[EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW] The Art of Storytelling: JUNGSOOMIN Talks Latest EP [20]

1 month ago 26

Get to know JUNGSOOMIN, the talented singer-songwriter who crafts captivating melodies and poignant lyrics rooted in his love for pop music.

JUNGSOOMIN is a rising singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies. He made his solo debut with the EP [Phasis,] on October 10, 2023, quickly capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. His music delves into themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth, resonating deeply with listeners through his raw emotional delivery. Before embarking on his solo career, JUNGSOOMIN showcased his vocal talents as a contestant on several survival reality shows, including SBS’s LOUD in 2021, Channel A’s Stars Awakening in 2022, and Mnet’s Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survivor in 2024. These experiences helped shape his artistry and determination to make a mark in the music industry.

In 2024, JUNGSOOMIN further evolved his musical identity with the release of two digital singles, “song about YOU” in January and “be like YOU” in May. His latest release, [20], is a powerful, intimate exploration of a young artist entering his twenties. The album brings a fresh perspective, reflecting his growth both personally and creatively while blending familiar sounds with a renewed sense of exploration.

JUNGSOOMIN Shines with Second Mini Album ‘20‘

In an exclusive interview with Hellokpop, JUNGSOOMIN offers a glimpse into the creative process behind [20], sharing the inspirations and experiences that shaped his latest work. Join us as he reflects on the journey of self-discovery that led to the creation of his newest music.

Hellokpop: Hi JUNGSOOMIN! Can you introduce yourself and share a little about your journey as an artist?

JUNGSOOMIN: Hey guys, I’m artist JUNGSOOMIN. It is so nice to meet you. I feel like my journey as a artist began after I ended my run of the show Stars Awakening. After that, I really thought to myself what kind of music I wanted to make and what kind of an artist I wanted to be. Right now, my music is primarily pop-based with a bit of rock influence. I have loved pop ever since I started listening to music, and I’m really trying to expand on that genre.

HKP: Congratulations on your second mini album [20]! How do you feel about this release compared to your first mini album, [Phasis,]?

JUNGSOOMIN: [20] is definitely one of those albums that just fit together pretty perfectly [from the start]. It kind of came together really quickly. Compared to my first mini-album, I feel like this album is more mature when it comes to the musicality of it.

HKP: What was your creative process like for this album, and how did it differ from your previous projects?

JUNGSOOMIN: For this album, I wanted to focus on having a lot of different palettes to create with. Each song is completely different from the next. In my opinion, my first EP [Phasis] has some songs that have similar colors to each other, whereas with [20], each song has a different story and different color. I think that makes it really unique. All of them are different but oddly similar enough to paint a whole album with.

HKP: Can you tell us the story or inspiration behind the double-title tracks “Aeyo” and “Moment to Glow”?

JUNGSOOMIN: “Aeyo” is a throwback to old-school music, paying homage to great music from 2000 to 2010. It features the classic hook “Aeyo Aeyo Ye” along with many other references to music from that time. “Moment to Glow” was a song that came together as I wanted to show a more rocking side to the artist JUNGSOOMIN. I just turned 20, and I feel like a big part of the inspiration behind the song is the struggles and moments that come as you’re growing up, running towards your goal with only the belief that you can make it. I really think it’s a track that represents where I am right now.

HKP: You’ve incorporated various genres like ballads, R&B, and alternative rock in [20]. How do you feel these styles represent your growth as an artist?

JUNGSOOMIN: I want to show people that I can perform and make a lot of songs that dabble in different genres. I also feel like trying new things is one of the ways to see growth as a musician and to really expand on the emotions that I can give to the listeners.

HKP: The B-Side track “Remi” is an all-English song. What inspired this song, and how does it fit within the context of the album?

JUNGSOOMIN: In the beginning, “Remi” was a sketch I made with my producer. It came out in one go. He was playing the piano, and I just sang it, and the whole song came together like that. We didn’t change anything with the flow of the melody – which is pretty cool. I wanted something that everyone can listen to lightly – like on a jog or a walk. That’s how “Remi” came to be. I think it fits into the context of [20] because this whole album is me trying to be a little more honest when it comes to my art. That’s why I thought it would be nice to have a lighthearted song about my dog (laughs). Super simple but, at the same time, really close to me.

HKP: Can you share any memorable moments from the production or recording process for this album?

JUNGSOOMIN: I think a memorable moment is how much fun I had making these tracks with my team. We would meet up at night, get some pizza and talk, and then go straight to making the music from scratch. Struggling together and improving together really made this album memorable.

HKP: Do you have a favorite track on [20], and why does it stand out to you?

JUNGSOOMIN: If I had to pick, I’d have to say “Redo.” I like “Redo” because I feel like it best represents the core of me as an artist. When you think of a JUNGSOOMIN track, I feel like “Redo” is exactly what I enjoy making.

HKP: If you could describe your music style in three words, what would they be and why?

JUNGSOOMIN: Pop, youth, sweet. Pop because that’s my primary genre. Youth because a big part of the ideas come from what I am going through right now – my youth. Sweet. I think I have a pretty sweet, coffee-like voice. That’s why I put that there (laughs).

HKP: Who are some of your biggest influences or inspirations in the music industry, and why do they resonate with you?

JUNGSOOMIN: I really like B.I, John K, and Gareth.T nowadays. Especially Gareth.T. I think I like the honesty of his music, and he has a really big influence on me and how I view my art.

HKP: How have your experiences over the last year shaped your work on this album, and how do you stay motivated and inspired during challenging times?

JUNGSOOMIN: I did quite a bit over the last year, so I feel like the album was upgraded in terms of performance and vocals. I was on Mnet’s Build Up, and through that, I feel like it helped a lot, especially when recording my album. Honestly, what keeps me motivated is my family and my fans. Without them, I don’t think I can constantly run forward.

HKP: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the rest of 2024 and beyond?

JUNGSOOMIN: 2024 and beyond, I would like to make my name far more known. In every aspect. My songs, myself, etc. I constantly also want to make music that I LOVE.

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

JUNGSOOMIN: Thank you so much for supporting me. I’ll constantly try and be a better me and a better artist every day. I hope I can see you guys soon face to face! Till then, much love.