BOYNEXTDOOR Reflects on Transition Into Adulthood in New EP 19.99
by Tayah Fox
The wait is over! 5th Generation K-pop boy group BOYNEXTDOOR has returned with their third EP, 19.99.
The EP tells the tale of the trials and tribulations one faces when transitioning to adulthood. The six-member ensemble showcases their charisma and flirtatious charm in the groovy title track, "Nice Guy," while countering the cute vibes with an intense aura in the hip-hop pre-release single "Dangerous." With members JAEHYUN, TAESAN and WOONHAK lending a creative hand in the tracks, the songs pull from personal experiences, giving this EP more meaning for the group's fans.
The members expressed at the 19.99 media showcase how important it is that these incorporate their stories into their music. Their main goal for this EP is for fans to resonate with them and the release as it shows the stark reality of developing into adulthood. We interviewed BOYNEXTDOOR to discuss their latest EP, diving into the creative process and the meanings behind certain tracks. Find out all about 19.99 below.
(Photo credit: KOZ Entertainment)
Sweety High: Congratulations on your new EP, 19.99! Can you tell us a bit about the title track "Nice Guy?"
JAEHYUN: "Nice Guy" is the lead single off our third EP, 19.99. We set out to create a sound that's both relatable and engaging, with a groovy and catchy rhythm that'll have you humming along after just one listen. TAESAN, WOONHAK and I contributed to the lyrics, and TAESAN and WOONHAK were also involved in the composition, which allowed us to put even more of our creativity into it.
SUNGHO: The track captures the bold confidence of someone just on the edge of adulthood, convinced they can charm the world if they set their mind to it. We aimed to bring out the playful side of a 19.99-year-old trying to seem more sophisticated by incorporating different gestures and expressions during the performance. We have a blast bringing it to life on stage!
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SH: JAEHYUN, TAESAN AND WOONHAK contributed to the writing and composition of various tracks on the EP. Can you share some behind-the-scenes moments that stood out as you worked closely on these tracks?
WOONHAK: Our pre-release track, "Dangerous," which has a Korean title that directly translates to "Restricted from parents," is about trying to sneak out at night without getting caught. I was curious to see how my parents would react to it, but when they heard it, they said, "It sounds great! I think people will like it!"
As the group's youngest member, the other members have noticed my physical growth, maturity and perspective. This development has positively influenced our creative process, as our current thoughts and emotions are crucial to our music. As someone in my late teens, I tried to ask myself, "What emotions am I feeling right now, and how can I express it musically?" to bring out more authenticity.
SH: This release reflects your feelings about transitioning from teenagehood to adulthood. What is the most challenging change to adjust to during this transition?
JAEHYUN: As I transition into adulthood, I sometimes struggle with the distance between my past and present, finding it challenging to balance new responsibilities with the nostalgia for my younger years. I'm afraid of losing sight of my childhood memories, so I think for that reason, I try to channel them in our music to stay in touch with them.
WOONHAK: One of my hardest adjustments has been learning to be more cautious and thoughtful in my decision-making. As I get closer to adulthood, I've realized the importance of carefully considering my choices, which requires a level of responsibility and maturity that I'm still working on. Balancing spontaneity with thoughtful deliberation isn't easy, but it is essential to this transition.
SH: Out of all the tracks on 19.99, which song would the members choose as their theme song, and what made you decide on that song?
SUNGHO: "Gonna Be A Rock." I particularly like the track's lyrics.
RIWOO: "20." I recently visited a playground I used to play at when I was young, and now that I'm in my twenties, it felt much smaller than I remembered. It gave me an odd, almost nostalgic feeling.
JAEHYUN: "20." I infused the lyrics with many of my own stories and emotions, which is why I feel such a strong connection to this song.
TAESAN: "Call Me." It's a track where I wove my dad's comforting words into the lyrics.
LEEHAN: "20." I'll turn 20 this year.
WOONHAK: "Nice Guy." The lead single is the most fun to perform live on stage.
(Photo credit: KOZ Entertainment)
SH: As some members have already transitioned into their 20s, what can your younger members learn from your personal experiences?
SUNGHO: My advice is to stay cool-headed but warm-hearted. I think it's important to maintain a clear and rational mindset and a compassionate and empathetic approach. Balancing these traits has helped me transition to feeling like an adult while staying true to myself and my relationships with friends and family members.
RIWOO: Even as I enter my 20s, I still feel young or small, but I believe that embracing responsibility will help me grow into an adult. It's normal to feel like you're not quite there yet, but taking on responsibilities and learning to manage them can help you mature. By facing these challenges head-on, I believe you can navigate the transition to adulthood while staying true to who you are.
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SH: Earlier this year, you celebrated your first debut anniversary! Looking back, what has been the most memorable moment on your journey so far?
LEEHAN: Looking back on our first year together as BOYNEXTDOOR, it's amazing how many joyful memories we've made in what feels like such a short time. It's difficult for me to pick out a single event, but all the memorable moments we've shared have made us even closer as a group. It's remarkable how we can almost read each other's minds now! I'm also incredibly grateful to our fans, ONEDOOR. We cherish every opportunity we get to interact with them. Their support and encouragement mean so much to us and truly motivate us.
(Photo credit: KOZ Entertainment)
SH: What goals do you hope to achieve when your next anniversary arrives?
TAESAN: By the time our next debut anniversary arrives, I hope we have had the chance to connect with more ONEDOOR around the world. Meeting ONEDOOR in person during KCON LA this year was an incredibly moving experience, and I'd love to meet and greet fans from various places to share our music and performances with them.
SH: Lastly, would you like to say anything to your fans?
RIWOO: We hope you enjoy our third EP, 19.99, no matter your age or background. We tried to capture stories based on universal experiences and emotions that anyone can relate to. We look forward to continuing to share our thoughts through our music and can't wait to meet more ONEDOOR around the world soon!
For more on the power of K-pop, click HERE to read our interview with CRAVITY and BLACKSWAN on Apple TV+'s K-Pop Idols.