(x)clusive!: Interview with SHINee’s Onew
SHINee’s leader and lead vocalist Onew speaks to (x)clusive about his new chapter with Griffin Entertainment, how he’s grown as an artiste, and what he’s looking forward to doing during this Singapore trip!
Onew, congratulations on your new start with Griffin Entertainment! Can you share a little bit more about what you feel this new chapter will mean for you and your fans?
It was not easy to decide to start anew in a new place, as it meant leaving behind a company that I had been with for over a decade. You could think of it as me taking on another challenge, as I aspire to be an artist who looks further ahead rather than being complacent.
Since you were heavily involved in every aspect of the production process, how did it feel when ‘Circle’ was crowned the No. 1 Best K-Pop Album of 2023 by Billboard? Was there any particular episode that you could share with our readers?
I was involved in the overall process, but I believe the influence of many wonderful people who joined me was significant. While there isn’t a specific episode, after I suddenly heard that my song made it onto the Billboard charts, I had a party at home by myself. It made me realize how my song could positively impact others.
We’re looking forward to welcoming you back to Singapore! What do you miss the most from our little isle and what kind of memories would you like to create during the upcoming trip?
I want to walk around Merlion Park, since it’s the symbol and icon of Singapore. And I want to eat the crabs as well!
As someone who’s been in the industry for 15 years, how do you think you have grown and changed as an artiste, and how do you maintain love and passion for your work?
Throughout my long and consistent journey as an artist, I have become flexible to different situations, and I think that’s the key to maintaining my passion and love for my work.
Finally, this is a question from fans – did you miss SHAWOLs during this break, and will they be seeing a lot more of Onew this year?
I missed you so much. Starting from this awards ceremony, I can see you much more often this year.
We’d like to thank Mediacorp for facilitating this special interview! All images credited to Griffin Entertainment.
—
Don’t forget to catch Onew during his appearance this Sunday for Star Awards 2024! Fans can look out for him during the Walk of Fame (5pm – 6.30pm) before the main show at 7pm – 10pm. You won’t want to miss his performance (and also his hosting appearance!).
Watch the show on Channel 8, Channel U, mewatch or the Mediacorp Entertainment YouTube Channel!
—
Want to be on top of the latest news about your favourite Korean stars in Singapore? Subscribe to (x)clusive now and follow us on social media to stay in touch with everything Korean!
