From nostalgic documentary to chart-topping comeback - dive into K-Pop's most anticipated reunion in this exclusive interview.
In a seismic shift that's electrified the K-pop landscape, BANG YONGGUK, JUNG DAEHYUN, YOO YOUNGJAE, and Moon Jong Up—names that once dominated charts and ignited stages worldwide—are poised to reclaim their throne. B.A.P's journey has been nothing short of legendary, from their 2012 debut with "WARRIOR" to their heart-wrenching 2019 disbandment. After years of solo ventures and personal growth, these four powerhouses are again joining forces with a comeback set to redefine expectations.
Hopeful whispers of a potential reunion first stirred in June earlier this year when the 'Man on the Moon' documentary teaser unexpectedly dropped. While the members had been spotted together over the years, this gathering radiated a different energy, culminating in the teaser's final text, "TOGETHER WITH B.A.B.Y" - a phrase that hinted at something monumental, sending waves of anticipation worldwide. That hope erupted into euphoria just a week after the first episode aired, confirming what everyone had dared to dream - a reunion was unfolding.
This wasn't just a reunion but a renaissance years in the making. At the heart of this momentous comeback lies Moon Jong Up's unwavering dedication. For two years, Moon Jong Up quietly orchestrated this reunion, his unwavering resolve and behind-the-scenes efforts driving this extraordinary moment. His efforts have not only reunited four powerhouse performers but have also reignited a passionate fandom and sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the entire K-Pop industry.
Their EP, released on August 8th under the group name BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON, transcends the typical album release. "CURTAIN CALL" embodies a poignant tribute to their legacy, a celebration of their reunion, and a bold leap into uncharted territory. Crafted as the closing act of B.A.P's storied history, it offers "a beautiful farewell" to one chapter while dramatically raising the curtain on the next. From the return of their beloved MATOKI mascots to the emotion poured into every track, "CURTAIN CALL" promises to be a tour de force. This comeback is a testament to their enduring bond and artistic evolution, bridging their iconic past with an electrifying future. It has not only rekindled the passion of their fanbase but has also sent waves of excitement and hope surging through the industry, hinting at the dawn of a thrilling new era in K-Pop.
In an exclusive interview, BANG YONGGUK, JUNG DAEHYUN, YOO YOUNGJAE, and Moon Jong Up delve into the heart of their highly anticipated EP, "CURTAIN CALL." As BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON, these iconic artists offer an intimate look at the creative process behind this monumental comeback, sharing insights into their renewed chemistry and the emotions driving this new chapter in their careers.
Congratulations, BANG YONGGUK, JUNG DAEHYUN, YOO YOUNGJAE, and Moon Jong Up, on what we can only describe as one of the biggest moments in K-Pop history. What emotions are you experiencing as the release date of "CURTAIN CALL" approaches? Are they the same or different from any other album or project you’ve released?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: This album is really special. It was made possible thanks to the love and support of our fans, who have waited for a long time. We believe this is the moment that the dreams that we and our fans had for a long time have finally come true. Furthermore, we would like to thank M.A Entertainment, who helped us make this project happen. It is a very exciting moment.
Why now? After seven years, what made this the right moment for BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: We never intended to be away for seven years, but reuniting wasn’t as easy as we imagined. We've been living our own lives for a long time, searching for new dreams, and working in different spaces, so it has only now become possible. However, we believe it would have taken us even longer without the support of our fans.
Many people have referred to B.A.P as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time), citing your groundbreaking music, powerful performances, and lasting influence on the industry. How did this legacy shape your approach to CURTAIN CALL, and what elements of B.A.P's original spirit were most crucial to preserve and showcase?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: We think our previous concepts and performances were fitting for their time. Of course, that was our identity and foundation, but now we have the ability and skill to present better music and a variety of styles to showcase new music in a more advanced way. We are grateful that you remember us as a talented and cool group, and we believe that aspect will not change. We'll do our best to show what we've got and provide music that can give strength to our fans.
The MATOKIs have always been a beloved part of your identity as B.A.P. Why was it important to incorporate them into CURTAIN CALL?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: MATOKIs are another character that started with us and was loved by fans. We thought it would be a bigger gift for fans if we came back with MATOKIs, and it seems many fans really like them. MATOKIs are a cherished memory that connects us with our fans.
Once they've heard the whole album, what do you hope listeners will take away from CURTAIN CALL?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: We hope that the word farewell does not only evoke sadness. We believe that there is no such thing as a permanent ending, so we want to remind our fans that there will be no permanent separation between us. A brief farewell will make us look forward to our next meeting.
Can each of you share which song on the album is most meaningful to you personally and why?
BANG YONGGUK: I have put a lot of thought into every single one of them, and they are all very meaningful to me.
JUNG DAE HYUN: I listen to the song called “Love” most often. I like the lovely lyrics and the melody of the song.
YOO YOUNGJAE: “Way Back” is my favorite because I put a lot of thought into it while writing the lyrics.
Moon Jong Up: “Farewell.” I like the fast beat and the exciting melody.
[For BANG YONGGUK]: You've returned to your role as the group's leader for this final chapter while also producing the title track, "GONE." How has your approach to leadership evolved since B.A.P's early days? Can you share how the experience of producing for your members differs from producing for other artists, especially given the emotional moments we saw in the documentary as you watched them record?
BANG YONGGUK: I didn't find it difficult since I've worked with the members for a long time. They prepared well and are talented, so we made good songs. Like any other artist, I always strive to do my best to produce good music.
[For JUNG DAEHYUN]: In the "Man on the Moon" documentary, you courageously shared personal struggles you've never publicly discussed. What motivated you to open up, and how has this transparency affected your approach to music and your relationship with fans?
JUNG DAE HYUN: I wanted to break free from those heavy constraints. And now, I have the confidence that I can present good music in the future. I felt and gained a lot through this project. The worries that weighed heavily in my mind influenced all my activities in the past, and I have been trying to find a way to resolve them. I feel good that I can show a newly transformed version of myself.
[For YOO YOUNGJAE]: You jumped into this project almost immediately after your military discharge. How did this quick transition impact your perspective on your career and the group's reunion? Were there any challenges or unexpected benefits to rejoining the entertainment world so rapidly?
YOO YOUNGJAE: Since it was a moment I had been waiting for, I think I just did what I had to do. I prepared hard and focused everything on this project as soon as I finished my military service.
[For Moon Jong Up]: You've been credited as the driving force behind this reunion, persistently trying to make it happen over the past two years. What was the turning point that finally convinced everyone to make it happen? And now that it's happening in such a big way, how does the reality compare to what you envisioned?
Moon Jong Up: It wasn’t much different from what I had imagined. I thought that we could definitely create good music and performance when we came together. Since the other members were also waiting for a time when they could join, I think it was possible to start when I suggested that we do this.
Since the initial teaser for "Man on the moon" dropped, fans have likened this entire comeback experience to an extended Christmas celebration. Did you anticipate sparking such overwhelming joy and enthusiasm?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: We were very surprised at first. More fans welcomed us than we had expected, and thanks to that anticipation, we were motivated to work harder. We are truly grateful.
What was the most surprising aspect of working together again that viewers might not have seen in the "Man on the moon" documentary?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: There wasn’t anything particularly surprising. Everyone still loves music and continuously works hard to improve. Nevertheless, we were able to see even more skilled and improved versions of each other compared to the past.
Looking back at your journey from "WARRIOR" to "GONE," what are you most proud of?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: Just the fact that we were B.A.P. makes us very proud. The fact that we worked hard and did our best in our respective paths up to now has been the biggest driving force that made this project possible.
What would you say if you could go back and give advice to your 2012 self when B.A.P. debuted? What would you tell your 2017 self?
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: (2012) Do your best to the best of your ability.
BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON: (2017) Continue to do your best and work hard.
Listen to their discography on Spotify or Apple Music.
Follow the members on social media: BANG YONGGUK IG, BANG YONGGUK X, JUNG DAEHYUN IG, JUNG DAEHYUN X, YOO YOUNGJAE IG, YOO YOUNGJAE X, Moon Jong Up IG, Moon Jong Up X.
*Special thanks to BANG YONGGUK, JUNG DAEHYUN, YOO YOUNGJAE, Moon Jong Up, and M.A Entertainment for this exclusive interview.
Image and Video Credits: M.A Entertainment
MATOKIs courtesy of Leeko J.