Exclusive Interview: Kim Woo Seok Reflects on “Hello” OST and His Next Chapter

1 month ago 14

Ahead of his military enlistment, soloist Kim Woo Seok opens up about his first OST, “Hello.”

Kim Woo Seok has consistently proven himself as a multifaceted artist, from his early days with the boy group UP10TION to his standout role in the project group X1. Despite X1’s brief but unforgettable run, Woo Seok quickly carved his own path as a solo artist, debuting in 2020 with 1st Desire [Greed]. Known for his involvement in writing and producing his own music, including fan and idol favorite tracks like “Red Moon,” Kim Woo Seok has established a reputation for crafting songs that resonate deeply with listeners. His subsequent releases, 2nd Desire [Tasty], 3rd Desire [Reve], and Blank Page, have only reinforced his position as a powerful solo act with a distinct voice and emotional depth.

Now, with the release of his first-ever OST, “Hello,” for his drama Social Savvy Class 101, Kim Woo Seok takes his artistry to new heights. The track is a perfect blend of his musical talent and his emerging acting career, capturing the emotional core of the drama while showcasing his vocal prowess. As Kim Woo Seok embarks on the next chapter of his life with his mandatory military enlistment, we had the privilege of speaking with him before he left. In our conversation, we delved into his experience working on “Hello,” his passion for music, and the impact he hopes to have on listeners.

Join us for an exclusive interview with Kim Woo Seok as he reflects on his first OST experience, the creative process behind the song, and the new chapter awaiting him in both his career and life.

Hellokpop: Congratulations on releasing “Hello” as the first OST for Social Savvy Class 101! What does this project mean to you as both a singer and an actor in the drama?

Kim Woo Seok: It is an honor to be able to participate in the OST of the work I participated in as an actor. Since both music and acting are deeply meaningful to me, this experience felt especially fulfilling.

HKP: With “Hello” being an OST for a drama you’re also starring in, did you feel a unique connection to the song since it relates directly to your character?

Kim Woo Seok: The lyrics condense the storyline of the drama, so they feel almost like lines spoken by the character. I believe that “Hello” will serve as an important bridge to convey the character’s emotions to the viewers.

HKP: What are you hoping fans will feel or take away from “Hello” and your role in Social Savvy Class 101?

Kim Woo Seok: Wherever I am and whatever I do, I always strive to do my best in every moment. I hope that feeling reaches my fans as well.

HKP: Social Savvy Class 101 is already resonating with audiences. What about the storyline or your character attracted you to the project?

Kim Woo Seok: I wanted to capture the complexity of a character who appears colorful on the surface but has hidden secrets. I hope viewers can connect with the journey of these very different characters, gradually understanding one another.

HKP: How does it feel to see the impact of your voice and emotional expression on the immersion of the story and the viewers’ experience?

Kim Woo Seok: When I see the final result of my acting or hear my voice, I sometimes discover new sides of myself or unexpected emotions while also noticing areas that feel lacking to me alone. I always hope that the aspects I tried to express truly reach the audience.

HKP: Were there any memorable moments or challenges while filming Social Savvy Class 101 that stand out to you?

Kim Woo Seok: There was a scene during the drama shoot where I got splashed with water by a faucet. My co-actor felt really sorry about it, but honestly, since it was such a hot summer day, I actually enjoyed the refreshing coolness—it ended up being a nice memory.

HKP: How does singing an OST differ from creating songs for your own albums? Do you approach it differently in terms of vocal style or emotional delivery?

Kim Woo Seok: Since an OST needs to convey both the drama’s message and the character’s emotions, I make an effort to immerse myself in the character while singing fully.

HKP: Since debuting in 2015, you’ve continued evolving as both an artist and an actor. How do you feel your journey in music has influenced your approach to acting?

Kim Woo Seok: The expressiveness and energy I’ve developed on stage have been a great help in my acting as well. I want to continue working hard to ensure that both areas can create synergy with each other.

HKP: Lastly, please leave a message to your fans who are reading this as they eagerly anticipate your enlistment on November 4th.

Kim Woo Seok: I will do my best while I am gone. I hope we can all stay healthy in our respective places and meet again with smiles. I’ll be back soon.