Women's Central - Heechul P1/2

You are 32 this year?
Yes, it was like yesterday that I was 30, suddenly I am 32.

Shouldn't you be leaving SJ now? (laugh) You are now like the backbone of idols. What do you think of the new idols?
I feel bad when I see those idols debuting at a very young age. I have done everything that I should have done and should not have done when I was a student. Like working part time, getting hit by the teacher, playing with friends... I have done all those things. Now the rookies start training at a very young age, they almost didn't have any memories of student life and they don't have many friends too.

Did you debut immediately after graduating from high school?
Yes, I was the kind that debuted late. Most of them become trainees when they are in middle school. I enjoyed myself and played enough, it was around October, I was thinking if I should go for an audition? So I came to Seoul and took part in the SM audition and I got selected. I used to come to  Seoul a lot with my friends to play. Every weekend, there will be many people coming for auditions. There wasn't even any empty space in front of the company. I thought it was interesting so I went for it and I got selected. I took part in the audition in 2002 October and started to be a trainee in November.

What were you doing between 2002 February when you have graduated high school to 2002 October when you become a trainee?
Playing and I also worked for awhile.

Didn't you think of going to university?
I attended a technical school and started working on the 2nd year of high school. Then I interned at a water factory on my 3rd year. The university I went to was Sangji University. I have worked in a furnace shop and a swimming pool before. From the 2nd year of high school onwards, I started distributing flyers. Is it ok to take photos with these beer bottles? I have a recording tomorrow and I didn't want to drink. But since hyung is drinking, I will have one glass too.

The natural atmosphere like this is good. The age of your fans will also go up from 10-20 years old to 40-50 years old. Say everything you want to say today!
I like the comfortable atmosphere too, hyung, cheers! Wah, it's so cooling! Feels good.

You started to be a trainee in October 2002 and then you debuted in 2005 with Sharp 2?
Yes, I acted that with Go Ara. I debuted as an actor in May 2005 and then debuted with SJ in November that year.

Your training period is considered short. Do you get paid (during training)?
You don't get paid as a trainee but the company provides you with everything you need. There weren't any need to use money. Food and accommodation were taken care of and there were some pocket money. I stayed at Cheongdam-dong in Seoul at that time. U-know Yunho, SJ Donghae, Trax Jay and me stayed together. Yunho debuted as DBSK in 2004 and was the first to leave the dorm.

It must be good at that time. One often feel that the student period is the best after coming out to the society. Similarly, singers will feel that it is the best during trainee period?
I really miss those times. Like what Lee SooMan sunbaenim or any other senior singers said, the training period is the best and the most interesting, create more memories. At that time, I didn't understand. Looking back after debuting, that period is really the best. Nobody knows me, if the 4 of us go back to that time, it must be fun.

It must be good if the 4 of you can play together.
Definitely, anywhere I go, my looks will attract attention. Hahaha.

Do you still contact any of those female celebrities you have met when you were a trainee?
I was close to Son Dambi since trainee period. Although we belong to different companies, we really get along well, and we got close quickly. Moreover she has a boyish character, a nice character, it's good to live together, comfortable, it's good. Maybe because we are both successful now, so we can maintain the friendship well. If one of us drops out, we might not be as close as we are now.

Are there a few SM trainees or are there like hundreds?
Right now I am not sure but there were really a lot during our era.  At that time it wasn't like what is now, there are so many auditions. Every weekend, there will be a very long queue outside the company, they are all here for the audition. From what I know, amongst those who came for the auditions themselves, only SNSD Yoona, SHinee Taemin and I got selected.

Most of the trainees were picked from the streets by the scouts?
Yes, most of them were scouted and came looking for the company after being contacted. The company's system is very successful. Isn't this like one bottomless pit after another bottomless pit? Nobody knows who will succeed so it was a risk to take. Like when I was a newbie the company didn't like what I said in the broadcasts, we must be more mysterious. But I used dialects and said everything that I want to say. I was the first kid to behave like this among the SM idols. Why is there a kid like this? I feel that I was a little special too, and a little rude. Although some people thought that I was a problematic kid, Lee SooMan sunbaenim understood me and even gave me a lot of encouragement. If not for Lee SooMan sunbaenim, I won't be here.

Your hometown is?
Hoengseong, I stayed in Wonju before. Studied in a elementary school in Seoul, Sillim-dong. Then I went back to Wonju for middle and high school.

Did you get into others beside Sangji University?
My English is really bad, so I thought I should really learn my English well. I chose to major in English, it was really hard. So I studied it while training. I even thought of transferring to another school but it clashed with my debut so it's like this now. I was from Gangwon-do so going to Sangji University is like attending a school in my hometown. So I transferred there during my 4th year at Sangji University.

I think you can even got for elections in Wonju.
Politics should be left to politicians.

You look like a politician more than a politician. You might become a director in SM or a representative to take part in an election.
I don't know anything about politics, I just want to promote my hometown a bit.

Do you feel inferior at all about your birth place?
Not that I don't feel inferior at all, I just don't show it. I even thought about getting rid of my dialect before but I have been very casual since my trainee days (so I didn't do it). I like rock very much but my company doesn't like such rough and explosive kind of singing, so I ended up not going to the practice room. I was asked to write a self-reflection letter because of this but I wrote 'I didn't do anything wrong but because you asked me to write this so I am writing it' on the letter.

You are really daring, but you were asked to do self-reflection?
The company thinks that personality education is important. To a celebrity, it is important that we have good progress but personality and mannerism are even more important. We will always do our greetings well. Those singers that have debuted will greet trainees when they see them. And of course the trainees will also greet the singers. The company is full of this atmosphere. But because I was a disobedient kid from Gangwon-do village and I always disappear, the company listed me as the number 1 target for management.

What does the company do to a rebellious kid like you?
I have been going out casually since I was a trainee. Lee SooMan sunbaenim told me before 'you are not rebellious because of a bad personality. You are just a kid who isn't used to a organized lifestyle but you possess the feel of a celebrity more than others'. Everyone thought that I am a problematic child but the CEO understood me from my personality, gave me affirmation. I wouldn't be here if not for him.

You mum's wish must have been granted. When you signed up with SM, I heard that you mum told the SM staff to grow you into a man. 
Now when she sees a SM staff, the first thing she says will be 'thank you for growing my son into a man'. When SM first negotiated the contract terms, my mum said 'just sign up for 30 years directly'. My mum always tell me 'if you are with other companies, will they just let you do whatever you want? Accept all your behaviours? This is the only company that accepts you, don't mess it up, do well'.

I feel that SM is like military. YG has more of a free and unrestrained image. Have you thought of going to other companies?
I think I am more unrestrained than YG (laughs). Not that I have not thought about it but no matter which company it is, even if the unhappiness is gone at first, there will also be more other kinds of unhappiness. What I envy about YG is YG only does music shows for once or twice a week. SM has 4 in a week. To be honest, if we go only once or twice a week, we will have more time to prepare and it's not so tiring. But the funny thing is Sandara Park of 2NE1 told me 'Oppa, we are more envious that SM has so many shows'.

Seems like SM will control personal time too. Does the company stop you from dating or talking to opposite genders?
Our company doesn't do this, healthy dating is permitted. So they emphasize more on thinking correctly to make the right decisions.

The people in SM are trustable.
Of course, when you keep telling me 'well done', I will really do it well. Why do you tell me that I have personality when I obviously just did it without thoughts? Seems like they were afraid that  I will go on the wrong path if they scold me. They even accepted things like this so I felt that I should work harder. Kangta hyung and Lee Sooman sunbaenim are both like this. He must do something he wants to do. It's not like he will do well after you scold him. Even if he goes on the wrong path, he will still follow what he should be following. So just let him do whatever he wants.

Looks like you will speak up directly if you are unhappy with the company.
So the staff will leave when they see me coming in. But when the rookie groups have a showcase or when they first appear in broadcasts, the staff will contact me, asking how I feel about it, they will not ask me how their singing was... I am not outstanding in the singing department. 'Do you think these kids will become popular?' They are asking me this because they feel that my opinions are good. I will tell them all the bad points.

How was EXO?
It will be good to not change their hair colours so often when they just debuted. That was my opinion. It is tiring for the fans to keep looking for this oppa or that oppa. It will also confuse the public if you keep changing their hair colours. I also told them not to give them the same hair colour. The first thing that people remember is always 'he is that kid with long hair', 'that kid with red hair'... obvious trademarks like this.

How are you so confident of things like this? Do you read forums?
I used to post replies in many forums in the past. You can get to know news in every area online, I was on the computer everyday. I cut that down after my debut. Although it is important to communicate with fans, there is no need to become a netizen. There should also be a limit to reading the comments from netizens. They might even lose their self confidence if they don't limit that. To the hoobaes too, don't read the comments from the netizens. Scoldings are everywhere, don't even know how they look like, don't even know what they are working as, there is no need to go mix around there.

You don't use Facebook or Kakaotalk?
I am using those but I am only posting my own words. In the past I used to post society problems on Twitter. Although I didn't mean that, I got scoldings for it. So now I only post my photos, or what I am doing today.

For the readers of Women's Central, they must be interested to know how to let their children become idols. You are generation 1.5 idol, what do you think about being an idol?
I think it's ok for me. Like what hyung said, personal character makes a big difference. Some friends who are having a tough time really have a hard time. When you compare an actor and an idol, it seems that  actors have an easier life because there are a lot of die hard fans. When an actor acts in a very popular drama, he will become very popular. I will not be easily affected by scandals too. I will not be like a fan, pay, buy albums, watch concerts.. I am fine with just watching TV. But idols are moving alongside with fans. It doesn't matter how much freedom you have here, it is more important to do your own part. Although it is important to do things for fans, you will lose your own way if you only do things for fans. But if you love yourself and  live for yourself, you will know how valuable fans are.

What if the readers want to teach their children to be idols?
Teach him to love himself first.

Although being a celebrity is a good job but it seems like idols are a bit more special. Even you are popular at first hit, it's hard to maintain it.
Yes, if you are raising your child as an idol, firstly parents have to throw away thoughts like 'our child is so talented but lack the courage' or 'our child is the best'. Everyone has different opinions. In the parents' eyes, their child is the best but he is not in other people's eyes. The idols' parents have more power than what we imagine. SM doesn't let parents interfere but such cases happened in other companies. To the mother, her own son is the best, so when other kids get more popular, they will start to create a scene, it isn't good like this.

SM's idols' parents are not allowed to interfere with their work? The parents of members must be close.
Yes, they are even going to China together for holidays. But my mum is the oldest, she is 62 years old.

Your mum gave birth when she was older.
My mum got married later. I have a sister that is older than me by a year. About 7-8 years ago, my sister opened a hallyu cafe in myeongdong. Though I go there sometimes but if the operations is going well, I don't interfere much. It was my sister who said that she has no intentions of using my fans, she is just doing a normal business. I don't like people who make use of others popularity or making use of others' backgrounds. I will not give in even if it is my parents or siblings.

Source: loveheenim

Zhoumi 太贪心 (Blind) Lyrics

Blind Chinese version
太贪心 (Literally translate to 'Too Greedy')

Sang by Zhoumi

在与你相遇的曾经　我找到幸福的定义
At that time when I met you, I found the definition of happiness

心跳每天感动的提醒　我的视线只为你牵引
The emotions I feel in my heartbeat remind me daily, my eyes only follows you

跟着你疯了 我也愿意
I am willing even if I become crazy following you

从不知以爱的名义  会把你埋在怀里 承受爱的艰辛
Never did I know I will bury you in my arms in the name of love, bearing the hardships of love

*怪我的眼太贪心　爱流得不剩一滴
*Blaming it on my eyes for being too greedy, love flows till nothing is left

 太贪心　犯滥的爱快淹没了你
Too greedy, overflowing love has drowned you

怪回忆都太贪心　美得让我看不见你
Blaming it on my memories for being too greedy, it's so beautiful that I can't see you

吞噬爱的伤痕　失去 你对爱贪图的心
Devouring the scars of love, your greed for love is gone

我以为爱永远晶莹 没有人比你更透明
I thought love will always be crystal clear, no one will be more transparent than you


如今隔着幸福的玻璃　蒙尘的你我已看不清
Right now separated by the glass of happiness, you are covered by dust I can no longer see you clearly

痛碎的心　总是让你哭泣
Your broken heart always make you cry

*Repeat

还贪图你的背影
Still longing for your shadow

还来得及吗　后悔着说不出的伤
Can I still make it?  Pain that cannot be told in my regret

怪我的手太贪心　都冷了还想握紧
Blaming my hand for being too greedy, wanting to hold on to it even when it has turned cold

 太贪心　贪心得还不放弃爱你
Too greedy, so greedy that I am not ready to give up on loving you

怪发丝也太贪心　不断纠缠我的眼睛
Blaming the hair for being too greedy, they continue to blind my eyes

无法摆脱过去　爱你　还想爱你　那颗我贪图的心
Unable to break away from the past, loving you, still want to love you, the heart of mine that is too greedy.

爱你　我贪图的你的心
Loving you, your heart that I am greedy for

当代歌坛 Zhoumi Interview

当代歌坛

Zhoumi Interview

About China Line

Recently you hosted C-Radio with Jia and Fei, how do you feel?

It was relaxing because it's my mother tongue and the two partners, Jia and Fei, are good friends of mine so I don't feel nervous at all. To us, this radio show has a special meaning. I have know Jia and Fei for more than a year and we always talk about having a show for China Line. Coincidently, MBC wanted to do a program like this. They looked for us and we accepted it. Although the 3 of us are DJs whenever there are guest there, I feel like this radio show belongs to everyone. We chatted like friends, letting others know how it is like to be a Chinese living in Korea.

Are you the head of the China Line?

There isn't really a leader but if you arrange us according to age, I am the first. Hahaha (The manager quickly shifted the conversation back) Ok ok, I was 18 last year. We have different roles in the China Line. Like there will be a member who will suggest for gatherings. That member is often EXO's Tao or Tasty's Big and Litte Dragon. Jia is in charge of communication, she will contact everyone. Every time when we gather, I will lead and start the talk because I am the oldest. Hahaha (laughing again, actually how are you old?). I have been to Korea for 6 years and it was the first time 7/8 of us gathered together for Mid Autumn festival. Just eating with friends like this gave me a lot of thoughts. Alone for so long, finally we can gather together. 

Do you have anything to tell the new trainees who just arrived in Korea?

As long as you are a Chinese debuting in Korea, we are happy to gather with you. I feel that those artistes work overseas are really having a hard time. Like us, who are older hahahaha (laughing once again, stop saying you are old, you are just a big boy), when we are having a hard time we can still bear with it. But those who are younger than us, they will miss home more. Since we have a Line, all of us can take care of each other like family. So we welcome any Chinese artistes who are working in Korea to come join us.

Fast Thinking Musician

Who do you interact with more in terms of music?

Musically, Lay (EXO) chats with me a lot. I only started composing these two years, previously I only wrote lyrics. Lay likes to compose too, he started before his debut. He likes to pull me into his room and say "Hyung, listen to this song I made". At that time he compose mainly on the theme of family love. Something like 'I miss you Mum', so I really can't give him much advice. These few years he has slowly turned right (Turned Right? This kid was probably being influenced by his hyungs), and started composing songs which I can give more advice. Slowly, we started chat more, including the music styles he likes. He is growing up and becoming more matured.

What kind of habits do you have when composing? For example do you write the lyrics first or the melody?

I think, whether a song is nice or not depends a lot on the melody. So when I am composing a song, I will compose the melody first then write the lyrics. What did you ask me just now? (What kinds of habits do you have when composing?) I can't drag stuff. I have a fast personality. Just like when I wrote my book. When I knew that I had the possibility of publishing the book, I didn't sleep for 4 days when I was in Thailand. I wrote it throughout the night, every night, I wrote for like 5 hours. I was afraid that if I drag, I might not want to do this on again on the second day. Basically when the company gives me a song, I will hand it in the second day. I will only give myself one night's time. From 12am when it's deep into the night and quiet, when it's quiet, I can think better without getting distracted. 

How many times did you amend the lyrics the most?

Up till now I have written 9 songs' lyrics. The company seems to approve my lyrics pretty quickly. But I am suspecting if they approve it because they saw that it's written by me. Hahaha.. but actually they did do some selecting. Maybe because I have been with the company for a long time,so I know what kind of feel they want. What kind of lyrics should match this music style. Because we have Korean members so I avoid using hard words. After a long time, I understand more in these areas than people outside (not in the company).

What kind of music styles are you more incline to? Ballads or Dance?

I prefer slow ballads because I think I am most comfortable with that, more relaxed. But I want to try different styles lately. SJM has more fast songs but whenever I said that I want to sing and dance together, Jia and Fei will tease me, they will tell me "Just sing your songs well". I will reply them "Please, I belong to the dance scene". So I am looking for a chance in future to do something awesome to give them a shock. But right now I still do mainly ballads.

Self-Improving Actor

What plans do you have for acting?

Actually I received a role in September but before I join the filming crew, there were some changes so I didn't go for it in the end. However I have not been lazing for this half year. Besides the concerts with SJ and some solo activites, I am also preparing new productions. Hopefully they can be released soon. Because as long as there is an opportunity, I would like to try it out. At first the company assigned me as singer but slowly I get to do MCing, writing and dramas. They are all trying processes for me. If I don't try it, I will not know if I will really like it. After trying, I feel that maybe I can really do this and work harder for it, getting better at this area, to do the role better when I receive a new script. 

What kinds of roles do you want to challenge next?

I want to try out lifestyle dramas. Those that mothers like to watch. Recently I am watching 'Let's Get Married'. Considering my looks and age, it may be a little too early to try out this kind of drama. But I really got lots of feelings from that drama because the actors really did it very well. The script was good too, I feel like getting married with someone after watching it. This is the influence that the actors of that show gave me. I don't know if it is possible but I really want to try out lifestyle dramas. Actually I wanted to try doing the bad guys because I think my looks especially suits it. Those kind of cool bad guys with fire in their hearts but looks cold on the outside. But after watching 'Let's Get Married' I think it's a challenge too to act as a normal everyday peasant. I can make myself look uglier but if that doesn't work then I have no idea how. (But you are unable to convince others that you want to get married) But look at Gao YuanYuan, she is so pretty and she gives people the impression that she doesn't want to get married... yet she doesn't look awkward in that show. (Even after the manager and I made fun of him, he is still persistence with doing a life drama).

Editor's note:

Zhoumi brought along a youthful looking coat but the photographers ignored it. In the end that coat didn't make it to appear on screen. During the interview, Zhoumi persistently wore it to show a bit of pity and protest.Till the end of the interview, he still wanted to try shoot some pictures with it.

 

Zhoumi's interview with iQiyi

Click here for the interview video

Zhoumi: Thailand trip was a personal schedule, so I booked the air tickets and the transport myself. The funny thing is I often play with the fans there. The local fans in Thailand. They were surprised because normally I go to Thailand for work or performances. I don't understand Thai, so for example when I was in Pattaya, I can't find a taxi so I had to take the Tuk Tuk. It's like a motorcycle and I need to tell the driver the location. But I didn't know how to so the fans took me to get a Tuk Tuk and told me which places to go to and brought me to eat seafood. But I have to pay for all the expenses... hahaha... I was really happy, it's a rare chance to get together with them.

MC: Does the company staff knows about this?

Zhoumi: No.. but now they do.. cuz they are right beside me right now.

Zhoumi: After cutting out the shape of the photos, and then cut out the sides following the shape of the photos. I stick them on layer by layer. It's all done by hand. I think it still look different from a computer generated one. And I think the method is very simple. I gave everyone an idea in this book. If you want to make a book like this, it's not that hard. I drew a comic strip at the end, I drew it myself, teaching you how to cut and stick them together. You can make one of your own, it might not be for Thailand, it might be England, London, a travelogue of your own. 

Zhoumi: I wasn't the kind that got promoted highly by everyone when I debuted.

MC: You are famous now.

Zhoumi: I don't feel that I am famous now too.. hahahaha.. I had more anti-fans when I debuted. I am not sure if you know the situation, maybe you don't know. I was added into an already matured group so many people opposed me. I think many singers will not have an experience like this but I treasure this process. Because it makes me appreciate the fans I have now. You may not treasure these things if they come too easily. When you don't have it, you will want to work even harder to show everyone. I can't say that I am doing very well now but the process of doing it was a self-helping. I hope that I can spread this energy to everyone, that is if you want to do something, work hard for it.

MC: Zhoumi mentioned that the Korean ent companies paved the road for their artistes well. Even if you are lacking, you can still make it up by working hard. Compared to releasing albums, it's harder to find a personal style.

Zhoumi: (Recounting how he met Victoria) There is a basement in the company, the practice room and we were practicing our dance. Suddenly a company staff told me that a girl from China is coming, her name is Song Qian. But Koreans doesn't speak with tones so she pronounced Song4 Qian4 as Song4 Qian2 (Giving out money). So I thought, why is her name 'Giving Money', it's funny. 'Giving Money' to SM. So I went to take a look at her. My first impression was this girl has big eyes. She didn't have make up on and had some pimples. But I can feel that this girl should look good on cameras and she will be pretty with some make up on. We didn't chat much though. She was a little timid and shy. She was the only one who was the same age as me among the trainees. I debuted 3 or 4 months after she arrived. We had some interactions, because she can dance better and I sing better so we will share experiences with each other. Like she would tell me how to dance better and I taught her singing, we became closer like this. 

Siwon - Weibo Fan Chat

~~Siwon Weibo Fan Chat~~

by Mamonde

Fan: Were you happy when we went to the airport for your arrival? 

SW: I am very happy, thank you all.

Fan: 10 years since debut, what's your greatest challenge and how you overcome it? What was the most meaningful gift you have given to Hangeng? Yesterday was my roommates birthday can you wish her happy birthday?  
SW: I had doubted myself when I turned to be an actor from a singer. Singing is totally different from acting and I was working with some very good actors so I had to work extra hard. Language is a barrier for me when I film overseas, I took 6 months to learn Chinese, although it was a hard process, I have gained alot from it.  

Fan: What do you like about China? 

SW: Steamboat~

Fan: When will you come to Shanghai for Mamonde events?  
SW: I am really happy to participate in this event in Beijing. Hopefully there will be an opportunity to meet the Shanghai and fans from other cities in events like this.

Fan: There are many rookie male groups in Korea, do you have any advice for them as a senior?  
SW: The competition between male groups now is very strong. I feel that you have to stick to your own style. At the same time, you must treasure each fan's love. Because their love for artistes is sincere and unconditional. 

Fan: Will you focus more on work in China?  
SW: Hopefully there will be more chances to come here to see everyone~ I like China :^) 

Fan: Are there chances for you to come to Taiwan for filming? 
SW: I would like to go there very much if there is a chance.

Fan: Siwon Oppa, it's my birthday today! 
SW: Happy Birthday^^

Fan: Master Choi, what kinds of roles do you want to challenge?  
SW: There are many roles that I want to challenge. If there is a chance I want to try a role that is very different from my personality. 

Fan: What's your secret to keep being energetic and in good form?
 SW: I will give myself enough sleep when I don't work and working out is also a habit I've had for years. It's also important to choose skin products which are suitable for yourself. Like I chose to use products from Mamonde. :) 

Fan: Where will you go to recharge yourself if you have holidays?  
SW: I had a chance to go to Jerusalem this year, it was a good feeling~ If I have holidays, I would like to go there again. 

Fan: SJ has debuted for almost 8 years. Thank you for the special memories through these 8 years. Love you all forever. Will never change!
SW: I love you all too :^)

Fan: Siwon has shared many thoughts and philosophy on Weibo. Why do you have such deep thoughts at such a young age?  
SW: I want to share with everyone the good quotes that I read~

Fan: Oppa, I will have my exams soon. Cheer for me! 

SW: Fighting~~ Asa Asa fighting

Fan: Oppa do you have any recommendation for touring Seoul?  
SW: I recommend Myeongdong because there are lots of good food and fun stuff. And many cosmetic stores. Remember to visit Mamonde~ kekeke.  

Fan: You have participated in many charity events. How do you see the relationship between being an artiste and these charity events?

SW: I feel honoured to participate in the big charity events here in China. I hope to help more people to the best I can. 

Fan: Oppa, we are writing Chinese. Can u understand? 
SW: I have a translator with me, so I can understand. 

Fan: Oppa, I am a student attending lesson now. Give me a response and I will go back to my lesson, please!!!  
SW: Listen to the lesson well! Fighting~ Asa!

Fan: Siwon, do you like the fans who were at the airport? What are fans to you?  
SW: I thank everyone who always welcome me so warmly when I come here. Because you are here, there will be me, there will be Super Junior. 

Fan: Mamonde cosmetics are female based. What advantage do you have (as a handsome man) to endorse for female products?  
SW: Men nowadays take care of their skin too and I also want to share the products I like to everyone. And I also have more female fans so I want to become prettier together with fans, to become more perfect.

Fan: Sigh, I think you won't reply me.... 

SW: Why???

Fan: Oppa do you still want funny photos of SJ? We have Heechul's. 

SW: Send them to me if you have. Hahaha.

Fan: I have a weak body, do you have any suggestions? 

SW: Have enough sleep and exercise more~

SW: I am happy to participate in this Mamonde event today. It's interesting to chat with so many fans through Weibo interview. I hope everyone can come to the event tomorrow at Chongwenmen, 3pm! See you tomorrow! 

Siwon - 131023 Arena Magazine

Arena Magazine

English Translation

"You need to know the difference between what is real and what is not. Is it temporary happiness, 'Enjoy' or 'Joyful', it's a big difference. What I am going after is 'Joyful'. I always have this thinking 'everything will pass'. Up and downs, all these are unimportant. We must be thankful for every moment of our lives."

Q: Is the movie filming going smoothly?

SW: The filming in Hongkong will end soon and filming will resume in Korea somewhere next month. It's progressing smoothly.

Q: Doing the Super Show 5 world tour together with the movie filming is unbelievable, how do you manage that?

SW: Firstly, thank you for your concern. I have prepared a lot mentally and physically. I am keeping my beard for the role in the movie so I am going on Super Show 5 stages like this.

Q: Going to and fro between the SS5 concerts and the movie filming, doing CF and other schedules, it must be hard to get into the role for you.

SW: I think the difference lies in your focus. It's the same for movies which films for a long time. Although it seems hard to digest a schedule like that, it was my own choice to do my own activities during Super Junior's concert tour. It's a path I chose myself so I can only shut up and move on. (smiles)

Q: As an actor, what kind of satisfaction do you get from work?

SW: Everything can be felt from the atmosphere. After discussing with the director, I will always look at the director after finished shooting my scene. I can feel it when we exchange looks. 'Ah, I didn't do it badly' feelings like this.

Q: This production comes 7 years after 'Battle of Wits'. How does it feel like to be filming overseas with the local crew?

SW: We respect, care and trust each other. I feel really touched by their spirit here working with them, and I am learning too.

Q: While working, you can see stuff that can't be seen with naked eyes between the people.

SW: There will be trust when there is respect and care between people and the sense of responsibility will come naturally. I feel that no matter what we do, we must do our best with a sincere heart.

Q: Super Junior debuted in 2005, this is the 8th year. Did you anticipate anything when you debuted from SM?

SW: At first I just wanted to be famous without a goal. I only did my future planning after entering the company. When I am preparing or when I do something, I see many things and meet many people whom I wanted to meet. My goals slowly become clearer. Right now, I still do planning for the far future.

Q: Among the members, you are known to be scandal-free. Is it because you have good self-management?

SW: My daily life is stable. Management... do you mean diet management?

Q: Many people say there are a lot of temptations in the entertainment industry.

SW: Isn't it the same regardless of it's the entertainment industry or not? I think in this world everyone faces the same temptations. Over here where there are more temptations than other places, you just need to be prepared to fend it off.

Q: You have never been ignored by the general public since debut?

SW: Grateful. There are many who fell after being popular and then got ignored by the public. I have got this thought about a year after my debut, 'This will be pass too'. During that time we were very popular but I took it lightly instead. Ups an downs, all these are unimportant, be thankful to every moment in your life. Not so long ago, I was in Japan for a fanmeeting and I told Donghae who was beside me,"A few months ago I wouldn't sing for just one fan, but now I will."

Q: Did anything happened recently?

SW: Nothing special actually. I have sorted out many thoughts this year. Thinking carefully, there are many things that I should be thankful of. Not being thankful means you have too many desires. 'Ambitious' is different from 'Desire'. It's good to be ambitious but it's bad if you have too many desires. There will be times when members fight among each other. There will be times when we don't understand why others do certain things. But just think about it positively, I feel grateful just to be with these friends. As long as the center of my thinking remains, I believe I will not change.

Q: Super Junior was the first group to have sub-units in Korea. Over these years there were many setbacks but it looks like you all are still doing well. 

SW: Overseas fans say that they get motivation and energy from our videos at the end of the day. That means our stages have positive energy. It's the same for Super Junior, every member has their own influence. There is also competition (among us). No idea when it started but this kind of energy has become the motivation for the group to move forward. Now it's time for Super Junior members to reaffirm each other. 

Q: The members seem to have reaffirm Siwon to be the 'Handsome Man' and there are many new singers who look up to you as idol.

SW: I am really thankful if I am reaffirmed like that. I always live with a sense of responsibility. One of my goals is to let others know that 'there is also an actor like this in the East'. I live with the thought of 'the whole world is watching me'. I don't have to eat if I am hungry  at night with thoughts like these. (Laughs) When I first started working, I only have the thought of 'I am just someone', looking for a long-term goal while working. If people only live for their targets, they will lose it after achieving that target. If you have a bigger goal in life, you will continue to have smaller goals as you move along. 

Q: Not long ago you injured your knee but you still did the rehearsal as though it's the real performance. What's that energy that motivated you to continue working with a smile despite the pain?

SW: This is the same as what I mentioned just now. Even if I feel unwell, I will still do it for one audience and the same for 70,000 audience.

Q: Looking back at your past in Hongkong in the year 2013, what do you feel?

SW: Doing the best for the jobs given to me. Living my life with no regrets, everything is completed like piecing the jigsaw puzzle. Right now filming the movie here, I found a new long-term target. Moving along like this, there will be good results and interesting things will happen.

Q: Did the Choi Siwon 10 years ago imagine himself to be like this?

SW: At that time I only look at myself, submerged in my own world and my own thinking. I had thoughts like 'the world spins around me'. I am different now. I am Choi Siwon who lives for Super Junior, the Choi Siwon who lives for his works, the me who lives for my fans and my family.

当代歌坛 Magazine with Henry

当代歌坛 Magazine

English Translation

D: You started out with classical music. Did it help you in any way?
H: If you have the foundation of classical music, it will be easier to create R&B and pop. If I have don't have that foundation, it wouldn't be as smooth sailing when I do my compositions now. Classical is complicated, in comparison, pop music is simpler. If I can use all the elements that I have accumulated from classical music with ease, I will be able to have my own style of music. But classical music doesn't have bits. If I describe it visually, classical music is full of lines, there are no dots. Or it's like if you add drums to classical piano, that will be the foundation of pop music. I made many songs for this album and then select from there. Overall, I want to produce something that Henry wants, that is to let listener feel relax and happy. 

D: We didn't expect you to use the refreshing 1-4-3 as a comeback song. There were other backup tracks in the album right?
H: Trap is a colourful and heavier song, there are many elements. It showcases what I can do, piano, violin, vocal, dance, charms, a lot of content in there. I wanted to show my colours through this song. On the other hand, 1-4-3 expresses my personality and my experience. Look at the lyrics and you will see that it's about the experiences of a foreigner in Korea, unable to express himself due to language barrier. This was my situation, my story and my feelings. The things I have to face when I arrive at a different country. 

D: How do you come about collaborating with Amber and Chanyeol?
H: Hahaha... I must talk about this. For Chanyeol, I often see him practicing the guitar when he was still a trainee. His playing seems good and I found out he was in a band before joining the company. So I thought we can collaborate if there is a chance. When I know that there will be a ballad version for 1-4-3, I immediately thought of Chanyeol. As for Amber, we are good friends and she is a really good rapper, so we have to collaborate given the chance.

D: I heard that the body painting was your idea? And that your mum has scolded you for it?
H: Ah, yes that was my idea. I wanted to show my change. Plus I did some physical management at that time and my figure was ok so I painted it hahahaha. But my mum indeed scolded me. Because she heard that it's bad for my health to do that. It was only one of the concepts for my album and stages so there is no problem, I have explained it to her. I stopped doing it though. Hahaha...
 
D: Use a word to describe your music  
H: Change. I will not be making only one type of music, it will change constantly. There is another explanation, after listening to my music, I believe people will change their views of me.

D: Being heavily influenced by western pop music, do you feel that it's hard to adapt to the Korean music environment?
H: Totally, couldn't adapt. At first the Korean music that I heard was following the western styles closely, it wasn't that different. There are many 'images' to pop music. When I listen more closely, I realize that Korean music is actually very simple. For example, the chorus are normally pretty simple, there will be one or two notes that keep repeating, keep repeating layers by layers. At that time, I thought this isn't intricate enough. But a simple song like that can become so popular. Later on when I tried to compose it, I realize that it is more difficult to compose a simple song than a complicated song. From that moment, I start to feel respect for those who compose those hit pop songs. This is actually the charm of pop music, the charm of simplicity. I adjusted my mentality at that time and started afresh. 

D: So at that time you had the idea to form Noize Bank?  
H: Actually the idea to form a band didn't come so late. Noize Bank is a 4-man band, they are all friends from my school, we started playing and composing from a long time ago. Later on I asked them if they want to come to Korea to continue making music, composing songs for singers. So they went over and they were like me, unable to adapt at first. But after some getting used to and exchanging thoughts with the local musicians, they now enjoy and also adapted to the Korean music environment, so we continue to make music together. We are also living together now. ^^

D: So far the music from Noize Bank are for the artistes from your company. How is the situation like when you compose for these artistes?  
H: It's custom made. We will communicate with the singers after receiving the invitation to understand their specialities and needs then we will have a meeting. Each of us will suggest the direction of the composition and take the best option after repeated brainstormings. Then we will start composing and eventually complete it. Of course our principle is to maintain the style of our band but at the same time fits the speciality of the singer. It's not like we just give out the songs because it's good. We must first understand and it must be suitable (for the singer). 

D: I am curious what role do you play in Noize Bank?
H: I am mostly in charge of ideas and composition. Actually I also have a burning desire to write lyrics recently but my Korean is not good, my chinese is also not good. Only my English is not bad but that's not going to work. It's really a headache for me to write Korean or Chinese lyrics. So I have to work hard and work harder for lyrics writing.

D: Besides being a singer, you have your own band, compose for other singers, shoot movies and even cook. It seems like you can handle everything well. So is music your only choice?
H: Instead of saying it's my only choice, I would rather say that I want to do more things. Like I would like to be a director, starting with shooting my own mv and shoot movies in future. 

D: What impact does filming Final Recipe has on your life and music career?
H: Not being exaggerating, this movie changed my views on life. After filming the movie, I start to realize the real Henry. What kind of person Liu XianHua is. The director told me, to act a role, I must first understand myself. Hahaha, so while studying the script and the role, I was also evaluating myself. The process was complicated but the end result was good. I start to understand myself all over again during the filming. What is good about Henry and what is not, what he needs and what he must throw away, understanding myself all over from the beginning again. You can say that I have changed after filming the movie. I really understand my goals in life and music career now.

D: What are your goals?  
H: I have many goals. Right now my biggest goal is to show everyone my music. Let my music become the OST of your lives. There are all kinds of OSTs in movies and there are also OSTs in life. I don't wish for my music to lead peoples' lives, I will be happy if my music is the bgm of others. 

D: What is the meaning behind making cuisines?  
H: The process of learning to cook and cooking itself let me realize the importance of sequence. One of the strict basic lessons from my teacher (chef) was the requirement to place each ingredient in their correct spots. In the past, I can't say that I don't have any habit for sequencing, I just have the habit of misplacing my stuff, I changed that while learning to cook. Also, timing is important in cooking. This is too important. Isn't it like life? Everything is about timing (opportunities).

D: If you are to describe life with a dish, what will it be?  
H: There isn't a specified one but there is a certain type. That is frying. Don't laugh! I am serious. What I am most confident of right now is, give me a frying wok and I can settle the dining table. Give me any ingredient and I can fry something for you. The speciality of Chinese food is the final product is always totally different from the original ingredient, isn't it? This is like life. Many elements of life like people, events, opportunities and goals are all in our own hands, it's just like frying a dish.

D: Was there a rebellious period in your life?

H: I would say it was a lost period instead of rebellious. There was a long period of time when I didn't know what I wanted. I was like just completing my missions and follow whatever was scheduled. I had no idea what I can achieve at all, I was totally lost. I have become more matured now.

D: In what ways have you matured? Mentally?

H: I mean matured in my way of thinking. The old me was a mess. Having learnt music, singing and dancing for such a long time, bearing the dream of becoming a singer, I came to Korea, facing unfamiliar faces and matters. I didn't know what I possess or what my bottom line was or what I actually wanted. Moreover at that time, I faced the problem of no matter how hard I try, nobody likes me. There were a lot of negative feedbacks on the mere fact that I exist. There were a lot of times when I feel lost about what to do or if what I am doing is right. I didn't have a clear goal. I just want to do my best so people don't hate me so much. Right now all these thinking have been smoothed out, I have my goals and motivations now. In the past I have never thought about how important my position was or how this opportunity to stand here is very precious to others. It wasn't until 2 years ago that I realized that many people are following me on my Twitter and Weibo. At that moment, I started to feel like an idol and understood the responsibilities I have as one.

D: Where does the sense of achievement come from when you stand on the stage?

H: Composing a song that everyone knows how to sing. I hope that many people will like the songs I compose regardless of age, accepted by the general public. If you are referring to receiving the cheers and screaming on stage and get the sense of achievement from there... I don't think I did.

D: Do you mean to say that you didn't get the sense of achievement from popularity or that you didn't receive screaming?
H: As a singer, of course I will need fans but not only fans. I feel that if a singer can make a passer-by become his fan, and let his songs become the OST of others lives, that is the real sense of achievement. (Referring the Jay Chou's song playing in the background) Just like him. I wanted to be a singer because of 2 persons. Jay Chou and Rain. Compose, talent, influential. Jay Chou's music is everyone's OST right? If only I can be like him.

D: It's been 13 years. His songs have always been the OST of others.

H: So to me, this is the hardest goal to achieve. I must work hard, work harder and work doubly hard. But I feel that I will never achieve this sense of achievement because when I acheive a goal, I will be facing another. So I will be forever on the road.  

D: Is there anything that you would like to tell your 'wives'?

H: Everyone please manage your health and body well. Shower diligently and brush your teeth more. Sleep and eat on time. Let's see each other healthily and prettily. I return my love to all of you.

Speed Q&A

Q: Talkative or Quiet?

H:  I am not talkative, I am noisy. When I have something to say, I will say it in high speed and loudly. Managers and members have criticized me about it before.

Q: Describe yourself with an animal.

H: Snoopy

Q: Isn't that a cartoon?

H: Do you think I look like it? (showing puppy eyes)

Q: what changed since your debut?

H: Grown taller and thinner.

Q: Generous or petty?

H: Generous, I am totally too generous ok. Especially to friends, maybe I am too generous but I am used to it. I am generous with money too because for money, you can make them again. So I don't really care. Oh right, I am generous with time too. I am often late. Oh but I am not late on purpose today, there was a traffic jam.

Q: If you are a reporter, use a word to describe today's interview.

H: Ah? Describe this interview? This question is really original... let me think... Relax? Sincere? We didn't purposely say nice words to each other right? So we are both straight forward right?

Q: So which one is it?

H: Straight forward?

Q:  Just now you looked at me when you mentioned 'hope that older people can accept my music'. What do you mean...

H: (Panicking) Ah ah ah... no no no.. I am not referring to you.

Q: I am really a noona but I felt hurt. How?

H: Aiya, don't do this, I am really not talking about you. I was saying that I hope people from different ages can accept it, not saying that you are old.

Q: ..... Old..... ok... Forget it...

H: (Almost crying) Ah ah ah ah... really I wasn't!! No I wasn't!!

Q: The concept for the next album?

H: Will continue to move towards the goal of 'OST of others'