“Despite giving people plenty to talk about with your impressive vocals and Red Velvet’s continued success, there’s one topic that still weighs heavily on the minds of some when your name is brought up: your impersonations of "stereotypical" Caucasian and African-Americans. Whilst some dismissed the clip, others thought it to be greatly offensive. Were you aware of the backlash your comments garnered? If so, how did they make you feel?”
+“Oh...” Wendy bit her lower lip, the question somehow surprising her. She had thought the issue would’ve been solved by now. She had never meant to offend anyone, she’d only followed the orders given to her by Zhou Mi. A strand of hair was tucked behind her ear, a few deep breaths being taken.
“Of course I’m aware of the backlash... I mean-- it’s extremely obvious... But I honestly don’t understand the problem.” She swallowed, was that a good thing to say? “I purposely didn’t do the impersonations on Weekly Idol.. the only reason why I did them because I was told to do whatever they asked, like.. we shouldn’t be starting off with wrong impressions on the people who can basically make or break our career, y’know?” Her head tilted, biting her lower lip. “I never meant to insult anyone, I grew up in Canada, and my friends and I never were questioning jokes like this, so I guess I just expected Korea to think the same way, which was obviously stupid.. I know now I’ve made a mistake, but it’s also shown me the two-faced attitude of netizens. Because, well, I’m always seen as the girl who insulted the African-American and Caucasian people, but Zico can use fag and the n-word in his songs with people praising him...”
“Despite the steady success Sonamoo has been enjoying since debut, it seems the mention of your group is often followed by talk of B.A.P’s ongoing conflict with your label; rendering the lawsuit to be a ‘dark shadow’ of sorts looming over you and your members. Does this bother you? Furthermore, how did you feel about those who viewed your debut as a distraction tactic—an attempt by your company at diverting attention away from the lawsuit?”
— {★} — Complete silence ensued once the question was thrown out by one of the reporters in the crowd. Not one member in SONAMOO looked like they wanted to budge – even their leader, Sumin. Queries like those should often enough be answered by their leader, but she had already been advised by their manager to step down and let the other girls speak on the group’s behalf as the Q&A session revolved around most of her responses then. Six of them all looked anxious because their minds were trying to write out proper reactions and responses for him – Euijin, on the other hand, was panicking at how awkward they seemed. She figured she’d be the group’s own knight and share what’s on her mind. The manager stepped out of the room to coordinate with the other staff, so there was no one to stop her nor tell the man that the girls couldn’t speak about such information.
“We try not to pay it any heed,” she began to say after she cleared out her throat so as to properly modulate her tone, “the case…well, we are interested in it – everyone in the company is, but no information about it is exactly being relayed to us artists. Stories through word-of-mouth from the staff to the managers are spread here and there, though.” It was true that Euijin didn’t know much. She still kept in slight contact with some of the members – after all, she spent a good chunk of her trainee life with some of them – though she was never willing to bring up the grave circumstances the group of boys were in. The CEO spoke little to nothing about what was going on behind-the-scenes – only news of further delays or new substantial information sprouted up from within the confinements of the HQ’s building.
“Because of everything, we’re put in numerous tight situations,” she further explained, trying to be as vague as possible. A good chunk of B.A.P’s fanbase go against her own group due to the mere fact that they believed the rookie group was a ploy to get the masses’ minds off of things. Of course, it wasn’t all that successful. Boycotting happened during SONAMOO’s debut, plenty of antis popped up, hate was sent their way in every form of SNS – the girls had it rough even before their “debut” date on the last days of December. Although they did manage to nab the first place spot for the Gaon Weekly Chart once their debut album was released, the amount of people that were skeptical about them only doubled. “Yes, it is quite, as you say, a “dark shadow”, but it only drives us to work twice as hard to win all those that doubt us over.”
The second question had her thinking; yes, she did view it as a form of distraction for a time. Their sudden need to debut happened in a flash – to think their initial debut date was often enough delayed. Why the sudden need to throw her group out into the public? The only unfortunate thing that was happening to their company was the whole case with B.A.P. Throwing a blanket – which was a new girl group – to cover a pile of mess was the obvious answer to the situation.
“I felt…disappointed,” Euijin finally admitted. A small, forced smile met her lips, though only sadness could be found in her gaze. Emotions couldn’t exactly touch the words she was speaking; she didn’t want to divulge too much at the press conference as it might dampen the over-all mood of their release of their second mini-album. “We worked hard to show everything we prepared for. Years and years of preparation were made but all the effort was only met with comments that supposed it was all an act to shove the mess aside…it wasn’t exactly the greatest feeling in the world.” The tone in her voice began to mellow down even more at the answer she provided. High.D – the member who was the same age as her – gave her a slight nudge that would be undetected by the small crowd in front of them. Euijin got the message that she should fix up the atmosphere and end things on a good note, despite the needed formality. “But–! As I said, everything makes us do even better and work even harder. We’ll show an even better image and make it to the top soon. Please support and love our latest mini-album and title track, Cushion!”
“As usual, SNSD’s latest, highly anticipated comeback was met with great praise and enjoyed instant chart success. However, as expected, one thought is weighing heavily on the minds of most: Jessica. Talk a little about what it feels like to promote as eight instead of your original nine so late into your career. Is the difference significant? Do you miss your former member? And lastly, what do you say to those who blame SNSD personally for Jessica’s exit from the group?”
“Thank you.” Her lips curled into a small but sincere smile as she dipped her head to express her gratitude, relieved that their comeback managed to meet the expectations of those who anticipated it greatly. Having been an MC of Midnight TV Entertainment, there have been a lot of times when she was the group’s representative in answering questions that fans and other news outlets were curious about, and so she had slowly (but not completely) grown accustomed to being in the hot seat especially when there were issues. However, she had resigned from her position as MC more than six months ago and being the only one who had to speak for the group, there was no denying how nervous she felt despite doing her best to maintain a calm demeanor.
She shifted in her seat, suddenly feeling discomfort upon hearing the questions. It was so subtle that it would most likely be barely noticeable, unless the cameras zoomed in on her or if one was paying close attention to every small detail about her and her actions. Crossing her legs at the ankles, she took a deep breath and let it out as a quiet sigh, pursed lips twitching in thought. How was she going to answer such questions? Moreover, how would her answers affect her group, their fans, and even their families? The topic was so sensitive that people would find a way to twist her words or add another meaning to them just to show her and her group in a bad light, so she had to be extra circumspect.
After careful thought (and hearing her manager clear his throat–as though he was snapping her out of her daze), she straightened her posture once again and parted her lips, with faint reluctance, to finally answer. “They say life has a way of changing things.. of making giving us the most unexpected surprises, and sometimes knocking us down in the process.” Her voice was soft as she spoke, hands lightly resting on her lap and gaze lingering on the floor for a moment longer before shifting it back to the interviewer’s. “In our case, life decided to make a few changes eight years after we started. Of course, it wasn’t easy at first–change is never easy. We didn’t know what to do, we didn’t know if we would be able to do what we needed to do even if we knew what it was. It was more than just about changing formations, or covering lines.” No, it was far more important than that. It was friendship; bonds and memories gathered from years of growing up and experiencing things together. She shot her manager a quick and somewhat worried glance, but he seemed to have enough trust in her that he merely gave her a nod, his stance rigid but relaxed behind one of the cameras.
She ran her tongue over her lips before speaking again, the brief pause giving her enough time to settle her nerves and organize her thoughts. “Yes, the difference is significant. But with everyone working hard and supporting each other, it also became bearable. I’m not sure if I can say so much right now, but in behalf of the girls, I want to sincerely thank our fans and those who have given–and are still giving–us continuous support and encouragement. We will work even harder to make this comeback as fun and memorable as our previous ones. Please look forward to the rest of our upcoming activities; let’s make more and more memories together.”
The interview ended with another bow of her head, her lips still stretched into a smile that contradicted the sadness in her eyes. “Do you miss your former member? What do you say to those who blame SNSD personally for Jessica’s exit from the group?” She was well aware that there were questions which remained unanswered but she would rather not open old wounds and add fuel to the still-burning fire, so she decided that keeping her silence was the best thing to do. Her only wish was for people to see how they’re pouring their hearts and souls into their work, and how they’re doing their best to push through despite all the negative feedback thrown at them.
“You made your debut into the industry at a young age and seven years later, SHINee has grown to become one of the most successful groups at the forefront of the Hallyu wave, so much so that you even made your solo debut last year. Despite this level of success, it’s clear that sacrifices had to be made to reach such heights, one of them arguably being the loss of your childhood—a time lost to hours of training. Have you ever felt as if you had to grow up too fast and if so, do you regret it?"
His lips have briefly pursed in thought, but so as to not keep the interviewer for too long, he soon finds the proper words to express his feelings as best as he can, as well as in a way that allows his image and past, similar answers to flourish.
“The most important thing when becoming an idol, I believe, is keeping in mind that there are sacrifices that must be made in order to reach your dreams. Friends must be lost, time with family must be limited, and even the memories you could be making with your classmates are put aside, because it takes the entirety of your time, willpower, and strength to debut.” His gaze is cast downwards as his mind wanders, but again, the silence only lasts for a second before he has gathered his thoughts and meets the eyes of those in front of him. “I’ve always known this, and I’ve never really thought of it as giving up my childhood, or throwing away the fun I could have had, but rather as taking steps necessary in order to improve so that I could reach my goal in becoming who I am today.” It’s then that a sheepish smile pulls at a single corner of his lips, recalling exactly what people tend to say about him when speaking of his young age at which he debuted. “I did grow up quickly, yes, and there were times I struggled with day to day things, such as school and making friends due to being an idol, but, truthfully, although I see now that I missed the things that other kids my age would have done, it isn’t something that I regret.” A shake of his head is given, and there’s a flash of a camera to capture the moment before he continues on speaking.
“I love what I do, and I love the experiences I’ve had with my members just as I’m sure I would have with my classmates had I had that chance. And if not for them, nor the fun of being a child that I suppose I gave up, I wouldn’t be where I am today. There’s nothing to regret, in my opinion, and if given the chance to go back and take a different path in life, I would still choose the one I have taken. There is no doubt in my mind, that this was the path I was meant to take.”
“Your latest offering to the industry as a solo artist earned you incredible amounts of praise not only for the quality of the music showcased but also the complexity of the themes you explored throughout ‘Hawwah’. However, you were also branded with criticisms for your brazen lyrics, performances and for embracing your own sexuality—something that seems to happen continuously despite the fact that you’re mature enough to be exploring such themes. Does this constant ‘babying’ bother you?”
Gain pressed her lips together as she stared at the camera. She crossed her ankles as she shifted lightly in her chair. “Uh..” She began as she tucked a piece of hair behind her hair. Her awkwardness impaled her for a moment as she sat there, staring blankly. The faint sound of someone clearing his throat snapped her back to reality.
“It does a lot more than just bother me. It actually infuriates me sometimes just having to think about it. I’m almost 30 years old and I’m still being told what I can and can not do, and what I can and cannot wear. It’s honestly ridiculous. It’s one thing to put restrictions on the idols who are still minors, but it’s a completely different thing to treat grown adults as if they can’t make appropriate decisions for themselves. I know I certainly can.” She paused for a second, clearing her own throat as she looked around the room.
“There’s nothing wrong with wanting to speak upon your sexuality. Sexual desire is something all of us humans have–whether to act upon it or not is completely up to the individual. I, however, shouldn’t have to be ashamed for wanting to tell that story. The only story it seems people want to be told is cute, puppy love and honestly…it’s just totally bullshit!!” She couldn’t help but snort, shaking her head. “I’m sorry for swearing but it’s true!” She let out a chuckle, bringing a hand up to her face for a moment. “This isn’t middle school! I’m not shying behind friends to see if a boy likes me or dying for awkward hugs and pecks on the cheek. No, this is real life! Life is more about requited, cute love and rainbows. There’s passion! There’s lust! There’s unrequited love! There’s ups and there are downs. I’m tired of having only one story told!”
Gain let out a breath as she settled back into her chair. “If I want to talk about those passions we all feel, then I should be free to do so without scrutiny. If you’re not comfortable with speaking about it, that’s fine–don’t. If you’re not comfortable with wearing things that I do. Guess what you can do? Not wear it. It’s literally that simple. Instead of attacking me for what I choose to do, why don’t these people take a step back and look at themselves for being so quick to judge without reason. People should understand that there is absolutely nothing wrong with owning your sexuality. It doesn’t mean I’m using it as a tool to seduce all of the men in Korea and take them for myself–people have to learn that. Not to mention, I’m not less talented for what I wear or the concepts I choose to take on. People think that because I wear short things or I do concepts about sex, I don’t respect myself. I fully respect myself…so shouldn’t that be the only thing that really matters?”
“I just…” She bit down on her bottom lip as she recrossed her ankles. “I’m not a child. If I wanted to still be treated like that I would have stayed home with my parents.” Her fingers combed through her hair. “I come from a very conservative home. My parents were ultraconservative, traditional, and old school–they still are til this day–but look at me now.” She threw her hands in the air, laughing lightly. “I’m Korea’s Sexy Icon! But guess what? My parents are very proud of me. My mother comes to all of my concerts, including Brown Eyed Girls’ 26+ concert, with a Gain lightstick in her hand!” She emitted a small laugh as she recalled her mother’s enthusiasm at her shows. “I’m doing something that others before didn’t get the chance to and others after me will only have the chance to imitate–which of course I don’t mean as a bad thing or anything. I’m just saying..” The singer made sure to reiterate what she said to avoid any misconceptions. “My unnies and I have opened a lot of doors when it comes to women in the industry and owning their sexualities.”
Gain swallowed lightly, leaning against one arm of the chair. “It’s a positive thing–you know, owning your sexuality without fear. Definitely. Everyone know it is…they’re all just too busy clinging on to old ways to own up to it.” Gain paused again, staring at the camera for a moment. “I think there will come a time when there’s no longer unnecessary restrictions for adults choosing to speak upon adult things in this industry…But until then, I’ll keep on telling the stories deemed too inappropriate to explore happily, without fearing the malicious comments I’m destined to face, as well as demanding the respect I desire.” A smile curled at the corners of her lips as she sighed deeply before rising to her feet. “I can go now right–” She narrowed her eyes, looking at the producers in the back. “No? What do you mean no?” Her mouth opened wide and scowling at the people. After hearing their words again, she placed a hand over her chest, letting out a happy breath. “Oh, gosh. I was going to say!” Gain turned to leave, staring at the camera awkwardly for a moment. “Uh…bye!” She shot an awkward grin towards the camera before fleeing to her unnies’ sides.
Please do not answer this IC: Hello, we’re delighted to welcome you into the directory as a new member! Please make sure you’re tracking all the tags + have followed the members as well as the two sideblogs. Our ask box is always open should you require any assistance. We wish both mun and muse the best RP experience possible and hope you enjoy your stay here with us. Thank you for choosing STQ!
【 Thank you very much! I’m certainly in the process of doing all of those things. I will certainly enjoy my time here.
STATUSQUO IS A NEWLY OPENED KOREAN ROLEPLAY DIRECTORY SERVING TO PROVIDE A HOME FOR GENERAL, IDOL MUSES FOCUSED ON CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT AND WRITING IMPROVEMENT.
