Get ready to be dazzled by the multi-talented sensation that is Moon Jong Up in this exclusive interview.
Hailing from South Korea, Moon Jong Up is not just a singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor – he's a force of nature. In January 2012, he burst onto the scene as part of the legendary K-Pop boy group B.A.P, stealing hearts with his killer vocals, smooth dance moves, and alluring visuals.
Skip ahead to May 2020, when Moon Jong Up fearlessly embarked on a solo journey, treating us to the enchanting beats of his debut single, "Headache." By July 2021, he not only delighted fans with his debut mini-album, Us, but he boldly declared it as the commencement of his authentic musical journey. For him, Us wasn't just an album; he poured himself into it, taking a hands-on approach in nearly every aspect to show his colors as a solo artist.
As if that wasn't impressive enough, earlier this year, he set the K-Pop scene by becoming part of Team 24:00 on JTBC’s globally adored show, Peak Time. He didn't just participate – he soared. Not only did he clinch first place in the global individual vote, but he also played a pivotal role in securing his team's impressive third-place finish overall. Moon Jong Up isn't just a performer; he is a force to be reckoned with, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.
Moon Jong Up recently made a triumphant comeback by revealing his highly-anticipated second mini-album, SOME, on October 30, 2023. This return signifies a substantial leap forward since his Us release in 2021. With a captivating collection of five fresh tracks, SOME embodies Moon Jong Up’s distinct musical style. But this album is more than just songs; it's a testament to Moon Jong Up's evolution, not just as an artist but as an individual over the past decade.
To commemorate the release of SOME, I caught up with Moon Jong Up to go behind the music, discussing the album, his participation in Peak Time, his evolution as an artist, and more. Prepare to be mesmerized by the multifaceted brilliance of Moon Jong Up as we dive into his captivating world below.
Hello, Moon Jong Up! Congratulations on your second mini album, SOME. Please introduce yourself.
Moon Jong Up: Hello, global fans. I am a solo artist, Moon Jong Up.
What is the significance of the title "SOME," and how does it tie into the overall narrative of the album?
Moon Jong Up: The title of this mini album, SOME, is an anagram of the title song and the B-side tracks from this album.
1. S is from the "S" in "Stuck."
2. O is from the "O" in "X.O.X."
3. M is from the "M" in "Common."
4. and finally, E is from the "E" in the last song, "Fine."
Touching on the word "Some." International fans know "Some" can mean various things. How would you define it in your own words?
Moon Jong Up: The title has a meaning of "small amount" (or partial) from the definition of "SOME." It means that "I will show you a small amount of my charms with this mini album. I have more to show, almost infinitely, and please keep your eyes on me and look forward to my future."
The album SOME suggests intriguing possibilities. Could you share any interesting stories or experiences related to the making of this album? What message or feelings do you hope to convey to your fans through this album?
Moon Jong Up: By trying various genres of music in this album, I want to show different sides of me and my charms in the future.
What song or songs are especially meaningful to you in this album?
Moon Jong Up: This second mini album title song, "X.O.X," is special to me. Because I believe it is the song that can depict me the best with its sexy and dreamy vibes.
Do you have any memorable moments or stories from this comeback that have had a profound impact on you?
Moon Jong Up: The music video director who I worked with for my first mini-album, Us, joined me again this time. We had tons of meetings to talk about how to film the performances. I also remember that the music director participated in the editing of the music video.
Tell us about your participation in TEAM 24:00 on Peak Time. What was the most memorable part of performing with your team during the show's various performances and concert tours?
Moon Jong Up: I remember the fans singing along to the fan song at the end of my tour concert the most.
Peak Time was a huge topic of discussion among K-Pop fans across the globe, notably your participation in Dance Team C’s performance of "BAD." What do you think made that performance stand out and go viral?
Moon Jong Up: Participating in Peak Time awakened my competitive spirit and allowed me to step up to the challenges. I think performing "BAD" with Dance Team C helped me to find who I really was and for the public to recognize me.
You’ve been performing for over a decade. Is there a specific song’s lyrics or choreography that you can never forget?
Moon Jong Up: I think it is the lyrics and choreography of Us from my last album. When it comes to lyrics, I am more attached to it since I wrote it myself.
Let's switch things up a bit. If you had to describe your music and dance style using only emojis, which emoji would you choose?
Moon Jong Up: 🌈
If you could create a music video where you get to be the director, choreographer, and lead, what kind of music video would you make?
Moon Jong Up: I would love to portray the ups and downs of my life.
Singing and dancing both require a lot of physical energy. How do you stay fit and energized for your performances?
Moon Jong Up: Although it is physically overwhelming to perform on stage, I get strength from the fans who are chanting for me.
We all have those guilty pleasure songs we can't help but sing along to or dance to in the privacy of our own space. What's your ultimate guilty pleasure song that you love?
Moon Jong Up: "Butter-Fly" from Digimon Adventure
Looking ahead, what are your short-term and long-term goals and aspirations for your solo career?
Moon Jong Up: In the short term, I hope that many people will like my new solo album, SOME, and I also hope I’ll be able to wrap up the promotions successfully. In the long term, I want to be remembered by many people, and I hope to get a chance to attend international award shows.
Lastly, please leave a message to your fans reading this.
Moon Jong Up: I would like to thank my fans, MOONW4LK, for waiting such a long time. Please look forward to this album promotion! Love you, and thank you!
Listen to his discography on Spotify.
*Special thanks to Moon Jong Up and MA Entertainment for this exclusive interview.
Image and Video Credits: MA Entertainment