ATEEZ Billboard Korea Artist Version Interview: Pictures & Covers

Whenever you take heed to ATEEZ’s music, watch their electrifying performances, and observe the depth of their rehearsals, you start to sense one thing deeper. Their belief in each other, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the trail that formed them as a workforce evoke a selected work: the 2010 documentary Stones in Exile. The movie paperwork the creation of Exile on Primary St., the seminal 1972 album by the legendary Rolling Stones. 

Seemingly because of the “pioneer” or “trailblazer” spirit embedded of their inventive imaginative and prescient. Their music unfolds in a uncooked, arid desert, a symbolic area teetering on anarchy, the place they weave tales of freedom, independence, self-awareness, and autonomy, charting a relentless journey towards these beliefs. Through the years, they’ve crafted an intricate self-narrative, and their evolution from boys to completely realized artists appears like a musical coming-of-age documentary in movement. The uncooked depth they bring about to the stage transcends mere efficiency, embodying a crystalline end result of their personal experiences, hard-fought introspection, and shared moments of wrestle and triumph, compressed and expressed with visceral energy.

Maybe that’s why I discover myself picturing their very own quiet sanctuary. It’s a modest retreat, removed from the relentless noise and tempo of the town—an area the place time slows simply sufficient to permit for reflection. Right here, they could leaf by means of well-loved books, place LPs with wealthy and diverse tones onto a turntable, and hear intently to the nice and cozy hum of classic gear. Generally they journey by means of the neighborhood on traditional bikes, feeling the wind graze their pores and skin. As twilight drapes the sky, they could sit collectively, buying and selling unhurried ideas as wisps of smoke curl into the air. Different days, they fish alone by a quiet river or share exercises that problem the physique whereas strengthening their bond. On sleepless nights, they collect for movies, closing the day with quiet laughter and a heat glass of milk in hand. On this imagined area, they discover their very own rhythm of emptying and refilling, restoring themselves within the quiet power of their connection. That is ATEEZ’s method: shifting ahead with burning depth, discovering calm within the pause, and lifting anchor as soon as once more with fearless resolve to fulfill the world head-on.

After I consider ATEEZ, the primary phrase that instantly involves thoughts is “depth.” Whether or not it’s in your music or your performances, there’s an unmistakable power—pushed, heartfelt, and all-in—that defines who you’re. What would you say is the core drive that fuels ATEEZ and fills all the pieces you do?

Hongjoong: What fills ATEEZ? Easy. It’s ATINY. All of us have our private targets, and naturally we have now targets as a gaggle, however on the finish of the day, the true drive behind all the pieces comes from ATINY. That “all-in” power individuals discuss after they describe us? It’s due to that. We all the time wanna present ATINY our greatest, placed on performances we could be happy with, and maintain delivering that uncooked ATEEZ vibe with out shedding what makes us, us. Every part begins from eager to make ATINY proud.

Seonghwa: I’d say the largest factor that fills ATEEZ is ardour. It’s that keenness that makes us wanna maintain leveling up our performances and push ourselves more durable. Whenever you’ve bought that form of fireplace, you naturally begin placing an increasing number of into each stage.

Yunho: For me, it’s love. I believe that’s the core. Whether or not it’s from ATINY, our households, or the individuals round us, all that love provides me and the members a lot power. Actually, I really feel like that’s the place our power and good vibes actually come from.

Yeosang: I’d say it’s the truth that the eight of us are all chasing the identical purpose—to maintain going increased. That shared mindset retains us tight. And naturally, we wouldn’t be right here with out ATINY, who all the time present up with love and assist. 

San: I believe all of it comes right down to being actual. I all the time step on stage prefer it is likely to be my final, and I believe that mindset helps me join with individuals in a real method. And truthfully, ATEEZ has obtained a lot love from ATINY. That love pushes us to go even more durable, as a result of we simply wanna give again all the pieces we’ve been given. 

Mingi: I believe it’s starvation. That drive to degree up, to do higher each time, is what makes our performances really feel so intense and full. It’s that craving to develop that basically fuels our “all-in” power on stage. 

Wooyoung: Actually, ATINY is the largest a part of it. However I’d additionally say our teamwork performs an enormous position. Nobody on this workforce ever half-asses something. Everybody’s all the time giving it their all, and I believe that’s what makes ATEEZ depart such a powerful impression.

Jongho: I believe the largest factor is the best way all eight of us deliver our personal distinctive vibes, and the way it all simply clicks collectively. That mix of various energies creates one thing highly effective. Plus, each member has their very own confidence and keenness, and I believe that’s what makes our presence really feel so sturdy on stage.

⁠They are saying true development usually comes not from including extra, however from letting go. In your individual journey, what have you ever needed to launch or unlearn with a view to develop? 

Hongjoong: For me, it was all about mindset. I needed to let go of the fixed strain to beat each little worry, doubt, and feeling of not being sufficient. As soon as I made area for extra optimistic ideas and power, that’s when actual development began to occur.

Seonghwa: I’ve been making an attempt to let go of my obsession with perfection. I used to get actually down if issues weren’t good, and even small errors would follow me all day. Now, I’m studying to be okay with issues not being flawless, so long as I gave it my all. 

Yunho: For me, it was about letting go of fear and all that anxiousness in regards to the future. I’ve realized that once I overthink, issues simply don’t go properly for me. 

Yeosang: I suppose I’ve let go of two issues—free time and physique fats. With our busy schedule, I undoubtedly have much less time for myself than I used to, however truthfully, I’m simply grateful I get to do what I like. As for the fats… I’ve been understanding and weight-reduction plan persistently to point out my greatest self, and yeah, it’s mainly gone now. (laughs) 

San: I believe it’s necessary to let go of strain. As an alternative of feeling like I’ve to be good or show one thing each time, I attempt to deal with exhibiting my true self. That mindset feels extra significant. So each time I’m on stage, I attempt to fill every second with actual, trustworthy power—not too heavy, not too gentle, simply pure sincerity. 

Mingi: I’ve realized it’s necessary to maintain my ideas and mindset gentle. Recently, I’ve been making an attempt to suppose extra merely and clear my head, and truthfully, it’s been serving to. Similar goes for music. You’ll be able to fill a monitor to the brim and make it really feel intense, however that doesn’t all the time make it memorable. I believe generally, leaving area is what makes that one second actually hit. So yeah, I attempt to keep conscious of that steadiness and make room for affect. 

Wooyoung: I’ve been making an attempt to cease evaluating myself to others. As an alternative, I deal with evaluating who I’m now to who I used to be earlier than. That method, I can see my very own development and maintain pushing ahead in a more healthy method.

Jongho: I attempted to not let greed get in the best way. What fills ATEEZ isn’t one particular person’s ambition—it’s the belief and respect we’ve constructed as a workforce. That’s what true “filling up” seems to be prefer to me. 

So what would you say was the inspiration for that sense of “filling up” or development?

Hongjoong: Actually, simply time spent practising and rising. Each time I discovered a bit area to breathe—mentally or emotionally—I attempted to fill it with effort and progress. 

Seonghwa: For me, it actually got here from inside. After I know I’ve labored laborious and may really feel happy with myself with none remorse, that’s once I really feel full. That form of self-assurance is what really strengthens me.

Yunho: Confidence. And like I mentioned earlier than, the love I’ve obtained gave me a deeper sense of self-worth. 

Yeosang: Spending my time properly. After I use my time meaningfully, even in small methods, I really feel good—like I’m constructing one thing actual. I’ve executed that thus far, and I plan to maintain doing it. 

San: Love. Severely. ATINY’s love fills me up each single day. It’s so large and so honest—I need to give all of it again, tenfold. 

Mingi: I really feel like we’re being stuffed by means of all types of experiences—whether or not it’s tradition, performances, or simply all the pieces we’re uncovered to. And past that, we’re additionally rising by means of belief, connection, and the values we construct with individuals round us.

Wooyoung: Undoubtedly the love from followers who imagine in me. It’s an enormous supply of power—and motivation. 

Jongho: For me, it’s our teamwork. We’re an enormous group, and that solely works as a result of everybody checks their ego. We’ve all the time centered on steadiness—making area for one another’s strengths. That concord, that unity… that’s what fills me probably the most.

The storytelling behind Billboard’s ATEEZ characteristic goals to seize moments of silence and stillness—time deliberately left empty to make room for the group’s voice. In different phrases, personal moments of relaxation and recharge. Do you’ve any private, peaceable rituals or shared downtime as a gaggle that assist you to reset? 

Hongjoong: After we’re on tour, we randomly get these little pockets of downtime that aren’t even deliberate. And truthfully, these chill moments—simply vibing with completely different combos of the members—find yourself being tremendous refreshing. I don’t even attempt to make it a factor, however by some means they all the time give me inspiration and assist me reset. 

Seonghwa: Each time I get the prospect, I attempt to do issues I often don’t have time for. I am going on walks, spend time alone, and simply benefit from the little issues in on a regular basis life. That’s how I recharge.

Yunho: For me, it’s all about peaceable journeys and snapping images of nature alongside the best way. Simply taking a look at these views helps me filter out all of the random ideas in my head and actually reset.

Yeosang: Figuring out is my go-to. It’s one of many few issues I can do at my very own tempo with out feeling rushed. I like that I can simply zone out and focus utterly on myself for a bit. 

San: I believe every of the members is fairly good at having fun with their very own alone time, and I’m undoubtedly the identical. I actually worth these quiet moments on my own. I take that point to mirror, recharge, and simply be totally current with myself. 

Mingi: Nothing too fancy, truthfully. I’m into chill issues like spa days or good meals—stuff that helps me unwind. So on my days off, I similar to to take it sluggish and benefit from the time. 

Wooyoung: Issues get tremendous busy, however I nonetheless make time to calm down each time I can. I believe all of us have our personal methods of unwinding, and that’s what helps us keep grounded and maintain going sturdy.

Jongho: We eat collectively loads and find time for simply the eight of us to hang around. It may appear small, however these little moments actually assist us keep tight as a workforce. (Laughs) I believe that’s why, even when our schedule will get tremendous packed and tiring, we don’t burn out simply. We get by means of it collectively. 

From pirates to anarchists to outlaws from Westerns, the characters in ATEEZ’s storytelling usually embody a daring spirit—difficult norms and stepping past the boundaries of conference. Do these recurring themes mirror the core values or motto of ATEEZ as a workforce?

Hongjoong: Yeah, for certain. Dropping sudden music at sudden instances, making an attempt out video kinds nobody noticed coming, and chasing targets that may appear unattainable—nobody instructed us to do it that method, however I believe it’s change into our shared mindset. Not only for the members, however for everybody on this journey with us. Actually, I really feel like ATINY is likely to be the identical. Shifting ahead, I wanna maintain being that regular captain who provides power and braveness to our followers, our workforce, and everybody who believes in us. 

Seonghwa: Whether or not it’s music, dance, or visuals, ATEEZ has all the time gone after daring and new concepts with out worry. I believe that fearless angle we present in actual life kinda mirrors the characters we deliver to life in our storytelling. 

Yunho: I believe that form of power actually suits ATEEZ as a gaggle, and it matches every of our particular person vibes too. 

Yeosang: Wanting again, I believe we had nothing to lose after we first debuted, so I wasn’t actually afraid of something. That mindset in all probability confirmed by means of as braveness and dedication. I used to be simply doing my greatest with what was given to me, so I’m actually grateful that individuals noticed it as one thing cool. 

San: I believe there’s undoubtedly a connection. When one thing feels unfair, I attempt to converse up and share my trustworthy opinion. That’s simply how I’m, and I’ll maintain being that method. I suppose that aspect of me naturally got here by means of extra. 

Mingi: I really feel like ATEEZ is the form of workforce that, if there’s a wall in entrance of us, we’ll discover a solution to break by means of it—it doesn’t matter what. Revolution-style. That’s form of our vibe. 

Wooyoung: I wouldn’t say it’s a direct connection, however I believe our stage presence, mixed with how expressive every member is, actually brings all the pieces collectively. That’s the place the synergy kicks in.

Jongho: Actually, the braveness and drive individuals see in us may’ve began out as boldness—or perhaps simply uncooked ardour. However I believe that’s what made ATEEZ really feel like a gaggle that prices ahead it doesn’t matter what, nearly like a set of pure willpower. Boldness and keenness aren’t that removed from braveness and dedication, proper? (Laughs) So yeah, I really feel like all of that naturally lined up with the storytelling we’ve constructed. 

Let’s take issues in a lighter route for a second. Have you ever ever had a second of justified revolt—a break from the norm that felt significant in its personal method? 

Hongjoong: It’s tremendous small, however generally I spend a very long time within the studio simply watching completely random, meaningless stuff. Like, zoning out or letting the algorithm take over and simply letting movies play within the background. That kinda appears like my model of revolt. However now that I give it some thought… I’m undecided there was ever an actual cause for it. (laughs) 

Seonghwa: Skipping night time research periods to go to the observe room as a substitute—that was in all probability my model of a bit revolt. 

Yunho: If we’re speaking gentle revolt, I’d say getting along with the members for a great meal. It may appear easy, however these moments really feel like a break from all the pieces—and truthfully, they’re tremendous therapeutic for me. 

Yeosang: There was this one time I swore I’d stick with my weight loss program it doesn’t matter what. After which… I went on an abroad journey and ate actually all the pieces. 

San: I really feel like for followers to actually really feel the sincerity from ATEEZ, we have to carry a mindset that lets us stand tall and proud. So I attempt to avoid something that feels off or not proper. Due to that, I don’t suppose I’ve had any actual “rebellious” moments to be trustworthy. (laughs) 

Mingi: I’ve all the time cherished listening to music, but when I needed to decide one second, it’d be going wild with associates at Coachella. Simply shedding ourselves within the music, dancing like loopy—it was the right mixture of revolt and therapeutic. 

Wooyoung: I wouldn’t actually name it a revolt, however there was a time once I performed lots of video games throughout my breaks. It truly helped me let off some steam and simply relax. 

Jongho: It may appear small, however again after we had been trainees, there have been undoubtedly moments after we simply needed to insurgent a bit. We’re solely human, ? In these instances, the eight of us would all the time stick collectively and discover little methods to recharge. 

Do the members participate in shaping the visible idea through the inventive course of? And what facet tends to spark probably the most dialogue or collaboration? 

Hongjoong: We’re all tremendous concerned in several components of the method. Every member has their very own method of expressing their id, no matter feels most pure to them. The issues we discuss probably the most fluctuate from individual to individual, however for me, I’m all the time fascinated about how far we are able to push a brand new idea, and tips on how to maintain the steadiness between the music, visuals, choreography—all the pieces. There’s nobody proper reply, so I attempt to keep open and actually take heed to everybody’s concepts. 

Seonghwa: We’re fairly concerned throughout the board—all the pieces from outfits to hair styling. All of us share our ideas and likewise attempt to actually hear to one another. On the finish of the day, what issues most is whether or not it suits the idea. That half by no means modifications. 

Yunho: Everybody has their very own take, however for me, I’m fairly vocal relating to shoot ideas and styling—particularly if it helps deliver out my vibe in the easiest way. 

Yeosang: When any of us has a selected visible idea in thoughts, we often discuss it by means of with the workforce and discover a good steadiness. Hair and outfits are the place a lot of the back-and-forth occurs, however we all the time strive to verify all the pieces suits properly and feels proper by means of open communication.

San: We discuss loads relating to visuals. Like with “Ice On My Enamel,” we had tons of convos about tips on how to actually deliver out that resistance or mafia vibe. I bear in mind discussing particulars just like the glasses, the pomade—all the pieces. I believe all that focus to element actually paid off, and I’m tremendous grateful to everybody who helped make it occur. 

Mingi: Our enter truly will get mirrored loads. Even from the starting stage, we’re all speaking and bouncing concepts round in regards to the idea and route we wanna take for every album. 

Wooyoung: I undoubtedly care loads in regards to the outfits. If I’ve a good suggestion, I’m fast to talk up and share it. 

Jongho: We’re fairly outspoken relating to all the pieces—ideas, music, choreography, you title it. There was even a time when one in every of our B-sides grew to become the title monitor as a result of we actually pushed for it. We’ve additionally labored carefully with the choreo workforce to tweak strikes that felt extra “us.” And it’s the identical with visuals. We be sure that it suits our vibe by means of lots of back-and-forth with the workforce.

⁠ATEEZ’s music is understood for mixing a variety of pop parts in simply the appropriate locations. Out of your perspective, what musical traits greatest seize what makes a track really feel really “ATEEZ”? 

Hongjoong: It form of shifts relying on the period. However one factor that stays fixed is that the “ATEEZ sound” actually comes from our voices and the way we specific ourselves. It doesn’t matter what style we’re making an attempt or how the track is structured, it’s our tone and supply that make it really feel like us. After we had been prepping for this Billboard collab, I listened by means of the album once more and thought, “Dang, that is so properly put collectively—it flows so easily begin to end.”

Seonghwa: For me, it’s all about newness. ATEEZ is all the time making an attempt out completely different genres and placing within the effort to make that freshness really feel like us. I believe what makes one thing really feel “ATEEZ” is how we take one thing new and switch it into our personal vibe. 

Yunho: I believe what makes one thing really feel like ATEEZ is how we play with dynamics—realizing when to push and when to tug again. 

Yeosang: What makes us really feel like ATEEZ is that we don’t field ourselves into one style. We’re all the time exploring completely different kinds to point out all sides of who we’re. And it’s not simply within the music—it’s in our performances too. 

San: It’s the boldness. We don’t shrink back from the unknown. As an alternative of repeating what’s secure, we push ahead with one thing new, and we do it the ATEEZ method—with no worry. 

Mingi: Actually, I’d say the combo of addictive tracks and highly effective choreography. That’s the essence of our stage id. 

Wooyoung: All of us have completely completely different vocal tones, so after we sing collectively, it creates this actually wealthy mixture of textures. I believe that distinction provides our songs lots of depth—and that’s an enormous a part of our sound. 

Jongho: One factor about ATEEZ is that we are able to tackle all types of genres and nonetheless make them really feel like us. We’re additionally a workforce that works laborious to interrupt the stereotype that “idols aren’t artists.” It doesn’t matter what form of music or type we strive, we would like individuals to acknowledge it as ATEEZ and know that we’re right here to problem these limits. 

ATEEZ has topped the Billboard 200 twice now. How has that form of international success influenced your musical selections or route shifting ahead?

Hongjoong: Actually, even now, we’re all the time trying two or three albums forward—similar to we did after we debuted. We don’t base our subsequent transfer on how the final one carried out. As an alternative, we’re all the time considering one step ahead. We’re tremendous grateful for all of the love and recognition we’ve obtained globally. That assist undoubtedly gave us extra confidence within the path we’re on. However whether or not it’s seven years in the past or at present, one factor hasn’t modified—we’re nonetheless centered on creating and sharing what solely ATEEZ can ship, irrespective of the place on the earth it’s heard or seen. 

Seonghwa: I believe it’s opened us as much as extra range. That form of success gave us room to develop. It helped us take the following step and made us pay extra consideration to completely different genres and kinds. 

Yunho: It boosted our confidence large time. We felt like, “Okay, we actually can strive broader ideas and bolder songs now.” And the truth that we’re getting a lot love from followers? Simply… grateful.

Yeosang: It’s undoubtedly been an enormous motivator. It reassures us that we’re heading in the right direction—that all the pieces we’re pouring into that is price it. That feeling comes straight from ATINY. We’re grateful day by day. 

San: We’ve been fortunate to obtain love from so many followers all over the world, and we by no means take that as a right. Due to that, I all the time attempt to discover new methods to specific our coronary heart and honesty—in each language we are able to. 

Mingi: It form of expanded the runway for us, ? World love gave us extra space to discover new style. 

Wooyoung: We’ve been blessed with a lot assist everywhere in the world. That pushes us to suppose even more durable about what sort of music might join with everybody. 

Jongho: It’s change into an enormous supply of power. Each time we strive one thing new or take a threat, that international love is behind us, cheering us on. So we’ll maintain going—no worry, simply ahead.

Did your Billboard success really feel like a supply of delight, or did it include a way of weight—as a brand new start line formed by public expectations and the following large purpose forward?

Hongjoong: Actually, I believe it’s a little bit of each. Our targets are nonetheless far forward and method increased, so the Billboard data are one thing we’re happy with, however they’re additionally a form of gas. They provide us and ATINY this shared power as we maintain shifting ahead collectively. I’m genuinely so grateful for that. 

Seonghwa: It’s undoubtedly one thing we’re happy with. However greater than that, I see it as a win for our followers. It’s not strain—it’s delight, shared with them. 

Yunho: I’d say it’s a beginning line, not one thing that weighs us down. It appears like a proud starting, not a heavy burden. 

Yeosang: It’s a combination. It makes me proud, in fact, however there’s additionally this quiet strain to do even higher for our followers subsequent time. However truthfully, that strain helps me develop—it’s gas, not worry.

San: I really feel each, too. It’s delight and strain, however not in a nasty method. I don’t get overwhelmed by it. We’ll maintain exhibiting up stronger, similar to we all the time have. 

Mingi: It’s a significant form of strain—a great weight to hold. It makes us need to develop and goal even increased. 

Wooyoung: Yeah, I’d say it’s each. One thing to be happy with, but additionally one thing that pushes us. It provides us actual momentum, and with that comes accountability, too.

Jongho: In our track “WONDERLAND,” there’s a line that claims, “To the start the place the top awaits.” That basically sums it up. Hitting a purpose like Billboard No.1 wasn’t the end line—it grew to become the beginning of a brand new chapter. We don’t see achievements as the top. For us, each large second is a reset, and we maintain going with that mindset. 

San as soon as mentioned, “It appears like if we simply take yet one more step ahead, much more will open up for us.” What does that sentiment imply to the workforce as an entire? 

Seonghwa: I hope that “yet one more step” all the time stays with us—as one thing that by no means totally will get solved. I don’t need us to ever attain a degree the place there’s nothing left forward. Even when we lose a little bit of that rookie mindset over time, I hope the eagerness by no means fades. That one step ought to all the time be there, pushing us ahead. I believe it’s the identical for anybody who’s achieved one thing nice.

Yeosang: I believe I get what meaning. It actually appears like if we are able to simply break by means of no matter this “factor” is, ATEEZ might degree up in a serious method. However truthfully, I don’t even know precisely what that factor is but. We’re nonetheless within the means of figuring it out. What I do know is that every one of us nonetheless have a lot ardour after we’re on stage. We’ve already damaged by means of a bunch of partitions. There have been even instances after we’d say stuff like, “We don’t know the way lengthy this can final, so let’s give it all the pieces we’ve bought whereas we are able to.” That mindset helped us push by means of loads. So now, even when there’s one other wall in entrance of us, I see it as one thing optimistic.

San: I truthfully suppose ATEEZ goes by means of rising pains proper now. That’s a part of why we all the time say, “We put all the pieces into each stage.” It’s all for greater development. There are undoubtedly instances when that “yet one more step” I discussed feels tremendous distant. However we maintain pushing, as a result of perhaps—simply perhaps—that emerald mine we’ve been chasing is correct across the nook. I believe that regular, quiet drive is one in every of ATEEZ’s actual strengths. 

Mingi: There’s undoubtedly a wall we’re making an attempt to climb and a route we’re aiming for. However I’ve realized it’s not nearly us altering or bettering. Generally a brand new path opens up, or perhaps we find yourself going precisely the place we deliberate. Both method, I imagine if ATEEZ retains rising and adapting with these modifications, we’ll get there finally. 

Wooyoung: I’m the form of one that actually believes that if you happen to say it and work towards it, it’ll occur. I set tremendous particular targets, and as soon as I hit one, I set the following. What makes it much more significant is that I’m doing all of it with ATEEZ. This group is truthfully the largest present in my life. Like, how are eight individuals this dedicated to chasing one dream collectively? It nonetheless amazes me, and seeing that starvation in all of us evokes me too. No matter that “yet one more step” finally ends up being, even when we attain it in our mid-30s or 40s, I do know I’ll be so blissful we made it. 

Jongho: I simply really feel like… there’s nonetheless a street forward of us. That’s actually it. What issues most is that what we’re doing—and the time we share with our followers—is enjoyable and makes us blissful. If we continue to grow and laughing with ATINY like we all the time have, in the future we’ll look again and understand we already made it previous that wall. Actually, even now, I nonetheless catch myself considering, “Am I actually an idol? A singer? Somebody who performs in entrance of that many individuals?” It nonetheless doesn’t really feel actual generally. However simply by having fun with the journey step-by-step, I’ve by some means taken that “yet one more step” we discuss—and I believe we’re slowly however absolutely getting farther than we ever imagined.

⁠What you need and what the world desires don’t all the time align. Some artists really feel pressured to form their musical selections for higher numbers or broader success. Have you ever ever felt the necessity to steadiness what you really need to create with what the world appears to be asking for? 

Hongjoong: Actually, I nonetheless don’t suppose we totally know what the world desires from us. Everybody’s bought completely different expectations, completely different tastes, and their very own picture of what ATEEZ is. I don’t suppose that’s one thing we’ll ever get a transparent reply to—even years from now. However by means of the conversations we have now as a workforce, we get nearer to what we actually need. And I believe by doing that, we’re additionally serving to the world perceive us higher. 

Seonghwa: I believe that’s one thing everybody goes by means of sooner or later. However if you happen to maintain going, the prospect to do what you actually need will come. Even when what you’re doing proper now isn’t your perfect, pushing ahead will get you nearer to it. The chance all the time exhibits up. 

Yunho: If what you need and what the world desires don’t line up, hitting large success is likely to be more durable. However I actually suppose it’s all about discovering the appropriate steadiness between the 2. 

Yeosang: For me, discovering steadiness was obligatory. I knew I couldn’t simply stay doing solely what I needed, however on the similar time, I didn’t need to solely do what the world anticipated from me both. So I needed to keep versatile and determine a center floor that felt proper for each side. 

San: There’s an actual hole there generally. However I believe it’s our job to bridge that. That’s what being knowledgeable means to me. I need to be sure that I by no means remorse how I represented ATEEZ. In the long run, we need to present one thing solely we are able to ship. 

Mingi: You’ll be able to’t all the time stay solely by what you need. So yeah, discovering the center floor turns into essential. Generally it’s about asking your self if a alternative brings you nearer to your true targets.

Wooyoung: Actually, relating to ATEEZ’s musical id, I don’t suppose we’ve ever actually compromised. We’ve stayed on our personal path for seven years, and we’ll maintain strolling it. 

Jongho: Actually, even throughout the workforce, we don’t all the time see eye to eye. However like I mentioned earlier than, we make it work by respecting one another and discovering center floor. I believe so long as we maintain difficult ourselves and pushing ahead collectively, we are able to break by means of any bias that comes our method. 

ATEEZ has showcased unit tracks like “MATZ” and “YOUTH,” providing a glimpse into the group’s “collectively, but particular person” dynamic. How do you method unit work in a method that highlights every member’s distinctive colour whereas nonetheless staying true to the general id and cohesion of ATEEZ? 

Hongjoong: We don’t actually put up partitions relating to unit or solo work. There aren’t any mounted combos or style limits—we simply deal with what brings out every member’s strengths and feels pure. That’s form of our method of doing issues. Everybody approaches it with delight in being a part of ATEEZ, and we’re trustworthy with one another. We give actual suggestions, however there’s mutual respect too. I believe that’s how we maintain the workforce id sturdy whereas nonetheless letting every particular person’s distinctive colour shine. 

Seonghwa: “MATZ” got here from mixing the form of music I needed to make with Hongjoong’s vibe—and it simply clicked. Since we’re each a part of ATEEZ, that id naturally got here by means of with out us forcing it. What’s wild is that whenever you watch us carry out, it nearly seems to be like every of the eight of us is doing a completely completely different model of the identical choreography. However by some means, whenever you zoom out, it creates this insane synergy. I believe that exhibits in our personalities too—we’re all tremendous completely different, however after we come collectively, that’s what makes ATEEZ really feel complete. 

Yunho: Yeah, for certain. Everybody brings their very own type and character, and it finally ends up mixing in a method that feels contemporary—like one thing we haven’t proven earlier than. Generally after we get a brand new choreo or a music information, we’re like, “Does this even match our vibe?” However as soon as we dive into it and make it our personal, it by some means turns into one thing that feels so ATEEZ. That’s simply who we’re—we’re a workforce that carves out our personal path as we go. 

Yeosang: First, we take within the vibe and idea of the unit. Then every of us begins constructing our personal concepts round that. After that, it’s all about placing within the work—practising laborious to verify all the pieces blends properly with ATEEZ’s id as an entire. 

San: Items have their very own vibe, and so does the complete workforce. It’s kinda like ice cream—mixing completely different flavors makes it even higher. Each member has their very own factor happening, and that’s what makes it so cool. If we mix what every particular person does greatest, that’s when the true magic occurs. 

Mingi: After we’re performing as a workforce, it is sensible to lean into the group’s colour. However with solo or unit stuff, I believe it’s necessary to point out off your individual distinctive vibe. 

Wooyoung: Even with unit work, I believe it’s greatest when there’s nonetheless a bit little bit of that ATEEZ power in there. 

Jongho: Since ATEEZ has lots of members, every of us brings one thing completely different to the stage. Our kinds and power are tremendous various, so we’ve all the time labored laborious to verify nobody’s particular person vibe will get misplaced—and that all the pieces nonetheless comes collectively as one. I believe that effort is what actually shines after we do unit work. 

With all this in thoughts, are there any solo releases within the works for ATEEZ members? 

Hongjoong: Again once I was a trainee, I dropped a couple of mixtape-style tracks on YouTube. However as soon as ATEEZ debuted, I felt a powerful pull to focus totally on the workforce—and truthfully, I nonetheless really feel that method. Beginning final yr although, I started this small mission of making solo tracks for every member, simply to share one thing particular with our followers. Since each member has such a variety, I believe it’s necessary for them to specific issues that may not match inside ATEEZ’s common sound. As for a solo album of my very own? I’m not planning one. I don’t need to do it half-heartedly, and I undoubtedly don’t need to give ATINY one thing that feels unfinished or off-brand. If the time ever comes once I can totally decide to it, perhaps I’ll take into account it. However proper now, there’s simply a lot I need to do with ATEEZ—and much more we want to do.

⁠One in every of your songs describes ATEEZ as striving to be “actual on this world.” What does being the “actual ATEEZ” imply to you? And on a private degree, how would you outline what it means to be a “cool” or admirable man? 

Hongjoong: To me, the true ATEEZ is a workforce that stays true, irrespective of how a lot time passes. We all the time attempt to present up with actual coronary heart in all the pieces we do—and you’ll really feel that power after we hit the stage. 

Seonghwa: I believe being actual comes from being honest. I all the time need to keep trustworthy and hope that my intentions come by means of clearly. Most of all, I simply need to be somebody I’m not ashamed of once I look within the mirror. 

Yunho: To me, the true ATEEZ is simply… me. And what’s a cool man? Additionally me.

Yeosang: I believe the true ATEEZ is simply the eight of us being collectively. As for what makes a man cool… perhaps somebody who nonetheless is aware of tips on how to really feel a bit romance. (laughs)

San: I believe the true ATEEZ is about shifting with out worry, staying humble, and exhibiting respect. And truthfully, a cool man? That appears like ATEEZ to me. We’re carving our personal path and doing it with out hesitation.  

Mingi: I believe with the ability to converse your reality with out disgrace is essential. And truthfully, the best way we maintain pushing towards our targets with out slowing down? That’s what makes ATEEZ the definition of cool guys. (laughs) 

Wooyoung: ATEEZ is truthfully all coronary heart relating to the stage and our music. To me, a cool man is somebody who is aware of tips on how to personal who they’re, doesn’t run from something, and lives by their very own values. 

Jongho: I believe ATEEZ is a gaggle that’s always trying to find what it means to be actual. We don’t need to be boxed into one model of ourselves. If there’s this aspect of ATEEZ, there may also be that aspect—and we wanna present all of it. Exhibiting new colours and evolving many times… perhaps that’s what being the true ATEEZ is. (laughs)

⁠⁠Some describe ATEEZ as a gaggle that feels prefer it was created by a miracle. Should you might spark a miracle of your individual, what would that be? 

Hongjoong: If I might select a miracle, it’d be eternity. I need all eight of us to remain as ATEEZ, and for us to be with ATINY perpetually too. It’s the one want I carry with me each time I step on stage. 

Seonghwa: I need individuals to know that miracles can occur for anybody. I hope we is usually a supply of hope for others, and truthfully, there are nonetheless so many miracles I need to make occur with ATEEZ. I simply need us to maintain rising—increased, and all the best way to the highest. 

Yunho: There are method greater miracles forward. At some point, I need us to hit No.1 on the Billboard Sizzling 100.  

Yeosang: If what we do can positively affect somebody—if it might truly assist change a life—that form of optimistic ripple impact… that’s the form of miracle I need to be part of.

San: I need us to change into the most effective. I need ATEEZ to maintain creating moments that really feel miraculous—and present the world what it seems to be like to achieve the highest by means of pure ardour.

Mingi: I hope in the future there’s nobody on earth who doesn’t know the title ATEEZ. We’ll maintain going till it’s actual. 

Wooyoung: It truthfully means the world when individuals name us a miracle. My private dream? I need us to change into the form of artists who’re revered by everybody, in all places. 

Jongho: As extra individuals get to know us, I hope we could be artists who really give others power and hope. That’s the form of miracle I need to make occur with ATEEZ. 

Exterior of music, are there another areas you’re keen about or concerned about exploring? 

Hongjoong: I believe it’s completely different for every of us, however for me, I’m actually into something that lets me specific myself—music, performing, vogue, all of it.

Seonghwa: I’m tremendous interested by a bunch of inventive areas—vogue included. If the chance comes up, I’d love to point out that aspect of myself too. 

Yunho: We’ve all bought completely different hobbies and strengths. Personally, I’ve bought a factor for appearing, and I sport loads in my downtime. 

Yeosang: Everybody’s bought their very own lane, however for me proper now? It’s all about health. I’m actually into understanding today, and that point provides me peace.

San: I believe everybody’s bought completely different pursuits— whether or not it’s appearing, writing lyrics, or composing. However for me, proper now, I simply need to keep centered on music. I need to maintain constructing one thing nice with the members.  

Mingi: I’ve bought an extended listing—vogue, appearing, and truthfully, a bunch extra. There’s loads I nonetheless need to strive, so maintain watching. 

Wooyoung: All of us have our personal type and goals we need to chase. I’m open to something that lets me specific myself. 

Jongho: I believe every of us has completely different pursuits. Music all the time comes first for me, however I’d additionally like to strive appearing sometime and present a brand new aspect of myself. 

⁠⁠Should you might depart behind only one track to be remembered perpetually, what message would you need that track to hold? 

Hongjoong: Nothing lasts perpetually, however the want for one thing to remain—that feeling is common. I’d need the track to say that it’s that hope, that longing, that truly provides life its which means. 

Seonghwa: I’d select “Star 1117”. That one’s for ATINY. I need the message to be easy: “We had been collectively.” 

Yunho: I’d inform my story. My life, my journey—all the pieces that introduced me right here. 

Yeosang: I’d depart “Say My Identify”. No message, simply the track. 

San: I’d need to depart behind the message, “We shine the brightest after we’re really ourselves.” I hope individuals keep in mind that, and really feel it. And I’d love for others to imagine, “I shine probably the most once I’m simply me.” 

Mingi: Actually… I don’t know but. (laughs) I really feel like I would like extra life expertise earlier than I may give the appropriate reply. Let me stay a bit extra first. 

Wooyoung: I’d need it to inform ATEEZ’s story—how we ran aspect by aspect with ATINY, pushed by means of, and made it to the highest. 

Jongho: I’d need to depart behind the message that we’re all going by means of one thing—and each single one in every of us deserves to be blissful.