2nd Favourite 3JSB Member - Kobayashi Naoki
I want to write about both Naoto and Naoki, but I have a splitting headache so I’ll write about Naoki only.
If I were to pick someone to marry in Exile Tribe, Naoki will be my first choice. Firstly, he comes across as dependable, someone you can rely on, someone whom you can have deep, meaningful conversations with. He will be that someone you trust. It explains why the members respect him.
Naoki is handsome, but you got to admit, he isn’t conventionally good-looking. Especially in the entertainment world where looks matter and there are many stereotypes. I think it is sad that Naoki knows it himself, but this is why he makes it up through his dance, his behaviour, his personality. When he dances, he gives his 150% every single time.
It is a joy to watch him perform because it will be one of the rare times you get to see him smiling so happily and enjoying himself. Stripping is optional but who are we kidding, this is Exile Tribe. They don’t know what shirts are.
Naoki makes me want to be a better person. All the LDH members do, but Naoki in particular stands out. I’ve read so many recounts of fans meeting him, and the reports have one thing in common - Naoki is very kind.
When he was in Taiwan’s LDH Flagship Shop, he extended the meet and greet on his own accord and gave each fan a chance to talk to him. Because in Japan, it is almost impossible to communicate with fans up and close, thus he wanted to treasure the experience overseas. He even obliged a fan’s request to see his abs, although they weren’t allowed to touch.
When Gun-chan and Omi talk about Naoki’s charms, I felt they weren’t wrong. Because Naoki is very good at starting conversations. He can fill in the awkward silence and make you comfortable in his presence. Admittedly because I myself am an introvert. I wish I can experience that for myself because I believe it will be a wonderful and unforgettable experience. He’s probably the one I most want to meet and talk to, simply because I would enjoy the deep conversations. And perhaps request for a hug because he seems to give the best hugs.
I like just how much the members appreciate him, going so far as to run a campaign to promote his smiles (thank you Elly), or flying to Paris to support him on the runway. I like how they say he’s the mother figure, watching over them with love and helping them improve on ideas. I like how he looks so stoic and serious but when he lets loose, he is the biggest goofball. I like how he tolerates Naoto’s mischief and occasionally teases him in return. I like how he still keeps his promise to make sure Gun-chan doesn’t go hungry and does his best to help Gun-chan be successful.
Naoki is endearing and charming and sincere, and the more you know him, the more you find him adorable and wonderful. He has that effect on people especially when he smiles or laughs. He’s perfect in his imperfections, and he will always be my number one soft spot.
