally. It was [a] great lesson for me as an artist and also from person to person.” On the trip, he surmises, he achieved what he set out to do – find “a great sense of new inspiration and stimulation”.

Although the next few weeks and months look set to be busy for the rapper, and with his enlistment for mandatory military service due later this year, SUGA is staying true to the message of ‘D-DAY’ and focusing on the present. “I’ve been keeping myself busy preparing for my first solo album and my solo tour these days,” he says. “I think I’ll probably be busy like this until the end of the tour. I will do my best on every stage where I can meet ARMY and I’ll take good care of my health to do so.”

Source: NME

#2023 #bts #suga #agust d #nme

[0613magazine]

042223 Cine21 Magazine

English Translations

Interview in commemoration of the release of the last album of Agust D’s trilogy <D-DAY>

The pre-released song <People Pt. 2 (feat. IU)> happens to be released today. Earlier, when he was taking pictures too, he asked to turn on the song if it was possible.

Please listen to it lots and lots. Please listen to it when you’re sleeping too (laughs).

It seems to be a song that would be nice to tune it on in café. Was that the reason that you chose the song as the pre-released song?

In the original version, member Jung Kook was the one who did the guide. I get that the most important essence was for the song to be good, but the process of effectively letting people know that this album is my work was as important itself. It has been 10 years since I’ve lived my life as BTS’s SUGA, and sometimes in between I would release a mixtape, where I use the name; <Agust D>. I’m aware that there are lots of times where those who just coincidentally watched <Agust D> or <DAECHWITA> music video said that this person resembled to SUGA. So, I released <People Pt. 2 (feat. IU> to in which I worked with IU with the purpose to let this SUGA and Agust D to be in sync. And, in this day and age, there are lots of SNS, but those born in 1993, just couldn’t help but to think of Cyworld. I made a song that would feels like the BGM of life, wrote the song as the Cyworld BGM, the song that people listen to, and the song that would just put them on. It was exactly meant for that. These days, I think that rather than having so many advantages, it’s better to have no cons, or irritating, annoying things.

When did you start working on this album?

I have released in terms of a mixtape before, but as a solo singer, I have released 2 full-length album. Though it’s the first time for a physical album like <D-DAY> to be released. So, around the time when I finished working on an album, it was the the time I had soft in the head the most. When <DAECHWITA> was released, half of <D-DAY>’s album was almost done. Though it’s very much concretize, we couldn’t get the grasp on when the timing for the release should be. So, to answer when I get the question about when do I start working on them is quite hard. There’s even song(s) that was made 3 years ago.

With the 2 mixtapes that you have released; <Agust D> <D-DAY>, this album <D-DAY> marks the completion of the trilogy. Was this trilogy form in your mind from the very first?

Ever since I was young, out of the movies that I like, there are lots of trilogies. For instance, <The Dark Knight> series. So, I have this impression that after I have released 3 album, I would become a plausible, decent person, hence I thought to make mine into a trilogy form ever since I dropped the first mixtape on the 2016. If I didn't do well afterwards, the trilogy wouldn't have been completed. (laughs) My solo album could also be my life record. When the first mixtape was released then, I didn’t think that there’s a justification in living as BTS if I couldn’t express out my thoughts, and when the 2nd mixtape was released, I have come to the extent where I could organize my thoughts and going back and forth to the future and past. So for this album, I want to put all things together. I’m a person who keeps changing, and that future and pasts are both connected and could influence with each other. Just like how when the 3rd season of movies series, reviewing and taking some elements from the first to second seasons, I also took somethings from Agust D’s past songs in <D-DAY>. Rather than figuring out what kind of messages to be carried in <D-DAY> album, I made it while looking at those things that I like time to time.

The title song <Haegeum> also has another meaning of lifting from a ban. Was there any specific things that you feels ‘forbidden’ to do in this society all these times?

I’m here after living as an idol for 10 years. If I were to include with the trainee times, it’d be 13 years total. So to be honestly speaking, it’s a life where one have to have lots of self-control and a life that has lots of restrictions. Not just me, but those in their 20s to 30s, whether they’re an idol or not would also feel the same. We do have thing that we want to do, however we were put into a situation that we can’t do them, and also when we stopped when we think about peoples’ eyes.

Can we talk about the collaborations <Snooze> you have with the recently deceased Ryuichi Sakamoto? While he was a film music guy, he’s also a pianist, and even a media artist.

There was a time when I was young that my parents brought me to watch <The Last Emperor> at a little theatre somewhere in Daegu. I was starstruck with the film music then. You know <Rain> was very popular that it’s often be used in a pressing situation in Korea’s variety show. After that, I made music ever since I was 13, and there are lots of times I used master’s song for samplings. You know, when I was young, I practiced by reverse, cutting, then connecting the samplings again. He was an artist that gave me lots of inspiration when I first started in making music. Drama actors, movie actors, musical actors, theatre actors, they’re all not at all different, and we still call these guys as actors, right? The same goes for a person who does music. There’s no different between those who does movie songs, and those who does pop music, after all the thing about ‘music’ is, it’s all connected with each other. I have heard this behind story once before, but it’s said that Master Ryuichi Sakamoto made a film music by chance, but after that he’s are widely known as a film music director. I only have met him personally in front once, and though we worked on the music over the phone, he was a really great person. Too bad that the musician that I really like a lot has come to leave for a long journey.

BTS SUGA, these people who likes me, doing music they want

You worked together with RM on <Strange> in <D-2> album, and now for this album, j-hope did the featuring in <Huh?!>

There are 3 rappers total in BTS including me, right? So, last time I worked together with RM, so now I got to work with hobi, of course. This may comes a bit embarrassing, but since the beats are quite difficult, I’m not quite confident in writing the verse 2. (laughs) As hobi haven’t done anything with drill genre, he said that it’s going to be so hard, but I said “but you’re good in rap, so you can indeed write lyrics”. So, he did said okay. J-Hope is really such an outstanding artist. I think that it’s not because of he’s good or bad at this and that, but it’s the issue of the preference, style. Thank you for giving me things that just lines perfectly with my preferences.

Perhaps, is the b-side of this solo album <Life Goes On> a new rearranged version of the song with the same name in <BE> album?

I made <Life Goes On> in full before, but mine wasn’t used. Personally, because I liked that version more, so I made a new rearranged version of <Life Goes On>. When I and person around me listening to monitor, it’s a song that have the most picks from the pop music producers. When one take and write from a verse of an already existing song, it became a ‘remix’, but <Life Goes On> from <D-Day> used a bit of the lyrics and melody that I have wrote before, and after than a song that’s totally different came out. When me, Namjoon, Hobi, and Bang Sihyuk PD went to have a meal together, I let them listen to it while eating, but since the flows are just so natural, the members didn’t realize it.

I heard that not only you contributes in of course in writing the lyrics, composing, and producing, but you contributes in voicing out opinions for the visuals, like the MVs too.

There are some that may think, and said that K-Pop idols moved within a framework that has been set, but it’s actually not like that. There may be that kind of idols and groups too, but that’s not the case for me. We all discuss each one of the works, from the videos, promotions and up to the schedule all together. As soon as the work for <Daechwita> is finished, I wrote down the storyboard continuity for <Haegeum> and other b-sides music videos. Then, I send them to the music video directors. Back then, many people said that COVID-19 would be a forever thing, so I was anxious that I might not even be able to do any concerts or performances anymore. So, I had to work on fast for the next studio work. Especially for <Haegeum> music video, I put lots of thoughts on this, and I even had lots of meetings where I personally go. These days and age, it’s the era of ‘listening music with one’s eyes’, so video as the mediums are very important. However, if someone who knows poorly on one’s things interferes a bit too much, it’d come out not as good. So, there are parts where I just put my trust on the staffs that have been for quite a long while, and there’s also some parts that I’m giving my specific opinions to. Even at the shooting scene too, rather than I personally do the monitoring, the director told me that I should do my best in shooting a lot of scenes, for the editing to be easy later. In this day and age, it is a pros to not to have many disadvantages than to have many advantages.

It’s so much fun to watch the BTS members’ promotion activities as solo because each of the members’ unique colors are showing. I think on SUGA’s part, the most outstanding one is that he does not make any appearance for the local music programs, but he just go for a world tour.

As you know, a singer is a person that does concert. (laughs) At first, the album release would be a bit more earlier, but somehow it came out now. Each of the members are good at their own things. Every week, there are music shows that have been scheduled for to the extent that it just makes me realized how Koreans really love music, and I really like music shows, and I don’t have any hesitation in coming out on music shows, and more that anyone else, I think I’m a person that thought it’s an essential think to make an appearance in music shows. However, this album’s color are somewhat a bit equivocal to comes out on music shows, and more than anything else, fans are the biggest reasons why I’m releasing an album. If there’s no fans, then my music have no meanings, so the thing that the fans like the most is a performance, in other name, it’s tour. So, that’s how I decided to go on tour. I’m also going to do a this so-called idol-like promotions. I’m just a singer who does music, and I really don’t like the divisions of an artist, and an idol, but I wanted to show you the side of me that the fans like.

I heard a news that you’re preparing for a video call fan sign, up to a small meeting. These days you know that you have to master the challenge such as ‘I’m sorry for being too cute’ challenge, ‘pretty girl challenge’, ‘Poppy Poppy’ challenge, et cetera, right? (laughs)

I’m not even a person that usually takes picture, but I wonder what would be the things that the fans like, and so that’s how I decided to do a video call fan sign. There are list of challenges that I got them earlier that I have to practice for, and I also filmed my side of working hard in training it as content. (laughs) Actually, BTS was the first generation on YouTube. Ever since 13 years ago, we recorded the video of the members’ and uploaded them on the internet, and we were a group that recorded lots more of our contents that anyone else. Recently, for few years already, I haven’t done these things that I have always do, so I think this time, I came to do this video call fan sign while imagining that this is an extension of those things that I did like before.

You’ve been making music like breathing so far, and someday later we will be able to see those result, right? I’m curious what kind of album would we be able to meet in 2 to 3 years from now.

I don’t think the album called <D-DAY>would comes out now if I just went with the composed as it is from 3 years ago. It need to be flexible. There needs to be an intense song for performance, songs that many people would feel comfortable listening to, and song that would be necessary in each situation, of course. I don’t know what kind of music I’ll be doing in 2 to 3 years later, but perhaps the things that the fans like would be the one that comes out. Doing what the people who like me want me to do, because that's the essence of a person that I am.

Scans by: @SUGAisjomiro_ English translations by: @verritaee

#2023 #bts #suga #agust d #cine21

[0613magazine]

040623 Marie Claire Korea

마리끌레르 5월호 커버를 장식한 BTS 슈가 X 발렌티노

“우리를 사랑해주는 사람들을 향해 일할 수 있다는 사실에 집중하면, 균형 있게 살아지는 것 같다.” “Focusing on the fact that we can work for those who love us naturally makes us live a balanced life.”

올해 초 발렌티노의 글로벌 앰배서더가 됐다. 보다 가까이에서 브랜드와 교감하며 느낀 접점이 있을 것 같다. 음악을 만들 때 유연성을 중요하게 생각하는데, 발렌티노와 소통하면서 함께 일해보니 유연함이 느껴지는 브랜드라는 인상을 받았다. 그래서 같이 일하는 것이 좋았다. 주변에서 잘 어울린다고 얘기해주시는데, 그 부분도 만족스럽고.

오늘 촬영한 컬렉션 피스 중 가장 마음에 드는 스타일은 어떤 것인가? 베이지 카디건에 그레이 팬츠를 매치한 룩이 가장 좋았다. 원래 카디건을 잘 안 입는 편인데, 시도해보니 썩 괜찮다는 생각이 들었다. 새로운 스타일링 방식을 하나 배우게 됐다.

발렌티노를 음악으로 연결 지어본다면 어떤 장르가 떠오르나? 발렌티노에는 록 스타의 느낌이 있다. 도전적인 하드록 사운드도 잘 어울리지만 최근 컬렉션은 트렌디한 록이 더 잘 어울리는 것 같다. 드럼 베이스의 록 사운드보다는 힙합 요소가 약간 가미된 형태라고 할까.

이제 슈가의 음악 이야기를 해보자. 첫 솔로 월드 투어를 앞두고 있다. 어떤 방향성을 두고 준비하는 중인가? 워낙 오래전부터 준비를 시작해서 방향성 같은 표현이 낯설게 느껴지긴 한다.(웃음) 사실 솔로 투어를 열기로 했을 때 자아실현이나 솔로로서의 성공이 주된 이유는 아니었다. 늘 7명의 멤버가 다 같이 하는 것이 베스트일테지만, 물리적으로 어려운 상황이기에 시작된 형태라 생각하기 때문이다. 팬들이 투어를 오랫동안 기다렸기 때문에 그 바람에 대한 보답으로 준비한 투어다.

BTS의 멤버로 이미 전 세계를 돌아다녔지만 홀로 하는 투어는 여러 면에서 다르게 느껴질 것 같다. 7명 몫을 혼자 해야 하니까 라이브 연습에 더 집중���게 된다. 가사를 잘 잊어버리는 편이라.(웃음) 가사 암기에도 심혈을 기울이는 중이다.

투어는 처음이지만 이전부터 솔로로서 믹스테이프를 발표하거나 다른 뮤지션과 협업하기도 했다. 이렇게 솔로 아티스트로서 음악 작업을 하는 경험이 BTS의 음악 작업에 영향을 미치기도 하나? 이와 반대로 BTS의 음악이 솔로 앨범 작업에 영향을 주는 부분이 있는지도 궁금하다. 내 모든 음악 작업의 첫 번째 전제 조건은 BTS의 음악을 만드는 것이다. 이건 변하지 않는 사실이다. 그래서 솔로 활동이 BTS의 음악에 도움이 된다든지, 그 반대로 BTS의 음악이 솔로 작업에 영향을 미치는 식의 관계성은 없다. 또 BTS로서 음악을 할 때도 하지 못했던 건 없다. 나는 그저 음악을 많이 만드는 사람이다. 순간순간 할 수 있는 방식의 음악으로 기록할 뿐이다.

그간 해온 음악 작업 중에서 많은 이들의 관심을 모은 것 중 하나가 한국 전통음악을 활용한 방식이다. 두 번째 믹스테이프의 타이틀곡 ‘대취타’에 이어 이번 앨범의 타이틀곡 ‘해금’에서도 전통음악을 활용했다. 계기가 있나? 전통악기든, 현악기든, 피아노 같은 건반악기든 모두 음악을 만들기 위한 소리이자 재료일 뿐이다. 창작할 때 거창한 의도로 시작하지는 않는다. ‘대취타’는 왜 이런 멋있는 소스를 음악으로 시도하지 않았을까 하는 의문에서 시작한 작업이다. 전통음악 중에서도 대취타라는 군악을 샘플링한 건 제목이 ‘대취타’라서 자연스레 택한 방식이었다.

슈가의 음악에서 빼놓을 수 없는 장르가 힙합이다. 방시혁 PD와 프로듀서 피독(Pdogg)은 블랙뮤직과 힙합에 식견이 깊은 사람들이다. 두 사람의 이런 면모가 BTS의 음악에, 그리고 아티스트 슈가의 성장에 어떤 영향을 주었다고 생각하나? 어릴 때부터 힙합 음악을 들으며 자랐다. 지금은 누구나 즐겨 듣는 인기 장르가 됐지만 그때는 비인기 장르에 가까웠다. 지금 음악계에서 가장 영향력 있는 장르라고 하면 역시 힙합인데, 방 PD님과 피독 님이 시대를 앞서가지 않았나 생각한다. 다만 지금의 나는 대중음악을 하는 사람이고, 랩을 하고 있지만 힙합을 하고 있다고 생각하지는 않는다. 그냥 대중음악을 하는 것이다. 물론 힙합을 듣고 자란 것이 대중음악을 이해하는 바탕이 되어줬다고 생각한다.

‘BTS Cypher’ 시리즈 Part 1, Part 2, Part 3는 지금 들어도 매우 강렬하다. 이 곡들에는 진심에서 우러나는 분노와 강렬한 에너지, 어떻게든 실력을 증명해 보이려 갈고닦은 랩 스킬이 담겨 있다. 한국 힙합 역사에도 중요하게 남을 곡들이다. 시간이 흐른 지금 이 곡들을 들어보면 어떤 감상이 드나? 많은 분이 좋아해주셔서 기쁘다. 하지만 나의 랩만 떼어 보면 좀 덜어냈어야 하지 않나 싶다.(웃음) 그때는 한(恨)도 있고 잘하는 걸 보여주고 싶은 마음이 강했다. 최근 ‘BTS Cypher’ 라이브를 들어보면 과거보다 살짝 덜어낸 느낌이어서 자연스럽다. 그렇다고 센 음악을 좋아하지 않는 건 아니다. 이번 솔로 앨범에도 꽤 센 계열의 곡도 있고. 여전히 ‘BTS Cypher’ 같은 음악을 좋아하는 마음이 남아 있다.

다른 아티스트와 작업할 때 주로 이메일을 통해 진행한다고 들었다. 이 방식을 택한 이유나 계기가 있나? 아티스트가 서로 만나서 음악 작업을 하는 건 미디어에서 보여주는 환상이 아닐까 싶다.(웃음) 만나서 같이 건반을 치고 녹음을 하는 경우는 생각보다 드물다. 곡을 쓰다가 번뜩이는 아이디어가 있어 갑자기 만나는 경우도 드물고. 물론 그런 과정을 좋아하는 사람도 있겠지만 나는 그런 성향이 아니다. 나는 이메일을 주고받으며 작업하는 방식을 선호한다. 서로 라이프 패턴을 온전히 지키면서 작업에 쭉 몰입할 수 있기 때문이다. 시간도 아끼고 효율적이지 않나.

BTS가 데뷔할 무렵에는 아이돌 음악에 대한 일부의 부정적인 시선이나 폄하하는 태도가 있었다. 하지만 지금은 오히려 그런 말을 하는 사람을 이상하게 보는 세상이 됐다. 시선이 달라진 것을 체감할 때가 있나? 나는 아이돌이고, 그 사실에 큰 자부심도 갖고 있다. 물론 나도 어릴 때 꼰대 같은 얘기를 하기도 했다. 하지만 지금 나에게 아이돌이라는 단어는 훈장이다. 아이돌에 대한 많은 인식의 변화가 있었고, 이 과정에 BTS도 일부 기여하지 않았을까 생각한다. 최근 활동하는 다수의 아이돌은 정말 잘한다. 이것이 아이돌의 현주소라고 생각한다. 근사한 외형에 그치지 않고 춤, 노래, 랩, 심지어 연기도 잘한다. 특출한 장점 하나를 가진 뮤지션은 아닐 수 있지만, 다른 면으로 보면 단점이 없는 뮤지션이라고 생각한다. 또 데뷔 이후 앨범마다 실력이 느는 것을 지켜볼 수 있다는 점 역시 아이돌이 지닌 매력이라 생각한다. 완성형 뮤지션을 보는 것도 즐겁겠지만, 어설프고 귀엽다가 점차 프로페셔널하게 변하는 과정을 지켜보는 것도 재미있다.

아이돌을 넘어 국내 아티스트 중 가장 큰 인생의 오르막을 경험하지 않았나 싶다. ‘기대보다 성공한 사람’은 많지만 ‘세계의 최정상’까지 올라간 사람은 없을 테니까. 어릴 적에는 잘되는 게 무섭기도 했다. 생각하던 선 이상을 넘어가니까 왠지 무서운 생각이 들었던 것 같은데, 지금은 오히려 별생각이 없다고 해야 할까. BTS라는 팀은 바닥에 발을 붙이고 사는 사람들이라고 표현하고 싶다. 우리는 소위 슈퍼스타의 삶을 살고 있지는 않다. 또 우리가 머무는 곳이 최정상이라고 생각하지 않고, 언제든지 내려갈 수 있다고 생각한다. 우리는 어떤 자리를 유지하려고 애쓰면서 괴로워하는 대신 응원하고 지지해주는 팬들이 있다는 사실을 상기하면서 감사한 마음으로 살아가기를 택한 거다.

이런 의연한 태도는 어떻게 가질 수 있는 건지 궁금하다. 여러 실패를 경험했고, 그 실패가 모여서 지금의 성공을 가져다줬다고 생각한다. 어릴 때는 실패하는 게 너무 두려웠는데 지금은 ‘그럴 수도 있지’라고 생각하면서 살아가는 순간순간에 집중한다. 늘 올라가기만 하면 얼마나 힘들겠나. 삶의 내리막에 대해 사람들이 너무 괴로워하지 않았으면 좋겠다.

BTS가 만들어낸 거대한 성취는 단순히 수치로 설명되는 데 한정되지 않을 것이다. 이룩한 성취 안에서 무엇에 주목하는 편인가? 음악도 지금 하는 인터뷰도 모든 일이 사람과 사람의 소통이지 않나. 결국 삶 속에서 관계는 떼어서 생각할 수 없는 것 같다. 살아가면서 좋은 순간에도, 스트레스를 받는 순간에도 늘 ‘사람’이 있었다.

만남의 이야기가 궁금했던 사람이 하나 있다. 농구 선수 스티븐 커리(Stephen Curry)다. 그와의 만남에서 기억나는 에피소드가 있다면? 스티븐 커리는 대단히 프로페셔널한 사람이다. 자신이 정한 루틴이 끝나지 않으면 훈련을 끝내지 않는다는 얘기를 들은 적이 있는데, 실제로 만나보니 사실이었다. 그날의 플레이도 참 멋있었다. 힙합과 농구는 떼려야 뗄 수 없는 관계이지 않나. 그래서 어릴 때부터 두 가지를 모두 굉장히 좋아했다. 앨런 아이버슨(Allen Iverson), 데이미언 릴라드(Damian Lillard) 등 당시 내가 좋아했던 선수들 모두 힙합에 영향을 받은 이들이기도 하고. 그래서 스티븐 커리와의 만남이 더 즐거웠고, 뒤이어 NBA와 협업을 하게 된 것도 내겐 더없이 기쁜 일이다.

BTS의 영역은 끊임없이 넓어지는 중이다. 그로 인해 새로운 경험의 장이 계속해서 펼쳐질 테고. 그래서 균형 감각을 발휘하는 게 어느 때보다 중요하지 않나 싶다. 어쩌면 삶은 균형을 잡는 것이 전부일지도 모른다. 자신만의 노하우가 있는지 궁금하다. 의식적으로 나를 낮추려고 노력하는 편이다. 그래야 최악의 순간이 왔을 때도 ‘그럴 줄 알았다’, ‘안 된 건 내가 부족했기 때문이다’라고 스스로를 다독일 수 있다. 이런 얘기를 꽤 오랫동안 멤버들과 나눠왔다. 우리는 팬들이 없으면 아무것도 아니라고, 그러니 우리를 사랑해주는 수많은 사람을 위해 일해야 한다고 말이다. 그래서 균형 감각을 유지하기 위해 의식적으로 나는 한없이 모자란 사람이라고 스스로에게 주입한다. 그렇다고 모자란 사람이기 때문에 그것을 채우려고 애쓰거나 괴로워한다는 뜻이 아니다. 그저 인정하고 받아들였다는 뜻에 가깝다. 우리를 사랑해주는 사람들을 위해 일할 수 있다는 사실에 집중하면, 균형 있게 살아지는 것 같다.

English Translation

Life with balance and flexibility, where Valentino meets SUGA.

You are working with Valentino as its global ambassador since earlier this year. You must have felt a closer connection with the brand as you interact more with it. Flexibility is an important value for me when making music, and as I communicate and work with Valentino, I got the impression that it’s a very flexible brand. That’s why I enjoy collaborating with them. People around me also commented that its style suits my own, which is another aspect I’m happy about.

Which look did you like the most from today’s photoshoot? I liked the one with the beige cardigan and gray pants. I normally don’t wear cardigans, but it felt quite nice on me. I learned a new way of dressing myself today.

What genre of music does Valentino make you think of? Valentino has a rockstar vibe. It goes well with a thrilling, hard rock sound but recent collections feel more like trendy rock – rock music with a hint of hip hop, rather than drum-based rock sound.

Now, let’s talk about SUGA’s music. Your solo world tour is coming up soon. What direction or concept are you thinking? I’ve been preparing for the tour for such a long time now that the expression “direction” feels foreign to me. (laughs) My intention with this tour is not to realize my full potential nor to succeed as a solo artist. I think the current form of solo tour came about because it’s physically impossible for all 7 of us to perform together now, which would be ideal. Our fans have waited for a tour for such a long time, and I wanted to pay them back in a way.

You’ve already traveled the whole world as a member of BTS, but I assume a tour by yourself will feel a lot different. I focus even more on the live performance because other members’ weight is on my shoulders. I tend to forget lyrics sometimes. (laughs) So I’m trying my best to memorize them.

Despite this being your first solo tour, you’ve already released mixtapes and collaborated with other musicians. Does your musical experience as a solo artist affect your work as BTS? I’m also curious if BTS’s music affect your solo album as well. The first premise for all of my music work is to create BTS’s music. This is an unchanging fact. Thus, my solo activities don’t necessarily affect BTS’s music, nor BTS’s music affects solo work. Also, there is nothing I couldn’t do as BTS when making music. I am simply someone who makes a lot of music. I just try to capture moments of musical inspirations as they come to me.

A lot of people paid attention to your usage of traditional Korean music in your works so far. You incorporated traditional Korean music in “Daechwita,” the title track of your second mixtape and also in the new album’s title track “Haegeum.” Was there an occasion where you decided to use traditional Korean music? Be it traditional instruments, string instruments, or piano, they are all sounds and materials for creating music. I don’t start making music with grand intentions. For “Daechwita,” it began with a simple question: why not try turning this cool source into music? Sampling a military music “Daechwita” was a natural choice because of its title.

One of the genres we can’t separate from you is hip hop. Producer Bang and P-Dogg have a deep understanding of black music and hip hop. How has this aspect influenced BTS’s music and your growth as a musician? I grew up listening to hip hop music since I was little. It’s a popular genre now, but it was rather unpopular at the time. Considering how hip hop is now one of the most influential genres in the music scene, Producer Bang and P-Dogg were really ahead of their time. However, I am a person who just makes popular music. I rap, but I don’t think I’m a hip hop artist. I just do pop music. Of course, growing up listening to hip hop has helped me understand popular music better.

BTS Cypher Part 1, 2, and 3 still give me strong sensations. They contain genuine anger and intense energy from the deep down, as well as rap skills honed to prove yourselves. These tracks will go down in the history of Korean hip hop music. How do you feel about these tracks now? I’m glad many people like them. I think I should’ve toned it down a little. Especially my part. (laughs) I had Han (a unique Korean term for sense of sorrow, regret, resentment) and wanted to show off what I was capable of. If you listen to more recent live performances of “BTS Cypher,” it sounds more natural as I took it down a notch. I’m not saying that I don’t like intense music. I do have some pretty powerful tracks in my new solo album too. A part of me still loves music like “BTS Cypher.”

I heard you usually work with other artists via email. Is there a reason why you prefer to work this way? I think the image of artists meeting together to work on music might be an illusion media created. (laughs) It’s rare to meet up, play instruments together, and record side by side. It’s also rare for artists to meet up suddenly because a musicul inspiration came to them. Of course, some artists work that way, but not me. I prefer working via email. Each artist can focus entirely on their work while maintaining their life pattern. It also saves time. Very efficient.

When BTS first debuted, people looked down on or spoke badly about idols, but now it’s ridiculous to think that way. Do you feel that people see you differently? I am an idol and really proud of it. Of course, I might have said nonsenses before, but now the word “idol” is like a badge of honor to me. People’s perception changed a lot recently, and I believe BTS did contribute to it. Most of the idols today are just “really good.” That’s the level idols are at right now. They are not just goodlooking but also good at dancing, singing, rapping, and even acting. They might not be a musician with a particular forte, but shift your perspective, and they are musicians without any shortcomings. Also, one of the charms about idols is that you can witness their growth after debut, album by album. Of course, watching a perfected musician is enjoyable, but watching awkward, cute idols gradually growing to be professional is also a lot of fun.

You probably experienced the most dramatic rise to success among the Korean artists, let alone idols. Many people can “exceed expectations,” but only few can climb up to the “top of the world.” When I was younger, I used to feel scared of success. As things started going beyond my expectations, I began to feel a sense of fear, but now I don’t dwell on it too much. BTS as a team has its feet firmly on the ground. We don’t live the life of so-called ‘superstars.’ We don’t believe we’re at the peak, and we know we could always go downhill too. Rather than striving and suffering to maintain a status, we choose to live gratefully, reminding ourselves that we have fans who support and cheer for us.

I’m curious how you can be so calm. I faced a lot of failures, and I think those failures altogether brought the success. I was so afraid of failing, but now I just focus on every moment of my life, thinking “so be it.” How difficult life would be if it’s always going up. I hope people don’t suffer too much when they face a downhill in life.

BTS’s huge achievement cannot be solely explained by numbers. What do you focus on in your achievements? Isn’t all things in life, including music and even this interview, a communication between people? In the end, you can’t really separate relationships from life. In both good and stressful moments, there are always “people.”

I was curious about your meeting with Stephen Curry, the basketball player. Was there any remarkable episode from your meeting? He is a very professional player. I’ve heard that he wouldn’t finish his daily training unless his routine is complete, and that was in fact true when I met him. His play on that day was amazing. Hip hop and basketball are inseparable, aren’t they? That’s why I liked them both since I was little. Players I liked back then, like Allen Iverson and Damien Lillard, were all influenced by hip hop. That’s why meeting Stephen Curry was even more enjoyable. I’m also more than happy to be working with the NBA.

BTS is constantly exploring new horizons, which will lead to new experiences. It makes me think that finding a balance will be ever more important. Perhaps maintaining a balance is what life is all about. I’m curious to hear if you have any tips of your own. I consciously try to humble myself. That way, even in the worst cases, I can console myself by thinking, “I knew it” or “I wasn’t good enough.” I’ve been discussing this with other members for quite some time. We say that we’re nobody without our fans, so we have to work for the people who love us. I constantly remind myself that I always have a lot to learn to maintain a sense of balance. This does not mean that I’m striving and suffering to fill in the gap because I’m lacking. It’s more like accepting and acknowledging it. Focusing on the fact that we can work for those who love us naturally makes us live a balanced life.

Source: Marie Claire Korea

#2023 #bts #suga #슈가 #marie claire korea

[0613magazine]

041423 Bustle

Jimin Set Himself Free & Instantly Made History

The 27-year-old star’s “Like Crazy” is the first song from any BTS member or South Korean soloist to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Jimin can’t imagine himself happier with any job title other than musician. “I think I would have found a way to be BTS no matter what,” Jimin tells Bustle. As one-seventh of boy band BTS for more than a decade, Jimin captured hearts of the group’s fans, collectively known as ARMY, with his falsetto, dance moves, and silly antics on the band’s reality shows.

Now, like his fellow BTS members who have released solo projects in recent months, the 27-year-old is exploring his individual sound on his debut album FACE. It’s already climbing the charts, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 albums chart; the project’s main track, “Like Crazy,” peaked at No. 1 on the Hot 100 in April, marking the first time any individual BTS member or South Korean solo artist has topped the singles chart.

Over the course of seven tracks on the physical album, Jimin chronicles his innermost feelings. “Alone” is a pop ballad about loneliness and isolation, while “Set Me Free Pt.2” is a bass-heavy hip-hop track incorporating a backup choir to emphasize his resolve to break free. The latter song’s darker lyrics feature a curse word so uncharacteristic of his previous solo music it shook Twitter to the core. It’s also a song where Jimin raps for the first time on a solo track.

Despite this being a solo endeavor, BTS stayed involved in the making of FACE. “I remember RM told me to pour all my emotions into each song. It was very helpful in making this album,” Jimin recalls of the advice he got from the BTS leader, who’s credited as a songwriter on three tracks. Jimin also enlisted Jung Kook to sing trills and ad libs on “Letter,” a track included on the physical release.

Below, Jimin discusses making FACE, being inspired by j-hope, and buying his idols’ vinyls.

On Creating FACE & Being Anxious About What ARMY Will Think

What was the most difficult or surprising part about making a solo album?

I realized once again that I’ve been counting on our members more than I thought and how much I appreciate them. In addition, songwriting wasn’t easy, but I enjoyed it so much that I’m grateful to them again for giving me motivation to work on this album.

What’s the lyric you love the most?

“I wanna stay in this dream” from my main track, “Like Crazy.”

You’re known to burst into laughter whenever you rap. And now with “Set Me Free Pt.2,” you intentionally wrote a track with a rap part. How are you feeling about fans hearing you rap on the track?

I tried to show various aspects of myself as an artist. I feel a bit shy and wonder how they would feel listening to my rap.

What song are you most proud of on FACE and why?

I’m proud of each and every song on FACE. To pick one, however, I do feel special attachment to “Set Me Free Pt.2” the most. I loved every step of making the song. For instance, I went to the States to record the choir and it was wonderful to hear them and see the whole process. I believe my fans would think this song best represents what BTS’ Jimin does best.

When you think about your fans listening to FACE, what do you imagine them feeling?

I feel anxious just thinking about it. [The] ARMY that I know would be all ears trying to find out how I would have felt or what I would have thought while singing each song.

On Referencing A BTS Song & Fellow BTS Members’ Support

“Set Me Free Pt.2” feels like the next phase after “ON” — there’s even a similar line about “going insane to stay sane.” Was it a conscious decision to reference that song?

That’s one of my favorite lines from BTS’ songs. I did reference “ON” in “Set Me Free Pt.2” as I was inspired by the line.

You’re known for being supportive of your fellow BTS members’ solo projects. You even went to Chicago to support j-hope at Lollapalooza. Who has been the most supportive BTS member so far and in what way?

Actually it was the members who motivated me to start working on this album. I shared the experiences and feelings I was going through during the pandemic and they suggested that I put it all into an album. I’m really thankful that they listened to me and supported me.

j-hope’s Lollapalooza stage was just perfect! I was working on my album at that time, and seeing his passion and energy that fills up the stage was very inspiring.

Whose reaction after listening to the album meant the most to you?

One of them said that he hopes this album would be a new starting point for me to grow further as an artist. It meant a lot and I will keep doing my best to achieve that.

You’re known to be vulnerable in lyrics and concerts, but this album feels a lot more open. Is there any fear of fans knowing you on this deeper level?

The album does portray feelings and thoughts hidden deep inside that I’ve never shown before, so I’m curious how ARMY would think about the album.

On Listening To Westlife & His Musical Idols

What’s the song you grew up listening to that you still know all the words to?

“My Love” by Westlife.

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

“An Old Love” by Lee Moon-sae.

Who’s your current musical idol?

Taeyang and Michael Jackson. I actually bought some vinyl records for the first time only recently from a vintage vinyl store. I got vinyls of Michael Jackson and The Beatles.

What comes first, the melody or the words?

I like writing melodies, so melody comes first.

What’s the moment you really felt like a musician?

Whenever I’m onstage feeling the happiest.

Source: Bustle

#2023 #bts #jimin #bustle

[0613magazine]

040723 Billboard

BTS’ SUGA Returns as Agust D to Tackle Loneliness, Humanity & Being Acknowledged

Back under his solo moniker, SUGA is feeling two decades of songwriting and producing connect universally: "We're finally getting recognized as musicians."

Most famously known as SUGA from BTS — but also by the solo moniker Agust D, as well as birth name Min Yoongi — the artist who works as a rapper, singer, producer, dancer, fashion muse and NBA ambassador wants to remind listeners that, above all, he is a human.

Today, April 7, marks the return of Agust D, the name SUGA uses when releasing solo projects away from BTS, with the new single “People Pt.2” featuring K-pop superstar IU. Not only does it mark the duo’s latest collaboration after teaming for the No. 1 hit on Billboard‘s World Digital Song Sales chart “eight” from May 2020, it also acts as an extension from “People,” a fan-favorite cut from Agust D’s D-2 mixtape released that same month. While the original “People” saw SUGA reflecting on himself and meditating on how others judge and change, Part 2 longs for connection with others.

As multifaceted as SUGA’s world is, loneliness is a permanent source of inspiration and intrigue for the 30-year-old. Hours before “People Pt.2” drops worldwide, his call with Billboard occurs alongside multiple international teams who work around the clock for SUGA and BIGHIT MUSIC artists. Some are beside him physically, others via Zoom connection virtually — but loneliness remains a muse for the star, assisting him in searching within and speaking to listeners in larger, universal ways.

Since its debut, BTS’ musical appeal has reached globally largely through the septet’s extended metaphors and imagery, translating into accessible storytelling alongside boundary-pushing compositions and choreography. SUGA’s range of material is vast, after producing on essentially every BTS album, not to mention scoring high-profile collaborations with everyone from Halsey and Juice WRLD to Epik High and Japan’s ØMI. But now, he’s emphasizing the topics that move him personally — and ensuring he’s properly heard.

Despite an already packed spring and summer with album promo, his solo world tour, ambassadorship duties and a YouTube series, SUGA cheekily closes out our chat (“Yeah, it’s f–king busy,” he says with a wink) since he has no time to waste. Read on as he narrows in on the release of “People Pt.2” and all that’s led up to this reflective pop/hip-hop collaboration.

We’re hours away from the release of “People Pt.2,” your official return as Agust D for your D-Day album. Is there a different mindset when you prepare music as Agust D versus solo or as SUGA alongside BTS?

SUGA: They’re all music made by the person called Min Yoongi. So, I don’t actually have a very different mindset for each moniker — but I would say that the purposes could be somewhat different. Ultimately, the goal of releasing this music is for as many people to listen to my music as possible. So, “People Pt.2” was made thinking about how people will receive Agust D’s music, which is why we also featured IU. It’s kind of a trial to release this music under the name Agust D. I’m actually a little bit worried.

“People Pt.2” (featuring IU) of course follows up “People” from the D-2 mixtape. What was important about continuing this story with IU?

This is a story that you’ll personally love: The title wasn’t originally “People Pt.2.” Actually, “People” from D-2 is personally my favorite song — and we actually worked on “People Pt.2” three years ago. When I was releasing my pictorial [Photo-Folio Wholly or Whole Me] photo shoot, the company actually revealed the guide [demo] version and gave a glimpse of it to the public. But anyway, it was already finished when we were working on D-2 so I was thinking, “Oh, I should release this, I should release this.” But we had to get on with “Butter” and “Dynamite” so we didn’t get the chance.

Originally, the title was “Sara (사라),” without the “M (ㅁ)” consonant in Korean — because that’s, like, one consonant less than the word “saram (사람),” which is Korean for “people.” Depending on whichever consonant you put at the end of the word sara (사라), it can become “saram (사람)” and “people,” or it can become “sarang 사랑,” or “love” in Korean. So, it’s the listener’s choice to put which consonant you want at the end of “sara” (사라). But I had my friend listen to this son and people heard it as “sal-ah (살아)” which kind of means “live” in Korean and I was like, “This is not going to work.” So, we finalized the title to be “People” in the end.

And some people call me August D, some people call me Ah-gust D, but I’m actually Agust D. So, you know, people take my name differently and we had to sync the person SUGA and Agust D. This is a song that kind of matches that sync. We need that bridge and sync between my mixtape and this official solo album. In order to put that sync together, I had to make this a very pop song. We didn’t try to make the music video that intense — and, in that sense, IU really played an important role in doing that. I also think this is a genre that I can do best, this pop-focused song.

There’s this sync between songs, but the themes and lyrics are very different, right? “People” was self-reflective and examined other people’s judgments, but “People Pt.2” seems more about connection and fighting loneliness. What most differentiates the two in your mind?

In the past — and I’ve always said this in my interviews — personally, I think loneliness is being together in modern society. I always talk about loneliness in my interviews, but regretfully, it isn’t always in the final interview. Not only me, everyone has this loneliness inside them until the moment they die. However deep you are in a relationship, how much you engage with other people, how many friends you meet, or how often you meet with your family, you always have the loneliness inside.

So, I started with this keyword of “loneliness” three years ago, and I wouldn’t say there’s much difference in that everybody can feel pain and agonized. It’s the same with me. Whether it’s me from BTS, SUGA, Min Yoongi, or Agust D, I always have that inside me too. People might see me as someone who wouldn’t have any concerns or worries or that I don’t feel any agony, but I feel those emotions too. I’m trying to find a way to fight those and overcome those too.

This album doesn’t really finalize everything in its message either. So, there might be a possibility there could be a “Part 3” later on. For now, we’re just trying to say, “Let’s not hate each other. Let’s find a way.”

I like that — because even in the Road to D-Day documentary trailer, there’s a moment you say you frequently consider quitting music. But when people come together, it makes you realize you can do it and have fun. Does this tie into themes of “People Pt.2”?

This is kind of a difficult topic, because I started making music and writing lyrics [when] I was 11 or 12 years old. I’ve been making music for all these years, and now I’m 30. It wasn’t easy writing “People Pt.2,” and the album overall, but people really don’t know the whole process of that. Even though I’d been making music more than half of my life — and I’m just saying this because you understand this, Jeff — when we first started in the K-pop scene, we were in this ambiguous position of not being accepted as musicians and not being accepted as idols either. But the musicians close to me know that I’m very serious and sincere in music and that I’m a very natural person.

So, the documentary started as I just wanted to capture and show this process. It started with the purpose of showing SUGA as a producer and songwriter, but it kind of ended up having the worldview of an album-making process. I tried to show the normal, individual side of me as much as possible, but as I am a Korean idol, or K-idol, a lot of scenes were edited out; there were more of those natural scenes and some very good scenes that couldn’t make it in the final version. The documentary and “People Pt.2” try to reveal the natural side of the human Min Yoongi. I just wanted to show that I am this humane person. I am just a human.

You need to release your “Director’s Cut” one day. While D-Day and the documentary are coming, I want to congratulate you on the worldwide release of D-2 and Agust D this week. My favorite song, “Agust D” with the sample of “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World,” was finally added to streaming too. You shared how J. Cole approved BTS’ “Born Singer” sample, what can you share about the process with James Brown‘s estate?

I released Agust D when I was still very young, so, even as I listen to it now, it kind of sounds immature — if you listen to the tone, the rap itself wasn’t very organized, I wanted to do a lot of things at that time. It just kind of keeps going very tightly and quickly. But after doing so much various and diverse music, I think that people love the songs that have been released more recently than the songs that were released back then. So, I kind of dare say that people are starting to recognize and acknowledge these songs now. Since the musician actually passed away, I think it was the family who decided to acknowledge it.

Same thing with [clearing] “Born Sinner” — and I don’t know what the path was for the musician themselves, but it was clear. And I take it as that I, as BTS, and Min Yoongi, and SUGA, and Agust D, was acknowledged as a musician. I’m really not thinking that broader consumers or audiences will accept it, because it’s not really popular music. Still, I would dare assume that it’s getting cleared because we’re finally getting recognized as musicians.

Source: Billboard

#2023 #bts #suga #agust d #billboard

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040623 Vogue Korea

최근 정국이 가장 잘한 것

캘빈클라인을 어떻게 묘사할 수 있을까요? 데일리로 즐겨 입는 캘빈클라인 아이템은 무엇인가요? 캘빈클라인은 저의 하루하루입니다! 캘빈클라인 언더웨어를 자주 입어요. 편안하고, 자신감을 심어주죠.

이번 촬영에서 기억에 남은 추억은요? 많은 사람이 함께한 촬영장에서 이너를 입지 않고 재킷 하나 걸치고 있으니 조금 부끄러웠습니다(웃음).

그간 정국은 “이렇게까지 사랑받아도 괜찮은지 모르겠다”라는 말을 많이 했는데, 위버스를 통해 “이제 자신감을 가지려 한다”라고 전했어요. 마음이 바뀐 계기가 있나요? 어떤 계기가 있다기보다는 그냥 ‘살다 보니’가 맞는 것 같아요. 사람은 원하든 원치 않든 계속 변하니까요.

최근 가장 잘한 결정은? 캘빈클라인 글로벌 앰배서더가 된 것!

요즘 무엇에 가장 영향을 받고, 그것이 불러온 변화가 있나요? 보통 제가 존경하는 뮤지션들의 훌륭한 음악에서 영감을 받곤 해요. 아티스트로서 좋은 동기부여가 됩니다. 그리고 당연히 우리 아미죠. 저에게 매일매일 영감이 되어주고 원동력이 되어줍니다. 지금의 제가 될 수 있었던 건 모두 우리 아미 덕분이에요.

English Translation

Jung Kook speaks about the best decision he made recently

How would you describe Calvin Klein? What’s your favorite Calvin Klein item for daily wear? Calvin Klein is my everyday choice! I wear Calvin Klein underwear on a daily basis. It’s comfortable, and it makes you feel confident.

What’s the most unforgettable memory from this shoot? I felt shy wearing a jacket without anything underneath in front of many people (laughs).

Jung Kook often says, “I don’t know if it’s OK to be loved this much.” But on the platform WEVERSE, you wrote, “Now, I’m trying to be confident.” Any reason why you changed your mind? No particular reason. I just felt that way as time went by. Because people change whether they want to or not.

What’s the best decision you’ve made recently? When I became a global ambassador for Calvin Klein!

What influences you the most these days (the news, your surroundings, people, things, books, art, etc.), and how has it changed you? A big influence on me is usually great music created by artists I respect. They keep me motivated as an artist. And, of course, our fan club, ARMY! They’re my everyday inspiration and driving force. I was able to become who I am now all thanks to ARMY.

Source: Vogue Korea

#2023 #bts #jung kook #정국 #vogue korea