Singer-songwriter Ahn Yea-eun presents primal fear.
Ahn Yea-eun will release her digital single 'Jibak (地縛)' today, at 6 p.m., once again driving away the summer heat.
Ahn Yea-eun has been showcasing her unique storytelling through works like 'Nengsohwa,' 'Changgui,' 'Jwi (RATvolution),' 'Hongryeon,' and 'Gaui' since 2020, under the concept of 'a cool summer special that you listen to.'
'Jibak (地縛)' is also a song in which Ahn Yea-eun participated in the lyrics, composition, and arrangement, and she directly took part in the adaptation of the Japanese version, enhancing its completeness.
The following is a Q&A with Ahn Yea-eun ahead of the release of 'Jibak (地縛).'
Q. It's now time for the sixth summer special series. Please give a brief introduction to the song 'Jibak (地縛).'
A. The ghost that is the theme of this song is the 'Jibak-ryeong.' The very idea of a being that has a strong attachment to a particular place felt intriguing, and I wrote the song from the perspective of the Jibak-ryeong, who has been invaded by others.
Q. With the intention of creating horror through sound, I release the summer special series every year. I'm curious if there are any specific parts you focused on while working on this song.
A. Many listeners have felt a thrill from aspects that I wasn't even aware of in the summer specials released from 'Nengsohwa' to 'Hongryeon.' This is because, when looking at the roots of Korean ghost faith, there is a connection to socially marginalized groups becoming ghosts, and I think I have provided catharsis to the listeners in that I served as their speaker.
I have a strong desire to continue this summer special series for as long as possible. Rather than telling the stories of Korean ghosts in different styles each year, I focused more on the original intention of 'creating horror through sound' that I attempted in last year's summer special 'Gaui' while creating this song.
Q. The Japanese version of 'Jibak (地縛)', in which you participated in the adaptation, will also be released. Is there a reason you decided to include a Japanese version for the first time?
A. I am a lyricist who often uses metaphors and similes, so I put a lot of thought into creating adaptations of the songs presented at my concert in Japan last October, and my Japanese teacher also worked hard with me on this. The lyrics of this song have a more concise narrative aspect compared to the songs I usually produce, so I thought it would be possible to try the adaptation. I hope it becomes a good challenge.
Q. Designer Moon Joon-soo, who you collaborated with on 'Changgui,' is also involved in the music video for 'Jibak (地縛)' and receiving good responses from fans. What would you say are the key points to watch?
A. When I first requested a collaboration with designer Moon Joon-soo, I received a reply saying, "I'm so excited to draw a ghost!" This gave me a strong belief that 'he will work joyfully on this project.' Since he produced an incredible work for 'Changgui,' I thought, 'He would surely create another remarkable piece that fits well with the music.' Rather than focusing on any one point, I hope you will enjoy the overall atmosphere.
Q. The summer special series, including 'Changgui,' 'Jwi (RATvolution),' 'Hongryeon,' and 'Gaui,' is receiving great love. Please say something to the listeners who have been waiting for 'Ahn Yea-eun's summer.'
A. The summer special series is the work I enjoy the most throughout the year, and therefore I have a strong desire to carry it on for as long as possible. I think it will be the result of countless reflections every summer. I would appreciate it if you enjoy it in its own unique flavor. I wish everyone a healthy summer, and thank you always.
[Photo] RBW, DSP Media provided.
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