Formerly known as JR of NU’EST, Kim Jonghyeon talks finding inspiration for his music in the everyday and how he seamlessly integrates into idol dramas

TheReviewGeek Celebrates Lunar New Year with a salute to K-pop and this exclusive interview with global K-pop star Kim Jonghyeon

Having recently launched mini-album Brilliant Seasons and performed single New Season live on Korean music program Show Champion this week, Kim Jonghyeon, formerly known as JR of NU’EST celebrates everything fresh and glittering as he fully embraces a solo career with high hopes for a ‘brilliant end.’ That’s his motto. In an exclusive Lunar New Year interview, he talks about his album, recent dramas and hopes for the future, endlessly thanking the fans who have stuck with him into his new iteration. Also, check out our full Q&A in both Korean and English. 

SPARKLING

Having launched under his own name in 2022, he christened his global fan club ‘&U.’ And during the recent December holidays, treated them to a special private ‘Sparkling Eternity’ concert in advance of the six-track album released to much love and a huge message board of well wishes. There’s clearly a symbiotic relationship.

“At the fan concert in December, spending time interacting with my enthusiastic fans was truly special. Having the unwavering support of &U, who cheer for me in every aspect, is something for which I’m eternally grateful. It’s a unique and wonderful experience to feel the collective support as a solo artist. Moving forward, my goal is to continue growing as an artist and sharing more memorable moments with &U.”

The two-hour event featured new music plus 45 minutes of talking to fans and fulfilling their wishes. He notes the challenges in transitioning to holding court as a solo artist. “The most noticeable difference is filling the stage. While I used to share the space along with my members, now I must fill it on my own. It does come with a bit more pressure, but the support from &U helps me overcome that and enjoy my activities. …I’m excited about what I can showcase in the future as Kim Jonghyeon.”

Kim Jonghyeon photo provided by Evermore Entertainment

Who knows, now that every appearance is his own, perhaps this is the year he rocks out live as well. In 2021, Kim was part of the main cast of Let Me Be Your Knight, a romance drama about a rock band whose lead singer is crumbling under the pressure of his role. Having played Lee Shin, Luna’s bass guitarist, he recalls, “While filming, I had the opportunity to learn to play and it was so much fun. …I did have thoughts about playing live on stage.”

FINDING INSPIRATION

As that could be just my wishful thinking and he admits he likes to joke around off-camera, we turn to the new mini-album where he’s credited as song writer on several tunes. “I typically find inspiration in ordinary, everyday life. However, for this album, Brilliant Seasons, my goal was not just to write based on personal inspiration but to create songs to which a broader audience could relate.”

It’s a clear invitation, perhaps a bid to take over the world with affirmation, as he delves into a few tracks such as first release, ‘MOTTO,’ (video above) demonstrating how he’s aligning himself to listeners’ potential struggles. “I want to deliver a positive message. Even though everything may not be good and great, as we move forward, our endings will eventually be brilliant. The lyrics of the title track ‘MOTTO’ capture this sentiment well, especially the line ‘Enjoy every minute and every second.’ I hope everyone can overcome their current difficulties and enjoy each moment to the fullest.”

With this title track in mind, one can’t help but wonder about the contentiously titled ‘I’m so dirty, How can I love you.’ He explains his thinking and that it was originally planned for 2022’s Meridiem. “I felt the need to refine it further, to perfect it. In that sense, it represents personal growth. Additionally, the song holds a special meaning as it expresses my gratitude and at the same time, an apologetic sentiment to &U, who consistently show me love and support.”

DRAMA, DRAMA

2023 was a year of spectacular growth and activity as, in addition to preparing for a second album and fan concert, he’s also acted in two K-dramas – the first since 2021 – including It Was Spring. The 8-episode story pits Kim against fellow idol Cha Sun Woo – Baro formerly of B1A4 – as they battle over the girl they both admire. “I reminisced a lot about my elementary and middle school days. It was a great experience, recalling those years that feel both distant and like it was just yesterday. Sun Woo and I had many such discussions.”

Meanwhile, his work on 2023 drama Sound Candy, included writing credits on the soundtrack in addition to a lead role. The drama is a fantasy romance where he plays an artist seeking peace and an opportunity to make amends for past sins. On playing an idol in a drama for the third time he notes, “It’s easy and familiar rather than a challenge. Since it touched on parts of my real-life experiences, I could seamlessly integrate them into the character.”

As a final message to fans, Kim once again extends his gratitude and a heartfelt promise. “To our entire global &U who always support from afar, thank you so much! Whenever a great opportunity arises, I’ll be there. Love you, our &U! May 2024 be filled with wonderful things. I will continue to grow in the future.”

 

---

Have you got words of encouragement for Kim Jonghyeon at this new stage of his career? Feel free to add them to the comments below. Click to read the Full Q&A in English & Korean. Click for more K-drama reviews and TRG interviews.

To support Kim Jonghyeon, you can follow his official Instagram account, click here.  To see his video message to TRG readers, click here.