The “captain” of ATEEZ, HONG JOONG, graces the cover of the December issue of “SINGLES JAPAN”, which has revealed the photoshoot and interview conducted with SINGLES.
This is his first solo photoshoot since the announcement of the group’s contract renewal, giving him the chance to express his affection for ATINY and share sincere thoughts about the activities he hopes to showcase in the future.
Regarding ATEEZ’s global achievements—first place on the Billboard 200, entry into the UK Official Albums Chart, and the first-ever appearance of a K-pop boy group at Coachella, HONG JOONG stated:
“These records are a gift created by the support of the fans,” adding that he hopes to “become an artist fans can be proud of.”
On the occasion of its 7th debut anniversary, ATEEZ confirmed their contract renewal, thus opening its “second chapter.” As captain, HONG JOONG shared: “From now on, I’m no longer the one who chooses, but the one who must take responsibility for the members’ choices,” adding that he hopes to approach “the next 7 years by resetting everything, with the mindset of a new beginning.”
He also shared an anecdote about his first personal fashion collection, 〈Petit Coussin〉, presented for his birthday. HONG JOONG revealed that the starting point of the project dates back to his visit to Olivier Rousteing’s atelier at Balmain three years ago during Paris Fashion Week. He said, “By creating the collection myself, I developed even more respect for designers,” adding that “the inspiration I received from this new field became a great source of strength.”
Reflecting on the past year, he explained: “It was an important year in which we wrapped up a long tour and opened a new chapter,” describing it as “an excellent year for the team and for myself.” He did not hide his affection for ATINY either: “They are the ones who help me endure difficult moments,” admitting that “having fans who have stayed with us for seven years still feels unreal.”
The full photoshoot and interview with HONG JOONG, whose future activities draw growing anticipation, are available in the December issue of “SINGLES” as well as on its website. The “SINGLES JAPAN” issue featuring HONG JOONG on the cover is sold exclusively offline at the famous art & lifestyle bookstore Tsutaya Daikanyama in Japan, and will also become available progressively on Tsutaya T-SITE.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Singles Japan
