#DEFDAILYinterview

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] JELLY Magazine March 2019 issue: All about GOT7

190117 JELLY March issue 2019 - ALL ABOUT GOT7

Translated by Synesth @coded4d9dc

Translated by Synesth @coded4d9dc

https://twitter.com/coded4d9dc/status/1086185417479606272

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] Arena Homme+ Magazine August 2019 issue x GOT7 JB

I will probably continue with my singing career. Popularity is bound to fall one day but even so, I wouldn’t be lazy as a singer. Since I know there will come a time someday when my light would fade - JB

Translated by defdaily

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] JJ Magazine February 2019 issue x GOT7

JJ Magazine 2019 February issue interview - JB Q&A

Translated by defdaily

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] JJ Magazine September 2019 issue: This summer, GOT7 is too cute!

Speaking of a boy group everyone wants to make their boyfriends, it’s no doubt ‘them’! THIS SUMMER, GOT7 IS TOO ADORABLE ❤️

✴︎ JB ✴︎

Born in 1994. The group’s reliable leader and mediator. Possessing versatile talent including writing songs and lyrics.

✴︎ MARK ✴︎

Born in 1993. From America. Having a sweet looks, he captures heart with his visual and sharp dances♡ His own style is fashionable too.

✴︎ JINYOUNG ✴︎

Born in 1994. Lately, his activities as an actor have also gained great attention. A person of efficiency and capability,with existence like a mother in the group.

✴︎ YOUNGJAE ✴︎

Born in 1996. Possessing an outstanding singing voice. A boy full of cuteness and easily succumbing to laughters. He has his own sense of humor too and is popular in variety shows.

✴︎ BAMBAM ✴︎

Born in 1997. From Thailand. Cheerful and positive, he’s the mood maker for the members.

✴︎ YUGYEOM ✴︎

Born in 1997. The youngest “maknae” of the group. And also the person possessing real dancing ability with high reputation in KPOP world.

Translated by Synesth @coded4d9dc 

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] VOGUE KOREA Magazine April 2019 issue x JUS2

190319 Vogue Korea JUS2 April ‘19 photoshoot & interview 

Translated by defdaily & doobseedoda

JUS2 is a unit of two members who were in charge of intensity in GOT7. This is a chemistry created when JB and Yugyeom, who love R&B in common, were absorbed in creative activities. Their hybridization was completed in a "minimal" state, which is neither strong nor soft. The mini album contains a story called six senses. Starting with the word Focus on Me, Drunk on You, Touch, Senses, Love Talk, and Long Black. It doesn't mean much nowadays to classify music into genres, but there are emotions of Deep House, Slow Jam and R&B in JUS2's music.

The unit's name was bound to be JUS2. It's only JB and Yugyeom, and it's a stage that can only be presented. "Actually, JUS2 means that it's both a performance and a song. We danced, sang, wrote and composed, and did everything." JUS2 is an example of a completely new creation without losing the members' identity in the group and reveal their talents and tastes.

Q. We are curious about the similarities and differences between you two.

JB: Our personalities are similar but our lifestyles are different. I really don't believe in blood type personalities but we're both type A and there is definitely a timid side to us. When you see us in reality we don't seem that timid. To sum it up, we're both timid and not timid at the same time (laugh). Both of us are considerate so we match well in some aspects. Yugyeom is all about 'let's live life having fun'.

Yugyeom: I don't put too much meaning behind the word 'happiness' and I'm a person who often feels happiness (doing little things).

JB: I like enjoying everyday life but I have a compulsion to not let my thoughts and mind slip alway so I tend to think a lot. There is music that we both like and there's also a point where (our styles) meet. I like strong/fast paced music and I also like calm smooth music, I like all kinds of music. Yugyeom likes the strong turn up kind of music and tends to lean towards the strong music.

Q. If GOT7's energy is bright and fresh, what would JUS2’s energy be?

Yugyeom: Jus2 would be having control and restraining yourself. If GOT7's energy is 'attacking' then JUS2’s energy is more like 'holding yourself back'.

JB: If GOT7 were the shooting star ice cream then JUS2 would be the Vanilla ice cream. Soft and smooth. Personally I like JJ Project's album the most. The story and track order contained all of what I wanted to say/include so it's the album I'm most proud of. After that is JUS2’s album which I'm highly satisfied with. Although there is no overall storyline, the theme of sensation was unraveled.

Q. You wrote and composed 'Focus On Me', if you could tell us about the collaboration process.

Yugyeom: We listen to the track and figure out whether to decide the theme first or make the melody first. The theme of FOCUS came up while writing the melody for Focus On Me and that's how it was settled. If anyone can think of a melody while listening to MR, they record it. "This part seems okay" then JB hyung sings it and I try singing it then we keep matching parts.

JB: At the start when I was working on the song and writing the chorus 'focus on me' stuck to me as matching. Since everyone else liked it we decided on it as the theme and wrote the lyrics. The first and second verse were written separately then the lyrics were put together.

Q. In what moments does inspiration tend to come to you?

JB: When I sense if a song's mood is a certain way, I think about what happened in the past or whať's happening now or what I've seen in movies and books. If I get inspiration first then I write it down in my notebook or phone. There are times when I turn songs on and look over what I have written down from the past. And sometimes the lyrics match what you want.

Q. What kind of lyrics do you think are good lyrics?

Yugyeom: the way you listen and the way you write is different. I'm the type to play a melody when I'm trying to write lyrics then I see what matches well in terms of pronunciation. JB hyung pays more attention to the lyrics so lyrics I could never think of came up (from JB). I would be into something else and hyung would come up with lyrics like ”Today you'll raise the white flag".

Q. What is a point you appreciate about each other's dancing?

JB: Yugyeom's dancing line is very clean cut. When he stretches out, the lines are really pretty and it also gives off a modern dance feel. He is the best at peculiar moves with his long legs. On the other hand my dance has more roughness.

Yugyeom: what's funny is, I realised this after watching the music video, that I dance with all my fingers out (?) together whereas hyung is the opposite

JB: (his fingers out together?) Yugyeom really likes this.

Yugyeom: That's what my favorite American dancer always did. It has become a habit.

Q. Yugyeom is always wearing black skinny pants in his Instagram dance videos, is it like a uniform?

JB: Not only when he dances, he just doesn't wear other pants in general. Yugyeom has lots of the same pants (laugh). He likes black skinny pants so much that he wears them even during practice. And he has stage shoes, which are more comfortable than sneakers, so he always wears them during practice too.

JB: For me I need the pants width to be big a little. And I always need to have sneakers on. Yugyeom likes skinny style while I'm the type to like a flimsy style.

Q. Things you talked about the most while preparing for JUS2.

JB: It was 'How should we organise/format the album”. Since it's our first time doing a minimal sound, we wondered if it would go well and we worried a lot about the album. We had lots of public relation meetings too (laugh). Looking back, it was fun. Feels like I've been travelling abroad for a few months. To be honest, I haven't been able to travel abroad much but whenever I travel even for a short time I feel really excited, but rather than an amusement park kind of fun I would feel a calm kind of fun. To paraphrase that, it's similar to the feeling.

Yugyeom: It was really fun. Seeing hyung almost everyday, we also talked a lot. I also liked the times where we would go grab a drink after finishing writing songs. Since JUS2 participated in songwriting and also outfits and choreography so it has lots of meaning. The teasers were also captured freely with a film camera while listening to music. Many new unique attempts were made in the preparation process.

Q. Feels like you have expanded a lot musically. Is there something you do to keep growing?

JB: When I see people I respect or people who are doing well think I should have more thoughts of ’Why is this all I can do'. That's how it works. I think. “Let's have a lot of experiences that will touch me, both indirectly and directly” When I have a chance, I go to exhibitions and think about the agony of the artists. I also wonder how I can use the SNS, which is so full of things, for my development. l once wondered how l could use so much SNS for my development. I take note of places and exhibitions recommended by people, I thought it would be good to get ideas from impressive artwork or videos.

Q. You've been a part of GOT7 for more than 6 years but this is your first time working together with just the two of you. Is there something new you learnt?

Yugyeom: There is no such thing. If I really try to find one, I thought hyung only ate Korean food but he actually likes eating even cream, curry and udon now.

JB: I feel like I've gotten influenced by the other members. I thought my preference for Korean food would never change but I've come to an acceptance point. Last time when we went to Paris, Bambam wanted to try snails. I rejected saying I could never eat snails but it was actually more delicious than I expected. That's the case, I have even eaten snails.

Q. If you were to pick the happiest moment in your day?

JB: When I clean the cats' dung. I see with my eyes that I can do something for someone else. I feel joy seeing the cats in a good shape/image. When I see the bin full of their dung, pride overcomes me as l know (they) have become cleaner.

Yugyeom: I'm the type who likes having lots of schedules but there are times when I become tired physically. I consult with my company and decide on a day off, and the moment I step foot into my house I feel really happy. A break once in a while could be so sweet. I'm happy when I can sleep late after working on songs all night.

Q: Is there anything you've discovered or thought about differently recently?

JB: On the way home after producing yesterday, the taxi driver took a wrong turn and we ended up at Yeouido. Looking out at the buildings through the window, this thought came to me. Within those buildings, people may be fighting or happy but the buildings seen from within the taxi only just look beautiful. I thought maybe the world looks more beautiful if you see it from a distance instead of up close. I thought we too might need some distance in our life as well.

Q: Is there anything you've discovered or thought about differently recently?

Yugyeom: I have always thought this but recently there's something that I've felt more strongly.I must really love music a lot (laughs). I would go crazy if I don't listen to it. If lI'm not listening to music, it feels like I have to and l'd keep thinking about the music I want to listen to. I've been producing songs lately and they've been very healing to me. Listening to and making good music in itself is a source of healing to me. So l realised once again. Ah, I must really love music.

Q. Do you feel the stress of writing while listening to music you like?

Yugyeom: not at all. I've never had such thoughts. There's a song I'm into lately. I really like Travis Scott's Can't Say' so l keep listening to it and watching the music video.

Q. JUS2 will have a world tour in April. GOT7 also proved themselves through a world tour too. What is the meaning behind world tours.

JB: It is like the result of one's efforts. Something that tells me how hard I've tried. An album allows me to witness the response to my agony/thoughts and a world tour allows me to experience that response.

Q. JB you've been uploading mixtapes on music sites for a few years now. How did this experience influence JUS2 work?

JB: I think it made me want to try doing what I really like. In fact, when you make music and keep storing them and going back to edit them, that way you won't have any results. Even if I get a beating (get punished) let's just show them!' that kind of mindset. The fans liked it but people around me reacted coolly. They said I put too much strength in it. I'm also considering different formats. Using the name Def. I wanted to differentiate between me who is in public and me who likes hip-hop R&B. Def. means the best with a full stop after it, ending it with the best. I wanted to convey the meaning that it's only over after I do my absolute best. Moving forward, of course l'll work hard doing the things I'm doing but I really want to show the image of me doing the things I like.

Q. What you want to achieve through JUS2.

JB: Music site ranking was not our goal. "Leť's show a fun and cool different colour”, let's show a completely different image from GOT7 were our goals. Actually even now I'm satisfied. As much as the album was well made, I like it/feel good.

Translated by: defdaily and doobseedoda

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] GRAZIA Magazine September 2017 issue x JJ PROJECT

Translated by haetbitmark

Translated by haetbitmark

https://twitter.com/haetbitmark/status/898623223465627648

[defdaily]

MEN’S FOLIO - Leading the Pack: JB in our March 2019 Issue

Formed barely five years ago, GOT7 already has numerous Korean and Japanese albums under its belt. This is no easy feat considering the amount of music the band has written on top of going on promotional tours and performing concerts. If passion were not fuelling the group on this strenuous journey, that fire would have been snuffed out sooner than later.

Curious to know more about this seemingly infinite fountain of fervour, Men's Folio scored an opportunity to work with its magnetic leader, JB. Perhaps no other GOT7 member might embody the intense passion other than JB a check on his CV reveals his extensive past projects from acting to music  production.

"I want to be known as someone who can show various works in different areas of art, not in a specific area. I hope to try different things, tell the stories I want to tell, while producing something fun and cool," shares JB. It is this endearing curiosity for life that sees the multi-hyphenate throwing himself headfirst into his various projects.

One would think that with JB's success, his focus might be somewhat macroscopic, but we had a first-hand experience of the immense dedication that he pours into every activity- this cover shoot included.

The discussion started with the clothes that he wanted to wear. JB arrived at the set, took a look at the rack of Spring/Summer "19 assortment, and went straight to work. Naturally, JB exercised his preference, but being the cover star of the season's most important issue (our 200h issue, no less), I wanted to showcase his versatility, and we continued to refine the creative process.

The pictures that you see in this feature are a pleasant departure from his usual style, born from the spirited collaborations between all the creatives involved. JB sat down with the crew to sift through all the images and handpicked his final choices. The intensity of the collaborative process was heightened during one of the selections when JB turned to me and asked for my preference. I replied, and then his affirmation came in crisp English, "I think so too. I like that too!"

No amount of words can express the type of joy that can be experienced when various creative minds come together and agree upon a collaborated final product, especially when that brilliant mind is from someone as passionate as JB.

Perhaps attributing all his success to passion alone might be a tad excessive, but positivity in JBs life is definitely present. During the cover shoot, fellow band member Yugyeom expressed his desire to be present on set to encourage JB, even though he was not involved.

From this gesture, it can be seen that GOT7 is a very tight-knit group. There are even upcoming plans for both JB and Yugyeom to launch a subunit called JUS2. We asked JB where he sees himself five years from now. "I will be older, so I will continue working on music, and if my body allows, I will dance. Still working but hoping for an easy-going and optimistic life." There is no doubt that passion courses through JB's blood, and there seems to be no stopping him from achieving all he desires. For all we know, we might see him on our cover for our 250h issue.

What have you been busy with recently? 

JB: I'm super busy nowadays. I have been busy working on my unit album and preparing for activities and tours.

The Korean Wave is one of the most influential trends in the world right now, and you have fans across the world regardless of language barriers. What do you think about this trend?

JB: I think the Korean Wave is a very good thing. It is great and meaningful to be able to share our culture. In addition, I realise that I want to learn various languages, and I believe this is a good opportunity to share the Korean language.

What do you think makes good music?

JB: I am still not sure. I had prior experiences when songs that I really liked and considered good were received as "so-so". Also, some songs that I felt questionable about were very much liked. I contemplate over the definition of good music every time. However, right now, I think good music is when an idea has been precisely expressed, and the listeners could sympathise and be comforted by the music at a certain point of time. However, I also think we should not be overly focused on the listeners.

How would you describe your singing voice?

JB: When I was young. I didn't really have an idea about my voice colour. When people around me talked about what's a good voice colour and what is not, I could not easily agree with them. Thinking about it now, I think I like the voice colour if I like listening to it. I think it is good if one can express things in his or her own way since each voice colour has its unique charm.

Therefore, I used to ask myself if my voice colour is nice. I just thought that if my voice colour is nice, it is a good thing. However, as I learn more in-depth about music, I feel that I like my voice colour lesser and lesser.

We understand that you are a frank person. How do you think this personality serves you in life?

JB: When I was young. I realised that being frank and straightforward could hurt someone else's feelings. However, I am really an honest and frank person, so it was hard to change… Nowadays, ifI need to be honest about things in a bad way, I just keep quiet for the sake of the other person. Ijust don't tell the person if he or she is correct or wrong.

However, for things that I cannot let go and for the benefit of the other person, I think of the best possible way to talk to that person in an honest and gentle manner. And so, it is hard for me.

If you were not a celebrity, what do you think you would be doing?

JB: Probably a normal person. What would I be doing? I think I would have continued music and dance as a hobby. I would have done something I could do in the area of art.

As a singer, how is fashion important to you?

JB: I think fashion is important as it makes singers stand out; I think it is one of the important factors. It is important to create an image for a singer, andI believe fashion helps in doing so.

As an artist, how important is social media to you?

JB: To me, it is a medium of communication with my fans. I think it is an opportunity to share about my personal preferences, which I think is important.

The theme of this 200h issue is "Big". What is your biggest dream?

JB: To live happily, freely, and be carefree.

How about your biggest fear?

JB: I'm worried that I'm going to stop. I want to flow continuously, but it feels like I will be stuck somewhere and have to stop at some point.

What is your biggest achievement so far?

JB: I think my biggest achievement is writing GOT7s title song. In my opinion, my team's (voice) colour was well aligned with the title song I wrote. However, I'm still working hard for greater achievements. In your opinion, what are the most important principles in life? Being honest with yourself and having conversations with yourself often.

More at https://www.mens-folio.com/47262/leading-pack-jb-march19-issue/#esLJGjS7HfoBS6OB.97 

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] Mini Magazine February 2019 issue: GOT7 has come!

Translated by Synesth @coded4d9dc

MEMBER PROFILES

JB -> Born on 6/1/1994. Blood type A. 179 cm. Reliable leader of the team. Lately he has transformed into a well-loved character who is often messed with by the dongsaengs.

MARK -> Born on 4/9/1994. Blood type A. 175 cm. Came from America. He’s usually quiet, but is very powerfull on stage.

JINYOUNG -> Born on 22/9/1994. Blood type O. 178 cm. The mediator of the group. He is good at Japanese.

YOUNGJAE -> Born on 17/9/1996. Blood type B. 177 cm. He earned the nickname “Otter” (Kawauso) from fans thanks to his adorable looks.

BAMBAM -> Born on 2/5/1997. Blood type B. 174.5 cm. He’s from Thailand. He holds a strong preference to fashion to the point being called “Dandyism leader”.

(T/N: The Japanese word “leader” used for Bambam in this case often implies gang leader or the best one particularly in a field among a group)

YUGYEOM -> Born on 17/11/2997. Blood type A. 182 cm. Maknae of the group, but he sometimes sets up pranks on the hyungs too.

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] Allure Magazine October 2017 issue: An afternoon with JB

Translated by haetbitmark

JJ Project's JB, GOT7’s JB and lyricist and composer Def are Jaebeom's various faces (sides). All those roles made his start in 2017 even bolder. In January this year, he uploaded his composed songs on SoundCloud under the name Def. and after the completion of JJ Project promotions, he released the song 'Hush' that was composed by Primary as a close to August. And now, GOT7's comeback is up ahead. JB whom was busier than anyone else this year, his two eyes glittered when talking about music.

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] Mini Magazine September 2019 issue x GOT7

Translated by bbomirae

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] haru ✿ hana vol.050 July 2018 issue

haru🌸hana vol.050 July 2018 issue / JB cut

Translated by Synesth @coded4d9dc

Full issue: https://twitter.com/coded4d9dc/status/1012543939205742592

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] The Star Magazine August 2017 issue - JJ PROJECT: Voice of Youth

Translated by haetbitmark

Translated by haetbitmark

https://twitter.com/haetbitmark/status/890230383639384065

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] HIGH CUT Magazine August 2017 issue - JJ PROJECT: You are my destiny

High Cut 203 July 2017 JJ PROJECT : You are my destiny

Translated by igot7_markp

B-boy Lim Jaebeom and Park Jinyoung from Jinhae met for the first time in 2009. It happened during JYP Entertainment 5th public trainee recruitment audition in Seoul. Two boys, whose registration numbers stood one after another as 24th and 25th, were able to leave behind 10 thousand people and get the first place together for the first time in the history. They debuted in drama "Dreamhigh 2" together, released album as JJ Project, promoted with group GOT7 and their hearts literally beat in synch. After 5 years JJ Project came back again. Now in their twenties. JB and Jinyoung, who were involved in producing music and writing lyrics for all 8 songs, stayed humble throughout the interview, but also slightly radiated self-confidence and ambitions. Story of two men, whose side profiles look alike, and who without regrets dedicated themselves to everything, without highlighting specific point but concentrating on every single one at once.

LIM JAEBEOM

Our indestructible relationship with Jinyoung is that kind of relationships, when later you'll be side by side even under the gravestone

Q: After 5 years JJ Project's still staying together and released album on July, 31. You uploaded on homepage "track cards" where you personally read one line from the songs you've written yourself. "Fade Away" lyrics was the really strong ones. "Always shutting my mouth, claiming it's love, you make me forget what kind of person I am" – is it something you've experienced?

JB: Both experience and imagination. First song's theme is the one that always big and common – "thing that bothers me". Sinking into that theme, I wrote basing both on my experience and imagination.

Q: You have been involved in producing and writing all 8 tracks. Which song one was the hardest to write?

JB: "Icarus" and out title track "Tomorrow, Today". Even though the theme of "Icarus" was clear picking right words were hard, therefore I had really a lot of worries. In the beginning when I started working on "Tomorrow, Today" I wasn't entirely sure what I should write about. Park Jinyoung PD-nim cleared it out for me. But for me it's more important to think of what I wanted to write when I've just listened to the music (for the first time). It was difficult to write lyrics about feelings you have, standing on the crossroad not sure of the choice you should make, so people of my age can empathize with it.

Q: I heard that the first thing you do in the morning after getting up is reading three lines from the book out loud? Seems like regular reading also helps you with writing.

JB: Ah, this is completely in the past. (laughing hard) Now as soon as I open my eyes in the morning I'm feeding the cats.

Q: Thinking of it, you own three, right? Nora, Koonta and Odd. Actually I was wondering if those scratches on your arms are cat's work.

JB: That's right. But scratches are not from the cat I own but from the stray cat. I was feeding stray cats and decided to slightly touch them. (smiles) When I walk down the street and meet cats, I don't want to scare them and just quickly go to the nearby convenient store and buy can of tuna to feed them. I also make sure that some food is remained. Because this is the only thing I can do for them.

Q: Seems like you are "Cat's Butler" to the core. I heard you had to be apart with your beloved Nora but now you are back together.

JB: Yes. In fact, originally all GOT7 members used to live together in one dorm, but now a few people moved out. In the beginning I shared the room with Youngjae and it suddenly appeared that kid is allergic to cats. That's why I asked members to change room arrangement a little bit, but all of them refused. (smiles) So I had to leave Nora in the other place for a while. When members moved out and each of us had separate room, I brought her back and she recognized me. When parents drove Nora back to me, she kept crying in the car. But as soon as I appeared in the car and said "Hi, Nora" she stopped crying immediately.

Q: No one wanted to change the rooms with their charismatic leader? (smile)

JB: I gave up a lot. (smile) I'm not sunbae for children, it's more like we are people of the same age group who are working on music together. But I'm really straightforward. That's why when I'm going around in conversation, I'm not sure children understand it and it feels awkward. So instead I'm just extremely cautious, when I talk.

Q: During JJ Project promotion you put GOT7's leader role slightly aside, right? To be honest it's kind of relieving, isn't it?

JB: It is. Really relieving. But I still have another burdens. Two people need to cover space that was filled with 7 people. Since me and Jinyoung don't have really entertaining character, I am worrying a lot if it will be too serious.

Q: I found an interview you gave when you started first activities. Back then it was 19 years old JB. You were asked to describe your teen years in one word and that word was "secret". How about JB's twenties?

JB: I'm still 24. For now, if you ask me, the word is "Vain". There are people who say that you shouldn't think too much and enjoy the time during your twenties, but if I think twice, I think I could have done a little bit better. If to say concretely, I could have been more careful and smart – and now it's a pity.

Q: But after debut you continuously worked hard. After JJ Project you filmed in "Dreamhigh 2" and then after GOT7 debut you promoted quite successfully.

JB: I'm just like that. I often think only about regretting things. With this album, too, when I listened it fully and finished mastering, I felt unsatisfied. "I could have done a little bit better. It's already late to fix it, right?" – this is what I was thinking about. (smile) I put efforts not to lose the heart I had in the beginning (rookie mindset).

Q: If you started to talk about rookie days, as I remember, you were a b-boy before becoming a JYPE trainee, right? I heard during each practice you only ate 1000 won worth vegetable crackers.

JB: Ah, back then we didn't have practice room, so we practiced in metro station. Since I was a student I didn't have money, but because I danced a lot I got hungry fast. Three packs of vegetable crackers costed 1000 won at that time, so I ate them as the refreshment.

Q: You applied for JYP auditions and shared first place with Jinyoung-ssi, right? Then you debuted together as JJ Project, filmed together in "Dreamhigh 2", made it together to GOT7 and now you are coming back as a duet once again. Your relationships must be really indestructible.

JB: Yes, they really are!! Seems like we will be side by side even under the gravestone. (laughs hard) I accidentally saw what fans write. How I do something or Jinyoung does something and we are copying each other's moves exactly in the same way. Unconsciously.

Q: In 2012 interview to the question "JJ Project's position?" you replied "Bottom". Now?

JB: Still bottom. Even though we gained some proficiency, after being left for 5 years I think we need to consider it as starting from the bottom again. The music that was there 5 years ago and music that is coming out now is significantly different. And there are so many skillful singers in the music world nowadays. (smile)

Q: Then I will change my question. Till what floor you want to go up during this promotions?

JB: Hm…If there are 10 floors, I guess till 3,5? The situation when you have already passed the third floor and on your way to the fourth?

Q: Is there a tip you want to give to fans so they can enjoy this album more?

JB: I can't recommend anything. Please, check everything. We put a lot of effort in it. Not only into music, but also into other things. In order to our face and body not look fat, we skipped dinners and got slimmer. (smile) We paid a lot of attention to everything – starting from music video and finishing with clothes. Even when we left the studio we kept sending and receiving ideas via mail, so songs would become even better. We really worker hard. So, please, check everything. (smile)

PARK JINYOUNG

"The day" is the song, I wrote in the plane, when I listened to music and started longing for parents

Q: When decision regarding JJ Project was done, how did you feel?

JY: I honestly asked the company: why now of all time? Since I though there a lot of things we had to accomplish as GOT7. Then I received reply from company that we would represent GOT7 and show people the different color of the group, so it would help GOT7 to grow more. I was infatuated with this answer. (smile)

Q: I guess during album preparations you have also felt how much you have improved yourself.

JY: Somehow comparing to us 5 years ago, we allow yourself more. Ah, and my throat stopped aching. When we prepared first album, my voice broke and also I didn't sing a lot. I only did rap and sang occasionally so my voice had gone. This time my voice cords definitely became stronger. I feel like I found comfortable tone for my voice.

Q: I heard the lyrics you have written are poetic. Especially, "Coming Home" lyrics. "When the emptiness passes, the cold wind blows. When the longing passes, the spring rain falls"…

JY: This is the lyrics I wrote in the airplane while listening to New Age's song. Suddenly I missed my parents so much and felt really melancholic. So I wrote down what my heart felt. When we composed album I found the song that suited those lyrics a lot.

Q: Looking at lyrics, team colors changed significantly after 5 years.

JY: I think it's just two opposites. It's been really bright back then. This time it's a light-beat youth song, which we can sing and dance to.

Q: Which song is your favorite?

JY: My solo song "The Day". I wrote the story I wanted to tell a lot. I can explain what this song is about in one sentence: "That day, when I thought everything was good, that day, when it went away from me so easily and it felt like the world will crumble down, it's vanishing like it was nothing". I live with the thought that things I always liked aren't really good things and things I disliked aren't really bad things. No matter how great the sadness or happiness was, after 1 year the memories of it will start vanishing.

Q: When you read the lyrics you've written yourself, haven't it made you embarrassed or cringe?

JY: I did it with one thought. "I must do it. I can only go home after I finish it smoothly. I have no time. I need to go (home) fast". (smile)

Q: I found an interview that you gave after debut in 2012. In it you explained your teen years as "Preparation". How will you explain your twenties in one word?

JY: Twenties are "Warm-up". (Isn't it and teen years' description same?) Undoubtedly different. Making analogy with health, teen age is like changing clothes. Twenties is like exercising on running machine and riding the bicycle to make your body slightly hot. Since I'm only 24, I haven't "sweated" yet. I guess sweat will appear at 29.

Q: In that interview you talked really detailed about your ideal type. "I'd like if she has something to say when we're sitting in a café and talking. And I wish her face would be natural. Even if she does something to it, it should still be natural in my eyes. I like big eyes and well-defined features. No fringe, just long natural hair falling down her spine. About clothes – just jeans, shirt and converse".

JY: I remember why I said this. It was influenced by Shin Minah sunbaenim's "My girlfriend is a nine-tailed fox". Whenever I receive questions about my ideal type, I describe main heroine from the film or drama I watched and was impressed by. That's why I don't have ideal type now – I didn't watch love story movies recently. (smile) Although I watch movies a lot.

Q: Your hobby is "watching movies alone".

JY: I watched 5 movies over the last few days. "Dunkirk", "Hedwig", "Amazing Spiderman", "My love" and one more. "Dunkirk" is like three part space novel, that cross each other. I like it even more because it has short running time. I cried watching "My love". It's a real story, so tears come out naturally. I'm happy when I watch movies alone. You can fully concentrate not caring about others. And also each time I watch movies I talk to myself. When character does something disappointing, I'm saying: "Aigoo, why are you like that?". I can't do something like this in front if others. (smile)

Q: Even being really busy you find time to watch movies. Do you master your acting?

JY: I really watch it without any thoughts; though people say you should go to study while watching. (smile) No matter how good actor plays, it's not easy to analyze acting. I also visited Pixar Animation exhibition recently.

Q: When you come around don't people recognize you?

JY: When they recognize they are like "It's Jinyoung, right?" and I reply "Right, but sheesh". They recognize me, but since they are not fans, they don't follow me. (smile)

Q: You are constantly busy with one thing or another. You played a role of university student who haven't had girlfriend even once and dreams of becoming a civil worker in 2017 web-drama "Magic School" produced by JYP Pictures, right? The shooting has just finished. It's the first time you play twenty-years old, isn't it?

JY: It is. Even if it's an act, I liked to experience the living of ordinary 20-year-old. Thing I envy the most is an opportunity to live with your family under one roof. It's been a year since I last visited my parent's home.

Q: I visited fan-café on my way (to the interview). You pay a lot attention to fans, so they gave you a nickname "Fan-Jal-Al" (the one, who knows fans). When I looked through SNS, what caught my eyes is that whenever GOT7 fans went to the trips they dress their official goods' dolls "GOTOON" and make prove shots with it. Have you known about it?

JY: No, really? (Manager: You haven't seen even once?) Since I don't use SNS, I didn't know at all. Wah, I'm so sorry right now. Sincerely, thank you. Even though traveling is the time for yourself, they are even going all the way long to bring GOTOONs and dress them. Once the interview finishes, I will search and take a look for sure. When I go for a trip, I will also take a picture with goods and upload it.

Q: Fans highly anticipates JJ Project's comeback. 5 years ago when you were asked "What is JJ Project's position?", you replied "20th floor underground". In your opinion till what floor you will be able to climb with this album?

JY: 5th ground floor? Because on the 5th floor JYP management office is located. Our company's top floor. (laugh hard) I don't have regrets about this album. We have done everything we could. We put our stories in it. Please, enjoy it a lot.

Translated by @igot_markedby7

Interview and photos scans - @GGOONERR_

All rights reserved by HIGH CUT magazine and JYPE

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] haru ✿ hana vol.30 July 2015 issue - MY TYPE SELECTION: JB

MY TYPE SELECTION

~ I will tell you all about my liking!! ~

JB

ジェイビ 1994/1/6

"I want to show my affection to my girl in an upright way."

1. What would you do if you went into a haunted house with a girl?

(✔️) Get frightened together

( ) Try to act like not scared at all

➡︎ Even if I'm not scared at all, I still want to pretend to be frightened and get noisily excited with her.

2. What food do you want your parner to bring to you on a date?

( ) Norimaki (rice crackers wrapped in roasted seaweed)

(✔️) Sandwiches

➡︎ It seems troublesome to make Norimaki. I just want something that doesn't take much of her time.

3. What would you do if you saw a girl crying?

( ) Make her smile

(✔️) Silently comfort her

➡︎ If I insist on making her smile, I may appear as an KY (Kuuki wo Yomenai - someone who is unable to read the situation) to her.

4. What is your action toward someone you like?

(✔️) Confess to her

( ) Make her confess to me

➡︎ I want to straightforwardly confess my honest feeling to her. There is no need to hide your affection away.

5. Your choice when the group has different suggestions for lunch menu?

(✔️) I will eat what I like

( ) Go along with others' opinions

➡︎ If the members can't reach the compromise on which to eat in the end, it's okay to eat what we personally like. But if we do, I'm pleased to go along with them.

6. Would you share your distress/problem with the members if you had one?

( ) I would talk with them

(✔️) I wouldn't

➡︎ I'm the type that deals with my own problems alone. I don't want to bother other members with my personal matters.

7. Which would you choose if you were going to have matching things with the members?

( ) Accessories

(✔️) Smartphone case

➡︎ I usually choose various accessories to wear according to my mood that day, so I think something that we can carry around is better!

8. What would be done if a member were late for an appointment?

( ) Batsu-game (game played as a form of punishment) such as forcing him to entertain us/make us pleased

(✔️) Having him buy us sweets/candy

➡︎ I would make him buy us sweets. Instead of letting him tamper us by doing aegyos or entertainment, I want to treat the wrongdoing properly.

9. What will you choose to do when all the members gather to play together?

(✔️) Sports

( ) Games

➡︎ It's good for building our teamwork, and good for our health too!

10. Which side do you want to be in surprise events between members?

(✔️) The one who prepares it

( ) The one who receives it

➡︎ I never received a surprise event before so I think preparing one would be easier.

11. Have you ever borrowed or lent other members clothes?

( ) Yes

(✔️) No

➡︎ Perhaps I don't have any chances to lend someone something.

12. What would you do on a date?

(✔️) Go to amusement park

( ) Go shopping

➡︎ I want to go there together!

13. Which would you choose if you were going to bring your date to watch a sport game?

( ) A soccer match

(✔️) A baseball match

➡︎ I know soccer is fun, but since I know nothing about baseball, I want to learn about its interesting side.

14. What do you prefer your partner to wear on a date?

(✔️) Dress

( ) Skinny jeans

➡︎ It's spring, so something pretty with cute vibe will be good in my opinion.

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] Urbanlike Magazine No.34 October 2016 issue - JJ PROJECT: Dear, Reader

Translated by GOT7jjai

Q There’s this strong impression of JB that he’s a leader who carries heavy responsibilities on his shoulders. Have you heard about this a lot?

JB I don’t think I can say that I can’t feel the responsibilities or burden as a leader. But now, before we also know it, it’s been 3 years for us. Each of us, to some extent, had accumulated experience, and so we’ve grown to believe we can do well on our own. Thanks to that, more than the start, I think I can let go of my burden.

Q. Also because the members have all somehow become more mature.

JB Exactly. Now if I want to say something or stop them from doing something, I think it’d be like nagging, so now if it’s not something that should be corrected when we gather up for a meeting, I wouldn’t say it.

Q It’s a relief that you’ve become more comfortable. To JB, I thought books would somehow be a breakthrough for your leader’s responsibilities and burden, wouldn’t it?

JB I think I read a lot of self-improvement books. I’m sure that it has helped me a lot with me being a leader. When you read self-improvement books, you’d think “I need to be careful in this situation”, and I can recognize it if it happens again. I also think I read analects quite well. Without me even knowing, I’m able to gain comfort from those kind of books, so I like them.

Q Have you ever looked for self-improvement books more about positions in the team?

JB I’ve read books deliberately on self-improvement in leadership’s cases. How to do it, am I able to become a little better at being a leader. I also thought that I wanted to live like a decent human. Even if I can’t live being formal every second, I want to keep a certain standard.

Q Anyhow, the position of a leader is difficult, isn’t it?

JB It was difficult at the beginning. I wanted the members to open up comfortably, and it’s been like so, but somehow I think from the “leader” position there’s the next limit. For example, there are times when you have to speak sternly, as a leader, but if that situation builds up, since when, the members would also conceal their weakness, or the bad parts of them that they don’t want to be seen. Then later on, when I came to know, I’d be like “If they were to be honest, I wouldn’t have said anything back then. Why did they hide it?”, I get upset thinking that the members were hiding. I think that kind of situation that can’t be helped is a bit difficult. But now I tell the members not to think of me as a leader, but a teammate. I think now all 7 people have shared the responsibility of the leader position.

Q Have JB-ssi enjoyed reading since you were young?

JB I used to just went straight to sleep when I read books. I was first immersed in books through fantasy novels. I couldn’t remember exactly what book, but I was somehow so concentrated that I drew out the world inside the book in my head. I think that’s how I came to find books interesting. There’s a hyung who danced with me enjoyed reading self-improvement books and analects, and as I read the books that hyung recommended me every once in a while, I naturally came to read books.

Q You came to pick up reading under the influence of someone, and now you’ve become someone to influence someone else to read books. We heard that the largest part of Jinyoung-ssi liking books was from JB-ssi.

JB Rather than recommending a book, I remember giving a hint to Jinyoung who didn’t read books like he does now, by saying “How about reading?”. I didn’t say anything but “Reading is really good. It helps a lot.” Jinyoung began to read one or two books. I think that him reading consistently until now is because he likes it himself.

Q Do you also usually talk to each other about books?

JB I recommend the books that I liked, and I as I say to Jinyoung “This book might be fun,” there are also some books that I gave him. Jinyoung is currently reading "The Big Picture" from Douglas Kennedy. Then we’d talk about it, right? “Up to where have you read? Then if you read a little bit more there’ll be this aggravating part.” (laughs)

Q I’ve also thought about GOT7’s image in the waiting room. You might have different ways to spend your own time, but how was time mostly spent?

JB If we go on music broadcast, we spend almost all of our day in the waiting room. If during the time we don’t do anything, time will go on meaninglessly, doesn’t it? That’d be a waste, also when we practiced singing while traveling. I’ve tried working on music. Among those, the most effective way to spend time was to read books. While reading books, if there was a good word, I’d write it down. I think that’s the simplest way too, to be able to make good use of time, so I mostly read books in the waiting room.

Q Anyhow, I think that because you’ve been together with Jinyoung-ssi since JJ Project, you’d have particular sentiment towards each other. Now you’re influencing each other in reading too.

JB That’s right. We don’t go that far to discuss about books, but sometimes we talk about the books each of us read from time to time. “I thought about it this way, but I guess Jinyoungie thinks that way.” When that kind of talk comes up, I think I get inspired. More than anything, the thing I learnt from Jinyoung, I think it’s him managing himself thoroughly. Looking at him not neglecting to manage himself, I feel the lead of my goal changing for sure.

Q What kind of book are you reading now?

JB I’m reading Alein de Botton’s "Essays in Love". I’m still at the early stage of the book so I’m still reading the part that’s overflowing with love. But it has sort of a difficult feeling. I started with saying I read a novel, but I have a feeling that I think I need to learn about words or expressions.Q: They say when reading books, if you look back at yourself you’d feel embarrassed. 

Q I’m curious when you ever felt that sentiment.

JB When I read self-improvement books, I think I’ve felt that. I don’t think people can be perfect, but when I can’t do something I already knew or there’s something I can’t do properly, I feel embarrassed on my own. I started reading self-improvement books and fix my weaknesses. Looking at the things I can’t carry on properly, I feel doubtful as of why I read these.

Q Even so, what’s your reason of reading?

JB I think I want to relieve my stress through reading. I also want to feel the story inside the books and its emotions. There are a lot of things that are similar to the cases in novels, aren’t there? When you put yourself in the shoes of some character, you’d feel the same emotions that character feels just through reading. The book "The Moment" (Douglas Kennedy) was like so. Set in Germany in the past, it’s about the tragic love of two people. As I reach the end of the book, without me even knowing, I was reading the book while crying. (laughs)

Q Who was a character in books that you’ve felt specially emotionally connected?

JB The story of the wandering teenager in "Kafka on the Shore" hit home to me. I didn’t want to wander around like the main character but some more time to myself to reflect on deep thoughts. All these days I think I couldn’t make efforts to get to know myself more, so I’ve always felt bad. Therefore, I think I could sympathize more with that.

Q Seems like you read a lot of novels lately. Is there a specific genre of book that you like?

JB I don’t nitpick about the book’s genre. But then there’s a book that evokes the feeling that “This might be difficult for me”. Judging from the fact that I can’t focus, I’d put that aside and read it when I can focus later. Now if I can read I focus on one book.

Q Do you have your own way of reading books? Before, you said to take notes of good words.

JB That’s right. When I read books, if I somehow read an influential line/paragraph, I read it while underlining it. This thing you can also sometimes see in a book, but if you read a book in some country, and that book is so good, they say to leave it behind so another person can also read it. Looking at it, I thought it was a very cool idea. If it were me, I think others might notice my emotions, so I don’t think I can do that. (laughs) Ah, there’s this thing too. At first, every book that I’ve read, I cut the last part of the bookmark I put in the book and tied them in a knot. That’s my personal sign that I’ve read them all.

Q That sounds interesting. Then what kind of method do you use for marking now?

JB I put my name down on the front cover of the book. I use my pen-name DefSoul though. I write down that name. And instead of using bookmarks I fold the books that I read. Then when I opened the book again I’d know, oh so I’ve read up till here. That way I’m able to know easily.

Q I know that you went to school in a theater department. Of course you write lyrics but Do you have any stories or scripts you’d like to try writing more?

JB I’ve tried coming up with scenarios through school assignments, but it’s really hard. While writing lyrics is from a particular situation, or the words you’d want to say to someone, scripts are about getting the big picture and from there, you have to write dialogues one by one. That is still not an easy thing. Instead, now I write down the emotions that I feel. I write down the date today, how I’ve been feeling today, what emotions I felt.

Q If you have a subject matter or story in mind, what would it be?

JB At school, I also made a film for a school assignment. A story that had a fantasy element. One day, when the main character was sleeping, he met his ideal type. He didn’t know for certain who that was, but he felt and remembered the silhouette. But when he opened his eyes, he felt the intuition that this person was somewhere in the real word and came to find the girl. In the movie that I made, I gave it a twist. In the end, the girl was the person that the main character killed, and the character fell into amnesia because of guilt. One day, he opened the closet to go on a date. That girl’s corpse was there. It was a 3-minute film so it ended shortly. That was the story.

Q I think you can make a full movie with that. (laughs) Lately, what has been on JB-ssi’s thought the most? Is it the comeback that’s coming up?

JB That’s right. This album had a lot of self-composed songs that the members wrote by ourselves. Among 13 tracks, 11 tracks were directly written by the members. I also took part in 3 songs. While making the songs, 2 were the tracks that I was writing while thinking they would suit GOT7. One track was more about the kind of music I wanted to do.

Q So that’s a song that’s more to your own taste. It’s your 2nd full album. Personally, and between the members, is there a new goal?

JB Although it’d be nice if we can also get first place this time to have the chance to grow more, I think I have no regrets about not caring about the rankings. While working on this album, we came to take in many opinions on the direction we want to head more to. Every time we make an album, I think that we want to grow more. I think that growth should not just be seen in numbers as a result, but what you want to relay as an artist. You concentrate while working and work with precision, then when you play you won’t be able to regret about playing. I want to be able to grow so that people would say “GOT7 are such diligent and cool artists!”.

Q Usually, when talking about this, is it JB-ssi’s turn to talk?

JB I’m actually just listening in the back. Jackson and Jinyoung would do the talking. I listen to what the kids are saying, and later on add on “In order to reach your goal, I think it’s better to do it this way.”

Q Such a natural leader. I think you’re very mature for your age.

JB I think that’s the only way. More than me being a leader, I think among all 7 people, there needs to be a person to organize like this, so I’m just taking that role.

“As time goes by, I read a book I’ve read once again. When time passes and you’ve gained more, you’ve changed a lot. I feel that each time. I’d have to keep reading incessantly.” - In JB’s interview

Translated by GOT7jjai

Scans by GGOONERR

[defdaily]

[TRANSLATION] Ceci Magazine January 2016 issue x JJ PROJECT

[INTERVIEW] JB & Jinyoung: Ceci January ‘16

“If it’s really a drama, whether it’s a happy ending, or a sad ending, whatever the ending might be it doesn’t matter because we are the drama that never ends. I think we have to continuously try to be happy when we do the job we like.”

- What’ve you been up to? You must’ve been extremely busy with the national <If You Do> promotions and the activities overseas. JB: After the “If You Do” promotion we went on an overseas fan meeting tour. We’ve been busy, but whenever we had time we would compose songs and practice.

- You probably didn’t have a time to take a breather this year too; will you get a break after the year end festivals? Junior: That’s our freedom. Our company gladly accepts our proposals, so if we want to have a bigger bite and work more, we do that, if we want to take a rest, we can. However, we think that now’s the time that GOT7 has to work hard, so I want to continue working. I don’t want to rest (laughs).

- Personally, I think that <If You Do> is a song that marks the turning point for GOT7. What are your thoughts on that? Junior: Rather than a turning point, it was a challenge that could display a different image for GOT7. The colours of the seven GOT7 members are too different to carry on with the same concept all of the time, so even if it’s not something like <If You Do>, I think we will become a group that challenges various concepts in the future.

- You placed 1st at a music program for the first time since your debut, too. Did you feel rewarded for your efforts so far? JB: I think it was a chance that allowed us to feel to a greater extent that our fans have worked together with us. It’s not something we do for the reward, but it did become a driving force that pushes us to work even harder further on. Just like when you get scolded all the time, and then get praised and you automatically work harder.

- JB, you are the centre of the team as its leader, and if you were to grade your performance for the last 2 years, what mark would you give yourself? JB: Hmm, I don’t think I did that well (laughs). I wasn’t even that bossy as a leader, and I didn’t really take the initiative and set an example (laughs). It’s because we have this atmosphere where the members fix everything together by talking about it, in case something happens.

- Junior, what are your thoughts on this? Junior: Actually, I’m not the one to judge, but I think he’s doing really great because the role of a leader is not something fancy, it’s a silent role.

- You’ve been together since JJ Project days, when do you help each other the most? JB: When I need a serious advice with my worries? It’s just that, the topic is not something personal; we talk more about the direction or the path that GOT7 needs to take in the future. It really helps a lot. Junior: When I get a lot of complicated thoughts. It’s been like this ever since JJ Project. It’s not like I share my worries intentionally, it sort of comes out naturally while talking. When that happens, it helps me to sort out things. JB: We don’t say “Let’s now talk about our worries.” When we talk it just turns into counseling.

- When do you think that you really match well? Junior: (Our) serious character? JB: Yes, that’s right. (laughs) Junior: Some time ago, I used to be noisy, but now I have calmed down. When I need to concentrate, hyung adjusts the atmosphere next to me so that I wouldn’t lose my focus.

- Now that I think of it, you two seem to be really gentle. The gentlest out of all the idols I’ve seen so far (laughs). JB: That’s why we have decided to lighten it up. Both of us. Especially, if we feel that the interview is getting heavier, we tell each other to go “lightly, lightly!” (laughs)

- Your serious disposition may also become your advantage. Aside from that, what is your biggest worry lately? Junior: The worry of how I should live through the cold in winter? JB: Even though we decided to tread lightly, this is too light. (laughs) Junior: I really can’t stand the cold, you know. Was it too light? JB: In my case, it’s “what should I do to become real?” Junior: Isn’t that too heavy? JB: Every group, and every member of a group has an individual colour, right? How do I express GOT7’s colour, and the colour of JB in all that? How does the colour that GOT7 expresses shines to the general public? Rather than constantly following the trend trying to look cool, I’m thinking how we can become the “real” GOT7.

- When you are in a group of men, you also end up fighting, right? How do you solve that? JB: We don’t exchange blows. We solve it by talking. Even though the conversation sounds like an argument (laughs). Junior: We sometimes open a 100-minute debate with the members. JB: If, for example, some members start fighting over something, then we all gather together in one place and talk it through. Junior: If I get into an argument with Jaebeom hyung, then Jackson would say “I think Jaebeom hyung is right,” and another member would go “I think Jinyoung hyung is right,” and like that we mediate everyone’s opinions. Rather than pointing out who did wrong, we reach positive conclusion by saying things like, you should try and correct this point, or you should try and understand where each of you comes from. (laughs)

- I read your previous interviews, both of you seem to like doing something on your own. Is it because you always spend your time surrounded by people? JB: Even if there are many people around, I like doing something on my own in the midst of all that. I have a cat character, so even if you pay no attention to me, I’m the type to do my thing in my own way. Once on my day off I went to a foot of a mountain, but when I found myself in a quiet place with no people I got so frustrated I couldn’t stay there. Junior: I’m the opposite. I enjoy contemplation on my own, read, watch a lot of movies. I watched “Secret Sunshine” yesterday.

- Indeed. I’ve found a lot of talk about books and movies in your previous interviews. Junior: I’m growing to like all things analogue. JB: It’s really nice to read a book on your own with your notebook playing some music at some café in Hongdae.

- Don’t you get recognized if you go to a café? JB: We’re not of that level yet. Junior: And Hongdae is simply far away. It’s okay. (laughs)

- Ey, aren’t you too humble? It’s been almost 2 years since your debut, where do you think GOT7 is at right now? JB: If we compare it to riding a subway, it’s like we’ve just validated our bus card. Junior: That would be the T-money card. Bus card is just for a bus, subway card is for subway. (laughs) JB: At the MAMA ceremony, in behind cut, Big Bang’s Taeyang senior said that he feels like after 10 years he’s finally little by little doing the stages he’s been dreaming about. I also dream big. That’s why now it feels like I’ve made one step forward. Just as he’s said, I’ve just validated my T-money card. (laughs)

- When do you feel the best during your activities? Junior: When I get lost in something when I focus a lot. When I don’t even remember what I was doing, I feel catharsis. JB: When I compose songs. I don’t think I can concentrate this much on anything else.

- These emotions become your driving force, right? Junior: Of course. The moment you think you can’t focus on something you like, you have to stop everything.

- Do you have a role model you look up to? Junior: My father. I think about him a lot lately. Actually, my father will have had it tens of times harder than me. Then I wonder how he managed to go through it without giving himself away to his family, how he looked after a disobedient kid like me for over 22 years.

- But you have an image of an obedient kid who doesn’t cause problems? Junior: That’s just on the outside. (laughs) I always get the feeling that my father is great. I want to be someone like my father. I will become a superman-like dad to my children in the future, too. JB: Before, I used to think a lot who I would want to look up to, but now it’s really hard to pinpoint just one person. The number of people I’ve met and got influenced by has grown, and each of them had different strengths.

- Another year has gone by. What was the year 2015 like? JB: We had a lot of opportunities to stand on stage as GOT7. Personally, it was a year of growth that allowed me to sing, compose, and mull over various thoughts.

- Then, what would you wish for GOT7 in the year 2016? Junior: I hope we get more opportunities to try something new. We always have a team meeting where we talk about what we would like to try doing next year as a team and individually. Starting with the things already planned, I hope this will be a year where we face new opportunities. For example, making an album on our own, or each of us nurturing our capabilities in individual activities and thus making the team grow even more. JB: Since I’ve decided to tread lightly, I’ll go lightly. I wish for a warm year. I wish the year 2016 were healthy and great year full of fighting spirit! (laughs)

- Finally, if you were to say a word to each other? Junior: Let’s really become lighter in the year to come! (laughs) JB: The same. Let’s try to become somewhat lighter. No need to become super light, but it’d be great to become a witty person. Junior: I don’t want to refer to anyone in particular, but when we look at the great artists we admire, whoever that person might be, there’s an optimistic side to them, I think.

- Optimistic people are good with generating interesting and original ideas. (laughs) JB: Actually, I’m an optimistic person, but when I start doing an interview, for some reason, I get too reverent. Junior: Probably because an interview is a type of a “chronicle.” (laughs)

Scans: Jr. RAM

Kor-Eng: Seven Cookies