As a dedicated fan, I can wholeheartedly say that Kang Daniel is not just a talented K-pop star but also a versatile artist who effortlessly transitions between music and acting. At 27, he has already accomplished so much in his career, from winning “Produce 101” to releasing critically acclaimed albums and making his onscreen debut in the popular series “Rookie Cops.
27-year-old Kang Daniel, a renowned K-pop star, exhibits two distinct personas. One instant he’s captivating crowds with his energetic performance of “Electric Shock” on stage, and the very next moment, he’s relaxing in a comfy sweater, appearing more reserved during a weekend Zoom call with The Hollywood Reporter from Seoul.
Kang has had several years of experience in the industry, starting at age 20. In 2017, he found his beginnings by winning the second season of the Korean music competition show, ‘Produce 101’, which led him to join the temporary boy group Wanna One. After an impressive 18 months with the group, Kang decided to pursue a solo path in his career. His loyal fans, now known as FLOWD, have been supporting him since the very beginning.
Following that, Kang has seen success with multiple highly-praised albums in South Korea. He’s also ventured into acting, marking his screen debut in the 2022 mini-series “Rookie Cops”, which was Disney+’s inaugural Korean original series. Moreover, the K-pop sensation has hosted the immensely popular dance competition show “Street Woman Fighter” and its spinoffs, namely “Street Dance Girls Fighter” and “Street Man Fighter”.
Currently, the artist has returned with a fresh EP titled “Act,” following his partnership with a new management firm, Artistic Round Alliance (ARA). After closing down his personally established agency, Konnect Entertainment, due to embezzlement from one of its significant shareholders, he decided to join this agency.
The performer found it difficult to transition away from his old firm, yet launching his newest record feels akin to rekindling and resuming his role as an entertainer once more.
Here, Kang shares insights into the creation of his fifth solo album, describes his ideal leisure day, and hints at future plans in both his music and acting professions.
What was your experience like making Act? How did you feel going through promoting the album?
As a one-man band, I typically star in my music videos. This latest project, however, required me to take on not just one, but two roles. It was an exciting and novel challenge for me during the filming process of this music video.
Which aspect of the album release did you particularly enjoy, such as filming the music video, giving a performance, or something else entirely?
The music video is what I do for a living, yet it seems fresh and novel on this occasion.
Does your life experience as both an individual and an artist impact the kind of music you create?
Typically, when I’m engrossed in movies or television series at home, I find myself pondering about music simultaneously. I try to disengage from work during my leisure time, but it seems my mind has other plans. Watching movies and drama series is a hobby of mine that often sparks my imagination, which proves beneficial for my work. In essence, this creative influence seeps into my music composition.
How do you recharge? What do you like to do in your free time?
There are numerous methods to unwind, and different approaches work for different people. While some prefer exercise or movie nights, for me, the comfort of my own home is truly special. My home houses my beloved cats, computer, and televisions, making it an ideal sanctuary where I find peace. Simply put, I cherish my time at home.
How are your cats? They’re very cute cats.
They’re really cute. They’re always cute. They’re perfect.
Are there plans for you to perform again in the future, or was it an experience you found enjoyable and would like to repeat?
Perhaps, if an opportunity arises, I’d be delighted to. When I initially worked on Rookie Cops, I used to experience a great deal of anxiety. However, now I feel at ease, capable of handling more tasks.
At this stage of your career, how would you like to be perceived as a performer? Given your youth, it might seem amusing to mention that you’ve had a lengthy career so far. However, the question remains: How do you want to be viewed? Has your image evolved from what it once was?
Appreciate it! [I chuckle]. I truly appreciate your kind words. I take great joy in expressing myself authentically on stage and during performances. However, what truly matters to me is not being remembered as the best singer someone has ever heard, but rather a singer whose music they frequently listen to. This is one of my main objectives.
If you could say something to your fans at this moment in time, what that would be?
Dear FLOWD, I regret to inform you that due to circumstances beyond my control, we had to alter our fandom name. Despite this change, I have always valued and will continue to appreciate each one of you, my fans. I want to express my gratitude for your unwavering support throughout this journey. It is because of you that I was able to release this album, and I aim to grow into a person who consistently aligns with the vision you hold for me.
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2024-11-02 03:25