[English Translation] SHINee Interview on An An Magazine

Q. Your favorite J-POP song? – Utada Hikaru’s first love.

Q. If you can take three things with you to a desert island? – Mom, a friend, a cook (with a knife).

Q. What do you do during a break? – I mostly sleep (laugh), and then practice singing.

Q. What color do you like? – Monotone like white or black.

Q. What did you buy recently? – I bought and ate delicious chicken!

Q. What is your fashion item for this summer? – Loose pants and loose t-shirt. I like a comfy style.

Q. What kind of girl in terms of fashion do you like? – I think a flowing dress is cute.

Q. Your childhood dream? – To be an architect. I liked building or designing something.

Q. What do you think you’ll be doing if you were not a singer? – An architect again? Or an architectural designer.

Q. What are you expecting in Japan? – I want to improve my Japanese skills and do several things on TV programs!

Q. Anyone you respect? – EMI (Japanese record company) Suzuki san. Because he is teaching me oyaji gag (laugh). For example, “kaeru kaeru (frog is back)!”

Q. Your favorite J-POP song? – L`Arc~en~Ciel’s song, but I forgot the title…

Q. If you can take three things with you to a desert island? - a cell phone, an airplane (to come back), and a pilot (because I don’t know how to fly).

Q. What is your every day rule you follow? – I drink water and eat banana when I get up in the morning. Eating carbohydrate food like sweet potato.

Q. What do you do during a break? – I mostly practice singing.

Q. What color do you like? – Basic black. I have lots of clothes in black.

Q. What is your motto? – “Acknowledge rather than understand.” This is my way of life drawn from my experience.

Q. What kind of girl in terms of fashion do you like? – A girl who looks good in a polo shirt.

Q. What is difficult in learning Japanese? – People say Japanese gets more and more difficult as one studies it, but it is yet ‘interesting’ to me because I’m only a beginner. I’ll work hard!

Q. What do you think you’ll be doing if you were not a singer? – A vocal trainer or composer. It’s been my dream from a long time ago, and I’m studying composition.

Q. Anyone you respect? – Mom. She is always warm-hearted, strong-willed, and says what she thinks clearly to anyone.

Q. Your favorite J-POP song? – Hirai Ken’s “Close Your Eyes”

Q. If you can take three things with you to a desert island? – a cell phone, a pot, and a tool for making fire like a lighter or matchstick.

Q. What is your every day rule you follow? – Drinking lots of water. And I don’t skip breakfast.

Q. What do you do during a break? – I practice, work out, and do hobbies.

Q. What color do you like? – Every color! Recently floral pink.

Q. What did you buy recently? – A Givenchy leather bracelet.

Q. What is your fashion item for this summer? – I wear clothes in a different style every day, so I can’t tell…but maybe a suit in floral pink?

Q. What kind of girl in terms of fashion do you like? – A girl who knows what clothes are good for her body type.

Q. Your motto? – “Enjoy life.” I’m happy because I live to enjoy life.

Q. Anyone you respect? – (In Japanese) Dad (Oyaji). Oyaji atama (laugh) – [*'Dad head' don't know why he laughs]. Isn’t dad unconditionally respected?

Q. Your favorite J-POP song? – Fukuyama Masaharu’s Milk Tea.

Q. If you can take three things with you to a desert island? - a cell phone, SHINee members, and Korean instant ramen.

Q. What is your every day rule you follow? – Drinking water when I get up in the morning.

Q. What do you do during a break? – I work out and study Japanese.

Q. What color do you like? – White. It’s clean and fresh.

Q. What did you buy recently? – Sneakers for basketball

Q. What is your fashion item for this summer? – Simple style like a blue jean with a t-shirt and snickers. Monotone line will be fine.

Q. What kind of girl in terms of fashion do you like? – Recently I think it is cute to match a long t-shirt with leggings or hot pants.

Q. What do you think you’ll be doing if you were not a singer? – Perhaps an athlete. I would like to be a soccer player since I like soccer.

Q. What is your motto? – Always be respectful and humble.

Q. Anyone you respect? – It’s been always my dad from my childhood. He teaches me lots of things, and we are very close.

Q. Your favorite J-POP song? – Onitsuka Chihiro’s “Gekkou (Moonlight).” I listen to this song very often because of her beautiful voice.

Q. If you can take three things with you to a desert island? – As many friends as possible, water, and a boat to use to come back.

Q. What do you do during a break? – I work out, sing, and dance. I’m also studying Japanese!

Q. What did you buy recently? – A t-shirt.

Q. What is your fashion item for this summer? – A skinny jean, a big size t-shirt, a jacket. I don’t wear accessories.

Q. What kind of girl in terms of fashion do you like? – A girl who knows what style is good for her and can wear it well to look pretty.

Q. What is your motto? – Do your best and wait for God’s direction. This is our family motto.

Q. What is difficult in learning Japanese? – (Taking an example of a word) Verb or adjective conjugation is difficult!

Q. What do you think you’ll be doing if you were not a singer? – A student. I’m now a high school senior, so I would be studying hard for college entrance exam.

Q. Anyone you respect? – Japanese tutor. I’m envious of his Japanese skills.

Korean Translation Credits: jjj @ DC Shinee Gallery

English Translation Credits: jujugal

[Video] Onew & Minho Interview for Auction 110408

Credits: anjutenshi @ youtube

[Translations] SHINee on KOOL Magazine Vol 1

Onew Interview with KOOL

1. Why did you chose to become a singer?

Onew: When I was in my 2nd year of Junior High, my adviser was a music teacher. My Teacher advices me while she listens when I'm singing.

2. Originally you want to sing?

Onew: Yes. I love to sing.

3. Since debut, What is your most memorable episode?

Onew: Of course our first performance on stage. My head was blank and was really nervous. Also I remember when we won the first place. Standing and performing at a big stage like SM Town Concert is memorable too. Also New comer Award!

4. Besides Music, What are your other influences?

Onew: Recently, I thought of "I'll try reading!" so I started to read books. When I read books, I learn a lot as well as my field of vision will expand which is a good thing. Also you can express your ideas, opinions well. Honestly, I don't know if I can continue this (laughs). But I really wanted to read a lot of books now.

5. What kind of books do you read?

Onew: I like writing essays based on the experience of the author.

6. In the future, What would you like to challenge?

Onew: I have the opportunity, I would like to try Radio DJ. And also composing song as well as writing lyrics.

7. What is the first thing you’ll do when you wake up in the morning?

Onew: Recently, I drink water if I wake up. Especially I have musical now, I thought of taking care of my throat. When I wake up in the morning my throat gets dry/sore that's why I try to drink water.

8. Your Favorite Word?

Onew: "It's Fun!" "Let's have Fun!" (Laughs). I love it when were having fun at every kind of stage.

9. What do you do during Holidays?

Onew: Watching movies, Driving....various.

10. What is the most scary for you?

Onew: I'm not particularly scared but if you ask me I'm scared of Insects.

11. What do you do in order to release your stress?

Onew: Sleep!

12. The most relaxing place for you?

Onew: I think our house which all of the members stay together. No one is bothering me and I can sleep well.

13. Domestic Artist you want to collaborate to?

Onew: Which person should I choose...Ah! We talk about this a day before, I promised to have a duet with f(x)'s Luna. That's why I'm thinking of practicing.

14. How about Foreign Artists?

Onew: Stevie Wonder. I really love him. It's such an honor if my wish will be granted and have a duet with him. I will do my best because I'm still not yet ready. Also, He is a Japanese singer but I don't know his name. He is a man who plays piano while singing. I think he is very famous in Japan. I like to practice his songs so I tried to search for his videos.

15. What song do you listen recently?

Onew: Recently, I'm doing musical performance so I usually listen to musical numbers.

16. What is your role in SHINee?

Onew: Looks...It is a joke (laugh) I think my role is to make the atmosphere happy and the person who leads.

17. Which member are you going to take to a deserted island?

Onew: It's Minho. He is athletic and seems to be good in catering foods.

18. Your happiest moment recently?

Onew: You think this conversation is about musical again......(Laughs). I'm one of the cast from the musical called "Rock of Ages". Originally, it's a foreign musical and it's the very 1st performance here in Korea. I'm glad that I was chosen to be the main cast for Korea's 1st performance.

19. What do you most concern about now?

Onew: It's Musical for now!

20. What do you want to do until the end of the year?

Onew: I've always wanted to study vocal music. If I have the time I wanted enjoy while studying.

21. This is the only thing I can't beat to no one.

Onew: This is not a pride but....people say I have nice voice, I'm so happy if they tell me this.

22. If you can time travel, What would you say if you meet yourself during your debut?

Onew: "Let's have fun", "Take lots of lessons"

23. For Next Year, What is your promise?

Onew: I don't know what will happen but instead of hurrying up and have promises, I should do my responsibilities and have fun next year.

ONEW >>>JONGHYUN

Q. Your 1st impression of Jonghyun?

A. When I first met him, he thought me a lot of different things. From Lesson room to the way how to use it, What should I say this to him/her. He is really nice and thought me every little thing. That's why my impression was " Ah, He is a nice guy".

Q. If you compare him to a color?
A. Yellow or red color, brilliant/bright colors.

Q. A message for Jonghyun!
A. From now on let's aim and work hard together towards the same goals and dreams happily. And also, You're Cool!

Translation: omonatheydidn't

Jonghyun Interview with KOOL

Q: What is the turning point for you to become a singer?

Jonghyun: I was in a band in high school. Back then, I wanted to be a composer. I was also trying other aspects when I was chosen by the company to be an intern, from debut till today. Because I love singing, so I also thought of becoming a singer.

Q: What is your most memorable episode since your debut?

Jonghyun: My most memorable memory is when we won the Best New Artiste.

Q: Beside music, what are your other influences?

Jonghyun: Family. My biggest influence is from my mother. My mother really believes in me, she will let me do whatever I want to do, when I was choosing the path for my future, she said “Just take the path that you want to go!”

It was the same when I was promoted to high school, I was in Year 2 when I mentioned that I was thinking of transferring schools in order to learn music, my mother always let me walk the path that I choose. It also gave me a lot of strength because of my mother’s belief in me.

Q: What are your future challenges?

Jonghyun: I would like to try composing. I believe “music is story”, I hope a lot of people can listen to the stories that I wrote, everyone can relate to it, I want to make that kind of music.

Q: What is the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

Jonghyun: After opening my eyes I would immediately climb out from bed and take a shower. I’m the kind that will dilly dally and idle away on bed.

Q: Any favourite movie?

Jonghyun: I like horror and thriller flicks. The most meaningful movie that I have watched so far, a slightly old flick is “Phone Booth”.

Q: How do you spend your off-days?

Jonghyun: Mostly exercising. Then to the company’s dance studio. Because it is a very friendly place since young, so I feel very relieved there.

Q: Ways to relieve your stress?

Jonghyun: Sometimes by exercising, sometimes shopping.

Q: Which Korean artiste would you like to collaborate with?

Jonghyun: Wheesung-hyung! We have a very good friendship. We are very similar in a lot of aspects like musically and sensibility. I think we can work well together.

Then it would be Brown Eyed Soul’s Jungyeop-hyung, I also want to collaborate with him. We did a duet recently on a radio program and I really learnt a lot. I think to be able to collaborate with talented sunbaes, you are able to learn a lot, I can also mature better.

Q: What about foreign artistes?

Jonghyun: No foreign artistes that I want to collaborate, but recently I think Justin Bieber “is awesome”, his debut album is not bad, wonder what his follow –up album will be like? Looking forward to it.

Q: What role do you portray in SHINee?

Jonghyun: Ambience creator? But every member is actually an ambience creator. Everyone has a good character, all wants to be there for each other.

Q: Which member would you bring along to live on a no man’s island?

Jonghyun: Key! Key ah, is the type whom loves to cook all kinds of cuisines while I’m the opposite. If I bring Key along, I feel that I would not have this kind of problems.

Q: What is your happiest moment recently?

Jonghyun: Especially happy when “Lucifer” won No. 1. Followed by doing FM, that too was a very happy moment.

Q: Your current happiest moment?

Jonghyun: Music. I’m the kind whom is easily influenced by the environment. Because it’s already autumn, so ballads are not bad. Then, to create memories. Bought a Polaroid camera a few days ago, will go for a walk and taking photos.

Q: What would you like to accomplish this year?

Jonghyun: To go to amusement park with my friends, I also want to take public transport. I have never been there since high school Year 1. Ah, when we were in Osaka, we went to Universal Studios, had a great time too but I would like to go once with only my friends.

Q: What is “this thing” that you definitely can’t lose?

Jonghyun: Self-confidence. I believe for my age, I think to have self-confidence is much more important than anything.

Q: If you could see yourself back then during your debut, what would you like to say?

Jonghyun: Cherish your tears! (Smiles)

Q: What would you say to the present you?

Jonghyun: No slacking! Don’t forget what you want to achieve!

Q: Any resolutions for next year?

Jonghyun: To learn a lot, to feel a lot, these are what I want to say.

Q: Please leave a message for the readers.

Jonghyun: Really happy to be able to be featured in “Kool” magazine’s first issue. There will be lots of opportunities to share our news with everyone in Japan. I hope we are able to perform live in Japan again!

Jonghyun>>Key

Q: What’s your first impression of Key?

Jonghyun: From the first time I met Key, his character has not changed at all till today, a really independent individual.

Q: Use a colour to represent Key.

Jonghyun: Silver.

Q: What would you like to say to Key.

Jonghyun: I’m really happy when I see you moving forward on your self-path. I hope to see this Key in the future too.

Source: SHINeebloom

Translation: veyonce @ soompi

Key Interview with KOOL

1. Why did you chose to become a singer?

Key: Since I was young, my dream is to become a singer. But on the other way I have other dreams. For example, a painter/artists. Either way I always wanted to work relating to Art. My dream of becoming a singer is always there inside of me.

2. Since debut, What is your most memorable episode?

Key: I went to a CD shop and bought our first album. I still remember that time.

3. Besides Music, What are your other influences?

Key: Fashion and Art. It really gave me an "inspiration". Some people think that it's unrelated field but Visual is all about looks.

4. In the future, What would you like to challenge?

Key: Do our best in various activities as SHINee, My hope and dream is also that were going to experience a lot.

5. What is the first thing you'll do when you wake up in the morning?

Key: I check my Cellphone and iPod.

6. What is your favorite Movie?

Key: "ただ, 君を愛してる" (Tada Kimi wo Aishi teru") Ahh….When I think of it, This is a Japanese Movie. Also, "Dreamers".

7. How about your favorite Anime and Manga?

Key: I like all of Ghibli's work. "The Borrower Arrietty" was recently published right? I reaaaally love this movie. I was hoping that Arrietty really exists as much as I love it. Even my fans really know that I love Ghibli so much that they gave me a present for me relating to Ghibli. I want "Arrietty" as a present. A real and alive "Arrietty" (Laughs)

8. Your Favorite Word?

Key: I have a lot of favorite words. For Example, "In order to get 1% of inspiration, do your best for 99%", "Efforts will always pay off"...

9. What do you do during Holidays?

Key: Meet my friends, Go Shopping and Lesson.

10. What is the most scary for you?

Key: I'm scared when I always think "I hate". Once I think I hate doing this or like that, I didn't want to do it anymore or get frustrated . Anyway relating to negative..it is scary and I'm worried.

11. What do you do in order to release your stress?

Key: Before my stress will accumulate, I frequently release it.

12. The most relaxing place for you?

Key: My Bed.

13. Domestic Artist you want to collaborate to?

Key: FT Island's Jaejin. He is my very close friend. Also, Jaejin as a singer is a Senior and the first one to have activities in Japan so he really thought me a lot. Jaejin is a Bassist so if we do it together, I think it's going to be fun.

14. What song do you listen recently?

Key: Justin Bieber's songs.

15. What is your role in SHINee?

Key: I think a role as a bridge.

16. Which member are you going to take to a deserted island?

Key: Taemin.

17. Your Favorite Food and least Favorite Food?

Key: My least Favorite food is Carrot. Recently, I love Italian foods. Pasta and Italian Salad Dressing is especially delicious.

18. Your happiest moment recently?

Key: My Birthday party. I called a lot of my friends and we held a party and it was really fun.

19. What do you most concern about now?

Key: It's Fashion. For now, I'm anxious about Autumn/Winter Fashion.

20. What do you want to do until the end of the year?

Key: I think receiving an award.

21. This is the only thing I can't beat to no one.

Key: I think being greedy. I want to do a lot of things. Without realizing by myself I did a lot of things that I like to do.

22. What would you say if you meet yourself during your debut?

Key: Go/Take more lessons!

23. A single word for yourself.

Key: "I love You." I'm not a worthy person so I love myself. I'm mediocre.

24. For Next Year, What is your promise?

Key: I'll do my best next year more than this year. In overseas and in the country as well.

25. Messages for the reader.

Key: Compare to the other countries, I think Japan has more international exchange in South Korea. Through this magazine, we are happy if you can get information about K-pop and about us.

KEY >>>MINHO

Q. Your 1st impression of Minho?

A. When I saw him, suddenly I thought he is a foreigner. And I thought he is older than me.

Q. If you compare him to a color?

A. Black.

Q. A message for Minho!

A. I want to become more closer to him. This is my wish so I don't know what Minho is thinking..... (Laughs)

Translation: omonatheydidn't

Minho Interview with KOOL

1. The most memorable episode since your debut?

When we started our Lucifer promotion, I couldn't perform with other members on stage because I had my leg injured.
The most memorable moment was when I was on stage with members after I recovered fully.
I usually don't get nervous on stage, but was so nervous at that moment.
It was a stage unforgettable to me.

2. What influenced you most besides music?

I met many people at college and felt and learned lots of new things

3. What new things do you want to try?

I want to act in a play and be MC, but that's for later when I'm more prepared.
I'm not ready for it yet. Until then, I think I should focus more on our SHINee activities.
I'll try different things when I feel the results of my effort.

4. The first thing you do when you wake up?

I think about what to do today or how to spend a day.

5. What movies do you like?

I like action movies very much. Action is best for stress-relieving!
I prefer action movies to romantic comedy.

6. What do you do in your free time?

I work out or play soccer. I also spend time with friends.

7. What scares you most?

Nothing.

8. How do you release stress?

I work out.

9. Where do you feel most comfortable?

On my bed.

10. Which artist do you want to collaborate with?

Usher among overseas artists. Super Junior sunbae-nim among Korean artists.
I want to sing a song with them.

11. What is your role in SHINee?

I think I'm like a base guitar in a band.
It doesn't stand out but supports the sound.
Playing a supportive role as our team's base.

12. Which member would you take to a desert island?

Only one member? Then...Onew-hyung.

13. Your favorite food and food you hate most?

I hate no food. My favorite is Ramen.

14. What will you say if you meet yourself at the time of debut?

Take things calmly and relax. I'm very differnt from what I was at that time.
I'm more relaxed now, but still a long way to go.

15. One word to your current self

Continue to work hard and don't forget to be thankful!

16. What would you promise to yourself for next year?

I don't know what I'll be like next year, but I'll work hard to improve.

Minho >> Taemin

17. Taemin's first impression?

He was cute. He was like my brother.

18. What color would you compare him to?

Yellow.

19. One word for him?

Taemin, you obey hyungs as Maknae
and work hard to improve yourself
Thank you.

Original in Korean @ DC

Trans by jujugal@soompi

(This seems not a complete interview as some parts were cut out in the scan)

Taemin Interview with KOOL

1. How did you become a singer?

I liked dancing since I was little. Watching performances of Korean sunbae singers or Michael Jackson, I was attracted to dancing and started practing at home by myself.

2. The most memorable episode since your debut?
The first music program we debuted. It is still vivid in my memory. When I was singing on stage, faces of my family and relatives came to my mind. I felt my heart warming at that moment but tried to hold my tears back.

3. Which artist influenced you most?
Michael Jackson. He was on the top in music. I respect him in that respect. It is my dream to become the best.

4. What influenced you most besides music?

My family. (When I wanted to become a singer) my parents didn't object to it but supported me fully. Even now they help me focus on my work. They understand me. When I was rebellious, they took it all generously.

5. What is the first thing you do when you wake up?

Eating breakfast!

6. What movies do you like?

A lot. I used to like romance, action or comedy movies, but these days I'm crazy about horror movies.

7. A phrase or motto you like?

Wait for Heaven's will after doing your best. It is our family motto, and I like its meaning very much.

8. What do you do when you have free time?

I take lessons and practice

9. How do you release stress?

I go to our training room. It's spacier than our apartment. There are friends I can talk to about my problem. It is like home to me. I go to the training room even when I want to meditate by myself.

10. A Korean artist you want to collaborate with?

Hard to answer. There are too many. It's hard to pick just one.

11. Then, an overseas artist?

Usher. Am I dreaming too high?

12. What music are you listening to recently?

I'm listening to old hit songs. Not recent hit songs, I like R&B or ballad songs that were popular a few years ago. Songs with pretty lyrics and a bit sad.

13. Which member will you take to a desert island?

Key-hyung. He will certainly be helpful in many ways.

14. What touched you most recently?

I saw Korean movie, Harmony, recently. It is a very good movie, and I was so moved by it. What remains in my memory out of recent activities is Hello MV shooting. I enjoyed the filming and liked the set.

15. What are you most interested in these days?

Lazing around. Since our debut, I had all my energy focused on our activities until the end of last year. Recently I've got more time on my own.

16. Are there things you want to do before next year comes?

There are a lot. First of all, I want to work harder to show better performances. I think now is the most important time for us. We not going to be called "a new group" any longer.

17. If you pick a thing you think you won't lose to anyone in this?

Everything! First, in fashion. I think I'm rather photogenic, handsome, good at dancing. My voice is not so bad. Good personality. Humble (Hahaha) It's all joke~

18. What would you say if you meet yourself at the time of debut?

Don't forget what you felt when you debuted and keep your sincere attitude. Don't forget your original resolution.

19. One word to your current self.

Do it right!

20. If you promise something to yourself for next year?

I'll be 19 next year, so I think I should be more responsible. I want to show I got more mature. Anyway, I'll improve more!

21. A message to our readers?

I'm thankful for your support. I'd like to have more opportunities to meet you and make good memories with you.

Taemin>>Onew

22. Onew's first impression?

He was caring and kind. Other people also say the same thing about him. "Onew-ssi is good with people and gentle"

23. What color would you compare him to?

Gray

24. One word to Onew-ssi!

All our members have unique personalities, so it won't be easy to be a leader. We sometimes play together, but he is the hardest worker. He is the busiest member now, but it's good to see him always show a smiling face to us. Onew-ssi, please, always stay as you are.

Original (Korean): DC

Translation: jujugal @ soompi

All image credits: winkme

[Translation] Taemin at GQ Korea 10 Men Interview

It took a particularly long time to do your hair, weren't you tired?
It's okay. I kept listening to music.

What did you listen to?
Our song. I listened to SHINee's 1st album.

Do you listen to it often?
When we release a new album I compare it a lot to the previous album. How much did we change, how much did we improve. I listen for my own parts as well.

I wonder if it gets tiring.
When it comes to listening to other songs, after time passes I don't listen to them anymore but with our music I even look for the songs we recorded as trainees to listen. Listening to those I am often surprised. Haha. Because I think that I'm still learning I monitor and study a lot.

You still seem like a newcomer, but it's already your 3rd year. Do you still think you're in the learning stage?
I still can't believe we're in our 3rd year. There are so many new things here and there, so I still feel like a newcomer. In particular every time I go on variety programs they always feel new. And I feel so nervous. Yesterday we went on "Entertainment Weekly's Guerilla Date" and the MC had me do the closing talk. Even though it's just naturally saying something like "SHINee will continue to work hard in the future," I felt so nervous that I thought my heart would explode. I've always been a bit reserved. Ah, but when we become close I'm very active.

Do you have a member you're particularly close to?
Because the five members have been together for over five years now, we've seen everything there is to see and know all about each others' personalities. Because we all know each other so well, there isn't any one person to be particular close to or not. It's not just me, it's like that for the other members too. With everyone there are one or two points that fit well together. Key hyung and I like the same animation. "Princess Mononoke," "Spirited Away," things like that. When I watch football I watch with Minho hyung. I frequently talk about my worries and concerns with Onew hyung. Because Onew hyung is the leader and I'm the maknae.

Fans also look at you as the cute maknae. You're now eighteen years old as well, how does it feel to always be called cute?
When I first heard that I was being called cute I felt very awkward. Truthfully at the time the other member hyungs were hearing that they were cool and impressive, so I wanted to be told that I was cool and impressive too. But now, I really like being told that I'm cute. Truthfully you only hear those words during a certain stage. I think I have about 2 years left. It may be dangerous for the hyungs now. Haha. Not too long ago I went to make my citizenship ID and I felt very strange. During my trainee days I thought it was so fascinating when I watched Jonghyun hyung make his, so when I thought that now I'm making one I couldn't believe it. I thought I'm going to seem less cute now…

Since "Ring Ding Dong" it seems that you've been going for a more manly appeal. That applies for this "Lucifer" stage as well. What does it mean to not be a young boy, but to be manly?
On stage it's the look in your eyes, the particular feel that comes from there. Um so… a natural charisma? I think that personality-wise you're manly if you're loyal and responsible. When I monitor other sunbae singers' stages I feel that something about SHINee still looks boyish. But looking at someone like the Shinhwa sunbaenims, they looked manly and grown up even during their performances from a long time ago.

If you look at the debut ages, aren't Shinhwa and SHINee similar?
Ah, I've watched Shinhwa sunbaenims from their 5th, 6th albums on. I truthfully don't remember H.O.T that well.

Since you auditioned in 2005, you were thirteen years old at the time. How did you come to feel that you wanted to become a singer?
I wanted to since the 2nd grade in elementary school. Policeman, pilot, soldier, I liked those types of professions before that. I didn't really careers like being president. I was pulled towards careers where you fight, a strong type of job. Ah, I suddenly remembered, when I was young I really liked "Dragon Ball" so I would play along. Should I say it was the dream to protect the earth. Then during the 2nd grade in elementary school my interest in music programs suddenly increased and I fell hard for dancing.

If there is someone in particular you could pinpoint who made that happen?
Sunbaenims like Rain or Se7en, and Michael Jackson. I would record them and sing and dance along.

They're all solo singers. You must have for certain thought of standing on stage as a soloist?
No matter what I wanted to debut and succeed by myself. But then when I was a trainee, I spent time with other trainees and grew fondness and attachment. As that happened, I began to think that it would be so good to do it with someone else. Right now I fit so well with the members, and I love group activities. Though at some point if I have the opportunity, I have the greed to release a solo album.

Anyone nowadays can make certain guesses about life as a trainee in a large company. Were there times you had trouble adjusting or when you felt lonely?
I've never had a time when I felt particularly lonely. Instead, there were many times I worried because my singing or dancing wasn't coming along well. Truthfully I thought I wouldn't be able to sing at all. I hardly ever tried singing, you see. Since I was young I only liked dancing, and when I entered as a trainee I was undergoing puberty so I hardly had any vocal training. I received brief training right before my debut, and I couldn't hold a tune and couldn't match the beats. People thought that I was a kid who couldn't sing at all. So I did feel a bit disheartened. So even after debuting I kept practicing and practicing again. Even up until "Love Like Oxygen" things felt very uneasy. I know that too.

That's not something that just solves itself. Do you have someone you lean on during those times?
Onew hyung listens to me. Rather than telling me what to do in particular, he shows me many examples. He leaves the choice up to me. The fact that he worries with me serves as a big strength to me. Even with singing practice, I would practice next to Onew hyung when he practiced and learn from him.

I thought that you would learn singing from Jonghyun.
Jonghyunie hyung helps me a lot when we record. He teaches me systematically by writing on the lyrics and going, "How would it be if you sing it like this, try giving it this type of feel." Rather than sitting me down and teaching me every day he'll give me pieces of advice in passing. Since he went to a music school his technical abilities are strong. I want to learn much a lot from the hyungs and become a singer who can both sing and dance well. And I want to act well too.

You haven't done anything after the sitcom, does taking up a challenge still have its charm? How is acting and performing different?
When I think about it one way they're the same, and when I think about it another way they're different. If they’re the same in that I'm showing something to the audience through the camera, then they're different in with acting it seems like I have to go a little 'overboard' to come across well. Also when it comes to acting, because there are so many people who have been doing it for a very long time, there are so many things to feel and take in as we broadcast. As a result, it was a big help to me with the expressions I show on stage.

Onew is already doing his second musical. You must have some thoughts of, I want to try it too, right?
I want to try it soon. Because singing, dancing, acting are all important in musicals I feel that much more greed. I think that if an offer came in right now I could do it right away.

How about music. SHINee's music in general is trendy, but it doesn't express a specific genre or style. Is there something you feel greed towards?
Of course there is. Greed towards music that's a bit grander and bigger in scale. However I don't think it's the right time yet. Because right now SHINee is doing music that we can do the best, doing music that only we can do. Everything we can try doing at this age, I want to try them all.

The systems seems to be a bit too complicated for someone to make a breakthrough by just wanting to do it. When you choose a concept or whatnot, how much of the members' opinions are reflected?
We exchange a lot of words. Among the members we talk a lot, of course, and with the producers of the songs and with the company we exchange countless words. As we do that we agree on ideas and go forth. I like this type of method.

Conflicts must arise as well?
Occasionally there are times when we want different things. But now since we know each other so well and often discuss things together there isn't any particular conflicts that arise. With me, I'm originally a bit stubborn but I've eased up a lot. In the past I would always argue that I was in the right all the time, but now if I’m not put in a losing situation in particular I'll understand and go along.

There must be someone who has a stubborn streak.
Um.. Often when we go to eat there are times when opinions are split. When it's like that Key hyung goes "Let's eat that, that, that" and everyone thinks. "Ah, Key's stubbornness can't be broken. Let's be understanding." Of course it's done jokingly. Key hyung's assertiveness tends to be the strongest.

When you sing or practice there must be an unseen competitiveness?
Of course there is. When someone practices everyone follows and practices. And when it comes to monitoring we don't just monitor ourselves, we study the other members as well. In the midst of that we compete to find our own styles. Jonghyunie hyung and Onew hyung sing so well. Minho hyung acts well and has variety sense. Key hyung is good with words. In this setting you can't help but receive motivation.

In that situation what do you do? When you're so close to each other it can be a bit awkward to ask certain questions, something about it can feel like that.
Yes, I don't ask about those things often. Since we're so close it's embarrassing to ask. I just watch by myself and think. "Oh, look at that gaze."

Credits: GQ Korea 10Men

English Translation Credits: live laugh love @ soompi

[Translation] Minho at GQ Korea 10 Men Interview

How is your injured leg?
It's okay now. I was injured just a few days before our comeback. I really worried a lot about what I was going to do. We prepared the album for over half a year so privately I did feel like it was all ruined.

For a few weeks after your comeback you sat on a chair and sang, right?
People asked why I had a separate stage to myself. That the concept seemed pretty good. And some would talk without really knowing the situation. Haha.

Because the choreography is so fast it seems like it would cause difficulties even for healthy legs.
It's not an addictive song with an addictive choreography, but a rhythmic choreography that matches each beat. Because it passes by so quickly that it's hard to follow along, people say they can't remember anything from it. It's difficult when we come down from the stage after performing once.

What thoughts cross your mind while you're on that stage?
During our debut the dance that had been absorbed into my body just came out, but now I think that I dance knowing exactly what steps and actions I'm doing at that moment. I've developed a sense of freedom.

You've come saying that you're a contemporary band, do you feel alert of running ahead of the trends?
All the members have that pride. I want to create a stage so that people will say, those guys can absorb and pull off even those types of things. At first rather than thinking that it's unique, I thought, will I be able to do this? Will I be able to carry out this fashion and song? Those were the first thoughts that struck me.

In that case, what about a song like "Replay."
When I first listened to that song, I laughed a bit. Putting it simply, we're directly saying that nuna is so pretty. At first I wondered, how should I express this? Can I do this? But as the five of us worked through it, it was possible. Aye, even if it's embarrassing, we can do it if we do it together.

If you had debuted with a different song, would SHINee have been different from the group you are today?
There's nothing like that. I've never thought even once that we selected the wrong song. Rather, because we have that sort of image I think that different charms are able to be highlighted.

Is this album charismatic?
I feel good each time we release an album. But I always feel regretful. Until now there really hasn't been a single thing that I liked 100 percent. Although I feel satisfaction in the accomplishment.

Do you have any greed to take on more parts?
Because it's important for the five members' colors to unite as one, I don't think it's important for individual parts to stand out. Of course there are parts I feel greed towards, but if it's decided that another friend is going to do it, it's because that friend is the best for that part. Everything we have done was the right thing, I feel.

You've also taken on the responsibility of creating raps, right?
Truthfully, minus a couple of songs you could count using just one hand, I've written almost all of the raps on our album. Although there are times when I think that it would be nice if people acknowledged that, at the same time they may also be very trivial parts that could easily be skipped over. I don't think that I should go around saying that I did this, I did that, wondering why people won't give me recognition. I gain strength when I see the writings of fans wondering, Minho oppa did this but why won't people acknowledge it?

Did you find it to be doable?
At first I was very bad at it. But if I didn't do it then it would be detrimental to me as well as to the members so I thought that I should really try to do it properly. It's true that when you put in effort your skills change. I thought, there isn't anything that can’t be done if a person really tries…

When an acquaintance came into the studio before, I was a bit surprised to see you initiate the handshake first. Because it doesn't seem like something a twenty year old would do…
When I'm with adults I realize that I'm very young and that I don‘t think things through enough, but when I'm talking with friends I think, ah, because I entered society and experienced things early there's a lot that I know. When I send a text message to my closest friend saying "Listen to your mother," my friends are surprised.

You must do things that suits a twenty year old as well, right?
I watch TV and play games and do everything like everyone else… Ah, during this recent break I enjoyed college life a bit. As I did that I really thought, you know people have their own lifestyles. I think that my lifestyle is very different from that of other twenty year old friends. Some mornings I wake up early and take in my schedule. I do that for a few days then one day I sleep in really late. Photoshoot schedule, radio schedule, music program schedule, variety schedule, each day differs like that. This is a celebrity's lifestyle, and I saw that in a regular college student's lifestyle you wake up early and go to class and when class ends you eat and play with friends. Ah, so this is why you experience it. This is why it's so different to actually feel it yourself. The way college friends live is very routine, and I really could feel that I'm living a bit differently.

Your school life must be a bit more comfortable now that you've made friends during the beginning of the semester.
I am a student who is earning money, but even if I try to buy my friends a meal they always insist on paying Dutch, on eating cheaply no matter what, finding a food and beverage shop to eat at, and when we did that I thought ah, this type of day to day life is really fun.. Those friends don't know but I feel it. It's also fun to take the bus and the subway when I go to school. It's a given for a college student to ride the bus and the subway, but when I say that I take public transportation everyone seems to look at me with fascinated eyes? I find those gazes to be fascinating too. Ah, I rode on the 10,000won subway once too. The one where you squeeze in. Oh, and the thing that was the most fun after debuting was watching people selling things illegally in the subway.

It seems like you're even going to say that exam periods were fun.
I took both the midterms and finals. After my debut I haven't properly studied for an exam. The feeling that I went back to being a middle school student after a long time? Sitting in the private library with my friends going, this book, ah, like this, ah… really.. I felt happy.

What about your grades?
I don't have any F's. I also have one A.

Was your football coach father more opposed to you pursuing sports or you becoming a singer?
He was very opposed to my becoming a singer as well but he was more opposed to my becoming a football player. Because he knows the difficulties well. He says that he didn't want to put his child whom he treasures the most through that hardship.

If you had become a football player, the history of the movement of the audience may have been different.
Haha, no. It wouldn't have been like that. If I had taken up football, though of course I don't know how things would have ended up, I don't think I would have been very good. Because of my father's opposition I wasn't able to play football much during the period I should have been learning the basics..

But you were the ace on the program "Let's Go! Dream Team Season 2" where you were a fixed member. But you would get angry during the variety program.
Haha. I've always had a bit of a strong sense of competitiveness. After filming Dream Team, on days I won I would be in a really good mood, and on days I lost I would keep thinking about it. It's the same as when I make a mistake on stage. When I mess up on one step on stage, I feel hateful towards myself. I grow angry. Wondering why I did that that during that step. I think it's because my competitiveness is so strong. But that doesn't mean I enjoy competing. Instead, if there is a competition I tend to avoid it. Because if one wins, the other loses. Because any person, no matter who it is, dislikes losing.

Did you unfairly lose at something once?
When I was young everything was a competition with my older brother. In elementary school my hyung went to a school you had to take a test to be accepted into, and I was rejected from that school. Since then I think that I began to feel that I had lost. My older brother was always the class representative and is strong and is good at sports… I lost at everything. My hyung is also competitive so if we lose we're the style to go the entire day not looking at each other.

Now that you've succeeded with SHINee, a reversal of wins?
No, it's not like that. Ah! What's really amazing about my hyung is, when I debuted he got lucky. He grit his teeth and studied and was accepted into Seoul University. I went "Ah, hyung, really, daebak, recognition." And hyung told me that he felt like he had lost so he worked even harder.

Outside of family, do you have someone you would like to grit your teeth and win over?
Rather than trying to win over them, the people who give me the most motivation would be my members. We live together and practice together, we’re attached for 24 hours. As we do that, I think that we progress learning from each other, seeing what we each lack and filling each others' deficiencies. Not like rivals, but people who help each other and are each other's strength? People who make it possible for me to firmly grow.

Is there a member whom you particularly lean on? A member with whom you want to have a drink with.
Um, I don't think there is in particular. I think I lean on all four members. But I don't know what the other members think. Honestly for me, it's all of them.

If you heard someone wonder if you're succeeding with your looks?
I would receive motivation. I've heard those words before. Because I knew that I was lacking I worried a lot at first when I debuted. My skills were lacking, but my company was saying that I was going to debut.. I think that I caused myself a bit of stress during that time. At that time I heard that I was getting by with my looks, so I was more motivated and I worked hard on my singing, dancing, these things all at once. I thought that I really need to accomplish this now. I'm really lacking so much.

If you say things like that fans may be disappointed.
I'll just have to show them more. If I have the opportunity I want to try acting as well, but I don't think I'd be good at it. Although I think I would work hard and put in a lot of effort because I know that I'm lacking. I don't think people would go, wow, he's good.

From whom do you want to receive praise?
My mom and dad. That makes me happiest.

Credits: GQ Korea 10Men

English Translation Credits: live laugh love @ soompi

[Translation] Jonghyun at GQ Korea 10 Men Interview

What type of person do you see yourself as?
Me? I don’t lie. Really. I'm objective. And I'm blood type AB.. (opens eyes wide) Why do you ask?

I was just asking. Do you watch your own performances objectively as well?
Um. I try not to watch them calculatedly. First off because the stage is created through practice, something about it is systematic in a general sense, so I think that I have to show myself enjoying it. If I think that it is so difficult right now, then I do it with difficulty. If I think that I really can't do this, it all shows on my expression. I mainly monitor those things.

If there is something lacking about SHINee's stages, I think that perhaps your lackingness is lacking. Maybe with the song and choreography, everything is too tightly fitted and dense.
I think I know what you're saying. Naturalness is the most difficult point. I can't help but feel burden each time I stand on stage.

On the flip side, you must have developed a sense of freedom and ease now as well? Does the song you hum day to day change with the weather?
The thing I think of most importantly, and so what I concentrate on polishing the most, is emotion. If the weather is like what it is today where it feels like the curtain is drawn, then I'm most true to that. But I forget quickly. It felt like this yesterday too but even if the situation is the same tomorrow it approaches with a fresh feel so there comes to be tens of thousands of expressions. Today I keep humming Wheesung hyung's songs.

In order to do something precisely your schedule must be too crowded. It seems like you may sometimes feel that you're trapped.
I am trapped. However it's not like that every day. Today's weather is the type I particularly like so I think I am feeling more this way. A bit melancholy. I resolve that 'Today I should raise my spirits like this' and seek liberation. I think a lot about my trainee days. Rather than missing it..

Time passes by fairly but ultimately it＇s different for everyone. How have you changed since your trainee days?
I've walked the road I've wanted to ever since I was young. I did everything the way I wanted to. I joined a band, transferred to a music school from my high school, dropped out and received my GED, then debuted, I've lived the way I wanted to. I've walked the road the way I imagined it. I think I will continue to that in the future.

It seems like you have a life that just continues to flow. Do you like it?
I think that I've walked through it decently, but I don't necessarily like it. I don't like it.

Where does the difference start?
You know, it's like this. If I only look at myself I can't really tell but when I look at the person next to me I feel regretful. In a notable example, I didn't feel disappointed at all not being able to take my high school graduation exams. But when Minho took his I suddenly felt sad. Like a fingernail's worth? It could just be a minor feeling of complaint. Since I’m still young.

You're still young?
Yes. That is really my shield. Saying that I'm still young, I do a lot of things I shouldn't.

At a young age you have accomplished a lot. With "Lucifer," what more do you want to accomplish?
I want to hear that these kids are really good. And I did hear that. We did hear that during "Juliette" as well, but "Lucifer" is much more difficult than "Juliette." The performance in itself. I think that if it wasn't us, it wouldn't be doable. This is confidence. When we first received the song I thought, how will we do this? But as we practiced I saw that we were doing it. I think that as we do this, it's how we grow.

As the team's main vocal?
Um, I concentrated a lot on pronunciation. Not on whether the pronunciation is good or bad but on the issue of whether the pronunciation suites the song. Because I think that if I sing a song with a bit of a 'rolling' pronunciation and people go "What is this kid doing?" then I've sang it wrong. I sang "Replay" with that feeling and I heard that I did well and so I think I gained confidence. With "Love Like Oxygen" I felt a slight sense of burden. So I did go a little overboard but personally I liked that feel. If you listen to it a certain way isn't it very funny? I sang the Korean lyrics with stresses and emphasis like in English. I wanted to give off the feel of Michael Jackson in that song. In "Ring Ding Dong" we went down to bass, a thick sound, I gave off a rough sound a lot. When we came to "Lucifer" I thought to throw that away, I wanted to lose that a bit and go with something more refreshing so I put in effort to do that but I don't think that came across well.

In comparison to that sort of careful effort, isn’t SHINee's boundary a bit confined?
Um, in regards to SHINee's fandom I definitely have a greed for more. Though I don't feel dissatisfaction or have a prejudice towards being an idol. My greed is the people who liked the music from before the year 2000. I mean that I want to receive recognition from the people who say that music nowadays isn't even music.

What do you think about SHINee's lyrics? There are times when I figure, oh, that's just how it must be, but then I wonder, what does that mean?
That's very difficult. I think that when mass appeal and artistry meet the very best music comes forth, but there’s a bit of a contradiction. It's akin to liking hook songs but criticizing them at the same time. SHINee does commercial music. It is commercial music. It means that we have to do music that people listen to. As we do that we offer attractions and earn revenue. We have to make people hum along to our music. There is so much music, and the issue comes down to who will imprint it first. And with that momentum, to make people listen to it one more time, to make them look for it one more time.

That must mean that what's important is if you can persuade people with it, whether it be a hook song or not. Whether it's "butterfly butterfly" or "ring di gi di gi ding ding dong." It's the fate of singers to convince the listeners to accept it, thinking that it's worth it. Even if you take the stage alone.
Yes. Even if I'm alone on stage I'm going to sing. If I'm in a really good mood I could sing "Let's Ride a Horse" without accompanying music. If I feel like I could die from sadness then I could sing Wheesung's "Hell."

Don't you have any impatience in regards to going solo?
I don't have the greed to fill a song with my vocal. Because, I don't know. For me particularly, when I listen to or make the music of the team called SHINee, I think that ultimately SHINee is me and I am SHINee.

Looking at it as an objective person, what kind of team is SHINee?
A fun team. I think we are a dynamic team. Rather than a feel of, they do well, they're impressive, it's like a "there isn't a kid like this anywhere else" sort of feel? A team where five kids like that are gathered together? There are so many people who sing better than I do.

What do you want to steal and from whom?
Wheesung hyung's sensitivity and emotion. It sometimes seems like he and I are similar in that respect, but he's so much deeper. Also Naul shi's vocalization, and Jungyeop hyung's interpretation, if that could all be combined together…

You may become a monster.. Um, the meaning of being twenty years old to a man?
An age when you should do everything you want.

Do you do that?
I can't. I can't because I'm busy.

But, what does it mean to be busy. It's not like you don't have time to eat? Isn't every person in the world busy nowadays?
Because it's like that, that's why people go crazy. For three months I exercised really diligently. I did so without skipping a single day. But after beginning promotions I couldn't exercise even once for about a month and a half. About that much? Not just exercise, but composition, piano, harmonics study, I keep going, if only I had time for it all, and as I think that regret piles up. Because with my personality I'm the type to pester myself, so I'm living thinking that it’s destiny.

Right now at this point, what is the type of good music that SHINee could do?
Well. They're quite at odds with each other. What I want to do and what SHINee has to do. I think it would be good if we did ballads.

Are you preparing?
For now I have to rest. It's my own personal thought, but when you debut as a singer your skills don’t grow. Since you're so busy your condition continues to go downwards, and because in that state you can't practice as you hope for your throat to return you have to take a break, but your schedule doesn't stop. And then when a period of empty space does come around, you set yourself to work hard to raise yourself back up a little bit again, it's like that. I think right now is a period where I should rest.

You said your dream is to be a composer?
Yes, even now I'm writing songs. Alone at home. Recently I learned harmonics and a music program, it's really like a new world. I thought of going to music school as the first turning point in my life. Lately as I compose songs I feel that it's the second turning point. It's much stronger than when I entered SM.

If I come to pay more attention to you while watching SHINee, why do you think that would that be?
Because I'm short? Or because there's one guy who stands out like he can't be seen.

Is that what you view your role to be?
Rather than that, I think that if you see me it's due to the performance. I try to explode on stage. When energy that was bundled together overflows it explodes. I want to become like that. I hope that is the moment when people will remember me.

If you become that sort of person, people would have no choice but to watch. But I think that perhaps throughout the entire interview you’ve only said proper things.
I know. It's the third year since SHINee's debut but until now we haven't had any rumors. Something has to explode for it to be fun.

Credits: GQ Korea 10Men

English Translation Credits: live laugh love @ soompi

[Video] SHINee at HighCut Magazine Interview 100910

Credits: shakizi

Reuploaded by xxxTouchTheSHINexxx @ youtube

[Video] SHINee Interview at The M-Wave Broadcast 100829

Credits: xxxTouchTheSHINexxx @ youtube

[Translation] Publisher talks about KPOP, Minho and SHINee

Re-uploader ( sirinqueen @ justminho.com)'s note: Someone claiming to be working in the publishing field posted this on Kpopsecrets. It actually is a macro, but the size was too big and the font size was too small, so I typed it out here and corrected a few grammatical errors. We don't know how much of it is true, but it IS pretty believable. We'll just have to wait for the official interview to be published them.

Actual Macro

Living in Korea doesn't mean that your world revolves around KPOP only. I am Korean, but little people know that some Kpop acts are fake. It is sad, but that is the truth. At one point, I even stayed away from the Kpop scene and opted to listen and follow the underground acts only.

But working in the publishing filed, directly involving with Kpop.. I have to be neutral. I have to keep reminding myself not to be too skeptical but it was hard when the thing you do not wish to see, do not want to hear are in front of your eyes. But it all changed in one day. It is all because of SHINee.

We anticipated that day very much, because we finally got our chance to do the interview of this group that we admire so much. I am not a big fan myself, but I respect them as they work very hard to accomplish what they have today, being in this cruel industry where the competition is very fierce.

That day, we couldn't wait to meet SHINee.

As soon as we were done with talking and interviewing Key, Onew, Taemin and Jonghyun, it was finally Minho's turn. He was very quiet and thoughtful the whole time questions were being asked to the rest of the boys. He talked occasionally, and smiled most of the time. At other times he simply looked down, and laughed a bit at the jokes Onew was telling. He threw glances at the boys and there was no mistake the strong brotherhood that these boys have. He would pat Taemin's back sometimes and squeezed the tense muscles out of Jonghyun's shoulders.

The sessions continued for more than two hours, and at one point he even went to get the drinks for the members instead of waiting for our staff to bring them to them.

Jonghyun and Taemin went out of the room for a while, and we started to ask Minho our 1st question to him. "Minho is known as a very competitive person. Some people say it is very disturbing to see that streak in you because you are young and you are supposed to enjoy your life or not taking anything too seriously. What do you have to say to that?"

He looked very much lost in thought for a while before calmly stating:

"When I was very young.. I wanted to become a professional soccer player. I love sports very much to a point where I learned everything there is to it about football, and entered every football match around. My thirst in winning was unquenchable that I worry my family off. One day, my dad told me he opposed of me of pursuing that one thing I ever wanted at the time and I was crushed. He didn't want me to become a football player. He said having sports as a career is very tough, he knows it because he is a professional football coach himself. I was lost and didn't know what to do and when I came to my senses, I decided that I would never quit to fight in everything I do. If I do one thing, I do it wholeheartedly, even if people keep telling me it's impossible, I would never want to believe them and I would have faith in myself instead. Fight something as if it is your last fight.. as if there would be no more chance to do that later. That's what triggers the competitiveness in me.. If I lose, I would be very disappointed with myself, keep blaming myself of the loss. Keep telling myself I would do even better in the future."

At this point, Onew kept nodding at what Minho was saying. We were surprised when Onew added, "Minho does what he does best, doing at his very best ability like there's no tomorrow. Be it in performing, or playing or sports. Even I cannot do that as a leader."

Q: You were seen as the quietest out of the five. Is there any reason to it?

A: I am the youngest in my family. I have an elder brother. I was raised to listen and then talk. Not to talk and then listen. Meaning that, I was taught by my mother to be an observer and a listener. Because my hyung is the first son in my father's side of family line in 30 years, he was the center of attention, while I enjoy being by his side - to be a good friend for him in an oppressed situation, to always be there for my mother and my father when they need me... even if I do not do good as their son. That's why I am quiet most of the time. I tend to listen rather than do the talking.

By this, Key said to us, "If he is loud.... he is toooo loud," which aroused laughter in the room and having Minho chuckled, looking slightly blushed.

The interview session went about for another 30 minutes. Bu this time, he looked very comfortable, and was able to talk more freely.

Q: What's the name of SHINee's fan club? What do your fans mean to you?

A: [smiled widely before continuing] It's SHINee World or SHAWOL in short. Where I am today, where we are today... It would be impossible without the love and support by our fans, we went to see SM Youtube page sometimes and were very, very surprised to see the warm, encouraging comments left by the fans on our videos. I hope I'll be able to understand English more. I want to be able to understand what they were saying. We worked on this new album for 9 months... having sleepless nights of choosing songs.. writing lyrics.. singing rehearsals... recording songs... dancing training.. discussing the concept etc.. all for our fans. We are glad that we finally get to do what we love most which is to entertain.

Q: Any last words to your fans?

A: Thousand of apologies on my bended knees to our beloved fans because I cannot perform on the stage with other members. We just finished recording our MV and just waited for the comeback stage when that accident happened. My ruptured muscle would take a very long time to recuperate but as for now I am taking the medicine which enables me to resume my stage performance in the near future. I am still in pain but will endure it for the fans. Please forgive me for my recklessness. SHINee World is our world. Our world revolves around them. We appreciate your love very much. If I could bow to each and very one of you, I would. 'Thank you very much' would not be sufficient enough but please know in your heart that we really appreciate all of you. And for that, I THANK YOU. WE THANK YOU.

As the session wrapped up, we came to realize that these shining boys are very special. Minho is such a good conversationalist. We would never expect that from him. He is very humble and down-to-earth.. when he went out of the room, the rest of the 4 boys waited restlessly for him to come back.

Taemin selected food from each tray and put them on a plate. "This is for Minho hyung," he said. Key kept bothering him at the side, "Minho doesn't eat this one. Let's take more Kimbap rolls for him. He loves that."

SHINee won't be SHINee without Choi Min Ho. SHINee won't be SHINee without Key, Onew, Jonghyun and Taemin. They complete each other up.

Before the day ended, I realized that I am proud of these young men who work very hard in accomplishing what they have today. Surviving in Kpop is tough and I hope they will stay humble and stay the way they are, to keep their feet on the ground always and not forgetting their roots.

That day I realized I wanted to become a SHAWOL too. That I day I realized, Kpop is not such a bad wave after all. Thanks to Minho & SHINee, I have more faith in Kpop nowadays.

Credits: SHINee 's ETN C&D interview July 2010, soompi

[Video] Onew at Rock of Ages The Musical Interview 100806

Credits: TheTONGHYUN @ youtube

[Video] SSTV SHINee's One Fine Day Interview

Credits: SSTV, shakizi

Reuploaded by ladystaceyy @ youtube

[Video] SHINee Interview "Qualities a Leader Should Have" (Eng sub)

Credits: Dragoness57 @ youtube

[Video] SHINee at Inkigayo Comeback Interview 100725

Credits: shinee-ing

Reuploaded by minitabojung @ youtube

[Video] Minho interview at Konkuk University

[English Translation] Hi everyone, I'm Choi Min Ho who is in Konkuk University, Film Speciality in the School of Arts.

I'm a new student who has just entered Konkuk University this semester in 2010.

Our Konkuk Univeristy, not only has a good school environment and the best faculty, I have also met many good seniors and classmates.

Hope everyone can also enter Konkuk University, together with outstanding professors and seniors, you can have greater progress/development and have better results.

And anyone who comes to Konkuk University will be my juniors, I will take good care of everyone, so you must come to Konkuk University!

Thank you everyone.

Credits: MINHONey, Elisa, 西木, suk

Reuploaded by WRShining @ youtube

Chinese Translation credits: 西木

English Translation credits: babyblue @ soompi

[Translation] Onew's interview for THE MUSICAL's June Issue

Six o’clock as the sun slowly began to set; we awaited Onew on a rooftop as we prepared for the photo shoot. Soon after the preparations ended and the staff exchanged words back and forth, Onew appeared. But my, he seemed more like a curt British gentleman than a young boy walking slowly towards us in his jeans and sky-blue jacket (of course he was still as cute as ever). The café’s guests began to bustle around and take pictures of Onew’s unexpected appearance, and we had to hurry to get the job done. But honestly the crowd’s reaction is nothing to be shocked about. He is after all, SHINee’s leader.

Star casting in the theater world is as powerful a card as ever in attracting attention inside and out. And if it’s a current idol star? Then it can only have an even stronger appeal. News of idol group SHINee’s member Onew’s musical casting spread like wildfire, and tickets quickly sold out. Even if you say he had no choice in the matter, wouldn’t he have hesitated despite wanting to 'do his job properly' because of his busy schedule, lack of practice time, people’s high expectations, etc.? “As soon as I heard the news, I said, ‘Oh, really?’ I’ll do it.’ right away.” He had an interest in musicals since he was younger, and always respected musical actors who could sing, dance, and act all at once. He added that because he knew there was a lack of sufficient practice time, there was no choice but to practice in his free time. I heard he first received the script while on overseas promotions in Cambodia, and I once again felt how globally active today’s idol stars are.

It had to have been a burden to be cast in Hey, bro! along with already acknowledged actors, on top of acting in the same role as his sunbae Lee Jihoon. “At first I worried, ‘There’s probably a lot of songs and lots of things to memorize,’ and thought, ‘I really have to do well.’ But the script was fun and the director would praise me with compliments, so I felt good and was able to practice comfortably.” The more interesting part is this. “I liked Lee Jihoon sunbae-nim since I was young, but to meet and act with him like this is completely new. You could even say that we’re 'versing' each other, since we play the same character. So I think it was even more fun.” While Hey, bro! was in its rehearsal stages we met with Lee Jihoon who told us this about Onew. “He’s very passionate and has a strong drive. He would prepare a lot before coming to practice through performance videos and CDs. He’s also progressing much faster than expected. In my case I would dread doing new things but I think kids these days are different in that they can accept differences more quickly.”

Onew’s goal as a first-time actor on stage was to ‘understand and play his character who was so different from himself (Onew’s character Jubong is very stubborn and prone to losing his temper).’ It might be a dull answer but this is one’s must truthful desire as an actor. Onew’s biggest obstacle in achieving this goal was ‘fixing’ his speech. “In musicals, line delivery is extremely important, but I had a tendency to garble the ends of my words. So I practiced by talking loudly as if to someone far away. I was told this helps in improving your voice projection.” He said he not only practiced during rehearsals but during any free time he had, but wait, does that mean he practiced with the other SHINee members? “Because there are actors who take on their characters’ identities and act like them in real life, I thought about trying it too. So I (hehe) tried it once with the members (hehe) but they didn’t like it, so I realized, ‘I am me, and my character is my character.’” He thought this was very funny and kept giggling, but held in his laughter as he emphasized each syllable. “But once I actually enter the theater I’m the one who becomes that character, so I definitely. have. to. change.”

Because he likes sports, is the type to not get nervous no matter what he does (even on stage he only has stage fright for 5 minutes), and doesn’t concern himself over people around him or even cameras, I stated, “You have a very manly personality.” But Onew responded with a look as if to say, ‘isn’t that obvious?’ “Me? Of course, because I’m a man.” His facial expression was so serious and innocent that I couldn’t laugh. Onew’s ‘manly’ personality also appears in this next part. He made a pretty ‘big’ mistake during the first musical performance of his life. Instead of 28, he said was 38-years-old, making him a dongseng older than his hyung. But do you think because of this he would become daunted and not be able to prove himself? Absolutely not. “I don’t hold on to bad memories for long. As for mistakes, I think about them briefly after the show is over, so when I go home I can just think about sleeping. (Laughter)” (If you watch the fan-taken video ‘Jinki (Onew’s real name) on the way home from school’ you’ll know exactly what he means.)

Towards the end of the interview I suddenly wanted to ask this unpredictable and yet serious boy the most basic but most difficult question, ‘What does the stage mean to you?’ To this Onew responded, “The stage is the most comfortable place where I can express myself. I can’t do that well in things like interviews.” If that’s the case, does he ever feel that he was born to perform on stage? (Even though it might be too early to make a conclusion about the fate of such a promising 22-year-old.) “Sometimes I go on stage tired, exhausted, and without strength but when crowds of people cheer me on I work really hard without even realizing it, and at times like that I wonder if this is what I was born to do.” During the time we talked, this was the moment he shined most. And so my interview with Onew ended. He picked up the strawberry smoothie he had neglected because he was so busy telling his story, and now that he was done with this interview ‘work’ he left with a spring in his step to his stage ‘playground.’

Article credits: bae kyunghee, photos by kim hogeun, THE MUSICAL

Scans credits: blingspecial.er.ro, shakizi

Translation credits: okdubu @ omona_prection