지금의 난 뉴이스트의 봄엔 살고 있어

[source]

"Face" by Pledis Entertainment's five-member boy group NU'EST was met with an amazing chart reversal.

It's such a shame that their song took off after their disbandment.

I'm gonna cry, really.

Why didn't I like you then, guys?

Can't you get back together?

Please reunite to promote Face again!

"Face," which was released as a debut song on March 15, 2012, is going through a speedy chart reversal after ten years because of SNS. Though fans are welcoming the chart reversal with joy, the group's disbandment has also made it a rather regretful situation.

The group that debuted with "Face" was the five-member boy group NU'EST. NU'EST debuted on March 15, 2012 with the single album "Face" but it did not garner as big of a reaction as other rookie groups at the time.

At the time of their first debut, they promoted as five members composed of JR, Aron, Baekho, Minhyun, and Ren, though after about a year, Chinese member Jason was added to the group and they promoted as six members under NU'EST-M.

Currently, many people are keeping NU'EST's "Face" alive through Tiktok and Instagram as though it was a dance challenge. Since the song became famous after 10 years, more people started looking for its original singers. Naturally, NU'EST was mentioned and many people came to learn about the current state of the group.

Although most people accepted that NU'EST was a disbanded group and simply uploaded videos, NU'EST's fans would explain in greater detail and the truth of their chart reversal became known. It was through this that many people felt their regrets.

A popular celebrity from NU'EST

On February 24, 2017, NU'EST announced their suspension of activities as four members would appear on Produce 101 Season 2. The members who decided to participate in Produce 101 Season 2 were JR, Baekho, Minhyun, and Ren.

This was where Minhyun was selected to be in the final lineup of Wanna One, and NU'EST had the chance to be known once more. Without Minhyun, the remaining members resumed activities as NU'EST W.

Called "monster rookies," Wanna One was an eleven-member boy group (including Hwang Minhyun) that received enormous attention from the public. They were also the first singers who debuted in Gocheok Skydome.

Groups who were chosen through Mnet survival programs showed a trend of possessing an explosive popularity and fandom. IOI, who debuted through Produce 101, were in a similar situation.

Earning amazing ranks from debut, they became the representative leader of third generation of k-pop boy groups. The group was composed of members Yoon Jisung, Ha Sungwoon, Hwang Minhyun, Ong Seungwoo, Kim Jaehwan, Kang Daniel, Park Jihoon, Park Woojin, Bae Jinyoung, Lee Daehwi, and Lai Guanlin.

NU'EST members lately

NU'EST has actually suspended activities. Their company, Pledis Entertainment, revealed that their exclusive contracts had expired last March 14, 2022. They finished the last of their official activities with the release of their best album "Needle and Bubble."

NU'EST JR (Kim Jonghyeon) has moved companies to Evermore and debuted as an actor and solo. He is promoting the release of his first mini album and solo debut, "MERIDIEM."

NU'EST Aron (Kwak Youngmin) is currently working independently without a company. A native of LA, he left his company and decided to go solo. Having had several years of experience as a radio DJ, he has expressed that he has started preparing for his first solo activities on his podcast.

NU'EST Baekho (Kang Dongho) has re-signed with his current company Pledis Entertainment. The name "Baekho" was given to him by After School's Uee. Baekho is continuing his solo activities after the release of his first mini album, "Absolute Zero."

NU'EST Minhyun (Hwang Minhyun) is actively promoting after re-signing with his current company Pledis Entertainment. He officially began his solo activities with the drama "Alchemy of Souls" and his first solo fan meeting.

NU'EST Ren (Choi Mingi) left his company and decided to move to Big Planet Made. He plans to continue actively promoting as a solo artist and actor.

[source - thank you discopixi!]

We've seen "Acrostic Poem Master" Kim Jonghyeon in action. (laughs) How many have you done at this point?

I'm not sure. I did so many when we shot the 1st Look digital video today. Making acrostic poems is like solving problems. More than being good at it, I feel like I get lucky every now and then so I get a pass.

It's like your talent. Once you've done it one time, it's a special skill that you often get asked to do elsewhere. That's how deep of an impression it left. Is your album coming out in November in its final stage?

We've been working on it for about three months. Finally, we've finished recording, but there's still a lot to do. The album's name is MERIDIEM. It's Latin for "noon", when the sun is at its strongest.

It's quite meaningful for a start. What were your expectations or mindset for your first solo album?

It is. Since it's the first album that has my name on it, that's filled with only my voice, I was actually more scared than excited. While I was working on it, I kept thinking about how the fans would listen to it or receive it. That was how I managed to control my fears.

Though you wanted to know about others' reactions, you must have had a lot of time to focus on yourself while preparing for the album on your own.

Since I focused entirely on myself, I felt a lot of things in that time. I would sometimes think, "I can do this kind of voice" or "I can express this much." Though on the other hand, it was through those thoughts that I became deeply aware of my shortcomings.

What were those shortcomings?

When I was promoting in a team, I was mostly doing rap, so I didn't have a lot of time to practice singing. While I was preparing for my solo album, I had to fill up an entire song on my own so I practiced a lot, thinking about what I lacked.

Since it's a solo album, the album name must have just been the start of a lot of decisions you had to make. Did your decisions have more weight this time? We heard that you were the type to think alone about a decision for a long time before making it.

I thought so much about what kind of music I wanted and how to express it. So it was hard just to do it based on my own opinions. I talked a lot with my company's CEO, and he said that it would be good if we could fully express what the person called "Kim Jonghyeon" is thinking right now. Those words alone really got to me. Maybe that can be read when people listen to the album.

You've been credited as the writer of several songs while Nu'est was promoting. Will we be able to hear some of your lyrics this time as well?

Songs I've written are in this album. We're done working on it, but I got quite interested in it so I intend to keep writing more lyrics.

What aspect of it are you interested in?

Firstly, I thought that I'd like to tell my story. Each person has certain stories only they can tell and lyrics are the same. I want to record all my thoughts and feelings. That process was really interesting.

Ordinary things that leave an impression can one day be written as lyrics.

That's right. I have times when I think, "Oh, this is a nice word? This topic is good, too" just passing by somewhere. Then I usually write it in the notes app in my phone so I can use it for later. Lately I've been listening to emotional hiphop music. When I look at the lyrics, I feel like I naturally learn things. "This is how someone might think. This is how someone might express themselves."

Another special thing about this album is that it's been 10 years since your debut. There must not have been a lot of time to cut yourself some slack while you were going through it. Since it's all passed, what are some things that have crossed your mind since then?

I think I've learned how to be a bit more relaxed. When you look for the answers calmly, instead of hastily, you're able to get a better answer.

Have you also gone through a slump before you were able to reach that calmness?

Of course, in that length of time, it's impossible not to have gone through a slump. I wasn't able to get over it masterfully every time, but I just didn't want to get too consumed by that feeling. When I get faced with difficulties, I'm the type to go, "Let's do the things I can do first." It's hard not to think that a difficult time won't turn into a slump that lasts forever, but that's just how I choose to spend that time.

You seem to have learned how to think realistically having been through a lot over a long time. You don't have any anxieties over this new album?

Since I have to show my whole self, "Kim Jonghyeon" the artist, I've prepared more thoroughly. I've done my best, thinking, "Let's keep going until [the album] comes out," and as time passes, I keep thinking I have to do even better. Though of course, this isn't to think hastily or impatiently.

You showed your whole self in today's shoot, too. Though you've had solo shoots during your group activities, is your mental attitude a bit different now?

It felt like it was a new start. Talking about my album in this interview and hearing questions about myself makes me feel like the time for me to show everything I've prepared has truly come. I even tried poses that I probably wouldn't have done on any other shoot.

Now that we've finished the shoot and we're doing the interview, the time on the clock says that it's 2:30 in the afternoon. Since your album's concept is MERIDIEM or noon, when is your favorite time of day?

My favorite is the cool night time, from about 9pm to 12mn?

You posted a picture of the Han River a few days ago, and it was right around that time.

Yes, I was driving with my sister and we stopped for a bit and took that photo.

Are you close with your sister? That's a little different from when people usually talk about their siblings.

My sister was the first person who listened to the track in this album after I recorded it. She didn't beat around the bush and say "Good job," but instead was really honest and said, "This is what I felt, what if you try this?" Talking with my sister made me think, "This is probably what the public will feel when they listen to this song."

Family can always give it to you straight.

Yes. There were a lot of times when I purposefully said, "You have to tell me this objectively." I have a lot of affection for my own songs, so there's obviously a lot of things I won't be able to see for myself.

For a while, it was brunch or painting pictures, but is your new hobby going on a drive?

I've been so caught up in working on the album lately that I don't really have time for hobbies. Once album promotions finish and things calm down, I might paint again. These days, I feel satisfied with small healing points of my day rather than doing hobbies. Depending on my mood on a certain day, I feel a lot better if I just eat something delicious. I try not to think of anything too heavy or serious in that moment and I feel happier.

There are only two months left in the year. What did this year mean to you?

This year has a lot of different meanings for me. It was the year my group activities ended, and the year I had a new start as a solo artist. I've received a lot of love and support from so many people, so without hoping for much more, it was a year when I can think, "I wish I could be with these people, just like now."

You've previously beautifully said that this album was "a flower that bloomed on the road Nu'est walked." When the promotions for this album end, what meaning do you hope it will have for you?

Hmm, the start of my journey. This is my new start, right? I can't know what will happen in the future, but happy memories might arise and more precious people might appear. There's obviously no way to have only good things happen. But even if had things happen, I think there will always be something to learn within that. So I wish this album could be the start of my journey and I want to feel a lot with this start.

jonghyeon in seoul fashion week (+ upcoming jolo!!)

mc minhyun for kcon japan (+ upcoming webtoon ost, alchemy of souls part 2 in december)

rentargnan (+ upcoming fancon)

seems like aaron filmed something in the garden of morning calm (+ ongoing korean cowboys)

i feel like i'm truly living in a Moment

nay

[source]

Firmly and clear in the distance. When Baekho swings.

GQ: Let's be honest. How many drivers have you broken?

BH: Hahahahaha, one. Just one broke.

GQ: When you were doing that tee shot and I heard that loud sound and watched the driver break into pieces, I thought I was going to meet a power golfer.

BH: So you've seen that video. Actually, people who swing well probably don't break their clubs, right? I'm bad at swinging so it broke, hahahaha. I felt a little bad then (when the club broke) but out of everyone I was with, my ball went the farthest. It didn't even hit the ground so I don't know why it broke. The driver must have been pretty worn out.

GQ: How long has it been since you started getting into golf?

BH: It's been over a year now. I started taking it seriously since summer of last year.

GQ: You mentioned in the sports variety show Sooro's Rovers (2019) that you weren't really a soccer fan. How did you come to like golf, which has a ball much smaller than a soccer ball?

BH: Just naturally. Since everyone I knew who played golf said it was really fun, I wanted to try it. I didn't know it would be this much fun of a sport. I thought, wow, this crazy tiny ball doesn't follow me at all. When I want to push it just a bit farther, it ends up going somewhere weird... With soccer, actually if someone asks me to play, I have average skills just enough to do it. Even though I like it, I don't spend time practicing to be better. Golf's different. "Oh, I really want to be better. I really want to play better." So I ended up practicing and spending my time on it, though I think it's obvious that I've gone a bit too far. It's a sport that has kind of taken over me.

GQ: People who enjoy golf all say the same thing. When it doesn't go my way, I somehow end up loving it more. Have you reached this spiritual enlightenment?

BH: It really just goes where it feels like going. And at 80, I swing about a hundred times, but only two shots come out well. I can't forget those two shots so I go for another round. Also, it's hard to look for a place to golf in Seoul, right? There are a lot of times when I had to get in my car and go somewhere far, so while driving, I get to enjoy my time with good people and eat something delicious when we're done. I love everything about that feeling. All the things I love are part of golf.

GQ: I'm curious about your opening playlist when you go on a trip. What songs do you listen to on your way to the golf course?

BH: I don't listen to songs on the way. I usually love listening to music while driving. But when I go to play golf, I don't listen to music.

GQ: That look in your eye is such a huge change. It's totally different from what you said earlier about not being too greedy or going too far.

BH: Hahaha, no, it's... I want to go there with a serious, reverent mind. You feel like going back to nature when you're in the city, right? So I want to get rid of all that man-made stuff.

GQ: Ah, to face it quietly.

BH: Yes, quietly. But I don't want to be too crazy about golf. Because I want to do it for a long time. I don't want to lose my excitement for it right away. I don't want to be too into it. I just want it to be a healthy hobby. I'm a singer, not a golf player.

GQ: Sounds good. So let's dive into more of Baekho's healthy hobby. What's your "Lifetime Best Score"?

BH: I swung a 79 once. But the next day, I hit a 100 so the 79 seemed ridiculous.

GQ: What's your average record?

BH: It foes back and forth between 80 in the latter half and 90 in the first half.

GQ: Your style of aiming seems like it's for power golf?

BH: I'm not sure about that. Because now, the thing I hear the most is "lessen your strength." It only goes where I want it to go if I ease up; it will go farther if I ease up. It seems like somehow my strength is getting in the way. I thought that no matter what, strong people will only swing far if they ease up on their strength... Anyway, I haven't been worried about my driving distance. The ball following an accurate path is my main worry.

GQ: What about the opposing forces from nearby disturbances?

BH: I'm an RC car. For example, if someone says "This ball is going to slice," it happens that way, like a remote control was telling it what to do. The people I play with can basically control me with their words.

GQ: Why do you say that so brightly?

BH: It's just funny. Golf is having fun and being comfortable with good people. I love that kind of atmosphere. Rather than having a competitive and strict game, the ball can get kind of dangerous so we try to swing safely. We tease each other and cheer each other on, that kind of thing.

GQ: Was there a particularly memorable golf day?

BH: Yes, there was. My friend's mom had just started playing golf. Since we played it and enjoyed it a lot, they asked their mom to learn, and she really did. That was the first time my friend went on a trip with their mom to play golf. I was with them when Mom stepped on the field for the first time. Moments like that are great.

GQ: Do you call your friend's mom "Mom" too?

BH: Ah! My mom is close with my friends. I'm also close with my friends' parents. My friends call my mom "Mom." I thought that was pretty nice so I followed suit.

GQ: That's great. Friends, parents, and everyone getting along and spending time together like that.

BH: It is really great. We can all do it together regardless of age, so it's really amazing.

GQ: If we use golf as a metaphor, we prepare for a new tee shot at a new hole, right? Like how you've prepared for your solo activities simply as Baekho, not as NU'EST Baekho.

BH: Hm? No, I think it's better to call it my second shot.

GQ: Really?

BH: Since the tee shot went well, the fairway is in a good spot so it feels like the second shot is going to go well, too.

GQ: So it's not like the hole is over, but the tee shot succeeded through the name "NU'EST."

BH: Right. So it feels like I'm in a good place to make the second shot. It really does. It really feels like I'm having a new start, because it's a new shot. I'm nervous and excited and anxious and worried. But somehow I feel kind of assured in my heart too. I was so happy when I promoted as NU'EST. Because of NU'EST, I've come to a good place. From this place, I can go anywhere I want to go next.

GQ: The solo album that's coming out in October seems to be the direction in which you're going. Are you also participating in all aspects of this album - writing, composing, producing?

BH: Yes. I'm working hard preparing for it. I recorded the title track yesterday, and I really like it.

GQ: Was the song you sang at your fan meeting a hint about your new album? "I, who felt change, have changed" [t/n: literal translation]

BH: Yes, that was a hint. Strictly speaking, it's one of the finished new songs. The fan meeting was decided while we were working on the album, so I wanted to reveal one of the new songs in advance at the fan meeting.

GQ: The NU'EST albums you've produced for about three years have been described as "silk." This song is like a pair of jeans that have softened after a rough washing and sanding. [t/n: i'm sorry WHO described it this way??] Though it's more natural and rough, it still has a soft strength to it.

BH: Really? That was intentional. When I was singing NU'EST songs, I had a lot of high-pitched vocals, but while I was working on this album, my intention was "Let's try to find power without high vocals." What kind of strength can I show effortlessly? I did a lot of research on that.

GQ: This solo album is like another piece of you. If you could express it through a color, what color would it be?

BH: Um... I hope it can be clear. Though the process of working on it and the way I approached it was different, it's really all just me. Then and now, I'm still the same person. So that's why I just want its color to be clear. [t/n: clear as in 'transparent'; not clear as in 'vibrant']

GQ: Just the way it is.

BH: Right.

GQ: You said that when you go for a round, you don't listen to music and face it with silence. What about the drive back?

BH: That's when I have to monitor the time. There are a lot of people like us who work at night and sleep during the day, right? So we go for a round in the morning, and in the afternoon, we have to face all the work we put off.

GQ: So you're considering that as well. You're not tired after golf?

BH: No, not at all. It's great. I feel refreshed.

GQ: What are the values you stand for while playing golf?

BH: I don't accept mulligans from my friends. (*mulligan: when a bad swing is invalidated and the player can swing again)

GQ: Why?

BH: I just hit it. I hit it just the way it is. Whether I hit it well or I hit it terribly, it's still my ball.

[source]

Former NU'EST member Hwang Minhyun is in the running for the male lead in the drama Useless Lies (literal translation).

According to a report from Segye Biz and Sports World [t/n: sorry I don't know the English name of the publication so I just translated it directly] on the 21st, Hwang Minhyun has received an offer and is positively considering the 16-episode drama Useless Lies as his next drama.

His company Pledis confirmed it, saying, "We have indeed received an offer. We are in the middle of positive discussion."

Useless Lies tells the story of a woman who has the power to know when someone is lying and a man who rejects lies. In addition, the mystery and remnants of a missing person's case from seven years ago adds to the intrigue.

Hwang Minhyun will take on the role of Korea's best composer and producer Kim Doha. Under the stage name Kei, everything about him - his real name, age, birthday, marital status - are kept secret.

Kim Sohyun is in talks for the female lead Mok Solhee. Having been able to tell when someone is lying from a young age, she has given up the happiness of living a normal life. She falls into a new mess when she meets Kim Doha.

Hwang Minhyun was first seen as a lead actor in the 2020 JTBC drama Live On as Go Euntaek. Taking on Alchemy of Souls as his first role after the disbandment of NU'EST, his role in Useless Lies appears to cement his place in the next generation of actor-idols.

Director Nam Sung Woo, who previously directed My Roommate is a Gumiho, Kkondae Intern, and Kill It, is set to direct. After finishing his work on the TVN's ongoing drama Love In Contract, his unique wit and depth when it comes to directing is expected to be shown in his next project.

[source]

A feature on actor Hwang Minhyun has been released.

Hwang Minhyun, who has been an active ambassador of the brand Moncler for four years, perfectly pulls off the Moncler collection and the special edition down jacket to celebrate Moncler's 70 year anniversary in a feature released on September 20.

In the interview following the shoot, he expressed his thoughts on the recently concluded drama, Alchemy of Souls (Part 1), and hinted at the anticipation for its sequel, Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow.

He confessed that Alchemy of Souls was a show that really wanted to appear in, saying about his first impression of the script: "It had things I'd never seen before and things I hadn't even imagined. I finished it in one sitting without rest. Upon reading it, my mind had been made up."

When asked about what the viewers should expect about its second season, he answered: "Naksu appeared in the brief preview. That probably sparked our viewers' curiosity. Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow is a show they can watch with bated breath, waiting for the events to quickly unfold."

He also revealed his hopes to show more growth in the future. "On stage, acting is guiding the mood to sync with the song, while singing and dancing in the span of three minutes. After a while, what would it be like if I expressed another character instead of myself? The process of taking a long time worrying and making an effort to become a different character seems amazing and cool. It's fun, too. I had a later start than other actors and have less experience, so I have to make that much more of an effort and study a lot. I want to show how I act in many different places."

Hwang Minhyun's photoshoot and interview can be seen on the October issue Arena Homme Plus and website.

[source - This is the second part of a two-part interview. Part 1.]

K-pop has now become a global cultural hit. No matter how you look at it, at the core of that are the singers. With fans all over the world having an interest in new album releases or news of performances, their every move is always a hot topic. In an effort to relieve some of this curiosity, News1 has prepared a special interview corner called "Opening the door to a singer," where singers directly answer 10 questions privately and earnestly.

For singer and actor Ren, this year was an important “turning point.” Concluding activities with boy group NU'EST that he’s been with for all of ten years and coming to stand on his own. Ren is now standing at the start line, not as an idol group member of ten years, but as a solo artist. It wasn’t easy to leave the stability of being in a team, but he chose to make a bold decision to take on a new challenge.

After finding a new nest to settle in, he’s now in the middle of working hard. Having been recognized as a musical actor through the musicals Jamie and Hedwig and meeting the audiences through Bungee Jumping Of Their Own after going solo, he’ll go onstage once again as D'Artagnan in The Three Musketeers starting on the 16th. Alongside this, he’s also shown a unique side as a solo singer by appearing recently in KBS 2TV’s Listen Up and Music Bank.

Fans are what motivate the artist in Ren to move. He gives all the credit to his “Minracles,” coolly stating that without the fans, he wouldn’t be able to do anything. He also showed his desire to actively promote in different fields as a singer, actor, entertainer, etc. Additionally, he strengthened his resolve to become an artist who influences the public, in his own unique way.

Recently, we met with Ren at the Big Planet Made company building and shot him some questions.

Q1: We heard that you have some tattoos. How many do you have and what does each one mean?

I have five tattoos now. Two are big, three are small. When NU'EST had our first full album, I got one in henna from the company's suggestion. I thought it looks quite stylish and it suited me well, so I started thinking that I wanted a tattoo. Then I gained a positive influence from doing Jamie. I wanted to enjoy my life so I ended up getting my first tattoo. Though actually now I'm thinking of getting my tattoos removed. There are some people who don't like it, and it's something I have to consider when I try acting later on.

Q2: You recently adopted a stray cat.

I met the cat when I went to my family's house. I usually have to go through a basement parking lot to go home but that day I went home via the ground level. There was someone there who was petting a stray cat while feeding it. I know cats don't usually like people touching them so I thought it was an interesting sight and it caught my eye. My parents said that the cat was getting a lot of affection from the neighborhood. About two or three months after that, I came home and the cat was there again. I heard there was going to be a typhoon the next day and I got worried about it. I was lying in bed about to sleep but I kept thinking about it so I ended up going out to look for it. I think I looked for it for four hours. Later I found it calmly sleeping on a patch of grass. (laughs) That's when I thought "She should come with me," and I immediately went to the animal hospital and got her checked. Thankfully, other than an eye inflammation, she was pretty healthy. These days, she doesn't really listen to what I say, but we're getting along well together.

Q3: Your fandom name "Minracle" is so cute. How did you come up with it?

Minracle (t/n: mingijeok; gijeok 기적 is 'miracle' in Korean) means I want to make miracles with the fans. I worried about it a lot while I was thinking of it. (smiles) At first I wanted to try YouTube so I came up with "Minracle" while thinking of a channel name. While that was happening, people were asking me to decide on a fandom name, so I thought "MInracle" is really good so let's go with this. So that's who I decided on it. I still have plans to do YouTube later on. I want to do fun content that doesn't miss out on trends so I'm thinking about it a lot.

Q4: You've worn some unconventional costumes in different contents before, like a cavity, Edward Scissorhands, and an avocado, that became quite a hot topic. Is there an item that you'd still like to try?

Actually, there really was a good reaction when I came out in costume on Amazing Saturday. I worked so hard on my costume that my actual face couldn't even be recognized so it was kind of a shame. (laughs) I want to try being Groot some time...I don't know if it's possible. (laughs)

Q5: What's a song you enjoy listening to lately?

I'm not the type to listen to one song over and over but lately there's one song that's stuck - Lee Hyori-sunbaenim and AKMU's Lee Chanhyuk's collaboration "Free Smile." The lyrics are so touching.

Q6: What's your favorite out of all the songs you've released so far?

NU'EST W's "If you." When that song came out, there were a lot of feelings I couldn't describe. Even now when I hear that song, I can feel the emotions from that time and it's like I'm dreaming. It's really meaningful and I think it's a masterpiece.

Q7: Is there another celebrity that you're close with?

While I was doing Bungee Jumping Of Their Own, I got close with Lee Changyoung-hyung, Jo Seongyoon-hyung, and VIXX Leo-hyung. We meet up sometimes. And this time while getting ready for The Three Musketeers, I'm getting to know DKZ's Kyoungyoon and Mingyu. They're both really nice. They have an FM-like personality* and they have good manners. They follow really well and we've gotten quite close.

(*t/n: I had to look this up, but FM is slang for "field manual" like in the military. So it just means they're good at following the rules. cmiiw!)

Q8: Is there a musical you'd like to try in the future?

I definitely want to try a show that leaves a strong impression like The Man Who Laughs or Sweeney Todd. Actually, when it comes to musicals, anything is fun and the energy onstage is so big, any production would be good.

Q9: We heard your favorite food is samgyetang.

I really like chicken. When I don't have to diet or maintain my body, I eat one chicken a day. I really got into samgyetang while I was doing Jamie. It got tired from the summer heat so I tried samgyetang while I was looking for healthy food to eat and it was so good. It's high in calories so I'm trying to control myself, but it really is my favorite. I love chicken so I often order red wings or spicy mayo.

Q10: When do you feel happiest?

I'm happiest when I'm on stage. Also when I talk with my fans, when I go on trips with my family, when I eat something delicious, I feel a simple happiness.

[source - This is the first part of a two-part interview. Part 2.]

[Ren is going solo ten years after debut]

K-pop has now become a global cultural hit. No matter how you look at it, at the core of that are the singers. With fans all over the world having an interest in new album releases or news of performances, their every move is always a hot topic. In an effort to relieve some of this curiosity, News1 has prepared a special interview corner called "Opening the door to a singer," where singers directly answer 10 questions privately and earnestly.

For singer and actor Ren, this year was an important "turning point." Concluding activities with boy group NU'EST that he's been with for all of ten years and coming to stand on his own. Ren is now standing at the start line, not as an idol group member of ten years, but as a solo artist. It wasn't easy to leave the stability of being in a team, but he chose to make a bold decision to take on a new challenge.

After finding a new nest to settle in, he's now in the middle of working hard. Having been recognized as a musical actor through the musicals Jamie and Hedwig and meeting the audiences through Bungee Jumping Of Their Own after going solo, he'll go onstage once again as D'Artagnan in The Three Musketeers starting on the 16th. Alongside this, he's also shown a unique side as a solo singer by appearing recently in KBS 2TV's Listen Up and Music Bank.

Fans are what motivate the artist in Ren to move. He gives all the credit to his "Minracles," coolly stating that without the fans, he wouldn't be able to do anything. He also showed his desire to actively promote in different fields as a singer, actor, entertainer, etc. Additionally, he strengthened his resolve to become an artist who influences the public, in his own unique way.

Recently, we met with Ren at the Big Planet Made company building and shot him some questions.

Q1: At the start of the year, you left your team and went solo. It must not have been an easy decision to leave a place where you've been for 10 years.

If we count the time when we were trainees, I've been with the members for 12 years. I've spent more time with them than with my family. Though there were a lot of good things to that, there were also other circumstances at work. I thought that I'd been keeping the team for a long time and decided to go solo. Honestly, I knew that since it hasn't been long since I've done activities, people wouldn't know me yet, and the fans would feel really bad. I felt sorry thinking of that, but the members all had things that we each wanted to do and we resolved to respect each other. I have no regrets with my decision.

Q2: Did you talk with the members a lot during that process?

We talked a lot about work, I think. Would we make it if we all went solo...we talked about what direction we would take from now on and encouraged each other a lot. We really wanted all of us to do well. We're walking our own paths for now but if the chance comes again, we could be together again someday. (t/n: haha wow i didn't expect to cry today but here we go)

Q3: How is it so far having promoted solo? Is it what you expected?

It's more lonely than I expected. When I was promoting with a team, it was always with five people wherever we went. We could have fun just sharing even the smallest things, but now I can only talk with the staff and it feels quite different. Even on stage, when I was with my members, we could depend on each other and there was that energy from the team. I can feel the emptiness of that part now that I'm doing it alone. There are good things too. When I was in a team, we had to be responsible for each other so we had to be careful of moving excessively or standing out too much. It was difficult not having a set choreography or position, but now that I'm going onstage by myself, I can express myself however I want and I feel how free that is.

Q4: Going solo is like opening a second act. We thought you might change your stage name, but you're still going by "Ren." Is there a reason why?

I thought about using "Choi Mingi" for my stage name, but since I've promoted as "Ren" for ten years, I thought that it might be strange to the fans if I suddenly changed it now. I also thought that I'm able to promote now because of the name "Ren," so I want to keep it. I don't know what I'll do if I end up acting in the future, but for now I want to keep "Ren."

Q5: Since you've been with your new company, you've been active as a musical actor. We're curious if you've always had a strong interest in musicals.

It was always an area that I wanted to try. People always say that my energy would suit musicals, so I thought "How about it?" and got curious. So when I got the opportunity to do Jamie, I fell in love with its charms. You can communicate with the audience in real time, the line delivery depends on the emotions of that day, the change in tone and other aspects was so appealing. I also love that you can show songs, dancing, and acting all together.

Q6: The prejudice of idols appearing in musicals has mostly disappeared, but despite that, are there still people who have that bias?

There aren't very many. But rather, that sort of perspective became the stimulus for me to do better. At first, when I did Hedwig, there was a lot of talk like, "Who even is he to do Hedwig?" Even I hesitated a lot when I was practicing. I'd think "I can do this," then after an hour I'd think "Can I do this?" and get in my head about all sorts of things. So I thought l should break that prejudice. All in all, I think I was successful. There was a lot of mania around Hedwig, but I was so happy to hear people who came to watch my shows say, "That character could only be Rendwig." I was proud to say that I did it.

Q7: In the course of doing musicals, you show a new self every time - a drag queen, a trans-person, the main character of an ardent melodrama. It seems you have a desire for new challenges.

I have a huge desire. Even though I'm scared of the challenge, my mindset is "I'll definitely try it." I'm the type to get scared after I say I'll do it, then put all my effort into achieving it. Hedwig was the hardest. It's a show that has a lot of hardcore fans and is close to many people's hearts. Oh Manseok, Cho Seungwoo, Lee Kyuhyung, Ko Eunsong - having my name up with all of these amazing actors also put a lot of pressure on me. But then it was great to get a good evaluation for that. After doing Jamie and Hedwig, I thought I could do whatever role was given to me. I got hit hard with the vaccine. (laughs) The upcoming show The Three Musketeers was also difficult when we were practicing at the start, but now it's like it's almost done loading.

Q8: Recently, we were able to meet the singer Ren through Listen Up and Music Bank. It made us want to know more about what kind of music solo singer Ren will have.

I've only been doing musicals so far, so I thought I should stay true to my day job. I got close with Ryan Jhun-hyung while working on NU'EST's album together, so it was through that connection that I appeared on Listen Up. Listen Up was a good start to solo singer Ren. It's good not to be too excessive or too ordinary on air. We're in the middle of planning for an album. As a solo artist, my music will be unique and full of my own personality. I have a lot of concepts and ideas. I'm anticipating showing a side different from NU'EST Ren.

Q9: What has kept you going this far?

It's really the fans. If I can say it objectively, if there weren't any fans, then I wouldn't be able to promote. So I want to satisfy them as much as they've waited for me. Fans, family, and friends are a huge motivation for me.

Q10: You've been active in many different fields. What are you most excited by? What's the direction of Ren as an artist?

There isn't a boring activity or an activity that isn't fun. Each one has its own appeal. There are fields that I'd like to try in the future. I definitely want to try media acting. Though it probably has a different feel from musicals, it must also have different charms too. I want to try distinct concepts and characters. Though with Bungee Jumping Of Their Own, it seems I can do even a normal part pretty well. (laughs) Any role is good. Also I want to be an artist who can bring happiness and laughter, as well as a good influence to the public. I don't want to limit myself and I hope to try everything. In this way, I think there will be a lot of chances for the public to know Ren as an artist.

[source]

The secret to k-pop's worldwide success is its ability to combine vocals, dance, and acting into a perfect performance.

If BTS, Blackpink, and other idol groups growing in popularity could only sing or dance, they wouldn't have been able to receive this much praise and touch the hearts of even foreign fans.

The power of this well-directed triangle of practical music can be called the secret of k-pop's popularity that is currently raising Korea's status worldwide.

However, combining vocals, dance, and acting is no easy feat.

Through years of strength and high quality instruction and training, select trainees from an entertainment company can improve their vocals, dance, and acting abilities and become successful k-pop artists who can deliver perfect performances every time they stand on stage.

Every year, a staggering number of trainees take up the challenge but in the end, very few teams become stars.

Therefore this hard work has earned the respect and praise of anyone who has had experience in the field of practical music.

This is because this difficult time when trainees are soaked in sweat and tears requires so much patience in order for them not to despair or give up but rather silently walk their own paths.

Stepping foot into the world of practical music through something like k-pop is not an easy decision.

Singer and actor Kim Jonghyeon is one such k-pop artist.

After having gone through the trainee life and living as a successful k-pop star, watching Kim Jonghyeon confidently establishing his own place now as a solo singer and actor is something the public can count on.

For ten years (2012-2022), he acted as the leader, main rapper, and main dancer of the idol group NU'EST.

While he was the leader of NU'EST, the group received a lot of attention in 2017 for appearing on Produce 101 Season 2 and was given the "Golden Choice Award" in the 35th Golden Disk Awards in 2021.

He has also succeeded as an actor. His role as Lee Shin in the 2022 SBS drama "Let Me Be Your Knight" gained a lot of popularity as it was a reflection of his versatility.

He carries a strong confidence when it comes to dancing, but he says it was what he struggled with the most when he was a trainee.

After persevering everyday and training regularly, he has become an artist who shows immense confidence in his dancing.

It was common for him to practice for four to five hours until he could perform a move to his liking. He even practiced a basic move of extending his arm out in a straight line for over seven hours.

That experience of turning what was hardest for him into a strong point he had confidence in is part of what made him into who he is today.

He doesn't disagree with the opinion that he could survive in the world of practical music only after doing well at vocals, dance, and acting.

"Vocals, dance, and acting are all part of the k-pop we see on stage. And those boundaries are slowly disappearing. Expressing a song is acting. When that all becomes one performance, that's what makes a successful k-pop stage or practical music production. So that's why a lot of sweat and effort needs to go into it."

To his juniors who wanted to go into practical music, he asks them to have the mindset of not giving up.

"No matter how hard it is, I hope you never give up and keep going. If you don't give up, take up the challenge, have passion, and work hard, you'll be able to do things you thought you couldn't. Think of it as making something your own."

Kim Jonghyeon finished his official activities as NU'EST last March 2022 and is now preparing for a new drama at his new company Evermore Entertainment.

Having performed onstage with impressive vocals, dance, and acting, there's no doubt that he'll successfully attain a fresh and cool image as a solo singer and actor.

We anticipate a time when he can share the stories of all he's been through, from being a trainee to his life now, with the practical music students at Anyang University.

[source - This is the third part of a three-part interview. Part 1, Part 2]

Ren (Choi Mingi), who plays Hyunbin in the musical Bungee Jumping of Their Own, shows his affection for his sunbaes who cherished and took care of him.

"Leo-hyung (Jung Taekwoon), who plays Inwoo, went down the musical path as an idol and has been in a lot of productions so he knows how hard it is. That was the first thing that he made me understand. He gave me a lot of advice about different things, like the attitude that I need to have moving forward so I can be acknowledged in musicals. He also taught me about the basics. (Jo) Seongyun-hyung told me to focus on the scene every time it changes. Don't overthink and just stay true to the scene. There were a lot of times when I couldn't see things from up close, so that was a huge help.

(Lee) Changyong-hyung gave me a lot of life advice as an actor and as a person. He talked a lot about his own experiences. I'm 28 now, which is quite a confusing period, I think. We had a lot of deep conversations about what life is going to be like from now on. We also drink often. Though we're 12 years apart in age, we can communicate really well. I also have a mature side. I can be childish, but underneath all that, I have some deep thoughts."

Ren debuted in 2012 as a member of NU'EST and then as a musical actor when he was chosen to play the lead in Jamie (2020). With Hedwig (2021), which has starred famous actors like Jo Seungwoo and Jo Jeongseok, and now with Bungee Jumping of Their Own, he is building is filmography.

"When I was in Jamie, I think Director Shin Seorin and the audience went easy on me. I take responsibility for my work though. I think my tendency towards perfectionism has led me this far. Hedwig helped a lot. My energy was literally explosive and pulled me along with it. The show's running time was about 2 hours and 40 minutes. There's no intermission. I worried if I could do it at first but somehow I was already doing it. I worked so hard I was bleeding."

Bungee Jumping of Their Own gives off a distinctly different feel from Jamie and Hedwig, which have a more showy atmosphere as musicals.

"I always carry the energy I had when I was in Hedwig. I have an explosive energy and I love just letting it out. Jamie and Hedwig really suited me. In Bungee Jumping of Their Own, I'm playing an 18-year-old. Just from looking at parts of it, the feel was so different that I worried whether I could do well. Even though I was scared, I had a strong mindset to take it on. We only live once, right? I want to try everything and live an interesting life."

Having done three shows, he's definitely grown a lot.

"The first Jamie show feels different from the first Bungee Jumping of Their Own show. In Jamie, I felt like I had to put the fire out quickly, let's put the fire out first. I was so nervous and jumpy and tense. I was so busy putting out the fire in whatever scene I was doing, but now I've chilled out a lot. Experience is important, I think."

When asked about what he thinks his strengths are as a musical actor, he pointed to his explosive energy.

"I'm really happy that I'm able to show the public my energy. I've held in and pushed down a lot this whole time. When I was promoting in a group, there was the group image to think of, and I had a position and responsibility in the group, so I couldn't go overboard. I think I can be natural and have fun when it comes to musicals.

Later on, I want to try being in The Man Who Laughs. I watched (EXO) Suho-hyung in that show and I wanted to try it too. I also want to try Sweeney Todd. It's quite charming and has a really distinct style, and I think I can pull it off. I'm really good at acting like I'm possessed. Since my life is a musical, I'll be able to do it well."

He still gets along well with the NU'EST (Kim Jonghyeon, Aaron, Baekho, Minhyun, Ren) members even after disbandment.

"The members and I are on good terms. They haven't come to see Bungee Jumping of Their Own yet but they came to all my previous shows and said complimented me and said I did really well. Sometimes we talk about our lives when we go out to eat. I was able to go into musicals because I was in NU'EST, and it's given me so much help and experience for whatever I choose to do.

When I was promoting in a group, there were five of us, so there was someone for me to lean on, but now I don't have anyone to depend on but myself. When I was in a team, we could help each other when there was a problem, but when there's a problem on stage, I have to take care of it on my own. There's a big emptiness."

If NU'EST was the invaluable first act of Ren's life, he's now officially opening the second act as a solo artist.

"Like people's lives, nothing lasts forever. Though there's some sadness, I feel relieved and refreshed. I think every moment was genuine while we were promoting as NU'EST, and we worked so hard and gave our all. So I have no regrets. Expect that I'll keep doing my best moving forward, and I hope to become an influential artist who gives my fans good synergy while enjoying what I do."

In order to become a good artist, Ren is striving toward his own goals.

"I want to become a singer of a genre that only I can do. I usually like dance and pop songs more than ballads. Of course, at this point it's still a vague dream and quite abstract, but if there are people who'll accept and acknowledge me, I think it will be fun. As an actor, I want to touch people's hearts. Variety shows, dramas, movies - there are a lot of things I want to do."

[source - This is the second part of a three-part interview. Part 1, Part 3]

In the musical Bungee Jumping of Their Own, former NU'EST member Ren (Choi Mingi) takes on the role of high school student Hyunbin who confuses Inwoo through his actions associated with Taehee.

When told that the role of a uniform-wearing high school student suits him, he chattily said, "There's no difference for me, of course."

"I hear this a lot from the people around me. They said I look quite immature. They don't mean anything negative, but it's like I'm a piece of paper to be drawn on, a blank sheet of paper." (laughs)

The musical Bungee Jumping of Their Own is a production revealing love story that transcends time, space, and death. Like "paper to be drawn on," Ren intended to make the character of Hyunbin his own.

"I try it this way and that way and challenge myself. I also do a lot of adlibs. It puts a fun element in the scene where we discover a lighter in an antiques shop with Hyeju. When we see the lighter, the original line is 'I'll buy it,' but when Hyeju says 'I want everything,' I say 'I'll buy you everything,' 'Just kidding.' I try out the adlibs with the actors who play Hyeju before the show."

This production is a romantic melodrama unfolding through the "reincarnated relationship" of Inwoo and Taehee in the spring of 2001, though they had already been fated to fall in love in the spring of 1983.

After she had taken cover under his umbrella, Inwoo felt that he was destined to love Taehee. But she died in an accident, and seventeen years later, Inwoo, now a Korean language teacher, goes through an internal conflict when he meets Hyunbin who reminds him of Taehee.

"I believe in reincarnation. Even the people I've met now, I might have already known them in my past life. I think I've clearly met them somewhere before. I'm trying to live righteously so I can be reborn well in the next life. When my grandfather passed away, I also prayed that he would be reincarnated into a good person. I got so immersed in thinking I was Taehee when I was acting."

Emotions hit their peak in Ren's solo song, "It's Not My Fault." It's a number that shows a confused Hyunbin's feelings and actions as he sings, "I have no idea what's happening to me." Then in "Memories," Hyunbin strives to relay his mental state to the audience while processing the return of Taehee's memories.

"Although the emotions are important, I paid a lot of attention to the tune. Haha. Since 'It's Not My Fault's' pitch goes back and forth. Once the emotions come in, the tune wavers, but when I pay attention to the tune, I'm not thinking too much of the emotions. This part was really difficult to practice. After recording and performing, I always check with the other actors on what they'd heard. If they say that I was a bit flat that day, I pay more attention to that part and keep practicing. We gave each other a lot of advice."

Ren's favorite number is "Did You Hear?," a sweet love song that Taehee sings to Inwoo when they go hiking together. It evokes a deep affection that makes one believe that even if they jump off the cliff and end this life, it's not the end.

"I love 'Did You Hear.' The performance itself is also beautiful. When the noonas who play Taehee (Choi Yeonwoo, Lee Junghwa, Ko Eunyoung) reach out their hands and sing this song in the practice room, even if there are no props or devices there, I associate it with singing out in nature. That's the power of this song."

Ren, who debuted in 2012 in the boy group NU'EST, first appeared as a musical actor in the 2020 musical Jamie. Having gone through Hedwig in 2021 and now Bungee Jumping of Their Own, he's slowly amassing his filmography.

"Everyone around me said that I'd probably do well in musicals, that my life is like a musical. (laughs) I think it's because I give out good synergy to people. I like making people laugh, and I always think about how proud and happy I am when I see that other people are having fun because of me. So when the chance to be in a great production like Jamie came around, I made my debut and kept going up one step at a time since then."

It's normal for idols or singers to appear in musicals. Through musicals, singers who are armed with various talents like singing, dancing, and acting aren't limited, and can widen the scope of their activities.

In the past, there were many cases when leads were cast at once even in situations where their talent wasn't guaranteed, but it's different now. The number of cases where one strengthens their place in the field of musical theater only after going through rigorous training is increasing. Stable singing ability and acting are being rediscovered.

One of those people is Ren, as he tells us, "There are definitely prejudices against idol musical actors, but I don't worry about that."

"I don't have any biases since we're all people who sing and dance. So I'm fairly confident on that part. Actually, when I did Hedwig, I got a lot of hate from the public. When the cast was announced, there were really impressive sunbaenims there, like Jo Seungwoo and Oh Manseok. I was really proud but I also got a lot of hate. There were a lot of people who thought 'Ren can do Hedwig?' and I broke that prejudice."

[source - This is the first part of a three-part interview. Part 2, Part 3]

In the aftermath of the film's release in 2001, the musical Bungee Jumping of Their Own intensifies its emotions through lyrical numbers.

This time, former NU'EST member Ren, who was bursting with talent and energy in the musicals Jamie and Hedwig, enthusiastically plays the main character in a love that transcends time, space, and death.

"I didn't know much about Bungee Jumping of Their Own. I heard about it for the first time when I got the offer, so I looked up the movie. It was a fresh story and also quite shocking. So I thought about it a lot. I worried about whether I could understand and pull off the character of Hyunbin. And the practice required for that was really difficult, since it gets more difficult and confusing the more you get into a character. I wondered if what I was doing was right.

In the end, I understood Hyunbin's feelings and had a good performance. During the curtain call after the first show, the fans and the audience members clapped and cheered, and I couldn't help but tear up. I cried so much. It felt like I'd gotten something of value from a difficult time. Even now, somehow I still get emotional."

Bungee Jumping of Their Own, which had its first show in 2012, was the first production resulting from the harmonious composer and writer combo of Maybe Happy Ending's Will [Aronson] and Hue [Park]. It received the award for Best Music in the 18th Korea Musical Awards and the award for Best Composer/Writer in The 7th Musical Awards.

"It's a really beautiful show. The songs are so good and the actors are all amazing. Everyone has good chemistry and it's a very emotional production, so I wish many people would come see it," Ren said confidently.

The film of the same name, featuring impressive performances by Lee Byunghun and Lee Eunju, subverts the structure of the typical melodrama by presenting a mysterious love that overcomes gender and even death. The musical faithfully follows the events of the movie.

"My first thought was that Lee Byunghun-sunbaenim acted so well. I kept getting overwhelmed with emotions as I watched it. I thought, he's not Lee Byunghun for nothing. He was a great actor even back then.

The way people interpret the conclusion depends on each person, but I personally think it was beautiful. Same-sex relationships used to be taboo back then, right? So I think that was the only choice they could make. I think they both made that choice with the belief that there is such a thing as reincarnation, that they could meet again. 'This way, I'll see you again, I'll love you again.' It was a really thought-provoking film."

In 1983, university student Inwoo shared a love with Taehee, who he felt was his destiny after she took cover under his umbrella. But Taehee passed away in an accident, and seventeen years later, Inwoo, now a Korean language teacher, is confused when a high school student, Hyunbin, reminds him of Taehee.

"While watching the movie three or four times, I kept referencing the character of Hyunbin. Not just Hyunbin, but I have to understand the whole production so I can express it well. So I watched it many times. Since I'm playing Hyunbin, I can't help but focus on him. While observing how the actor (Yeo Hyunsoo) carried out every emotion and tone, I followed what he did and practiced a lot. Hyunbin is completely different from Taehee in gender, appearance, and age, but her reincarnated self is in him. Since I have to figure out how to relay his story of deep connection and love, he's not an easy character to play.

"I thought I did well, but that was just pride," Ren confessed.

"The person who made me realize that is Choi Yeonwoo-noona. Hyunbin has to appear like Taehee, so if it doesn't appear that way, she said that the actors who play Inwoo will have a hard time too. My hyung-nims were really kind and respected me as an actor, so they didn't want to tell me because they thought I might feel hurt.

Yeonwoo-noona is an honest person. She didn't really care about those things and she told me about it because she thought it might help me. I listened to her say that it would be good for me to understand and analyze [the role] some more, and to think about it some more, and I really did think about it a lot at home.

Yeonwoo-noona's words really hit me hard. It was like I was missing the most important part. I worried so much that I even dreamed about it. I observed my noonas a lot. During practice when the noonas would be rehearsing, I could actually rest too. But I went to the center and kept studying how to move my hands and how to speak."

Ren's effort paid off. The actors were touched by his performance.

"After that rehearsal, everyone gave a standing ovation. They said they saw how hard I worked. Yeonwoo-noona watched that rehearsal and cried, too. I thought, this is really fun. it felt great to think about how I'd grown, and seeing these amazing actors moved to tears by my performance made me feel validated."

sources: [1] [2]

Singer and actor Kim Jonghyeon has come to stand alone for the first time in the 10 years since his debut. After debuting in the boy group NU'EST in 2012 and finishing ten years of team activities, he left his company and is now starting anew, not as "NU'EST JR," but as "solo artist" Kim Jonghyeon opening his second act.

With his official solo activities ahead of him, his training is at its peak form. While learning things to further develop himself, from singing and acting to playing the piano, he continues to cultivate his capabilities. His desire to show good sides of himself as an actor and a singer reflects the strength of his drive. "I want to develop myself as I learn about the things I lack," he says, revealing his strong ambition. "I want to show many sides as I grow as a singer and actor."

This was, of course, no easy feat. There is fear when faced with standing alone. But as he wanted to show various aspects of himself as an artist, at the end of all the worries, he began again as Kim Jonghyeon. Having changed companies, he is now working with the staff at his new company and preparing for many things ahead. Sharing that he expects to be active in the latter half of the year, he asked for anticipation and support for his next move.

We met up with Kim Jonghyeon recently and talked about various things.

It's nice to meet you. Since you have a lot of things going on, can you give us an update about what you're up to lately?

I've been really busy learning a lot of things. Since I want to do as much as I can with my company, I'm taking vocal, acting, and piano lessons as well as practicing. I also want to start producing a little. It's been a happy time.

You were in the rap position of your team, so it's surprising that you're doing singing and piano lessons.

I thought that it might be a bit of a shame to fill an album only with rap. And I want to try different kinds of music so I'm trying hard to transform into a singer. I'm working hard since I also want to try fully singing ballad songs. I want to actively participate in the production of my music so I'm learning piano too.

We're curious about the direction of Kim Jonghyeon as an artist.

Nothing's been decided yet, but there's a lot of emotional aspects that I want to be able to express whether through music or acting. Actually, I only wanted to be an actor at first. Then I met with Evermore, and as we talked it over, I thought it would be a shame to give music up, since the people who like me like it when I perform on stage. So I want to grow and show different sides of myself as a singer and actor.

You changed companies recently, didn't you? It must not have been easy to leave a place where you've built a career for 10 years.

It wasn't an easy decision. Still, I had a huge desire to experience more things and show more of "Kim Jonghyeon." To be honest, when I left my company, I was scared, and I felt sorry to the fans who were waiting for me. I met my current company during that troubled time. I thought I could grow a lot in this place, so I ended up joining them. Although it was my first time working with everyone, we worked well together and I'm getting a lot of support, so I feel secure.

It seems as though you discussed many things with the other NU'EST members before you parted ways.

We've always been the same. Whatever each of us does, whatever decision each one of us makes, we say we'll cheer them on. These days, the members are busy doing their activities. I feel proud whenever I see it and cheer them on.

The first event you did after moving to a new company was your fan meeting. You must have really wanted to meet your fans.

I wanted to see the fans from up close. I wanted to do everything I could, so my company prepared different segments to respond to the fans' needs. I gave them advice for their worries and even did a cover stage. (smiles) The fans also said that they like the sound of the band, and I'm proud of that. I think this time I was able to show them a little more of what I wanted to do.

You also showed some tears when you were with your fans in the venue.

I didn't cry - I almost cried. (laughs) That moment was just really overwhelming. Since it was my first time doing a fan meeting on my own, I thought, "Will a lot of people to come see me?" Then it sold out. Isn't that not an easy thing? When I met the fans at the venue, I thought, "I was worrying for nothing." So many people came to cheer me on. I was so thankful to be able to see that sight again. So I got choked up without realizing it.

The hi touch event you did at the fan meeting got a lot of attention. We could see the effort you put into communicating with the fans from up close, but wasn't it hard? When it was over, didn't you feel overwhelmed by a sense of emptiness? [t/n: What an interesting question this is...]

It was great to look each of the fans in the eye and greet them. People were worried and asked, "Didn't your arms hurt?" but I felt how great the fans' love was that I could forget all of that and it wasn't hard at all. I was so thankful and it was a happy time. Even when it was over, rather than emptiness, I remembered how much the fans liked and supported me. I felt proud because I pulled off what I worked so hard to prepare for, and I'm already thinking of what I can do next time.

It was heartwarming to see the NU'EST members come to the fan meeting, too.

I was happy that the members came. I didn't want to pressure them so I never said, "Come if you want," or called. I didn't know when they'd come so their seats were always set aside, then they came together. Dongho couldn't come because of his schedule, but he sent me a text cheering me on before the fan meeting so I'm thankful for that. I've been with the members for almost 13 years now. We know each other so well. We're still good friends.

[end of Part 1 / start of Part 2]

You're not the type to share a lot of things about your life on SNS. Are you making a distinction between "celebrity Kim Jonghyeon" and "human Kim Jonghyeon"?

I'm just bad at taking pictures. (laughs) I want to post perfect photos on my Instagram, but there isn't a lot of those. If a picture turns out well, I should post it right away, but it's not that easy. I think pictures with a lot of blank space are pretty, but apparently, they're not. Haha. So the @/issue_jonghyeon account is more active. It's getting a lot of reactions from fans. So whatever I do, I want to show even more.

What are you interested in lately?

I'm using acrylic paint to paint on a canvas. I've lost interest in just playing games, so I wanted to get a new hobby. I wanted to do something that could leave something behind. I watched YouTube videos about the basics of acrylic painting so I wanted to try it. I ordered some of the necessary materials and I try to paint in my free time. I've been into brunch for a while. I like putting salmon and cream cheese on a bagel and eating it with soup. I'll probably get sick of it since I keep eating it, but for now I'm still bearing with it. I like hobbies that I can do at home.

If there was a turning point during your time in the industry, what would it be?

First, when we came on "Produce 101 Season 2." The second one is after that, when NU'EST became complete again with five members. I think this present moment is the third one. Looking back on it, those were all times when I was able to grow so much.

Is there someone or something that's like a mentor to you?

I used to not like depending on others, so even when I was working, I would worry and do things on my own. These days, I'm trying to depend on my members and my fans. I also talk a lot with the CEO of my company and my staff.

What has pulled you forward all this time?

For this one, I truly can't say anything other than the fans. I work hard because these people are here.

What are Kim Jonghyeon's goals and intentions?

Isn't it just to work like how I am now? Rather than setting a huge goal, I think I want to always learn and improve myself in the process. Though a lot of people compliment me, I know what I lack, so I want to keep growing while working to fill those parts where I could do better.

You seem like the type to crack the whip when it comes to improving yourself.

I'm strict when working, but when I'm at home, I'm just like "I don't care~" (laughs) My MBTI is ISFP. If it's a rest day, I just let it pass and I just like to lie around. On the other hand, I try to be strict when it's time to work.

What are your future plans?

Right now, I'm learning a lot of things and preparing. I hope to show a lot of things within the year. I expect to be active in the latter half of the year, so I hope for your anticipation and support.

[source: This is part of a feature for the Alchemy of Souls cast with interviews with Yoo Insoo, Shin Seungho, and Lee Jaewook. Below is the interview with Hwang Minhyun.]

Just from looking at today's shoot, the chemistry among the four of you seems great. How did you get so close?

I think the biggest reason is that we're all close in age. We can relate to each other so we communicate well and have a relationship where we can go "Oh yeah, I get that."

We heard that you've already been close friends with Seungho-ssi even before this.

Seungho's been my close friend since before we met on Alchemy of Souls. He was in the show [Ong] Seungwoo debuted in so I was introduced to him back then.

Do you remember your first impression of him?

First of all, he had a lot of charisma. He's tall with a big build and he has a low voice tone. When I first saw him, I thought, "I don't think we'll get along." (laughs) I thought that, since we met because of Seungwoo, maybe we'll hang out today and there won't be a next time, but we got along really well. Though he has a serious side, he's cuter than you'd expect.

A good mix among the actors has a bigger influence on the show than you might think, right?

Aside from myself, these three people were the kind of actors who I usually looked at and thought, "That actor is so cool." Now that we're working together, I've learned a lot of things from them alongside acting. I feel comfortable around them and enjoy their company so the atmosphere on set became good as well. We also go out to eat sometimes, so that helped too.

Is there a certain "soul food" that the four of you like?

Whenever we get tired from shooting the drama and we feel like we need to regain some of our energy, we usually eat a bowl of boiled eel with rice (t/n: jangodokbap). We found a place where they serve good eel so it's been fun. Oh, and we also love meat. It all adds to our stamina.

It's the 10 year anniversary of your debut this year. This must be a personal turning point for you, and there might be a certain type of resolve that comes with it.

People know and remember the singer Hwang Minhyun, but I think most people don't yet know about my acting. I've had previous shows, but since this is the first time I'm doing such a huge show at this scale, I think of it as though I'm making a new start as an actor again. I hope that many people who watch this remember and keep this image of actor Hwang Minhyun.

We heard that you attended an action school for this show. Can you talk a bit about your training?

When filming began last year, I attended an action school regularly for about two months. I learned the basics of rolling and falling, and how to hang from a wire. My character in particular uses double blades so my training focused on how to use two swords. Now I feel a little more confident with it.

Did it go as well as you practiced?

I'm not sure. (laughs) Every time we film an action scene, there's no way for me to practice for it in advance. There were a lot of times when I would get to the set about thirty minutes before filming and immediately put into action what I'd just learned. But since I'm used to memorizing choreography and my body having to pick up on things quickly, I memorized the sword-wielding action scenes better than I expected. Now that I'm thinking about it, I learned them like they were choreography. It felt good to think, "I'm using what I learned from ten years of dancing on a stage in this way."

For people who dance well, action must be very different. The speed at which you learned and the new challenge must have been refreshing. (t/n: It says "선도 예쁘고요" and I don't quite understand which meaning of "선도" is being used, so I just tried to use the one that made most sense?? please let me know if you understand what this word means ><)

I'm using swords for now, but if there's a chance in the future, I'd like to try fighting with my bare hands. I've considered trying something like boxing in the future. (laughs)

You seem like the type to keep taking on whatever comes your way.

Yes. There's a boxing gym near where I live that I'm looking into. Maybe I'll start soon?

Genius young master Seo Yul of the Seo family seems like a fitting role for you.

When I got the script for the first time, I wanted to see the similarities between Seo Yul and Go Eun Taek, who I played before on Live On. They're both characters who rationally keep their feelings at a constant temperature. Since I have some background from doing it before, I think I have the confidence to be able to perform better this time around.

Isn't it harder to keep your feelings appropriate and restrained rather than just acting expressively?

Yes, it can be that way. Although when his feelings inevitably get revealed, the viewers can just accept that "Oh, so this character feels that way," I have to subtly express these emotions through his gaze or his breathing so it's not that easy.

How was it confronting love as Seo Yul?

Seo Yul is a rational and level-headed person, but everything about him gets shaken because of his first love who made him feel that way in the past. Because of this person, it's enough for all the rules to be broken in his eyes. You can see a different charm from Seo Yul when you look at him that way.

Do you understand having this kind of strong, pure love?

I haven't experienced that sort of love yet so I can't perfectly say that I understand it, but I think love is a miraculous feeling that can make you give up everything. So even in a drama, as I explain the character of Seo Yul, I think the image of this love will definitely come across strongly.

What do you think you'll be doing after this drama ends?

It's not set in stone, but I've been thinking about going on a trip. A trip to Iceland is on my bucket list. I think I'll be able to take the next step only after giving myself a gift after over a year of hard work, so I feel like I have to go no matter what it takes. But I still don't know what's going to happen next and I don't know what sort of schedule might come up. Thinking about it, that's not a bad ending either.

[source]

Former Nu'est member Kim Jonghyeon with Aaron, Hwang Minhyun, and Choi Mingi at his solo fanmeeting showing their unchanged relationship.

Sometimes I listen to Nu'est's song "Hello." I'm sentimental about it. I wiped my tears while this song played as I kept picking up and putting down my phone, thinking about whether to call an old fling. I've interviewed many idols, but unfortunately, I've never met Nu'est. This is a huge regret as I heard from other reporters that they've left a good and kind impression. Nu'est, Pledis Entertainment's first boy group, is made up of five members - JR (Kim Jonghyeon), Aron, Baekho, Minhyun, and Ren. The image of JR, Baekho, Minhyun, and Ren on the first episode of Produce 101 Season 2 is still vivid. The impression they left is that strong. It has already been ten years since they debuted in 2012. It hasn't been easy running that far. With the conclusion of the contract that they all renewed in 2019, the members promoted together until March 14, 2022, when their official group activities officially wrapped up with the finishing of their exclusive contract.

The Nu'est members are showing their close-knit friendship even after disbandment. Kim Jonghyeon, who was Nu'est's leader, posted a picture with Aaron, Hwang Minhyun, and Choi Mingi on SNS. It was taken after Kim Jonghyeon's solo fan meeting that happened last July 2 at the Jamsil Student Gymnasium in Seoul. Aaron, Hwang Minhyun, and Choi Mingi enjoyed the fanmeeting together to support the first step of a member after Nu'est activities were over. Unfortunately, Baekho couldn't come due to problems with his schedule. Instead, he left a comment to show his love. The Nu'est members have such a close relationship. Hwang Minhyun and Baekho attended Aaron's fanmeeting last May, and Kim Jonghyeon sent his well-wishes through a video. Choi Mingi has appeared on Aaron's podcast. Nu'est's official activities might have concluded, but they are active in other fields such as dramas, musicals, fan meetings, and magazine shoots. I anticipate the day when these people will come together on one stage once again.