How K-Pop’s KINGDOM Expanded Their Lore Even Further With History Of Kingdom : Part VI. MUJIN

If there's one K-pop that never fails to astound and impress us with their unique narrative and worldbuilding, it's KINGDOM.

The seven-member group's story has evolved as a series of EP's, each focused around an individual member, with an epic tale woven around their own fictional kingdom and incorporating traditional Korean instrumentation and imagery. Their latest is the sixth EP, History Of Kingdom : Part VI. MUJIN, with a story inspired by member Mujin and his rule over the "Kingdom of the Cherry Blossoms." KINGDOM's Dann and Mujin were writers on the album, crafting Mujin's powerful tale, which includes the focus track "Dystopia" and its boldly cinematic new video. We just had to learn more of the story behind this EP—and what's next—and we got the chance to catch up with the group in the interview below.

Sweety High: What does it mean to you to release the sixth part of History Of Kingdom?

KINGDOM: It's our sixth EP already. We are proud to say that we've been doing our best to present various different concepts, stages and performances, while staying true to our identity. Again on this project, we are confident to be presenting our unique cinematic performance of KINGDOM. We would like to thank all the staff who have helped us on this project.

 

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SH: Can you share the new story you're sharing with History Of Kingdom: Part VI. MUJIN?

KINGDOM: This project touches on the story of Mujin, who is the king of cherry blossoms. After experiencing various chaos and confusions, the kingdom has become lifeless and changed into a dystopia, and King Mujin is on a mission to help the kingdom to blossom again. The project talks about his pain, struggle and sacrifices in this process

 

SH: What does the "Kingdom of Cherry Blossoms" mean? How does this new mini-album tell Mujin's story?

KINGDOM: This is the kingdom that Mujin is in charge of and is making sacrifices for. The world has fallen apart and become a dystopia as the divine trees have withered, and Mujin comes out from Pandora box's and steps up as the only hope to brighten the kingdom from the darkness.

 

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SH: How has the group evolved since History Of Kingdom : Part Ⅴ. Louis?

KINGDOM: We are continuously finding our own unique color. Rather than following in someone's footsteps, we believe that we are making our own. In order to do so, our members and the staff consistently brainstorm and discuss the path we should be taking,

 

SH: How would you describe the sound of the new mini-album?

KINGDOM: The title single, "Dystopia," is an epic dance-pop track, with strong drum beats that are supported by traditional instruments and choreography that expresses sorrowful emotions. "Song of the Wind" is the only ballad number on this EP that has an orchestra-based, acoustic waltz sound, giving a feeling of reminiscences. The rest of the tracks are dance-based ones in a different mood."'Love is Pain" is dark and fierce, while "My Wave" is more bubbly and "Elements" sounds more hip-hop and pop.

 

SH: What is the story of "Dystopia" and what does it mean to you?

KINGDOM: With the powerful vocals by each of the members, the song talks about how we are determined to protect and fight for what's precious to us, in the most magnificent way.

 

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SH: How does "Dystopia" fit into the wider narrative of the mini-album?

KINGDOM: It plays a crucial theme and is the core of Mujin's story and his kingdom of cherry blossoms.

 

SH: Is there anything you can tease about the next mini-album centered around Hwon?

KINGDOM: It will probably be the biggest, the most magnificent scaled concept ever. Just imagine the magnitude when hearing the theme, "Kingdom of Sun."

 

SH: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

KINGDOM: We cannot thank our fandom, KINGMAKERS, enough. Because of them, we've been able to make it this far. We've gone through a lot during the past two years, but we were able to continue to move forward because of all the love and support we've received from our fans. We wish to continue this journey with them and be that big support for each other. We love you.

 

Can't get enough of KINGDOM? Click HERE to read our interview with the group on History Of Kingdom: Part IV. Dann.