Junkay of the group 2PM revealed plans for group activities of 2PM.
Recently, Junkay conducted a commemorative interview for the release of the mini album 'Dear My Muse' at a café in Gangnam, Seoul, discussing the new album.
Having been with JYP for 21 years, Junkay, who also holds the position of external cooperation director, said, "I am grateful to be here. The company I have seen is honest and fair."
He continued, "When I came in, there were only three employees left from then. Now there are 700 people in the company. While watching the company grow, I have seen many instances of hitting walls while creating systems in between. The executives, including Chin Young who created this, are amazing, but I also thought it was great to see the employees being proud of working at the company. It's not an easy task, but seeing that, I felt that the company is indeed growing well, and I hope the fans who like me can also feel proud of me. In that sense, I am continuously learning."
With several junior idol groups entering the global market and achieving good results after 2PM, he noted, "It seems that rather than us paving the way, it was paved by seniors before us. I think everyone has worked hard, which has led to further globalization, but the most concerning aspect is that seeing friends in this line of work makes me feel that we are in a profession that is viewed through people's judgments, which brings a sense of responsibility but also concerns about mental health. I have also been swayed at times and nearly lost my sanity, so I believe there must be ways to manage this."
Junkay has also struggled with insomnia, but now maintains a routine as a weapon. He advised, "I became interested in my health and managed to get my mental state in order by living according to a routine. I hope the juniors are taking care of their health as they go to numerous places. Being in crowded places and suddenly feeling emptiness when alone can cause instability, so I hope they find something they can overcome with."
Debuting in 2008, 2PM has now entered its 17th year. Junkay mentioned regarding the group activities of 2PM, "Nothing has been decided yet, but we met recently and discussed that something needs to be done, and we talked about how to do it well. We have a strong desire to meet as soon as possible."
Regarding the members of 2PM currently moving to various agencies and working as actors and solo artists, he expressed, "I think it's each person's choice, so I respect it. We have worked for a long time and clearly know that it's not about abandoning 2PM. Since it's a challenge and choice in their lives, I respect it."
When asked about the secret to 2PM's longevity, he said, "It's embarrassing to say we have been long-lasting since it has been a while since we have been active. First of all, the members are good and kind people. They are really good people. We are not chasing any activities in a business-like manner as 2PM. If we had been business-oriented, I think we could have done more, but we are purely talking about how to do well for 2PM and the fans. Everyone has that mindset, and when I was talking with the members last time, I thought they have broad and wonderful hearts. We promise to brainstorm so we can meet as soon as possible."
Junkay, who is also celebrating his 10th year as a solo artist this year, stated, "Since my work is something that remains, I don't want to regret it, so I did my best. I have to be cold and objective about the products I create with the best I can currently do so that I won't regret it. Of course, there are parts I regret when I listen to the album from 2016, but I am not ashamed of it. I hope this album, too, will have parts I regret when I listen to it in 10 years, but I hope it won't be an album I feel ashamed of. I would be very grateful if more people listen to it."
Finally, he said, "Honestly, my future depends on my own efforts, but I want to keep a very positive mindset and steadily continue what I can do from where I am. My dream is to become a person who can make this kind of music in 10 or 20 years. That would make me the happiest."
[Photo] JYP Entertainment
[OSEN]