#tr: interview

(all personal opinions interjected into original account will be placed in parentheses in the translated account as ‘a/n’)

Mini Interview

Q1. What is your favourite song?

MC: Not just your own song, but among all the songs out there, which is your favourite?

GYU: Although there are many songs that I like, my favourite is still my own song, ‘Daydream’, as it is a song that was produced together with artistes that I have idolised since young. I feel very honoured that this song was produced just for me by Epik High’s Tablo and Nell’s Jongwan. It felt like a dream. My voice is slightly similarly to Jongwan-sunbae’s as well so I’m happy~

FAN: I like ‘This is my World’! (a/n: it is a song Sunggyu once sang during Girl Spirit)

GYU: Then you can listen to that on your way home~

(a/n: He later sang a part of the song too but burst out laughing halfway through~)

Q2. When you are singing, which moments do you find yourself the happiest?

GYU: I am always happy when I sing, but if we are talking about the happiest moment, it should be when I go to practice rooms to sing together with my close friends. To me, although singing is a profession and I do enjoy singing for work, sometimes it feels really great to be able to sing without any pressure to perform at my best, without the stress of having to fulfil any of the high standards I set up for myself. During moments like this I feel really happy~

Q3. Can you recommend some of the famous food and sights from your hometown, Jeonju?

GYU: My hometown, Jeonju, is famous for traditional Korean hanok and bibimbap so I’ll recommend these to everyone. Jeonju’s dialect is rather interesting too. (a/n: he gave a few examples)

Mini Questionnaire

* The mini questionnaire was an activity in the fanmeet whereby fans will answer a questionnaire about Sunggyu and Sunggyu will unveil the correct answers during the fanmeet. For fans who scored a 100%, they can participate in a lucky draw to win a poster signed by Sunggyu himself.

Q1. What did Sunggyu wear when he came to Japan this time round?

① Black hoodie & sweats ② Shirt & jeans ③ Black sweater & jeans

GYU: ③ (a/n: the mc showed fans a photo, and it was a selfie by Sunggyu that only showed his thighs and waist area)

GYU: Yes, that’s me.

Q2. Which member would Sunggyu choose to be for a day?

① Dongwoo ② Woohyun ③ Sungyeol ④ Myungsoo ⑤ Sungjong ⑥ None

GYU: ⑥

GYU: I treasure myself a lot so to this day, I have never had the thought of wanting to be someone else or switching identities with another person~

Q3. Which of Sunggyu’s body parts is he most satisfied with?

① Whole body ② Hands ③ Eyes

GYU: ①

GYU: /turned a full round and spread his palms wide while backfacing fans for them to have a good look/

Q4. What is a habitual action that Sunggyu unconsciously does a lot?

① Resting your chin on your hands ② Drinking water ③ Crossing your legs

GYU: ②

GYU: Don’t you think it makes me look handsome? (a/n: After this, the MC would tease him every time he drank water. He even put a straw into his bottle, I find it more cute than handsome!)

Q5: Which fruit does Sunggyu like?

① Apples ② Tangerines ③ Strawberries

GYU: ③ (a/n: a collective “kawaii~~~” was heard)

GYU: I heard that strawberries are very good for health, everyone do eat it too~ I really like it~

170622 Hanryu Pia July 2017 Individual Interview: Sunggyu / Scan © MerryAlex

PROFILE

○ Sunggyu

DOB: 28 April 1989

Leader, main vocal. A voice that adds colour to INFINITE’s. Entered the same agency as his much adored idols, NELL, as he aspired to be a rockstar. Yet, before he realised, he became an idol. With his beautiful voice, he performed in ‘In The Heights’ and many other musicals. Apart from these, he is also active in variety shows where he is often portrayed as a character that is bullied. He is the kind of person that receives a lot of love from seniors in the industry, notably Heechul of Super Junior.

HIS GREATEST WORRIES AS THE LEADER

— Sunggyu’s voice is the core of INFINITE. No matter as a solo artist or a musical actor, he is one that has took on various types of roles in the industry as a singer.

Hmm~ I feel that there are still many areas where I am still lacking. Even till now, simply standing on stage makes me nervous to the point my legs tremble. (laughs) As a singer, I have to gain more experiences and keep an open mind.

— You have released two solo albums. Your second solo album is personally produced by NELL’s Kim Jongwan whom you adore a lot and can be said to be the reason you entered the entertainment industry.

Branching out as a solo artist was truly a dream-like experience. It allowed me to sing really great songs and become closer with someone I adore a lot. In fact, after our promotions here end, I was allowed to take a break in Japan and I want to meet Jongwan-hyung. I'm looking forward to it~ (laughs) If I could have a solo again? Of course, as much as I like rock, I cannot possibly focus only on rock. I am open to any viable possibilities.

— As mentioned, you have portrayed various roles from Elvis to Count Dracula and sang various genres of songs.

I have performed in 100 musicals to date. As a K-pop idol, it was not easy to be able to appear in musicals. I have worked hard researching on it as the pronunciation of words and singing styles varied a lot. But the truth is that I could actually bring this experience over and apply it to INFINITE and my personal life. It was a fruitful experience and if given the chance, I would like to challenge myself in other fields as well.

(When I mentioned “After all, there are kiss scenes right?”, Sunggyu recoiled and got flustered, saying “That was not my idea! It was for the show!”)

— Although often portraying the role of the bullied, Sunggyu is in fact an outstanding leader of the group. Had there been any instances where the group could not have pulled through without Sunggyu’s role as the leader?

Although I have been the leader of seven years, there were still many times where I worried. ‘Have I been a strong enough pillar of support when the members were plagued with troubles? Did I provide them with enough assistance?’ When I think back to the promises I have made and goals I have set for myself and of them all, exactly how much I have accomplished… all I have are regrets. (sighs)

— Don’t worry about that. Sungjong has given us the answer.

(When we asked Sunggyu what he would like to do now that he has a break after a long time, it seems that even in his personal life, he is unable to shake off any ties with music.)

— Are you into guitar now?

After a long time, I dusted off my guitar and took it out again. I am starting all over from the basics with the very same people I formed a band with before. I live alone now and on a daily basis, my day begins with taking a walk for two hours. When I get home, I eat and do some composing. On weekends I do not go for walks, but instead, I will spend the day out eating or drinking with my friends. Just little things here and there everyday to pass the time. (laughs)

170623 KPOP monster Interview / Interviewer: Yuka Kuwabata

Boy group INFINITE from South Korea came to Japan to promote their new album ‘AIR’.

In 2010, INFINITE made their debut in South Korea with their album ‘First Invasion’. The title track ‘Come Back Again’ holds a musical quality far above that of the average idol’s, and along with the neat knife-like choreography, it earned INFINITE the reputation of 99% synchronisation, allowing them to become top idols in the industry. Ever since, they have achieved immense popularity in North America, South America, Asia and many other regions. In the entertainment scene of Japan as well, they have definitely made a place for themselves that is not easily shaken.

On 24th May, one and a half years after their last Japanese release, INFINITE made a comeback with their new album ‘AIR’. This time, with three new songs added to the Japanese album alongside the remixed versions of their hit songs ‘Be Mine’ and ‘Man in Love’, it is a compilation album of their most popular works from debut till now.

The interview this time round was specially prepared just for INFINITE. Being seven years into their debut, they will be setting off for their next goal. While busy with producing their new album, what was it with that unexpected barefaced selfie on Instagram!?

— First of all, please introduce yourselves. Please also let us know what are some of the nicknames that fans address you by.

Myungsoo: I am everyone’s eternal boyfriend, L. Why do I say this, it is because there is you that there is me. Thank you everyone.

Hoya: I am Hoya. Fans call me dance machine because dancing is my specialty.

Dongwoo: I am the source of charisma Dongwoo. My nickname is Donu (ドヌ). (laughs) Japanese fans think it is cute to address me this way. Dong-jjang.

Woohyun: I am heart prince Woohyun. I often send hearts to fans. (blows a kiss) Eyes are lovely, heart is lovely. Chu chu! Love you all (laughs)

Sunggyu: I am leader Sunggyu. My nickname is strawberry. One time I ate lots of strawberries on a show hence they call me this (laughs)

Sungyeol: I am Sungyeol. I have no nickname. Everyone calls me Yeollie. (laughs)

Sungjong: I am maknae Sungjong. Fans call me Jongjong. Thank you~

— Please tell us why the album is named ‘AIR’ and recommend us a few of the songs that you like.

Hoya: Air means air (t/n: Hoya translated it from English to Japanese). An album that is like air, songs that are like air. This album has lots of songs that everyone can bring into their daily lives. Just like how everyone needs air every minute and every second, this albums gives people the feeling of wanting to listen to it every minute and every second. This is the meaning of it.

Myungsoo: I like the title track ‘Air’. Once you listen to the enjoyable tune you will be addicted to it. I feel that this is a song that showcases all seven of our vocals well.

Hoya: I personally like ‘One Day’ more. I really like the Korean version of this song. Compared to the Korean version, the Japanese version brings a new perspective. Before our interview today, I have been listening to this song repeatedly.

Dongwoo: I like the song ‘Zero’. “If I do not have you, however much I achieve might as well be zero.” I really like the way numerical values are used in the expression of the song.

Woohyun: I like ‘Waiting for the Moment’. One might end up crying when listening to this song. It is a song that is really great. Really, absolutely great.

Sunggyu: I like ‘Waiting for the Moment’ as well. Japanese fans really must listen to this song.

Sungyeol: I like ‘Thanks’. “Live with appreciation for everything you have” is one of our family values. Because I always treat everything around me with a heart full of appreciation, I feel like I can relate especially well with the song ‘Thanks’.

Sungjong: This album has the remixed version of ‘Man in Love’, listening to this song I feel like I am 21 again……

(Sunggyu whispered something to Sungjong, whose facial expression suddenly froze. Everyone bursts out laughing.)

— What was it that you whispered to him, Sunggyu?

Woohyun: He played a prank on Sungjong and gave him a scare. He told him that ‘Man in Love’ was not recorded in this album. (laughs)

— Does everyone use Instagram?

Sungjong: Yes. All of us use it.

— In that case, we will be asking some questions about Instagram. L’s Instagram is full of his favourite pet cat, similarly Sungyeol’s Instagram has photos of his dog. Do the members feel they are more like cats or dogs?

Woohyun: I’m like a dog! Woof woof~ (laughs) My facial features look like a dog’s.

Sungyeol: I’m like a dog too. My face is like that of a dog wearing a wig. (laughs)

Woohyun: Sungyeol’s a dog!

Sungyeol: Sunggyu’s like a cat.

Sunggyu, No no, I’m like a pig.

(All members erupt into laughter)

Sungyeol: L is a cat.

Myungsoo: My face, heart, eyes, ears and lips all resemble that of a cat’s.

Woohyun: His voice too.

Myungsoo: Yes. Meow~

Hoya: As for me, dog? When I drink in Sapporo, I become a Sapporo dog. (laughs)

Dongwoo: Sometimes I’m like a cat, other times like a dog.

Sungyeol: Dongwoo is like a leader at the start but after time one will realise they do not want to be close to him. (laughs)

(All members burst out laughing)

Sunggyu: I am a cat.

— There's a photo of Dongwoo playing golf in his Instagram.

Dongwoo: I tried playing golf three times but it was really too difficult. When playing golf, your left thumb is really important. Holding the golf club like this with both hands…… (stands up and demonstrates golfing posture)

Sunggyu: Ohh….. butt! (smacking Dongwoo’s butt repeatedly while saying this)

Dongwoo: (in a serious tone) You cannot move both of your feet, your body has to be posed like this. You hit it like this.

Sunggyu: Wow…… a perfect shot!

— What about the other members? What are your favourite sports?

Sungjong: I really like cycling. I often cycle by the Han River. I fall down pretty often too. (laughs) When I cycle I will wear a mask so fans will not recognise me.

Sungyeol: I like fishing and body-building. Waterskiing as well, I’ve tried it at the Han River too.

— It seems like one can bump into the members exercising if they were to go to the Han River.

Woohyun: If everyone comes to Korea, please come by the Han River to play!

Sunggyu: I like playing basketball. When I played basketball with two of my members before, I am the best player.

Woohyun: I like soccer. I am a member of South Korean celebrity football club FC MEN. I even received a call from FC MEN yesterday, asking me how do they play if I am not there as their striker.

Hoya: I haven’t tried it before, but I like boxing. I frequently watch movies about boxing. There are many stories like that often. Just when a very strong boxer gets knocked down and everyone thinks he’s out, he gets up again. I like stories like this.

Myungsoo: There’s a sport I like that I have been actively engaged in all this time. Rock-climbing. One time after an indoor challenge, I found it really interesting. I often practise rock-climbing indoors. If given a chance, I would like to try it outdoors too.

— In Sunggyu’s Instagram there is a photo from the movie《Your Name》.

Sunggyu: I felt very touched after watching this movie so I posted this onto my Instagram. I believe in fate.

— In this case, I would like to ask, which member believes in a predestined love?

(Woohyun raises his hand)

Woohyun: I really do believe in it.

Myungsoo: I do not have any experience so I am not too sure.

Woohyun: There is really something like fate! I experienced something like this in my second year of middle school…… I will always believe in a predestined meeting. The question is where will it be?

Hoya: I believe that there is something such as fate but not fated love. This is what I feel.

Sunggyu: Although I really want to believe it……

Sungjong: I want to live out my life in line with what fate has in store for me. I feel that regardless of what you want to change nothing is able to change it.

— When you made your debut, you also made a name for yourselves with your 99% synchronised dance moves. Recently, each of the members have headed in different directions, some are starring in television dramas whereas some actively participate in variety shows. What are some of the impacts of individual schedules on the group?

Woohyun: Our dance synchronisation is 99%. It’s not perfect and we make up for the remaining 1% through our individual activities so right now we are 100%.

— Lastly, please share some of your goals for the second half of this year.

Woohyun: No matter how you look at it I am a flower boy. But compared to an ideal flower boy I am still a little too chubby (laughs) so my goal is to lose weight.

Sungjong: I hope that in the second half of the year we can successfully release our new album. My personal goal is to lose weight as well. This aside, I want to look into playing a new sport or gaining a new hobby.

Sungyeol: I want to continue living blissfully as a member of INFINITE.

Sunggyu: We must approach the second half of the year with a heart of gratitude as well in order to have a year full of satisfaction. Apart from this I want to work hard on basketball.

Dongwoo: Recently I am learning how to play the piano, I hope I will play better.

Hoya: I want to go on a trip. I went on a trip for the first time in my life last year to Sapporo and it was a really blissful and adventurous experience.

Myungsoo: Firstly, I hope that all of our members will be in good health. Next, my goal is to practise rock-climbing and work out more. All the best!

— Please do a final greeting for the readers of KPOP Monster.

Hello to everyone and the readers of KPOP Monster, we are INFINITE! We have released a new album. We will work even harder, please continue to root for us. Please listen to our album. Thank you everyone.

Intouchables Healing God, SpeXial Evan

Sweet Senior From an Autumn Fairytale

With a gentle smile, Evan portrays the "healing god" theme, as if he's a sweet senior that walked out from an autumn fairytale, showing hints of gloom in his warmth. As the group's star student and elegant representative, Evan has learned how to keep his emotions stable since he was little, and he would think before speaking. His sweetness has a bit of reason and boundaries, but with this medium personality, he doesn't believe he's charming. He honestly says that he's very slow to people, and he's polite but there would be a distance, "You have to become close to me before you would think I'm charming! After becoming close, I would be very relaxed and joke about myself, and that part of me is more charming."

How long does it take to become close with someone? This kind of question always surrounds Evan since he comes from a group, but he honestly replies, "Really slow!" He adds, "It depends on the person. If the person is like me it will be brutal! Maybe we'll become friends after a year! Thankfully the members are very good at making friends." Actually, he thinks Riley, who's spiried and likes to initiate conversations, is the easiest to talk to. "When we don't have a lot of topics, Riley always have a way to continue the topic."

Doesn't Need Sweet Talk For Love

He doesn't take the initiative in friendship, but in love Evan requires himself to be more brave. He says that girls he dated has asked him, "How much do you love/like me?" In this situation, he usually didn't reply because he thinks that "I love you" has to be said at important time. "Even though I would be uncomfortable and not say it so I'll gloss over it, I would still do something to make her feel that I really care for her."

In friendship or love, Evan would sweetly listen. After becoming close he talks more, and in different groups he would use his unique humor. He's willing to listen to friends' problems, "But I don't like to give friends pressure. When they bump into something troubling, I would just ask once and that's enough. I won't keep talking about it to make their mood bad," so it's easy to hang out with Evan. He says that when it's someone he likes, he would be more than willing to accompany them until the other person feels his good and him caring for them. "I talked with a girl till it was morning. When she called me when she was sad, I tried to accommodate her the best I could, and I sang for her. I did all these."

Hate Bratty Princesses

Also, Evan likes to have a slow burn relationship. He says that when girls seriously look at what he needs and use their energy to take care of him, it's the hardest to resist. One time a girl made him chicken soup when he had a cold, and he can't forget it even now. "That kind of quietly observing what I need and specially doing something for me especially touches me." And he can't handle girls that are bratty and are delusional princesses. "I don't like girls that wants everything to go her way. When we date it should be fair, and not everything has to follow her way. Of course I would sometimes let it happen, but not every time."

No matter how sweet a person is they would still have emotional bombs. Evan says that even though he doesn't get angry really often, his bottom line is easily touched when other people promise him things but they don't do it or don't do it to their best ability. "Sometimes when jokes go too overboard, I would warn it, and if people continue playing I would get unhappy. If they continue, I would definitely put on a face till the end." When he's angry, he doesn't get loud. He says that usually after warning he would stop talking and ignoring the other. "I'm the passive aggressive type. It's really hard to explode there, but I'm the person that ignore the other for one to two weeks."

Pushes Win As The Sweet Boy Representative

"Healing god" shows the sharp outfit that Evan has looked forward to for a long time. He says that this outfit was completely what he wanted to dress like when he grows up since it's simple and elegant. Win says he's the sweetest person in the group, but he says, "I think he is!" He explains, "Win's temper is really good. I've never seen him get angry, and he's very willing to make everyone happy. Sometimes we would want him to do something, and after he's done everyone would burst out laughing. When the situation gets really messy, he wouldn't be able to handle it and help everyone clean up."