SEVENTEEN's youngest member Dino: "A person who sings through joy, sorrow, anger, and happiness" [PLEDIS released Q&A]

*This content was translated by AI.

SEVENTEEN's (SEVENTEEN) youngest member Dino will release 'BOARD (Gil-board)', the mini 1st album of 'Bu-kyeok' (Pichul-in), on the 3rd at 6 p.m.

According to PLEDIS Entertainment, 'BOARD' is an album that interprets music from various genres such as EDM trap, city pop, and new jack swing with a Korean spirit of excitement. Dino became the first K-pop idol to challenge a 'Bu-kyeok album'.

The teaser for the title track '놀아보세 (prod. Hitchhiker)', released on the 2nd, has been praised for capturing Pichul-in's unique 'Korean rave' where citizens of all kinds come together in excitement. World-renowned choreographer Kany Diabate Ahn and creator Lalal made a surprise appearance under their 'Bu-kyeok' aliases, drawing attention. Dino, preparing to debut as Pichul-in, shared a Q&A through his agency, PLEDIS Entertainment.

- What are your thoughts ahead of the release of the Pichul-in album?

▶Dino: I am very nervous and excited. I wonder how many people will enjoy 'BOARD'. I can't wait to share all the songs with everyone soon.

- What was the most important part when composing the album?

▶Dino: Overall, I think we put a lot of thought into selecting genres that could well capture Korea's retro vibe and the emotions of joy, sorrow, anger, and happiness. We aimed to express various life emotions filled with excitement and spirit, going beyond simple enjoyment.

- Your name appears in the credits for all tracks. How was the production process?

▶Dino: It was extremely enjoyable. Even with heavy stories, approaching them through Pichul-in made things feel more relaxed. This allowed us to pour our true feelings into the music. I had a lot of fun working with producer Bangju Hyung, laughing often.

- The lineup of participants is impressive.

▶ Dino: First, it was an honor to work with such distinguished seniors. I would like to express my deep respect and gratitude to them once again. I believe that "Really (prod. Lee Hyun-do of DEUX)" became a song that spans generations thanks to Senior Lee Hyun-do's production. For me as well, it was an opportunity to learn a great deal musically from him. The song "There Is No Parting Without Pain (narr. Lee Moon-se)" seems to have been completed as a full-fledged drama through Senior Lee Moon-se's narration.

- What kind of song is the title track '놀아보세 (prod. Hitchhiker)'?

▶Dino: This is a song that best embodies Pichul-in's philosophy and feels truly like Pichul-in. Producer Hitchhiker created a polished and flashy track with witty lyrics, resulting in a well-blended song. From the first listen, I thought, 'This is it!' The unique playful charm and free-spirited energy of Pichul-in will also shine through in the performance, so please look forward to it!

- You first revealed new songs through stages like KBS1's 'National Singing Contest'.

▶Dino: As Pichul-in, I wanted to get close to many people in a friendly way. After wondering what method would be best, I chose 'stages'. Just as the meaning of 'BOARD' suggests, I wanted to share Pichul-in's music and the joy, sorrow, anger, and happiness within it with many people. When watching the stages of seniors who were active in the 1970s and 80s, you can feel their unique freedom and individuality as artists. With that same mindset, I prepared the stage to express myself even more freely.

- What image or message did you want to convey through Pichul-in?

▶Dino: I wanted to challenge a concept I had never tried before. I wanted to show a fresh side that only I could express. I hope 'BOARD' can bring joy, empathy, and comfort to busy, painful, and sometimes exhausting daily lives. For myself, I hope it will remain as another growth and passion.

- Why do you continue to take on challenges, including your 'Bu-kyeok' debut?

▶Dino: Rather than seeking comfort, I have always pushed myself to encounter and challenge new things, and through that process, I felt myself growing a lot. I also prefer not to stay in one place for too long. It seems I constantly think and challenge to find novelty even within familiarity.

- A message for your fans.

▶Dino: The driving force behind my challenges is CARAT (our fandom name). Whenever I think of a stage or create something, I always think of CARAT. Even if circumstances and environments change, no matter how much time passes, the reason for my existence is CARAT. Thank you sincerely for always cherishing and loving me. I love you all.

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*This content was translated by AI.