[Exclusive Interview] “I Wanted to Create a Song to Comfort Friends in Toxic Relationships” —Shin Jiyoon on her Latest Release

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Meet Shin Jiyoon: singer, songwriter, DJ, and visual creator — a multi-talented artist redefining what it means to be independent in music.

Shin Jiyoon has always stood out for her vibrant creativity, unmistakable charm, and heartfelt songwriting. First stepping into the spotlight as a member of the girl group Weeekly in 2020, she captured hearts with her bubbly energy and musical flair. Though she parted ways with the group in 2022, Jiyoon’s passion for music never dimmed. In 2024, she reintroduced herself to the world as a solo artist with the release of her debut single, “Yellow Light,” a track that highlighted both her emotional depth and sonic versatility. Since then, she’s continued to make waves—not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a DJ and an active presence on platforms like YouTube and Instagram, where she warmly connects with fans.

Over the past year, Jiyoon’s artistic journey has flourished. In April 2025, she released “Yellow Light (Ray Remix)” following a fan-driven competition for the single’s album cover, showcasing her collaborative spirit and inclusive creative process. Now, she’s stepping into a new chapter with her latest release, “Did You Love Me?,” an album that reflects her growth both as an artist and as a storyteller. Inspired by a bittersweet love from her middle school years, the title track juxtaposes bright rhythms and ornate melodies with the melancholy of young heartbreak. Notably, the rap line—“You swan, he’s a frog. Stop overthinking and go to sleep!”—adds a playful yet empowering twist, underscoring her signature blend of wit and sincerity.

Ahead of her showcase on May 24, we sat down with Jiyoon for an exclusive interview to talk all things “Did You Love Me?.” From revisiting old diary entries to pen the lyrics, to creating music that resonates with every lovesick girl (including herself), Jiyoon opens up about the emotions, memories, and musical choices that shaped her newest release.

Hellokpop: Hi Shin Jiyoon, it’s a pleasure to meet you! Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your musical journey and how have your fans supported you through this evolution?

Shin Jiyoon: Hello, I’m Shin Jiyoon, a singer-songwriter and multi-faceted artist who shares my story through many forms. I began my music journey as a member of a K-pop girl group, but over time, I’ve developed my own voice and stories as a solo artist. I compose music, write lyrics, sing, and create visuals, such as album covers and music videos.

Recently, I’ve also been creating content together with my fans. For example, the teaser image for this album and the cover of my previous remix album were both made by my fans, who are incredibly precious and meaningful to me.

HKP: What was the inspiration behind the title of your new release, “Did You Love Me?”

Shin Jiyoon: “Did You Love Me?” is a song inspired by my broken heart experience in middle school. My first love left me and suddenly acted like a completely different person! Even though I was just a kid, I had already begun my career as a singer-songwriter, so I wrote a song about the breakup. Looking back now, it feels so childish and funny, but at the time, I was totally serious (laughs).

I recently came across this song on my hard drive and thought it interesting, so I decided to remake it. The sound is influenced by 2nd and 3rd generation K-pop songs from the 2010s, which I’ve loved since I was young.

HKP: Can you share the concept or theme behind the album?

Shin Jiyoon: When I saw my friends struggling with toxic relationships, I wanted to create a song to comfort them. So, while remaking this song, I added that message of support.

This album is for everyone who’s hurting because of love. I hope it encourages you to let go of the people who make you cry and instead dance with joy. You can think of this album as a healing balm for a broken heart.

HKP: You’ve often said that your stage name Swan represents your transformation. How has this journey from “ugly duckling” to “beautiful swan” shaped your music and artistry?

Shin Jiyoon: Swan is about learning to love every part of myself, even the parts I once hated. There was a time when I truly believed I was ugly, not just on the outside but inside as well. I doubted my worth and couldn’t see anything beautiful in me. Choosing the name Swan became a way to heal. It symbolizes my journey of slowly learning to love myself and choosing growth over giving up.

As a singer, my official name is Shin Jiyoon, but Swan is always a part of me.

HKP: What does “Did You Love Me?” mean to you personally, and what kind of journey do you hope it will take listeners on?

Shin Jiyoon: To me, this song is like a healing letter. It’s not only about asking someone if they loved me—it’s also about learning to love myself again. I want listeners to feel that, too. My hope is to send a message of support that helps them embrace their own self-love.

I want them to dance, smile, and feel lighter while listening to this album. Even if just for a moment, I hope my music brings them joy.

HKP: With “Did You Love Me?,” being released on May 22nd, you’re also preparing for your showcase on May 24th. What can fans expect from your live showcase, and how will it differ from other performances you’ve done in the past?

Shin Jiyoon: This showcase is the most authentic version of myself I’ve ever brought to the stage. From the setlist and visuals to the games and interactions, everything carries my personal touch.

Preparing it was a bit challenging, but I believe it will be worth it. I put my heart into every detail, hoping to make my fans truly happy.

HKP: After releasing “Yellow Light (Ray Remix)” earlier this year, you had a unique competition for the album cover. What inspired you to engage with fans in this way, and how did the winning design resonate with your album’s vision?

Shin Jiyoon: I have a really strong bond with my fans, and I love communicating and connecting with them. Since I don’t have a company or team to help me, my fans often point out when my graphic designs or teaser images look a bit rough—haha!

That’s why I asked them to create the designs, and many fans sent in their work. So, this isn’t just my idea—it’s theirs too. I’m so grateful that my fans are so involved and active in everything I do.

“Yellow Light” has a vibe inspired by second-generation K-pop, so the winning design, with its 2010s feel, perfectly matched the album. There were many amazing entries, but I chose this one because it best fit the album’s concept.

HKP: You’ve been quite involved in the process of your music, not just singing but also DJing. How does DJing influence your approach to making music, and does it inspire any of your tracks on this new album?

Shin Jiyoon: Definitely. DJing taught me how to read the energy of a room and how to build and release tension. That experience has influenced my songwriting—I now think more about movement and dynamics in my music.

I’m also considering making an EDM album because I want to bring more of my DJ influence into my discography in the future.

HKP: What first drew you to DJing, and how did you get started in the scene? And how to do approach building a setlist — do you go by mood, crowd energy, or a personal theme?

Shin Jiyoon: I started learning DJing in my school’s electronic music club, and my very first DJ performance was also at school. It was so much fun to learn and perform alongside my classmates.

When I create a setlist, I follow my instincts. I play the music I love, and if I don’t like a track, I simply leave it out. When I’m DJing, I just do what feels right to me.

HKP: For your fans who are just discovering your music and journey, what is one thing you hope they take away from your work and your story as an artist?

Shin Jiyoon: I hope my music helps people feel less alone. I always create songs as if I’m talking to a friend. So if someone is feeling lonely, I want my music to be there for them and give them a little strength. That’s really all I want, to be a small comfort when they need it most.

HKP: Outside of your music career, what’s something most fans might not know about you? How do you like to relax and recharge when you’re not creating music?

Shin Jiyoon: I’m a huge animal lover and spend a lot of time with my two dogs and two frogs. They bring me so much joy. I also love drawing and walking in nature. When I’m outside, listening to birds chirping and watching them, I feel truly healed and at peace.

HKP: What were some of the biggest challenges and freedoms you discovered while working solo?

Shin Jiyoon: The biggest challenge was releasing an album without a company. Although the school professors helped me, it was very difficult to prepare all the release materials, budgets, and complete everything on my own. Marketing and managing social media were especially tough. But my fans help me a lot!

On the other hand, the freedom I have is incredible. I can fully express the stories I want to tell through my music, and my schedule is flexible. It makes me really happy to create the kind of music I truly want to make. There’s so much joy in that freedom.

HKP: What does music mean to you now, compared to when you debuted in 2020?

Shin Jiyoon: Back then, music was about proving myself. Now, it’s about expressing myself.

It used to feel like I was running to catch up with something. Now, I’m finally moving at my own pace, making music that feels right to me. I still care about quality, but my compass is honesty.

HKP: What’s next for you after this album, and are there any future projects you’re excited about sharing with your fans?

Shin Jiyoon: I want to hold another solo concert this year and continue trying new things with my music. I also have a U.S. tour planned for this summer. I’m already super excited and looking forward to meeting my international fans!

HKP: Lastly, please leave a message for your fans reading this.

Shin Jiyoon: Thank you for growing with me, believing in me, and letting me be myself. I hope this album always brings you comfort.

And I hope you never stop asking brave questions like “Did You Love Me?,” because the first step to moving forward is to stop feeling insecure and be brave. I love you all so much.