EPIK HIGH meets STRAY KIDS, showing a warm and playful side.
On August 28, EPIK HIGH (Tablo, Mithra, Tukutz) released a video on their YouTube channel “EPIKASE” titled: “스트레이 키즈한테 박진영한테 불만있는지 물어봤다 (We asked Stray Kids if they had any complaints about Park Jin Young).”
The opening took place in a retro ’80s roller rink, where the trio showcased their unique roller skills and performances, creating a fun start. STRAY KIDS members and the production team 3RACHA (Bang Chan, Changbin, Han), invited as special guests, were quickly captivated by EPIK HIGH’s charm. TABLO, MITHRA, and TUKUTZ set a relaxed atmosphere, making the intergenerational meeting with their juniors special.
During a meet-and-greet-style introduction, EPIK HIGH presented themselves creatively:
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TKUTZ: “If you team up with me, I’ll treat you to Korean beef in Gangnam.”
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TABLO: “I’m close with PD JYP, I’ve visited JYP headquarters and even ate there. I’ve been to Jin Young hyung’s house.”
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MITHRA: “I can introduce Stray Kids to kids under 10.”
BANG CHAN, CHANGBIN, and HAN also introduced themselves, and EPIK HIGH reacted with wit and attention, generating laughter. They then played team games, choosing partners based on items, taking photos, pulling spaghetti, adding more fun to the interaction.
Afterwards, EPIK HIGH bonded further with STRAY KIDS in a candid discussion. TABLO complimented them on album sales and expressed admiration, saying he had sensed their success even before their debut.
When discussing STRAY KIDS’ new album and activities, TABLO, MITHRA, and TUKUTZ noticed similarities in teamwork:
“We’ve always been like this. At first, people said, ‘They don’t get along,’ ‘They’re harsh to each other’… and now, it’s been 23 years,” highlighting their strong cohesion.
BANG CHAN shared:
“My first encounter with K-pop was watching a Dream Concert video in Australia, and it was an EPIK HIGH stage. I loved it, and that’s how my interest in K-pop started.”
TUKUTZ added: “You could say STRAY KIDS’ fans are also EPIK HIGH fans,” which STRAY KIDS confirmed: “We’ve been greatly influenced by EPIK HIGH’s music.”
Emotionally, TABLO responded: “Thank you for saying that. Knowing Bang Chan loved our music and hearing you speak of respect makes me feel life is meaningful and precious.”
Finally, TABLO wished STRAY KIDS a long future: “I hope you stay healthy and celebrate not only your 10th anniversary but also your 20th and 30th.” He also mentioned fans in his family: “You have more of your stuff in my room than mine, I hope you know that.”
MITHRA and TUKUTZ also shared warmth and encouragement, creating a heartfelt moment. At the end, however, TUKUTZ picked another partner, ending up solo, which drew one last laugh.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: YouTube EPIK HIGH
