NEO CITY : JAPAN Challenge Project – Saitama Edition
The members travelled to various places during NCT 127 1st Tour ‘NEO CITY : JAPAN – The Origin’!
Since there was a place to visit for the first time, so we asked the members to have a game match on the “local menu”, as well as introducing local specialties!
The one who tried the game in Saitama were…
Yuta and Jaehyun!
Last, they took photo in the arena venue, then they challenged a game that can be enjoyed with the whole body by using the waiting room lavishly. It’s the typical party game, Twister! They started the game after shaking hands and bowing politely^^
After doing rock, paper, and scissors, Jaehyun immediately started it. After receiving an instruction, “left hand, blue,” from the referee who turned the roulette, Jaehyun was thinking while repeating in Japanese, then he put his left hand on it. Yuta watched him as he thought, “It helps you to study Japanese.” But Yuta couldn’t help but laughing while saying, “you’re such a go-getter,” to Jaehyun who put his hand on the circle near Yuta from the first time (laugh). Jaehyun was posing as if he was training his body without getting on his knee.
“It’s here,” Yuta put his hand on the nearest yellow circle, after received an instruction, “left hand, yellow.” Next is Jaehyun. He was relieved to have a slightly easier posture with “right foot, red,” but he turned his back completely to the cameramen and laughed apologetically.
Just as he was happy with his comfortable posture, Jaehyun returned to a difficult position again with, “left foot, yellow.” Unlike Yuta who only got easy instructions to put his hands on and out of the roulette, Jaehyun was driven further with the instruction, ”right hand, red.” Yuta saw it and burst into laughter saying, “Jaehyun, look at the camera! Camera!” forcing Jaehyun to look at the camera. However, as expected Jaehyun, he decided on the perfect expression for the camera (laugh).
Yuta, “right foot, red,” then Jaehyun managed to get over the next turn with, “half raise your right foot.” Next, after Yuta got, “left foot, yellow,” he stopped for a moment saying, ”eh….” While Jaehyun watching over him and saying, “t-that’s dangerous, dangerous (laugh),” Yuta tried his best to put his foot on the circle. The staffs around them already laughed…
This time, while Jaehyun’s easy instructions continue, Yuta somehow managed to follow the instruction, “right hand, green.” But before he tried to do the next instruction, “right hand, red,” he burst into laughing.
“Jaehyun, this is why this game is interesting,” Yuta said while laughing and placing his hand on the red circle under Jaehyun. Those two people who can’t stop laughing since the game started (laugh). In this situation, Jaehyun was in an uncomfortable position again after being instructed, “right hand, yellow.” They did well several times after that, but…
Yuta was desperate for a moment saying, “ah…” with the instruction, “right foot, blue,” but he would try to take the challenge boldly. Then, Jaehyun did well on “raise right hand,” calmly. Next, the instruction for Yuta was “half rise your left foot” …
It’s a game set when Yuta rolled back and fell down while bursting into laughter, saying, “It’s impossible~” It was Jaehyun’s victory. Jaehyun was happy to win, while revealing that it was an unexpected last minute, “the blood in my arms almost stopped (laugh).”
In the commemorative photo in front of the local menu that he won, at first, Jaehyun decided to do a peace sign and smile. But when he was told to do, “winner’s vibe (by manager),” he leaned against the backrest and showed this expression.
When Yuta said while laughing to the winner Jaehyun, “should I feed you?” Jaehyun suggested with a calm smile, “no, I’ll give Yuta hyung one bite only.” Jaehyun added, “although it’s all mine (laugh),” Yuta couldn’t help but laugh. He also was given a fair share (laugh). After that, they ended up eating rice crackers and crepe together, then went back to the dressing room looking satisfied^^
In NCT 127, Taeyong, Yuta, and Jaehyun don’t talk a lot? We’ll reveal those three crosstalk and favorite fashion♡
This week’s NCT 127 series, we directly interviewed 3 people, Taeyong the leader, Yuta the Japanese member, and Jaehyun who is always a gentleman! The favorite fashion style corner is also a unique selection and we will deliver one thing or another that will make you know more about these three people♡
Q. Who cries the most?
Taeyong: Yuta!
Yuta: That’s me (laugh)
Jaehyun: I have no objection. Yuta hyung is very sensitive.
Yuta: Yes. Even when I watch dramas or anime, I usually cry right away
Q. Who is the most meticulous?
Taeyong: If you dare to chose from among three of us, I think it’s either Yuta or Jaehyun. I’m sure it’s not me (laugh)
Yuta: Umm… I guess it’s me among three of us.
Jaehyun: Yuta hyung and I. Probably we’re about the same?
Yuta: Ah… It may be so (laugh)
Taeyong: I think two of them are good in hardworking and being sincere. But being meticulous… I’m not sure about that (laugh)
Q. Who takes care the members the most?
Yuta: Ah~ (laugh). You shouldn’t ask three of us this question!
Jaehyun: (chuckles)
Taeyong: There aren’t much though I care about their birthday presents. I can’t always take care of everyone…. At the beginning of the year, I think, “I’ll take care of the members properly.” But as time goes by, I gradually forget about it… (laugh)
Jaehyun: I like to be taken care by the hyungs, but I think I should take care of my younger brothers too?
Yuta: I’m bad at taking care of someone (determined)
Taeyong: Yuta doesn’t look after someone (laugh). But to be honest, Yuta only takes care me! For example, on the stage or when someone is watching… (laugh) (he glances at Yuta) I-I’m kidding! (laugh)
Yuta: Well, yes! It’s a business (laugh)
Taeyong: I’m kidding! But he really takes care of me well~
Q. Who is the most narcissist?
Yuta: isn’t this fit for all members?
Jaehyun: I think narcissist is a strong self-loving, but it’s important to love yourself, right? I think Johnny hyung is the one who expresses it the best.
Yuta: But I think self-love is something that absolutely should be done
Taeyong: I originally didn’t have that kind of thing. That’s why in the past, I couldn’t see myself in the mirror in the practice room. But I think I’ve been working hard and I’ve been able to love myself little by little…. If you ask me why, there are times when I feel disappointed with myself. As I took these things one by one and improved them, I felt that I could love myself. But I think I’m still in the process of knowing and loving myself.
Yuta & Jaehyun: (listening to Taeyong’s story in quiet)
Taeyong: That why when I was asked whether I’m meticulous or diligent, it may seem like something is not good when I answered, “I’m not like that.” But I have a background in accepting such bad things, so I think it can admit, “that’s not true.”
Q. Who is the most popular?
Yuta: It’s definitely Jaehyun!
Jaehyun: Thank you (laugh). But I think what attracts people depends on them. That’s why I think it differs from person to person.
Taeyong: I also think it’s Jaehyun, but I think Yuta is popular as well. Yuta has a good sense of humor and is very considerate to people!
Q. Who is the best insider (fashion-conscious and popular)?
Jaehyun: I think it’s Yuta hyung. There’s a “sense of humor” and Yuta hyung has it. I think so, especially when Yuta hyung and I have the same sense of humor!
Taeyong: I also think it’s Yuta! I agree!
Yuta: It’s my first time to know the word insider (laugh)
Q. Who talks the most?
Yuta: Among the three of us, isn’t it me…? But in the first place, we are the type who don’t talk much, right?
Jaehyun: I agree. Isn’t three of us talk in the same amount? (laugh)
Yuta: If I were with Johnny, I would talk more.
ー Johnny talks a lot, but everyone said they didn’t listen to him
Taeyong & Jaehyun: hahahaha!
Yuta: I’m listening! (laugh) but you two weren’t listening, were you!?
Taeyong & Jaehyun: Yes~~ (laugh)
Q. Who has the biggest gap between on the stage and on private?
Yuta: Who is it…
Taeyong: I think it’s the same. I used to think that it was different, but when I thought about it, I started to think that there’s no gap because I’m showing my true self on stage and the fans are watching me like that.
Yuta: I don’t really change that much, either.
Jaehyun: When I debuted, even when I stood in front of the camera and when I got on stage, I was so nervous, that I couldn’t show my comfortable figure. But as I gained more experience, I felt that I was able to show more my natural and comfortable appearance. I’m happy with that. But I would be glad if all the fans would like me to look natural.
~Extra Edition~
Please tell us your favorite fashion style!
The season is spring! For that reason, the members picked out their favorite fashion with ViVi in one hand♡
Jaehyun: It’s difficult….
Yuta: Jaehyun is like this, he takes a lot of time.
Jaehyun: (keeps flipping through the pages)
Yuta: Hahaha (laugh). Maybe you should ask him again in an hour (laugh)
Jaehyun: Ah, well, I’ll pick all the styling on this page! I think it’s nice to do a lot of different styles like this!
Yuta: You picked everything in the page? (laugh). Well, for me is this styling. I like clothes that show the body line, so I like clothes that show the silhouette clearly. Then, when I see women wearing high waist pants like this, my heart flutters a bit (laugh). But everything looks good because ViVi’s models and clothes are very beautiful.
Taeyong: I like this.
ー It’s the same with what Johnny chose.
Taeyong: Eh, then I’ll choose this one! (laugh). The color scheme is very beautiful. I like ivory or pastel colors, but this coordination is a perfect combination of blue and pastel pink!
Shot of the members and staff!
「Today’s picture by NCT 127」
For the kind of flowers that we used in the photoshoot, we have prepared a few flowers that suits the members image.We decided to talk with the members on the spot.
Taeyong... Rose (variety: Vendela blue)
Yuta... Orchid (variety: Vanda)
Jaehyun... Ranunculus (variety: Kirameki)
This week, there are three people: Taeyong who was a bit playful and polite on this day, Yuta who was singing to NCT 127′s songs during break, and Jaehyun who was really worried about his favorite fashion.
Next week, it will be the last episode of the Tokyo edition!
We’ll also release wonderful photos, so please look forward to it!
NCT 127 hit right after the Japan Tour is completed! How each of them spent the night before the last performance in Saitama
On March 31, 2019, NCT 127 completed their first Japan Tour with great success. In the next day, we asked the members’ honest feeling after the tour. This is the first time in about two months for the members to gather in this series. So, from this week, we’re going into “9 people in Tokyo series”! How each of them spent the night before the last performance, and their feelings toward the fans… We’re here to share with you the thought of the members who traveled all over Japan with <NCT 127 1st Tour ‘NEO CITY : JAPAN – The Origin’> for two months with a bit more off-cut than usual.
Q. Congratulation on completing the Japan Tour and thank you for your hard work! Looking on two months back then, please tell us honestly what you feel right now
Yuta: I also felt again that all the fans are supporting us from the bottom of heart. Now, I’m full of thoughts that it was really good that we can share a lot of wonderful time with the fans on our first tour.
Yuta: It’s because <ViVi> right? (a pun following Jaehyun’s previous interview). However, I think there are many fans in those areas who couldn’t go this time, so I would like to visit those areas next time.
Q. How did you spend the night before the last performance on your Japan tour?
Yuta: I took a half-body bath, but I thought about a lot of thing while soaking in it. This tour started from Korea. It was short but seems so long. During that time, I thought that I had experience on various things and could grow up a lot as a human being. The next day was the last time to spend with our fans on this Japan tour, so I wondered how we can convey our feelings more strongly… I was doing half-body bath while thinking like that.
Q. Do you think you grew up through this tour or do you regret it?
Yuta: Until now, we had a lot of performances on TV. That’s why I had a feeling that I had to make something cool for myself first. But through this tour, I thought that I, from the bottom of my heart, wanted to do something for the fans. Every time I saw the faces of the staffs who worked hard to make us shine, I thought that I have to work harder in respond! And actually, I did my best, but no matter how hard I tried, I think regret will definitely remain. However, since I have regrets, the thought of “let’s do this next time” came and then I can grow even more. That’s why I think regret is not that bad.
NEO CITY : JAPAN Challenge Project – Osaka Edition
The members traveled to various places during NCT 127 1st Tour ‘NEO CITY : JAPAN – The Origin’!
Since there was a place to visit for the first time, so we asked the members to have a game match on the “local menu”, as well as introducing local specialties!
First, Taeyong and Yuta were the first one who challenged the game in Osaka, the first place in Japan Tour!
It’s a handheld jenga with handles that those two will play!
It’s the same as the regular jenga, picking out the pieces and pilling them up, but because you hold the handle by your hand, it’s one turn until you hand it over to your opponent. The rule is when you hold the handle and the jenga is crashing down, you lose^^ They started immediately from Taeyong who lost at rock, paper, and scissors. For some reasons, Yuta can’t stop grinning (laugh). Taeyong cleared it easily and passed it safely to Yuta.
Then Yuta demonstrated his challenger’s style by leaving only the center of the part where Taeyong pulled out and pulled out the other. The manager who as looking said, “Why there?! (laugh).” He succeeded in passing over his worries to others. The balance was bad, but the second lap was also going well.
There are a lot of safe places but somehow those two pulled out the others and left only the middle one. They’re trying to beat each other in the next turn (laugh)
Taeyong and Yuta gently and carefully passed the shaky jenga which was pulled out the bottom. The moment both of them held the handle…
It’s collapsed.
The jenga broke down in its fourth delivery. “Which one? Which one? Slow camera please.” Yuta asked for a video replay, while Taeyong quietly picking up the jenga that cruelly scattered (laugh).
When Yuta joined and finished picking up, a cruel decision was said, “both of you out!”. Taeyong couldn’t hide his shock saying, “Are both of us not good…?”
The two missed the local menu that looks delicious. They were expressionless when was told, “Because both of you failed, you can only take sad pictures in front of the local menu and finish it.”
Taeyong who mainly staring at the sweets and losing his expression, said, “This is my real expression…” Since it looked so real, after they finished the photoshoot, the staff had no choice but to say, “Please eat what you like…”
After he got the permission, Taeyong cut out the chocolate that looks like Okonomiyaki in a good mood. He ate a bit and while saying, “it’s delicious! It’s my taste!” happily, he also shared it with Yuta.
Taeyong was also interested in takomusu. Yuta explained it to him, “You’ve eaten tenmusu in Nagoya, haven’t you? This one, there’s takoyaki on top of it, so it’s called takomusu.” Then they had a toast with takomusu and tasted it together.
Last, they brought the sweets that they got (not really), went back to the dressing room, and shared them with the other members. The members thoroughly enjoyed the local menu from Yuta’s hometown, Osaka^^
NCT 127's Rising Star who fluents in Osaka Dialect & Korean
Born in October 26th, 1995. From Japan. The only Japanese member. He entered SM Entertainment at the age of 17 which TVXQ, whom he adored, belongs to. Not only has perfect 2D looks, but also is a hard worker, good at dancing, singing, & Korean.
— Good at "communicating with heart" because their mother languages are different
Yuta: Even we don't rely on words, we already understand other feelings by telepathy. In Japanese, it's called "ishin-denshin"!
— Because of the wide range of curiosity, it can be stimulate to each other
Yuta: I'm trying to popularize my favorite Japanese anime in the group.
— Type of women surprisingly similar!?
Yuta: I like someone who is reliable.
— I want to work hard to look at things from global perspective
Yuta: First of all, I want people around the world to know our name by working hard on the project in front of us.
NCT 127
Diversity & Inclusion
The Spirit of Challenge is NCT 127’s Greatest Strength
— NCT 127 debuted in Korea in July 2016 and also made their debut in Japan in May last year. A global dance vocal group that consists of 9 members from Korea, Japan, America, and Canada. The charm is that the group name, is the first letter of Neo Culture Technology, has Seoul, South Korea’s longitude, 127. While focusing on high-quality performance that combines the manliness and beauty to K-pop, it’s an innovation that brings out new musicality and dance every time they release a song. In fact, the members also take pride that “the spirit of challenge is NCT 127’s greatest strength”.
— The first Japanese album <Awaken> which will be released in April is also characterized by hip-hop number, but the “challenges” such as invader dance and the first ballad are scattered all over the place
Yuta: The lead song, <Wakey-Wakey>, has a choreography that has image of invader game. I think it’s interesting because the standing position is also moving like a robot.
They could deepen their bond by not making rules
— They always go beyond the imagination of the viewers. It’s probably, after all, because of the multinational members that have created NCT 127’s endless innovation.
Yuta: Because our cultures and values are different, there have been many difficulties until now, but we always have been able to value communication, conveying, and listening. I think it’s because of our effort that we are able to create something that only we can do.
— To prove this, NCT 127 made their debut in the U.S. last October, and at the same time they achieved a great success by charting in “Billboard 200”. However, as they admit, they are a group of members with strong personalities. There may be conflicts, but is there any rules for that?
Yuta: But in the beginning, I was amazed by various things. When I talk in Korean, I don’t say things indirectly like in Japanese, but I tell it clearly. I think there were times when there wasn’t much difference in age between the members, but now I’ve come to communicate everything clearly.
Yuta: If that’s the case, I also have one. Unlike in Japan, in Korea, I didn’t know that we shouldn’t hold up our plate when eating… I became a person who has bad manner!
One day, all the members hold hands and do skydiving!
— They’ve overcome various differences. While traveling on a tour, they’re creating a complete performance where one solid message is conveyed.
Yuta: We’re still in the middle of our Japan tour, but as we make one thing together, there are times when our opinions are clashed. But I think that overcoming it has strengthened our solidarity. I’m surprised at that.
— As it says so, the members are currently traveling around the country on ‘NCT 127 1st Tour Neo City: Japan The Origin’. We also tried to ask them about what they wanted to do while staying in Japan.
Yuta: First of all, my goal is to finish our current Japan tour without any problems. Then, if I put all of my energy into each task, I think I can go to the direction that I’m aiming for.
A great day in the desired sea! NCT 127′s Yuta, Doyoung, and Mark’s Fukuoka blue sky talk ♡
After leaving the ramen shop, Yuta, Doyoung, and Mark headed tp the next place, a seaside park where they can see the view of Hakata Bay. This day has the best weather as if it welcomes the members’ visit! The three people who had fun, walked around the beach park and talked about each other and impression of Fukuoka.
Yuta x Doyoung x Mark
Took a walk in the seaside park in Hakata!!
At the ramen shop, Yuta, who was saying, “I want to go to the sea,” was the first one to get to the park and the tension goes UP!
The three smiling face doesn’t stop, they take a walk in the park while enjoying the nature with a plenty of sea breeze and sunlight.
They took a commemorative photo with Hakata Port Tower and then the three started the crosstalk.
Q. If the three of you going on a trip, where do you want to go and what would you do?
Yuta: there's a submarine in Jeju Island where we can explore the bottom of the sea! You can ride on it and see the sea. I want three of us to get on it~!
Q. Please tell each other what you think about, "he's cool here in the concert!"
Yuta: After all, it's when Doyoung sings! Especially, there's a balad song called "No Longer", the last part of the song is great.... When I'm listening to it from behind, I'm about to cry.
Mark: Doyoung hyung, how was it? (laugh)
Yuta: I always say it to Doyoung directly
Doyoung: Thank you very much! (in Japanese shyly)
Doyoung: Next, from me... Both Yuta hyung and Mark are cool on the stage and I think they know that. So, I’d like to talk about things other than the stage. First, Yuta hyung. When we are in Japan like this, he acts the most responsibly among all members. Tours, promotional activities..., from the bottom of my heart, I feel grateful and I think he’s really cool. (Doyoung and Mark applauded)
Q. It's also Japan tour’s fifth place in Fukuoka. How did you look back on the tour you've been on?
Yuta: I think the attraction of tour is we can meet with people from the region nearby and see their expression well. It’s really fun. I think the members also think like that. But I think each person will understand their improvements a little by little through this tour. So, I will try my best to make the rest of the stages more enjoyable.
Yuta: Especially, I was be able to see the faces of the fans! At first, I was so embarrassed and couldn’t look straight at them, but I gradually got used to it and came to enjoy it.
Q. It's been since the "Chain" Showcase that you came to Fukuoka, right? Please tell us, if you have any memories and impressions in Fukuoka!
Everyone: motsunabe!
Yuta: I ate two kind of soups, miso soup and soy sauce soup, but both were delicious! This time, we just arrived last night, I haven’t been able to go anywhere yet, but I want to eat something delicious after this!
Q. Please tell us how you feel about today's shooting!
Yuta: To say it in a word, it's refreshing. It was really a great shoot to walk along the seaside park and get some fresh air! Since this is the first time I got interviewed like this, sitting on a bench near the beach, it feels so great. The ramen was also delicious! Today’s shooting was very fun. From morning, I could eat delicious foods, go out and get refreshed. Thank you very much!
NCT 127′s Yuta, Doyoung, Mark are team that secretly gets along!? Tonkotsu Ramen meeting in Fukuoka
NCT 127 visited Fukuoka on their first Japan tour. Speaking of Fukuoka, it’s tonkotsu ramen! Because of that, Yuta, Doyoung, and Mark answered the questions given from the readers while eating authentic tonkotsu ramen. Reasons why Doyoung dislikes big dogs? Part time job that Mark wanted to try when he was a child? and Yuta’s unexpected daily routine....? The side of the members that we don’t know yet is going to be revealed!!
Yuta x Doyoung x Mark
Let’s Tonkotsu Ramen!!
There are a lot of tonkotsu ramen shop in Hakata. These three people rushed into nagahama ramen!
Three people were a bit impressed by the pipping hot ramen and gyoza in front of them! Then they all get along and say, “itadakima~su!” (let’s eat)
When Yuta offered it, saying, “this gyoza is really delicious,” Mark opened his mouth timidly and bite it.
Q. If you name three of you?
Mark: What is it??
Yuta: Team that gets along secretly (laugh)
Doyoung: Rather than having the same things we like, I think we don’t have conflict on opinion about anything.
Mark: Our sense are similar. I think for Doyoung hyung, maybe he tries to match with Yuta hyung and I. That’s why Yuta hyung and I can do whatever we like... To make it easy to understand, it’s like if we go to a country that we don’t know and three of us walk together, one of us naturally says, “let’s go there,” and we will go there. If another one says, “let’s go that way,” and we will go that way.
Yuta: And in the end, there’s an image of Doyoung who gets tired (laugh)
Doyoung: That’s right... (laugh)
Q. You couldn't go this time but where would you like to go in Fukuoka?
Yuta: I want to go to the sea! Also I think the atmosphere in Fukuoka is good, so I want to take a walk with the members. After that, Fukuoka Yahuoku! Dome too. I can see it from the hotel we are staying at but someday I want us to stand on that stage!
NCT 127 members answer questions from fans♡
ユウタ（Yuta 유타）
Q. Among the members, who would you like to be the comedy duo with? Also, are you the funny man (boke)? Or the straight man (tsukkomi)?
Yuta: Doyoung! I’m the funny man and Doyoung is the straight man. I mean, even when we talk normally, we become comedy duo. Doyoung interrupts it right away. So, I’m always saying, “It’s not me who is not funny, but Doyoung.” (laugh)
Q. I would like you to teach me some tips on study Korean!
Yuta: There are many tips, but I think the best one is watching your favorite drama or variety show. When you think of studying, it becomes hard. So, I think it’s better to find something fun while doing it. When there’s a member who is watching TV, I always go to his side and watch it together.
Q. Is there anything that you must do everyday?
Yuta: There are a lot of things, like watching various videos or teasing Mark once a day (laugh). Mark is cute. His reaction is like, “hyung~” (laugh). After seeing his reaction, I unconsciously tease him. Occasionally, I got complain from Mark but that’s also cute♡♡
Finally NCT 127′s series is started!! Thoughts and highlights of the Japan’s nationwide tour & message for readers♡
— What's your thought and highlight on Japan’s first tour NCT 127 1st Tour ‘NEO CITY : JAPAN - The Origin’?
Yuta: First, I want to thank to all the fans who support and give us chance so we can do our first tour! Thank you very much! I was so happy when our first tour was decided, so I prepared it carefully and talked to members and people who supported this stage! So it’s difficult to narrow down the point that fans should pay attention at. But I would like you to focus on “Wake Up” that using jungle gym and “Dreaming” which was first shown in this tour! Other than that, it’s a stage that everyone worked hard and prepared, so please try to pay attention to everything! (laugh)
— Please let us know your enthusiasm for NET ViVi short-term series and message to our readers!
Yuta: Readers of ViVi! I'm NCT 127's Yuta!
I have older and younger sister, since my sisters often read this magazine, I'm so happy that I could appear in NET ViVi serial. I enjoyed shooting in various situation, so I think everyone can enjoy it as well! Please check it out!
More photos and original source: here
I’m in charge of ○○○ in NCT 127. The tour was directly started in Osaka! Members’ understanding their character completely Q&A
Q1. Describe your personality in one word?
Yuta: I think it's sensitive? I often get emotional. I get touched and cry easily even by a little thing.
Q2. I'm in charge of 〇〇 in NCT 127! What do you think your role is in the group?
Yuta: There’s a lot! First, I’m in charge of eating only! There are members who good at cooking, like Taeyong, Doyoung, and Haechan. So, I eat only. Next, tidying up? (I do it) Occasionally... (laugh). After that, I’m in charge of messing with Mark. Mark is so funny when he’s serious, that’s why I often mess around with him. In Japan, I often become the mediator. But in Korea, there’s a time where I become the funny man!
Q3. What do you buy at Japanese convenience store?
Yuta: I'm attracted with unflavored carbonated water. I like the bubbling feeling. I also often buy ice coffee. There's a subtle difference between Japan and Korea, Korea's ice coffee basically sugar-free.
Q4. What’s your favorite song that you’re recently into?
Yuta: Recently, I’ve been listening to BAD HOP. I happened to know this artist and level of perfection of their Japanese rap is really high! I especially like ‘BreatH of South’
Q5. Please tell us how you feel now after the concert in Osaka and memories in Osaka.
Yuta: We were able to start our first solo tour from my hometown! I was so happy that I could meet with all the fans in Osaka and my family came as well. It remains in my heart that the members helped me in making this stage. After the first day of the tour, I felt grateful once again to the people around me.
More photos and original source: here
Words in Japanese and buzzwords that NCT 127 learned recently? There are many words during first tour! Second half of Osaka interview
Q6. Please tell us about your recommendation spot or foods in Korea!
Yuta: I personally like Insadong area. There are old buildings from old days and the atmosphere is close to Kyoto that I love. There are also many sophisticated cafe that has been renovated. I think it’s a fun place to go on girls’ trip.
Q7. Japanese words that you learned recently?
Yuta: When I’m in Korea, I become unfamiliar with Japanese buzzwords. Recently I learned, “sou da ne~” and “hanpanaitte” (laugh). Also, “Ossan’s love”! Eh, it’s old already? “agemizawa” is popular now!? I have to check out what it means (laugh).
Q8. Korean words that popular recently?
Yuta: What's popular in the group is "let's kaja". "kaja" means "let's go", and if you translate it directly, it becomes "let's do this!"? Before concert, we formed a circle and yelled, "let's kaja~!"
Q9. How do you spend your travel time?
Yuta: When the travel time is long, I need to prepare it from the day before! I download all the the popular songs and make my own playlist. Also recently I’ve been into reading. I read it regardless of genre but I think (I read) many communication and self-help books.
Q10. If you’re going to exchange with other members for one day, who would you want to be and what would you do?
Yuta: I want to be Johnny! It’s good to be able to speak English, isn’t it? Also, Johnny has high level of communication ability so that he’s called as “communication center”! I want to be Johnny and try to talk with passersby around the world thoroughly (laugh).
— extra
Johnny: It's difficult to choose because everyone is attractive. But if you want one, it's Yuta. I'm jealous of Yuta's Japanese ability and how cool he is when playing soccer! If I was born again, I want to be good at sports, especially soccer! But soccer is very difficult, isn't it?
The pioneer of Japanese K-pop Artist, We Ask NCT 127′s Yuta
K-pop continues to win fans across Asia and all over the world. Men’s Non-no notices NCT 127, a boy group that consists of multinational members, including Japanese, and is outstanding for their music, fashion, and overwhelming performance! Following last summer articles, Yuta’s first exclusive interview is happened. He told us all about it right after his performance in his own home town, Osaka, where he was still excited.
Spent his childhood in Osaka and encounter with K-pop
Q. What made you wanted to go to Korea and be active in K-pop’s world?
I, always played soccer when I was in my hometown, Osaka. Since I was a kid, I’m the type who is active, and I was running around with my friends from morning until night. I played soccer hard, but when I became a junior high school student, I’m worried with my future. In that situation, I watched TVXQ senior in TV and I was shocked, thinking they’re so cool! Their powerful performance is amazing. I thought that I want to be like that. I was 14 years old. My mother was a fan, so I had DVDs at home, but I felt that I thought it was good because I met something naturally rather than being recommended.
Q. Were your interest changed from soccer?
My sisters (both older and younger) were doing dance, music was familiar to me since the beginning. Perhaps there was a base because I listened and felt it on a daily basis
Q. On the previous interview, you said that you read Men’s Non-no?
Yes! I had a friend who wanted to be a model when I was in middle and high school. I used to read it with them.
Q. How was the story until you actually jumped into K-Pop world?
I went to Korea in the age of 16. I decided to go to Korea as the trainee after passing the audition that was held by SM Entertainment, where I belong now, in Japan. Because I didn’t understand Korean at all, I remembered that I learned hard by sticking papers that I wrote Korean words on the toilet’s wall for about a month to go. I thought that I had to do everything I could. It’s completely self-taught.
Q. When was the timing you consult with your family?
Ah, I took the audition in secret. After I passed it, I told my parents, “I want to go to Korea”, and my mother is surprised somehow… and I saw my father’s crying figure for the first time. Maybe I was lonely living apart. I was so absorbed in those days that I couldn’t remember much. I also didn’t tell my sisters about it. I was embarrassed because I was in puberty (laugh). I was checking the audition magazine alone.
Q. And the power you have developed by yourself is connected to now
Yes. If I have something I want to do, I think I definitely need to do it. But, I wasn’t confident, and I felt like trying a challenge for the time being. If there’s a great audition, I’d like to take to the entertainment where my favorite artist exists. I was really nervous. I’m still nervous when I remember it (laugh). It was my first time doing it.
Aiming for debut and rough days
Q. It’s a tough world that it’s not always possible for trainees to debut, right?
Looking back, everyday I worked hard for myself, singing or dancing, feeling, “It’s really best for me to make my debut!”. I think there were many things that I was only thinking about myself. But, I realized this first tour after debut, there are fans and we’re here, so I want to deliver a better performance. That way of thinking is different from my trainee days.
Q. Did you learn Korean in the same time with the lesson?
I remember it naturally during lesson. In the beginning, I had conversations with an interpreter application in my smartphone. There were times where I get confused when it’s translated strangely. Hahaha (laugh)
Q. It feels like you’re positive although you’ve had a hard time
I’m doing what I like, of course there’s a difficult thing as well, but it’s fun. And I rarely feel homesick. I didn’t want to go home in the middle of the way, but it was nice, really.
Facing debut
Q. What was your particular effort?
What I really thought about was how to express my opinion and thought to others. I think there’s many ways to do this but how can I make a strong argument and agree with the others while respecting them. It’s not a language difference, it’s how to convey my view and feeling. It’s not a problem what language you can or can’t speak, it’s “Is it understandable”. When I make something, whether music or concert, I talk a lot with people I work with. I think I have to stick to my opinions when I have something I want to do. On the other hand, I think it’s necessary to communicate with someone because I have to accept their opinions properly and not make it alone.
Q. Your great effort besides dancing and singing?
The most important thing is to polish dancing and singing, plus it’s really important to interact with people.
Q. Did you learn how to show yourself?
I think you can express yourself only if you know yourself well. Fashion is also the same. I have opportunities to work with awesome creators and artists, but as I talked to them, I could understand what kind of person I am. I think it’s impossible to create our own color unless we do self-analysis, so first rethink what do you want to see and how do you want to be seen. But it’s not until recently I started to think like that. After debut, I looked at myself objectively and thought, “something is wrong, why do I want to look more like this?” I think that kind of experience is important.
Q. What do you think your strength as an artist you’ve found out?
I think my dancing and singing are still not there yet, but I want to challenge more, and I think it means that I have confidence. I think I can build up my confident, if I have it, I’ll do my best to show it to everyone. Please look forward to it.
Q. What’s the best thing about making debut?
I was looking for… after all, can I have a concert. This year in January we had our first solo concert., and I felt that I could back to the beginning or remember during debut days. I think it’s turned out to be the best turning point for us.
NCT 127’s charms that Yuta thinks
Q. NCT 127 is steadily increasing the numbers of areas of their activity and fans.
I think that our personality and the core of our strength is always challenging. It’s open minded on music and fashion. I think it’s great that the members are multinational as well. We talk to everyone that we want challenge all genres and we want to become the team that create trends. That’s why we change our concept every time we release a song. There’s no such a thing like stopping because we’re not like them.
Q. Your sound is always at the forefront, it’s like you’re spreading your antenna
It’s because we’re multinational. I ask about Korean music information and to members from U.S. and Canada about what’s popular in the U.S. or other English-speaking countries. The detailed genre are also different so we can ask someone in the team, like R&B and hip-hop is Mark and pop general is Johnny. Yes, you can ask everything! (laugh) I also thought about Japanese trends. We’re so blessed with environment that opens with no barriers, including good teamwork.
Q. Chain, that became Japan’s debut, was symbolizing it. The message is also in the lyrics, “let’s connect beyond the border.”
Right. I performed with feeling to connect the empathy from Seoul to Tokyo, to the world. I hope all the Men’s Non-no readers listen to it and watch the dance as well.
Q. Anyway, what kind of music that you listen by yourself?
I listen to many kinds of genre. Because I like it rather than studying. Kanye West, Sam Smith, Bruno Mars… I also listen to Japanese songs, I like back number. Among Japanese rappers, I like BAD HOP the most. I also recommended it to Taeyong who is in charge of rap.
Q. What’s the important thing for the group when you work up for performance?
It’s teamwork. For example, when the person in the middle sings and the person near them did a flashy move, there’s a possibility that people will look to there. I’m aware not only of my own highlight, but also other members. I think it’s interesting that the members understand each other good points and each person’s special skill is different.
Q. What praise that Yuta got from other members?
It’s embarrassing (laugh). I was told that my character is cheerful. They said my performance is good, but everyone is so kind… but sometimes it’s pointed out. Taeyong, the leader, has a great sense of how to show on the stage. He said something that can be used as reference, such as, “Yuta, it would be nice if this time choreography is a little bit like this” or “if you try the expression like this”. Even after the completion of such interactions between members, we communicate to each other and we constantly revise it. In my case, I change my gesture a little every time. It’s different each time.
NCT 127’s activities overseas
Q. It’s become a big topic where NCT 127 also made debut in U.S., performed in Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and the only Asian who was invited to Mickey Mouse 90th Anniversary Concert. The first Asian artist who gets featured in Apple Music Up Next and several celebrities posted their photos with NCT 127 in SNS when they attended American Music Award.
It was truly an exciting experience. I went from Japan to Korea and even performing in America… I couldn’t imagine it. It feels like our music is accepted in various places. We also learnt about cultural differences. But, fans’ feelings are the same in every country. Though there’s slight difference on the way they sing. Then, English is hard. Although I remember the phrases, the pronunciation is quite (hard). Before recording, i was taught by the members who can speak English. I asked them, “say it slowly!” then I recorded it in smartphone’s voice memo and I listened it repeatedly (laugh). As I thought, it’s easy for Japanese (language) to express a little feeling, but I enjoy singing in various language. From now on, I want to go and work in various countries more.
Q. What Yuta wants (fans) to pay attention on the first Japan tour?
I want you to pay attention to everything (laugh), but it’s a bit acrobatic. I practiced a lot! Also, I think our song has strong image of dance performance but this time we’re challenging from medium tempo to full-scale ballad. I want people to enjoy different expressions for different songs.
Q. You’re leading MC in Japan tour, right?
Yes! But I was helped by other members. They’re working hard on their Japanese. Because it’s Japan, maybe everyone understands the pressure I feel. I can do my best with gratitude. It’s NCT 127’s charms that we understand the importance of words because we’re multinational. Even if there are things that don’t convey well, our bound will become stronger because we try to understand it. Please pay attention that I’m worried with the details, like whether our costumes are conceptual or there’s a tribute to certain age, or whether to take the string that attached to my shirt (laugh)
Expressing myself with fashion
Q. It’s interview with Men’s Non-no, so we’re going talk about fashion
Ah it’s coming~ (laugh). I, usually wear bucket hat, right? Even when I was dancing, I wear it as well and it becomes my trademark. As for styling, because I dance, I’m standing in front of mirror and trying to move casually. It’s important to know whether I look cool or not.
Q. I think you often wear luxurious brand’s items, but have you found your favorite item?
Recently, it’s fluorescent color! Today’s sneakers are like that too, but I want to challenge more. It looks attractive on the stage. I even think like, “you look good on me, right?” (laugh)
Q. What do you want to wear for spring?
Oversize coat. I want to wear it with slightly bigger feeling. Since I’m turning 24 years old this year, with calm atmosphere like an adult, I even wet my hair. Ah, I’m reading Men’s Non-no (laugh)
Q. What’s the difference between performance and work like today’s photoshoot in fashion?
I think I’m pretty connected. Because when I see people wearing cool clothes, I think like, “wow! They’re artists”. I think it’s close to equality between making performance and coordination. It can be expressed with both of them because they have their own feeling and sense. In fashion photoshoot, it’s very close to when dancing, to show the exact momentary facial expressions and movements.
Q. What would Yuta ask to the readers of Men’s Non-no?
When deciding on coordinating clothes, I want to ask everyone what’s going to be your factor to decide it. Today I had a moment where I was like, “ah, I’d better to wear a ring.” If you think, why do you think like that? It means you’re interested. Because I think each person has it.
Spreading out future’s dreams
Q. The future goal of Yuta, who is making his dream come true?
I would like to do concert at bigger venue and visit 47 prefectures! I want to give more gratitude to those people who are waiting for me. There are times where I want to tell you something, but the it doesn’t come out instantly. It makes me think later like, “Why can’t I tell this story…?” That’s why I want to tell them from Hokkaido to Okinawa.
Q. Last, tell something to your 16 year old self who decided to go from Japan to Korea?
Japanese artist who crossed the sea at the age of 16
Yuta from NCT 127 Exclusive Interview!
NCT 127 is a multinational group from Seoul who has fans all over the world with its music, fashion, and overwhelming performance that isn’t bound to genre. We will do the first exclusive interview with the Japanese member, Yuta!
PROFILE
Yuta (ユウタ)
Born in Osaka, October 26th 1995. He made his debut in Korea as NCT 127’s member in 2016, and in Japan also America last year. He is in the middle of their first Japan tour now.
Connect the world with an open mind
“I always talk to everyone that I want to challenge all genres of music and fashion. The members from different countries share what they’re interested in to create one thing. The biggest strength of NCT 127 is ‘open-minded’”
Yuta says that the charm of the group is they will continue the new challenge for each release. “In a multinational group moreover that has overseas fans, when I want to show my personality, the important thing wasn't only dance and singing skill, but also how to express my opinions to people. This is not the problem of what language I speak. I thought about how to make myself understand and respect others a lot.”
The reason why NCT 127 is accepted in various countries is perhaps because they have a such mind that beyond quality performance. ”I always be a soccer boy when I was in Osaka.” He looked at TVXQ on the TV in admire and he went to Korea at the age of 16. "It's connected now with what I did that time. From now on, I want to grow up more while struggling."
Full version of the interview carefully talked from secret episode before debut to goals in the future. There’s special article that contains a lot of photos. www.mensnonno.jp
Summer! because I like mountains and sea, I like summer where I can take walk and play in the sea. Since I was a kid, every year I definitely went playing in the sea.
Q. Favorite foods?
Meat, fish, I like everything, but my favorite as expected is takoyaki. because I'm from Osaka, I like okonomiyaki and sauce and I eat it often. In addition, I also take protein well to build my body.
Q. Foods you don't like?
Shiitake mushroom— ah, I also don't like bell pepper (laugh)
Q. Favorite snacks?
In the past, I like potato chips and snacks, but recently I like chocolate and sweets. And it's been awhile I ate 'Shiroi Koibito’, it's so delicious~! (p.s: shiroi koibito is a European-style cookie which is manufactured and sold in Japan)
Q. Favorite sports?
Soccer. But I like sport in general, I also like running! I learned soccer from kindergarten until 3rd grade in middle school so I think it’s my special skill… today I regretted not being able to score (in the game)
Q. Favorite numbers?
10. It’s because soccer’s ace number is 10!
Q. Favorite fragrance?
I like fresh aroma of sweet and sour citrus fruits, like lemon.
Q. What kind of fashion that you like?
There are many monotone fashion like black boots x black pants. I also like wearing silver accessories such as necklaces, rings, and piercings.
Q. Express your personality in a word?
Umm… I can’t express it in a word (laugh). Although I have different sides, I still don’t understand myself yet… I’m still searching for it so I’m not gonna say that I’m like this.
Q. This is the only thing I can’t be defeated! What can you brag about?
My feelings for music. For me, music is a thing where I can find different sides of me. Because NCT 127’s concept is changed depending on the music, I can meet new sides of me, “I also had this side in myself.” Music is like the general feeling of life.
Q. Tell us your weak points!
Actually I cry pretty soon… (laugh). I like anime so I watch it often, but when I feel moved by a scenes, I empathy with it and I cried right away.
Q. Your hobby?
Recently, listening to music and watching movies. I always listen to music in my free time at work. I check out popular songs as well as wide range of genres like ballad, rock, hip-hop, R&B. Johnny and Mark are often listening to Western music and recommended it to me. I also exchanging informations with members!
Q. What you usually do that you feel the happiest?
I felt this last time when I went on Kyoto trip with my family. There was a restaurant where I can eat nagashi soumen (flowing noodles), it was fun! Then all members make one thing, and they feel happy as they get closer to completion. It’s the most fun when it’s starting to take shape!
Q. Favorite place to relax?
I think it’s dorm. Now I’m in the same room with Taeil hyung and Winwin. I’m spending time with interfering Winwin (laugh). I have a lot of time with the members even in the dorm. By the way in our dorm, it’s a rule that we have to clean the room, wash the dishes, and take out the garbage in pairs once a week (laugh).
Q. Things you must do before sleep?
Because I’m sensitive to sound, before sleep, I definitely wear eye mask and I’m sleeping listening to classical music. Then I can sleep while being relax.
Q. Things you must do after wake up in the morning?
Recently, I drink green juice! Because I don’t really like vegetables that I think I have to take care of my health, so I try to drink it every day. It’s easy to drink because it’s powder!
Q. Is there any surprising things when you come back to Japan?
I thought it would be nice to have a lot of toilets (laugh). In Korea too of course there’s toilet, but there’s none in convenience store. Then, because I like coffee, when I come back to Japan, it took me awhile to find coffee shop. There’s so many cafes in Korea.
Q. New Korean word that you learned recently?
Korean… I wonder if there’s any? I never learned this, but there are some things that are convenient to remember! The first things I learned when I come to Korea were “bap juseyo (please give me some foods)” and “hwajangshil odieyo? (where’s the toilet)”. I think if you remember these two things, they’ll be useful in Korea (laugh).
Q. Do you look like your father? Or mother?
My face probably looks like my mother. I think my personality is like my father!? I guess it’s the sense of responsibility.... Ah I said it myself (laugh). I think rather than saying similar it would be better if I could become such a person. Because I respect my father.
Q. A word that you would be glad if a girl told you?
“You’re manly”
Q. Foods you want girls to cook for you?
I want them to make lunch box. I’d be glad if they make it when we go on picnic together. The side dish is octopus wiener!!
Q. Girl’s gesture or behavior that make your heart skipped a beat?
It’s cliche but... behavior of tying up hair makes my heart thump. Then, I like people with good voice because I like to listen to people’s voice.
Q. How do you get over when you feel down?
There are a lot of worries, aren’t there? When I told myself If I solve this trouble I would be bigger, I can’t sleep at night thoroughly. When I said it’s okay to pass this, I will forget other things.
Q. A song you will recommend to people who haven’t listened to NCT 127?
I like all the Japanese songs, but the best recommendation is Cherry Bomb. I think it would be nice if you see it with the performance. From the last point of falling down to the point where the members become V-shape with the legs spread, I would like you to pay attention to it!
Jaehyun’s practice is started, he writes it carefully while read it aloud one letter at a time. He was praised by Yuta Sensei after he wrote five characters on the line, then he said “thank you very much~” in Japanese shyly.
Jaehyun, who thinks of simple Japanese words that started with initial letters, read one character at a time while writing. Each time, Yuta taught him to arrange the simple words side by side, “て (te) is 手 (te) for hands.” When it was “ta”, Jaehyun smoothly told himself, “た (ta)... is ta for 食べたい (tabetai = i want to eat)” (lol)
Jaehyun keeps asking, “how many points I am?”. He was told “If you write your name, it’s 100 points.” then he was in high spirit feels challenged. However, the phenomenon where the letter that should be written small becomes bigger occurred again. When Yuta told him, “From today your name is Jiehiyon.” he replied it with smile, “My name is Jiehiyon.” (lol)
But, with that conversation, Jaehyun understood. He could write “Jaehyun” on the cover. Even Yuta sensei is moved, “Jaehyun is the first one who can write the letters smaller!” (lol)
Jaehyun’s practice book is complete. At the end, he did his introduction again correctly, “My name is Jaehyun.” (lol)
When they took photos, even though Jaehyun teased him, “Sensei, did you tell me something?” Yuta sensei ignored it and decided to pose splendidly.
NCT 127 try to make radar chart challenge!
They created the NCT 127 radar chart while analyzing each other!! The numbers are completely different depending on the members, everyone agrees with that... Yuta wrote it while explaining it in Japanese. Since there’s a lot of different parts from the other members, please take a look while comparing them all.
Yuta >> Yuta
I wrote this with hope that I could get used to it. I think I’m the manliest among the members (laugh). I’m in the middle of studying to make my charisma to be 5, so I’ve put my hope and done it like this. I used to be a sociable, but I feel like I’ve come to be a shy person recently. For romanticism, because I want to be a romantic person, I’m halfway through it now. Also, I think my positiveness is average. Rather than an airhead, I think I’m more like the type who is careless.
Yuta >> Taeil
For positiveness, because the ups and downs are fierce, so it’s 2. His romanticism is almost none. He’s not the type who is sociable, right? I think there’s charisma when I see him singing and it feels cool. But his manliness... he said to himself that he’s manly but I don’t really feel it (laugh). Taeil hyung loves Winwin so much that it makes me feel natural to watch it.
Yuta >> Johnny
His positiveness is in amazing level. He can be done ladies first naturally, and I think it’s romantic, so it’s not enough for five points. Then, he’s called as NCT’s communication center because he can become like friends with people that he met for the first time. Because he’s a positive person, he gains charisma from his confidence. I think he’s manly because his strength is strong as well.
Yuta >> Taeyong
His charisma is by far the best. I think he’s also manly. In NCT 127, he’s then manliest. (Staff: the other members are charismatic, but not manly...) Really?? Ah... It’s because he has sensitive side. He’s also native and cute! His positiveness is almost none (laugh). I feel he’s romantic. I think Taeyong’s sociability and positiveness are remarkably low (laugh).
Yuta >> Doyoung
I wanted to make his manliness 0, but once it’s about 0.5 (laugh). He’s a sensitive type. I feel his charisma while he’s singing and MC-ing. I think his communication ability is really high. Because Doyoung also has delicate way of thinking, I think he’s romantic. His positiveness is 0 or minus (laugh). If there’s negative item, because of worryingness, it’s 100.
Yuta >> Jaehyun
Jaehyun might be the most average! He’s balance type. He’s not naïve. I think he’s both manly and charismatic which makes him attractive. He seems romantic because of his sociability and popularity. (Looking at the radar chart that Jaehyun wrote nearby) You’ve written a lot about me, so I’ll give you some praise later!
Yuta >> Winwin
He has charisma but his manliness is close to 0 (laugh). His naïve level is 5! I think it’s close to me. There’s something that he had eaten stuck around his mouth. Since he’s shy, so his sociability is 1, and I didn’t see any romanticism, so I decided it to be 1.
Yuta >> Mark
I chose 5 for charisma but I wonder if his manliness will come out in the future. Romanticism is... he doesn’t seem to be able to do that well, so it’s 0. His sociability is confident that comes out when he speaks in English, when I look at it, I think it’s about 4.
Yuta >> Haechan
Haechan’s dance is more balanced and sexier rather than powerful type, so I don’t really feel his manliness. He has charisma but because he’s still growing, it’s 4! Because he’s a good speaker, his sociability is 4. Mark and Haechan are thoughtful, I don’t feel they’re naïve.
Here’s the complete NCT 127 radar chart by Yuta!
for the part of the other members talk about Yuta, you can see the translations in this twitter thread of mine
5th place Yuta, while exchanged seats with Jae Hyun, muttering, "Because it's coffee, it starts with 'hi'..." he starts without having to worry about the answer. He thinks about the words that starts with ‘hi’ by himself then he immediately moves to drawing.
Yuta drew the airplane seriously. The tail plane looks like fish… (lol). When he was drawing the sun, Winwin approached him, said, “it looks like elementary school student’s drawing.” Though Yuta pretended to be angry, he was laughing happily.
While there are some strange things like painting clouds in light blue, the illustration that looks like an airplane to everyone, has been finished. Last, he completed drawing a small house on the ground. In the end, Yuta looks happy after Winwin said, “good!”
