Soo-hyun of the group U-KISS expressed unwavering affection for the members of U-KISS.
Soo-hyun recently held an interview at a café in Gangnam, Seoul, to commemorate the release of his first single album 'I Am' and shared stories about the new song.
Soo-hyun debuted with U-KISS in 2008 and gained popularity with hits like 'Manmanhani,' '0330,' 'Sikkeure!!,' and 'Neverland.' However, after frequent member changes and a focus on overseas activities, progress slowed down. In 2020, Soo-hyun appeared on 'Civilization Express,' generating hot topics and earning the nickname 'Soo-hyun OPPA,' marking another peak in his career.
Buoyed by this, U-KISS, led by Soo-hyun, reunited some members and engaged in activities over the past three years. However, following the expiration of their contract with the agency last December, they each went their separate ways.
After that, Soo-hyun embarked on a solo career under a new agency, announcing a fresh start by changing his stage name to his real name, Shin Soo-hyun.
He explained the reason for changing his stage name, saying, "In fact, I have released solo songs and albums during my U-KISS activities in Korea, but this time I wanted to show my true self as Shin Soo-hyun. Many people know Soo-hyun from U-KISS, but I want to show that Shin Soo-hyun is a different person, so I decided to change my stage name. I wanted to showcase more of Shin Soo-hyun's songs and performances, rather than just U-KISS's."
Taking on new challenges as a solo artist, he stated, "U-KISS worked together under the agency for about three years, and the contract ended last December. We talked among the members, and several opinions were shared, ultimately deciding that we should all follow our own paths. I was very anxious and doubtful about how to proceed. I thought it might be difficult to showcase my new music to the public, but meeting this company, they listened to my story, and that's how I ended up here."
After the contract ended, Soo-hyun expressed his feelings on social media, posting an apology as the team leader. He said, "I tend to be strict with myself and place a lot of blame on myself. I have always dreamed of more U-KISS activities, but the reality didn't allow that, leading me to think that if I had done better or been more talented. I felt a sense of regret for not carrying the name U-KISS until the end. As I have been the leader and was there from the beginning to the end, I felt sorry for not being able to protect it. If a good opportunity arises, I would love to show new music and performances with the members."
He revealed that he still has a good relationship with the members, saying, "Actually, my album was released on my birthday, and all the members congratulated me. I haven't shared the title track with them yet. It feels like awaiting a homework check. The members are quite honest about their feedback, which makes me nervous. (laughs) We have a group chat and communicate personally a lot as well. I hope everything goes well for the members."
When asked about his activities over the past three years as U-KISS, he said, "The first thought that came to mind was that so many people still recognize U-KISS. I was surprised to find that more people are familiar with U-KISS's songs than I expected, and I had a lot of fun during our activities. They cheered a lot for our reunion, and the members who returned after a long time were amazed and enjoyed each reaction we received. That support motivated us greatly."
Now in his 17th year since debut, Soo-hyun reflected, "What I've gained during this time has been the members. I've been with these friends for so long, and there are ten of us. They're good friends, and now we're all like family. There are some friends I haven't been in touch with, but just having met the members and being active as U-KISS feels like a great gain. I'm grateful for even having one hit song, and surprisingly, many people still enjoy various songs. I still listen to U-KISS songs quite a lot."
He expressed a desire to return to his debut days, saying, "If I could go back, I would tell the members about our current situation. I would encourage us to work a bit harder despite any struggles. That's something I regret a bit. Of course, everyone worked hard, but when looking back, there are always regrets. I think I would tell the members to push a little more."
He also remarked, "All my feelings involved in U-KISS activities are still there. I've experienced hardships, sadness, and joy; we hugged and cried together, and there were times we felt hungry. Just hearing the name U-KISS makes me choke up. I also feel sorry for the current situation, but on the other hand, I have many happy memories, so I have a mix of emotions. The group U-KISS has had many member changes and departures, but I'm thankful for the many supporters who continue to cheer for us."
He added, "After 17 years, I really feel the passage of time. I especially felt this recently during music broadcasts. There are many new groups today, and I'm so envious. Back in my day, we would perform with such ease, but watching the rehearsals makes me nostalgic. It's during those times that I really feel it. Since I am now standing solo, I have returned with the mindset of a rookie, determined to do everything I can."
Finally, regarding his goals as solo Shin Soo-hyun, he stated, "Musically, there are many genres within rock sound, so my goal is to showcase various aspects of that. In the long term, I haven't performed much domestically, and I have a lot of dreams about stages in Korea. Regardless of the size of the stage, I want to perform a lot and show what I can do. My long-term goal seems to be leaving a good impression as a singer with live performances, where people would say, 'He sings well, more than I expected.'"
[Photo] NewBoat
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