Calling all #SoundLovers, #24U, and #KISSU fans! Get ready to meet an incredible artist who is taking the U.S. by storm after wrapping up the exciting 'Series of Events' Tour!
Join us in welcoming KISU as he shines bright not only as a member of 4K but also as part of the dynamic group 24K, and now as a solo artist on his own journey!
K Fuse: Hello, KISU! First and foremost, we want to take a moment to say thank you for joining us, taking the time to talk with us, and sharing your story with our readers. For some of our readers, they may be meeting you for the first time, and we like to introduce artists to our readers, an introduction and some fun questions before we get into the more serious questions.
K Fuse: Next, we have a few icebreaker questions of this or that:
Sexy Concept or Cute Concept
Sexy Concept
Beach or Mountains
Beach
Stay Home or Adventure
Adventure
Recording Sessions or Live Performances
Live Performances
K Fuse: Thank you for that short insight to who you are! Now, it’s time for the more serious question. KISU, you are no stranger to the music scene, so let’s talk about your start in music.
K Fuse: Who / What inspired you to pursue music as a career?
KISU: From a young age, my dream was to become an elementary school teacher. I dedicated myself to my studies and consistently achieved good grades. However, everything changed during middle school when I went to karaoke with my friends. Singing had always been a passion of mine, but it wasn't until that night that I truly realized its potential. My friends were amazed by my voice and praised me for my talent. Their encouragement sparked a shift in my focus; I began to immerse myself in music and nurtured my desire to become a singer.
K Fuse: How did you get started in the entertainment industry?
KISU: At first, my dream was simply to become a ballad singer, and I had no interest in being an idol. During high school, I participated in a singing competition organized by the government with a classmate, and we achieved excellent results, making me quite well-known at school. I went on to enroll in a practical music program and was actively pursuing music. However, I learned that my friend, Jisook, who had participated in the competition with me, was going to debut as an idol in the group Rainbow. Watching her debut made me reflect on my own path; I realized that while I had been saying I wanted to be a great musician or ballad singer, I hadn’t been putting in the necessary effort. Determined to become an idol, I auditioned and got accepted into a company. When I first joined, I practiced with EXID (before their debut). My work hours were from 1 PM to 5 AM, which were incredibly tough and exhausting. After about a year and a half of trainee life, I decided to leave the company after much contemplation. I intended to return to pursuing a career as a ballad singer, but I ended up spending a lot of time having fun to make up for the time I hadn’t been able to enjoy. During this period, my father became critically ill, and I was told he might pass away in the hospital. I prayed fervently, promising that if he recovered, I would definitely become an idol again. Miraculously, my father did recover and was discharged from the hospital. Following that, I auditioned again and ended up joining the company that produced 24K, debuting as a member of the group.
K Fuse: Going from performing with a group to performing as a solo artist, was there anything that you discovered about yourself through this process?
KISU: I often felt very discouraged during my time in the group. This was because the company didn't like my singing and continuously pressured me, which really affected my confidence. The self-assured version of me that existed before my debut became much more withdrawn while I was active with 24K. However, after transitioning to a solo artist, I was able to regain the part of myself I had lost, and now I truly love being on stage.
K Fuse: How do you feel that you have personally grown over the years as an artist?
KISU: I am growing every year. My voice becomes stronger, and I continue to add more details. I find it amazing how I keep growing. I believe this is largely due to the love and support I receive from my many fans.
K Fuse: You have participated in the Writing and Composition of several tracks. Which has been your favorite? Why?
KISU: "KISS U" is the most meaningful to me. I composed it with a lot of love for my fans. The song reflects the name of my fandom and the affection I have for them.
K Fuse: Can you tell us about your creative process when writing lyrics and composing tracks?
KISU: I write songs based on my experiences. I draw from the things I've lived through. For example, there was a time when I felt overwhelmed, so I went to the beach alone. Watching the waves crash reminded me of my own emotions; the nearby waves were tumultuous, while the distant sea looked so calm and peaceful. This inspired me to realize that the worries and concerns I face now will seem insignificant over time. I incorporated this insight into the lyrics of my song "Waves of You."
K Fuse: Are there any genres that you would like to explore in your next release?
KISU: I feel that I need more energetic songs, so I'm trying to incorporate EDM elements into my music.
K Fuse: Which track has been your favorite to create? Why?
KISU: I had the most fun creating "cheeseburger" because it's a fun song. I imagined my fans enjoying it while I was making it.
K Fuse: It has been announced that you will be performing in Alabama. What can fans expect from this performance? (questions approved prior to interview)
KISU: I have already performed in Alabama, and it was such a joyful time with the fans. I would love to meet them again.
Just some fun things:
K Fuse: Some of our readers may not know, but you carry the self-chosen nickname ‘Han Seok-Bong’ because of your calligraphy skills. Could we see some of your calligraphy?
KISU: I designed most of the album logos for 24K, and I think people would enjoy seeing them.
K Fuse: If we asked you to pick a member that you were closest with in 24K, who would it be and why?
KISU: I consider Changseon, who is currently active with TAN, to be one of my closest members because he was my roommate during our overseas performances. In fact, I'm close with all the members, and I miss them.
K Fuse: Can you share any TMI with our readers?
KISU: I had Korean food in the U.S., but it wasn't tasty. In fact, I found the American food to be much better. You all will be amazed by Korean food when you come to Korea, so hurry up and come right now!
K Fuse: If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be? Why?
KISU: While on my U.S. tour, I happened to listen to a song by the musician "MVSE" in the car. I really liked the track and sent him a DM expressing my desire to collaborate. I hope that collaboration will come to fruition!
K Fuse: Before we wrap up, is there a message that you would like to leave for your fans and our readers?
KISU: I was so happy to meet my loving fans in the U.S. I really want to meet all the fans I couldn't connect with as well. During my recent trip to the U.S., I experienced so much. I felt motivated to work harder on my music, and I also realized that the U.S. isn’t as far away as I thought. Even if the distance is great, our hearts are always close. I promise to come back to meet you next year, so please wait for me. I love you!
K Fuse: Again, we want to thank you for your time and sharing your story with our readers. We are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for you!
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