When you listen to ATEEZ\u2019s music, watch their electrifying performances, and observe the intensity of their rehearsals, you begin to sense something deeper. Their trust in one another, the challenges they\u2019ve overcome, and the path that shaped them as a team evoke a particular work: the 2010 documentary Stones in Exile. The film documents the creation of Exile on Main St., the seminal 1972 album by the legendary Rolling Stones.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Likely due to the \u201cpioneer\u201d or \u201ctrailblazer\u201d spirit embedded in their creative vision. Their music unfolds in a raw, arid desert, a symbolic space teetering on anarchy, where they weave stories of freedom, independence, self-awareness, and autonomy, charting a relentless journey toward these ideals. Over the years, they\u2019ve crafted an intricate self-narrative, and their evolution from boys to fully realized artists feels like a musical coming-of-age documentary in motion. The raw intensity they bring to the stage transcends mere performance, embodying a crystalline culmination of their private experiences, hard-fought introspection, and shared moments of struggle and triumph, compressed and expressed with visceral power.<\/p>\n
Perhaps that\u2019s why I find myself picturing their own quiet sanctuary. It\u2019s a modest retreat, far from the relentless noise and pace of the city\u2014a space where time slows just enough to allow for reflection. Here, they might leaf through well-loved books, place LPs with rich and varied tones onto a turntable, and listen intently to the warm hum of vintage equipment. Sometimes they ride through the neighborhood on classic motorcycles, feeling the wind graze their skin. As twilight drapes the sky, they might sit together, trading unhurried thoughts as wisps of smoke curl into the air. Other days, they fish alone by a quiet river or share workouts that challenge the body while strengthening their bond. On sleepless nights, they gather for films, closing the day with quiet laughter and a warm glass of milk in hand. In this imagined space, they find their own rhythm of emptying and refilling, restoring themselves in the quiet strength of their connection. This is ATEEZ\u2019s way: moving forward with burning intensity, finding calm in the pause, and lifting anchor once again with fearless resolve to meet the world head-on.<\/p>\n
When I think of ATEEZ, the first word that immediately comes to mind is \u201cintensity.\u201d Whether it\u2019s in your music or your performances, there\u2019s an unmistakable energy\u2014driven, heartfelt, and all-in\u2014that defines who you are. What would you say is the core force that fuels ATEEZ and fills everything you do?<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: What fills ATEEZ? Simple. It\u2019s ATINY. We all have our personal goals, and of course we have goals as a group, but at the end of the day, the real drive behind everything comes from ATINY. That \u201call-in\u201d energy people talk about when they describe us? It\u2019s because of that. We always wanna show ATINY our best, put on performances we can be proud of, and keep delivering that raw ATEEZ vibe without losing what makes us, us. Everything starts from wanting to make ATINY proud.<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I\u2019d say the biggest thing that fills ATEEZ is passion. It\u2019s that passion that makes us wanna keep leveling up our performances and push ourselves harder. When you\u2019ve got that kind of fire, you naturally start putting more and more into every stage.<\/p>\n
Yunho: For me, it\u2019s love. I think that\u2019s the core. Whether it\u2019s from ATINY, our families, or the people around us, all that love gives me and the members so much strength. Honestly, I feel like that\u2019s where our energy and good vibes really come from.<\/p>\n
Yeosang: I\u2019d say it\u2019s the fact that the eight of us are all chasing the same goal\u2014to keep going higher. That shared mindset keeps us tight. And of course, we wouldn\u2019t be here without ATINY, who always show up with love and support.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: I think it all comes down to being real. I always step on stage like it might be my last, and I think that mindset helps me connect with people in a genuine way. And honestly, ATEEZ has received so much love from ATINY. That love pushes us to go even harder, because we just wanna give back everything we\u2019ve been given.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: I think it\u2019s hunger. That drive to level up, to do better every time, is what makes our performances feel so intense and full. It\u2019s that craving to grow that really fuels our \u201call-in\u201d energy on stage.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: Honestly, ATINY is the biggest part of it. But I\u2019d also say our teamwork plays a huge role. No one in this team ever half-asses anything. Everyone\u2019s always giving it their all, and I think that\u2019s what makes ATEEZ leave such a strong impression.<\/p>\n
Jongho: I think the biggest thing is the way all eight of us bring our own unique vibes, and how it all just clicks together. That blend of different energies creates something powerful. Plus, every member has their own confidence and passion, and I think that\u2019s what makes our presence feel so strong on stage.<\/p>\n
\u2060They say true growth often comes not from adding more, but from letting go. In your own journey, what have you had to release or unlearn in order to grow?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: For me, it was all about mindset. I had to let go of the constant pressure to overcome every little fear, doubt, and feeling of not being enough. Once I made space for more positive thoughts and energy, that\u2019s when real growth started to happen.<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I\u2019ve been trying to let go of my obsession with perfection. I used to get really down if things weren\u2019t perfect, and even small mistakes would stick with me all day. Now, I\u2019m learning to be okay with things not being flawless, as long as I gave it my all.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: For me, it was about letting go of worry and all that anxiety about the future. I\u2019ve realized that when I overthink, things just don\u2019t go well for me.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: I guess I\u2019ve let go of two things\u2014free time and body fat. With our busy schedule, I definitely have less time for myself than I used to, but honestly, I\u2019m just grateful I get to do what I love. As for the fat\u2026 I\u2019ve been working out and dieting consistently to show my best self, and yeah, it\u2019s basically gone now. (laughs)\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: I think it\u2019s important to let go of pressure. Instead of feeling like I have to be perfect or prove something every time, I try to focus on showing my true self. That mindset feels more meaningful. So whenever I\u2019m on stage, I try to fill each moment with real, honest energy\u2014not too heavy, not too light, just pure sincerity.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: I\u2019ve realized it\u2019s important to keep my thoughts and mindset light. Lately, I\u2019ve been trying to think more simply and clear my head, and honestly, it\u2019s been helping. Same goes for music. You can fill a track to the brim and make it feel intense, but that doesn\u2019t always make it memorable. I think sometimes, leaving space is what makes that one moment really hit. So yeah, I try to stay aware of that balance and make room for impact.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: I\u2019ve been trying to stop comparing myself to others. Instead, I focus on comparing who I am now to who I was before. That way, I can see my own growth and keep pushing forward in a healthier way.<\/p>\n
Jongho: I tried not to let greed get in the way. What fills ATEEZ isn\u2019t one person\u2019s ambition\u2014it\u2019s the trust and respect we\u2019ve built as a team. That\u2019s what true \u201cfilling up\u201d looks like to me.\u00a0<\/p>\n
So what would you say was the foundation for that sense of \u201cfilling up\u201d or growth?<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: Honestly, just time spent practicing and growing. Whenever I found a little space to breathe\u2014mentally or emotionally\u2014I tried to fill it with effort and progress.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: For me, it really came from within. When I know I\u2019ve worked hard and can feel proud of myself without any regret, that\u2019s when I feel full. That kind of self-assurance is what truly strengthens me.<\/p>\n
Yunho: Confidence. And like I said before, the love I\u2019ve received gave me a deeper sense of self-worth.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: Spending my time well. When I use my time meaningfully, even in small ways, I feel good\u2014like I\u2019m building something real. I\u2019ve done that so far, and I plan to keep doing it.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: Love. Seriously. ATINY\u2019s love fills me up every single day. It\u2019s so big and so sincere\u2014I want to give all of it back, tenfold.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: I feel like we\u2019re being filled through all kinds of experiences\u2014whether it\u2019s culture, performances, or just everything we\u2019re exposed to. And beyond that, we\u2019re also growing through trust, connection, and the values we build with people around us.<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: Definitely the love from fans who believe in me. It\u2019s a huge source of strength\u2014and motivation.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: For me, it\u2019s our teamwork. We\u2019re a big group, and that only works because everyone checks their ego. We\u2019ve always focused on balance\u2014making space for each other\u2019s strengths. That harmony, that unity\u2026 that\u2019s what fills me the most.<\/p>\n
The storytelling behind Billboard\u2019s ATEEZ feature aims to capture moments of silence and stillness\u2014time intentionally left empty to make room for the group\u2019s voice. In other words, private moments of rest and recharge. Do you have any personal, peaceful rituals or shared downtime as a group that help you reset?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: When we\u2019re on tour, we randomly get these little pockets of downtime that aren\u2019t even planned. And honestly, those chill moments\u2014just vibing with different combos of the members\u2014end up being super refreshing. I don\u2019t even try to make it a thing, but somehow they always give me inspiration and help me reset.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: Whenever I get the chance, I try to do things I usually don\u2019t have time for. I go on walks, spend time alone, and just enjoy the little things in everyday life. That\u2019s how I recharge.<\/p>\n
Yunho: For me, it\u2019s all about peaceful trips and snapping photos of nature along the way. Just looking at those views helps me clear out all the random thoughts in my head and really reset.<\/p>\n
Yeosang: Working out is my go-to. It\u2019s one of the few things I can do at my own pace without feeling rushed. I love that I can just zone out and focus completely on myself for a bit.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: I think each of the members is pretty good at enjoying their own alone time, and I\u2019m definitely the same. I really value those quiet moments by myself. I take that time to reflect, recharge, and just be fully present with myself.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: Nothing too fancy, honestly. I\u2019m into chill things like spa days or good food\u2014stuff that helps me unwind. So on my days off, I just like to take it slow and enjoy the time.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: Things get super busy, but I still make time to relax whenever I can. I think all of us have our own ways of unwinding, and that\u2019s what helps us stay grounded and keep going strong.<\/p>\n
Jongho: We eat together a lot and make time for just the eight of us to hang out. It might seem small, but those little moments really help us stay tight as a team. (Laughs) I think that\u2019s why, even when our schedule gets super packed and tiring, we don\u2019t burn out easily. We get through it together.\u00a0<\/p>\n
From pirates to anarchists to outlaws from Westerns, the characters in ATEEZ\u2019s storytelling often embody a bold spirit\u2014challenging norms and stepping beyond the boundaries of convention. Do these recurring themes reflect the core values or motto of ATEEZ as a team?<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: Yeah, for sure. Dropping unexpected music at unexpected times, trying out video styles no one saw coming, and chasing goals that might seem impossible\u2014no one told us to do it that way, but I think it\u2019s become our shared mindset. Not just for the members, but for everyone on this journey with us. Honestly, I feel like ATINY might be the same. Moving forward, I wanna keep being that steady captain who gives strength and courage to our fans, our team, and everyone who believes in us.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: Whether it\u2019s music, dance, or visuals, ATEEZ has always gone after bold and new ideas without fear. I think that fearless attitude we show in real life kinda mirrors the characters we bring to life in our storytelling.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: I think that kind of energy really fits ATEEZ as a group, and it matches each of our individual vibes too.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: Looking back, I think we had nothing to lose when we first debuted, so I wasn\u2019t really afraid of anything. That mindset probably showed through as courage and determination. I was just doing my best with what was given to me, so I\u2019m really thankful that people saw it as something cool.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: I think there\u2019s definitely a connection. When something feels unfair, I try to speak up and share my honest opinion. That\u2019s just how I am, and I\u2019ll keep being that way. I guess that side of me naturally came through more.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: I feel like ATEEZ is the kind of team that, if there\u2019s a wall in front of us, we\u2019ll find a way to break through it\u2014no matter what. Revolution-style. That\u2019s kind of our vibe.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: I wouldn\u2019t say it\u2019s a direct connection, but I think our stage presence, combined with how expressive each member is, really brings everything together. That\u2019s where the synergy kicks in.<\/p>\n
Jongho: Honestly, the courage and drive people see in us might\u2019ve started out as boldness\u2014or maybe just raw passion. But I think that\u2019s what made ATEEZ feel like a group that charges forward no matter what, almost like a collection of pure willpower. Boldness and passion aren\u2019t that far from courage and determination, right? (Laughs) So yeah, I feel like all of that naturally lined up with the storytelling we\u2019ve built.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s take things in a lighter direction for a moment. Have you ever had a moment of justified rebellion\u2014a break from the norm that felt meaningful in its own way?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: It\u2019s super small, but sometimes I spend a long time in the studio just watching totally random, meaningless stuff. Like, zoning out or letting the algorithm take over and just letting videos play in the background. That kinda feels like my version of rebellion. But now that I think about it\u2026 I\u2019m not sure there was ever a real reason for it. (laughs)\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: Skipping night study sessions to head to the practice room instead\u2014that was probably my version of a little rebellion.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: If we\u2019re talking light rebellion, I\u2019d say getting together with the members for a good meal. It might seem simple, but those moments feel like a break from everything\u2014and honestly, they\u2019re super healing for me.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: There was this one time I swore I\u2019d stick to my diet no matter what. And then\u2026 I went on an overseas trip and ate literally everything.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: I feel like for fans to really feel the sincerity from ATEEZ, we need to carry a mindset that lets us stand tall and proud. So I try to stay away from anything that feels off or not right. Because of that, I don\u2019t think I\u2019ve had any real \u201crebellious\u201d moments to be honest. (laughs)\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: I\u2019ve always loved listening to music, but if I had to pick one moment, it\u2019d be going wild with friends at Coachella. Just losing ourselves in the music, dancing like crazy\u2014it was the perfect mix of rebellion and healing.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: I wouldn\u2019t really call it a rebellion, but there was a time when I played a lot of games during my breaks. It actually helped me let off some steam and just chill out.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: It might seem small, but back when we were trainees, there were definitely moments when we just wanted to rebel a little. We\u2019re only human, you know? In those times, the eight of us would always stick together and find little ways to recharge.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Do the members take part in shaping the visual concept during the creative process? And what aspect tends to spark the most discussion or collaboration?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: We\u2019re all super involved in different parts of the process. Each member has their own way of expressing their identity, whatever feels most natural to them. The things we talk about the most vary from person to person, but for me, I\u2019m always thinking about how far we can push a new concept, and how to keep the balance between the music, visuals, choreography\u2014everything. There\u2019s no one right answer, so I try to stay open and really listen to everyone\u2019s ideas.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: We\u2019re pretty involved across the board\u2014everything from outfits to hair styling. We all share our thoughts and also try to really listen to each other. At the end of the day, what matters most is whether it fits the concept. That part never changes.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: Everyone has their own take, but for me, I\u2019m pretty vocal when it comes to shoot concepts and styling\u2014especially if it helps bring out my vibe in the best way.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: When any of us has a specific visual concept in mind, we usually talk it through with the team and find a good balance. Hair and outfits are where most of the back-and-forth happens, but we always try to make sure everything fits well and feels right through open communication.<\/p>\n
San: We talk a lot when it comes to visuals. Like with \u201cIce On My Teeth,\u201d we had tons of convos about how to really bring out that resistance or mafia vibe. I remember discussing details like the glasses, the pomade\u2014everything. I think all that attention to detail really paid off, and I\u2019m super thankful to everyone who helped make it happen.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: Our input actually gets reflected a lot. Even from the planning stage, we\u2019re all talking and bouncing ideas around about the concept and direction we wanna take for each album.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: I definitely care a lot about the outfits. If I have a good idea, I\u2019m quick to speak up and share it.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: We\u2019re pretty outspoken when it comes to everything\u2014concepts, music, choreography, you name it. There was even a time when one of our B-sides became the title track because we really pushed for it. We\u2019ve also worked closely with the choreo team to tweak moves that felt more \u201cus.\u201d And it\u2019s the same with visuals. We make sure it fits our vibe through a lot of back-and-forth with the team.<\/p>\n
\u2060ATEEZ\u2019s music is known for blending a wide range of pop elements in just the right places. From your perspective, what musical characteristics best capture what makes a song feel truly \u201cATEEZ\u201d?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: It kind of shifts depending on the era. But one thing that stays constant is that the \u201cATEEZ sound\u201d really comes from our voices and how we express ourselves. No matter what genre we\u2019re trying or how the song is structured, it\u2019s our tone and delivery that make it feel like us. When we were prepping for this Billboard collab, I listened through the album again and thought, \u201cDang, this is so well put together\u2014it flows so smoothly start to finish.\u201d<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: For me, it\u2019s all about newness. ATEEZ is always trying out different genres and putting in the effort to make that freshness feel like us. I think what makes something feel \u201cATEEZ\u201d is how we take something new and turn it into our own vibe.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: I think what makes something feel like ATEEZ is how we play with dynamics\u2014knowing when to push and when to pull back.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: What makes us feel like ATEEZ is that we don\u2019t box ourselves into one genre. We\u2019re always exploring different styles to show all sides of who we are. And it\u2019s not just in the music\u2014it\u2019s in our performances too.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: It\u2019s the boldness. We don\u2019t shy away from the unknown. Instead of repeating what\u2019s safe, we push forward with something new, and we do it the ATEEZ way\u2014with no fear.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: Honestly, I\u2019d say the combo of addictive tracks and powerful choreography. That\u2019s the essence of our stage identity.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: All of us have totally different vocal tones, so when we sing together, it creates this really rich mix of textures. I think that contrast gives our songs a lot of depth\u2014and that\u2019s a big part of our sound.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: One thing about ATEEZ is that we can take on all kinds of genres and still make them feel like us. We\u2019re also a team that works hard to break the stereotype that \u201cidols aren\u2019t artists.\u201d No matter what kind of music or style we try, we want people to recognize it as ATEEZ and know that we\u2019re here to challenge those limits.\u00a0<\/p>\n
ATEEZ has topped the Billboard 200 twice now. How has that kind of global success influenced your musical choices or direction moving forward?<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: Honestly, even now, we\u2019re always looking two or three albums ahead\u2014just like we did when we debuted. We don\u2019t base our next move on how the last one performed. Instead, we\u2019re always thinking one step forward. We\u2019re super grateful for all the love and recognition we\u2019ve received globally. That support definitely gave us more confidence in the path we\u2019re on. But whether it\u2019s seven years ago or today, one thing hasn\u2019t changed\u2014we\u2019re still focused on creating and sharing what only ATEEZ can deliver, no matter where in the world it\u2019s heard or seen.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I think it\u2019s opened us up to more diversity. That kind of success gave us room to grow. It helped us take the next step and made us pay more attention to different genres and styles.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: It boosted our confidence big time. We felt like, \u201cOkay, we really can try broader concepts and bolder songs now.\u201d And the fact that we\u2019re getting so much love from fans? Just\u2026 grateful.<\/p>\n
Yeosang: It\u2019s definitely been a huge motivator. It reassures us that we\u2019re on the right track\u2014that everything we\u2019re pouring into this is worth it. That feeling comes straight from ATINY. We\u2019re thankful every day.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: We\u2019ve been lucky to receive love from so many fans around the world, and we never take that for granted. Because of that, I always try to find new ways to express our heart and honesty\u2014in every language we can.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: It kind of expanded the runway for us, you know? Global love gave us more space to explore new genre.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: We\u2019ve been blessed with so much support all over the world. That pushes us to think even harder about what kind of music could connect with everyone.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: It\u2019s become a huge source of energy. Every time we try something new or take a risk, that global love is behind us, cheering us on. So we\u2019ll keep going\u2014no fear, just forward.<\/p>\n
Did your Billboard success feel like a source of pride, or did it come with a sense of weight\u2014as a new starting point shaped by public expectations and the next big goal ahead?<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: Honestly, I think it\u2019s a bit of both. Our goals are still far ahead and way higher, so the Billboard records are something we\u2019re proud of, but they\u2019re also a kind of fuel. They give us and ATINY this shared energy as we keep moving forward together. I\u2019m genuinely so thankful for that.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: It\u2019s definitely something we\u2019re proud of. But more than that, I see it as a win for our fans. It\u2019s not pressure\u2014it\u2019s pride, shared with them.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: I\u2019d say it\u2019s a starting line, not something that weighs us down. It feels like a proud beginning, not a heavy burden.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: It\u2019s a mix. It makes me proud, of course, but there\u2019s also this quiet pressure to do even better for our fans next time. But honestly, that pressure helps me grow\u2014it\u2019s fuel, not fear.<\/p>\n
San: I feel both, too. It\u2019s pride and pressure, but not in a bad way. I don\u2019t get overwhelmed by it. We\u2019ll keep showing up stronger, just like we always have.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: It\u2019s a meaningful kind of pressure\u2014a good weight to carry. It makes us want to grow and aim even higher.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: Yeah, I\u2019d say it\u2019s both. Something to be proud of, but also something that pushes us. It gives us real momentum, and with that comes responsibility, too.<\/p>\n
Jongho: In our song \u201cWONDERLAND,\u201d there\u2019s a line that says, \u201cTo the beginning where the end awaits.\u201d That really sums it up. Hitting a goal like Billboard No.1 wasn\u2019t the finish line\u2014it became the start of a new chapter. We don\u2019t see achievements as the end. For us, every big moment is a reset, and we keep going with that mindset.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San once said, \u201cIt feels like if we just take one more step forward, even more will open up for us.\u201d What does that sentiment mean to the team as a whole?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I hope that \u201cone more step\u201d always stays with us\u2014as something that never fully gets solved. I don\u2019t want us to ever reach a point where there\u2019s nothing left ahead. Even if we lose a bit of that rookie mindset over time, I hope the passion never fades. That one step should always be there, pushing us forward. I think it\u2019s the same for anyone who\u2019s achieved something great.<\/p>\n
Yeosang: I think I get what that means. It really feels like if we can just break through whatever this \u201cthing\u201d is, ATEEZ could level up in a major way. But honestly, I don\u2019t even know exactly what that thing is yet. We\u2019re still in the process of figuring it out. What I do know is that all of us still have so much passion when we\u2019re on stage. We\u2019ve already broken through a bunch of walls. There were even times when we\u2019d say stuff like, \u201cWe don\u2019t know how long this will last, so let\u2019s give it everything we\u2019ve got while we can.\u201d That mindset helped us push through a lot. So now, even if there\u2019s another wall in front of us, I see it as something positive.<\/p>\n
San: I honestly think ATEEZ is going through growing pains right now. That\u2019s part of why we always say, \u201cWe put everything into every stage.\u201d It\u2019s all for bigger growth. There are definitely times when that \u201cone more step\u201d I mentioned feels super far away. But we keep pushing, because maybe\u2014just maybe\u2014that emerald mine we\u2019ve been chasing is right around the corner. I think that steady, quiet drive is one of ATEEZ\u2019s real strengths.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: There\u2019s definitely a wall we\u2019re trying to climb and a direction we\u2019re aiming for. But I\u2019ve realized it\u2019s not just about us changing or improving. Sometimes a new path opens up, or maybe we end up going exactly where we planned. Either way, I believe if ATEEZ keeps growing and adapting with those changes, we\u2019ll get there eventually.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: I\u2019m the kind of person who really believes that if you say it and work toward it, it\u2019ll happen. I set super specific goals, and once I hit one, I set the next. What makes it even more meaningful is that I\u2019m doing it all with ATEEZ. This group is honestly the biggest gift in my life. Like, how are eight people this committed to chasing one dream together? It still amazes me, and seeing that hunger in all of us inspires me too. Whatever that \u201cone more step\u201d ends up being, even if we reach it in our mid-30s or 40s, I know I\u2019ll be so happy we made it.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: I just feel like\u2026 there\u2019s still a road ahead of us. That\u2019s really it. What matters most is that what we\u2019re doing\u2014and the time we share with our fans\u2014is fun and makes us happy. If we keep growing and laughing with ATINY like we always have, one day we\u2019ll look back and realize we already made it past that wall. Honestly, even now, I still catch myself thinking, \u201cAm I really an idol? A singer? Someone who performs in front of that many people?\u201d It still doesn\u2019t feel real sometimes. But just by enjoying the journey step by step, I\u2019ve somehow taken that \u201cone more step\u201d we talk about\u2014and I think we\u2019re slowly but surely getting farther than we ever imagined.<\/p>\n
\u2060What you want and what the world wants don\u2019t always align. Some artists feel pressured to shape their musical choices for better numbers or broader success. Have you ever felt the need to balance what you truly want to create with what the world seems to be asking for?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: Honestly, I still don\u2019t think we fully know what the world wants from us. Everyone\u2019s got different expectations, different tastes, and their own image of what ATEEZ is. I don\u2019t think that\u2019s something we\u2019ll ever get a clear answer to\u2014even years from now. But through the conversations we have as a team, we get closer to what we really want. And I think by doing that, we\u2019re also helping the world understand us better.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I think that\u2019s something everyone goes through at some point. But if you keep going, the chance to do what you really want will come. Even if what you\u2019re doing right now isn\u2019t your ideal, pushing forward gets you closer to it. The opportunity always shows up.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: If what you want and what the world wants don\u2019t line up, hitting big success might be harder. But I really think it\u2019s all about finding the right balance between the two.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: For me, finding balance was necessary. I knew I couldn\u2019t just live doing only what I wanted, but at the same time, I didn\u2019t want to only do what the world expected from me either. So I had to stay flexible and figure out a middle ground that felt right for both sides.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: There\u2019s a real gap there sometimes. But I think it\u2019s our job to bridge that. That\u2019s what being a professional means to me. I want to make sure I never regret how I represented ATEEZ. In the end, we want to show something only we can deliver.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: You can\u2019t always live only by what you want. So yeah, finding the middle ground becomes crucial. Sometimes it\u2019s about asking yourself if a choice brings you closer to your true goals.<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: Honestly, when it comes to ATEEZ\u2019s musical identity, I don\u2019t think we\u2019ve ever really compromised. We\u2019ve stayed on our own path for seven years, and we\u2019ll keep walking it.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: Honestly, even within the team, we don\u2019t always see eye to eye. But like I said before, we make it work by respecting each other and finding middle ground. I think as long as we keep challenging ourselves and pushing forward together, we can break through any bias that comes our way.\u00a0<\/p>\n
ATEEZ has showcased unit tracks like \u201cMATZ\u201d and \u201cYOUTH,\u201d offering a glimpse into the group\u2019s \u201ctogether, yet individual\u201d dynamic. How do you approach unit work in a way that highlights each member\u2019s unique color while still staying true to the overall identity and cohesion of ATEEZ?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: We don\u2019t really put up walls when it comes to unit or solo work. There are no fixed combos or genre limits\u2014we just focus on what brings out each member\u2019s strengths and feels natural. That\u2019s kind of our way of doing things. Everyone approaches it with pride in being part of ATEEZ, and we\u2019re honest with each other. We give real feedback, but there\u2019s mutual respect too. I think that\u2019s how we keep the team identity strong while still letting each person\u2019s unique color shine.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: \u201cMATZ\u201d came from blending the kind of music I wanted to make with Hongjoong\u2019s vibe\u2014and it just clicked. Since we\u2019re both part of ATEEZ, that identity naturally came through without us forcing it. What\u2019s wild is that when you watch us perform, it almost looks like each of the eight of us is doing a totally different version of the same choreography. But somehow, when you zoom out, it creates this insane synergy. I think that shows in our personalities too\u2014we\u2019re all super different, but when we come together, that\u2019s what makes ATEEZ feel whole.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: Yeah, for sure. Everyone brings their own style and personality, and it ends up blending in a way that feels fresh\u2014like something we haven\u2019t shown before. Sometimes when we get a new choreo or a music guide, we\u2019re like, \u201cDoes this even fit our vibe?\u201d But once we dive into it and make it our own, it somehow turns into something that feels so ATEEZ. That\u2019s just who we are\u2014we\u2019re a team that carves out our own path as we go.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: First, we take in the vibe and concept of the unit. Then each of us starts building our own ideas around that. After that, it\u2019s all about putting in the work\u2014practicing hard to make sure everything blends well with ATEEZ\u2019s identity as a whole.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: Units have their own vibe, and so does the full team. It\u2019s kinda like ice cream\u2014mixing different flavors makes it even better. Every member has their own thing going on, and that\u2019s what makes it so cool. If we combine what each person does best, that\u2019s when the real magic happens.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: When we\u2019re performing as a team, it makes sense to lean into the group\u2019s color. But with solo or unit stuff, I think it\u2019s important to show off your own unique vibe.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: Even with unit work, I think it\u2019s best when there\u2019s still a little bit of that ATEEZ energy in there.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: Since ATEEZ has a lot of members, each of us brings something different to the stage. Our styles and energy are super diverse, so we\u2019ve always worked hard to make sure no one\u2019s individual vibe gets lost\u2014and that everything still comes together as one. I think that effort is what really shines when we do unit work.\u00a0<\/p>\n
With all this in mind, are there any solo releases in the works for ATEEZ members?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: Back when I was a trainee, I dropped a few mixtape-style tracks on YouTube. But once ATEEZ debuted, I felt a strong pull to focus fully on the team\u2014and honestly, I still feel that way. Starting last year though, I began this small project of creating solo tracks for each member, just to share something special with our fans. Since every member has such a wide range, I think it\u2019s important for them to express things that might not fit within ATEEZ\u2019s usual sound. As for a solo album of my own? I\u2019m not planning one. I don\u2019t want to do it half-heartedly, and I definitely don\u2019t want to give ATINY something that feels unfinished or off-brand. If the time ever comes when I can fully commit to it, maybe I\u2019ll consider it. But right now, there\u2019s just so much I want to do with ATEEZ\u2014and even more we need to do.<\/p>\n
\u2060One of your songs describes ATEEZ as striving to be \u201creal in this world.\u201d What does being the \u201creal ATEEZ\u201d mean to you? And on a personal level, how would you define what it means to be a \u201ccool\u201d or admirable man?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: To me, the real ATEEZ is a team that stays true, no matter how much time passes. We always try to show up with real heart in everything we do\u2014and you can feel that energy when we hit the stage.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I think being real comes from being sincere. I always want to stay honest and hope that my intentions come through clearly. Most of all, I just want to be someone I\u2019m not ashamed of when I look in the mirror.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: To me, the real ATEEZ is just\u2026 me. And what\u2019s a cool guy? Also me.<\/p>\n
Yeosang: I think the real ATEEZ is just the eight of us being together. As for what makes a guy cool\u2026 maybe someone who still knows how to feel a little romance. (laughs)<\/p>\n
San: I think the real ATEEZ is about moving without fear, staying humble, and showing respect. And honestly, a cool guy? That sounds like ATEEZ to me. We\u2019re carving our own path and doing it without hesitation.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: I think being able to speak your truth without shame is key. And honestly, the way we keep pushing toward our goals without slowing down? That\u2019s what makes ATEEZ the definition of cool guys. (laughs)\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: ATEEZ is honestly all heart when it comes to the stage and our music. To me, a cool guy is someone who knows how to own who they are, doesn\u2019t run from anything, and lives by their own values.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: I think ATEEZ is a group that\u2019s constantly searching for what it means to be real. We don\u2019t want to be boxed into one version of ourselves. If there\u2019s this side of ATEEZ, there can also be that side\u2014and we wanna show all of it. Showing new colors and evolving again and again\u2026 maybe that\u2019s what being the real ATEEZ is. (laughs)<\/p>\n
\u2060\u2060Some describe ATEEZ as a group that feels like it was created by a miracle. If you could spark a miracle of your own, what would that be?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: If I could choose a miracle, it\u2019d be eternity. I want all eight of us to stay as ATEEZ, and for us to be with ATINY forever too. It\u2019s the one wish I carry with me every time I step on stage.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I want people to know that miracles can happen for anyone. I hope we can be a source of hope for others, and honestly, there are still so many miracles I want to make happen with ATEEZ. I just want us to keep rising\u2014higher, and all the way to the top.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: There are way bigger miracles ahead. One day, I want us to hit No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: If what we do can positively impact someone\u2014if it can actually help change a life\u2014that kind of positive ripple effect\u2026 that\u2019s the kind of miracle I want to be a part of.<\/p>\n
San: I want us to become the best. I want ATEEZ to keep creating moments that feel miraculous\u2014and show the world what it looks like to reach the top through pure passion.<\/p>\n
Mingi: I hope one day there\u2019s no one on earth who doesn\u2019t know the name ATEEZ. We\u2019ll keep going until it\u2019s real.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: It honestly means the world when people call us a miracle. My personal dream? I want us to become the kind of artists who are respected by everyone, everywhere.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: As more people get to know us, I hope we can be artists who truly give others strength and hope. That\u2019s the kind of miracle I want to make happen with ATEEZ.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Outside of music, are there any other areas you\u2019re passionate about or interested in exploring?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: I think it\u2019s different for each of us, but for me, I\u2019m really into anything that lets me express myself\u2014music, performing, fashion, all of it.<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I\u2019m super curious about a bunch of creative spaces\u2014fashion included. If the opportunity comes up, I\u2019d love to show that side of myself too.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: We\u2019ve all got different hobbies and strengths. Personally, I\u2019ve got a thing for acting, and I game a lot in my downtime.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: Everyone\u2019s got their own lane, but for me right now? It\u2019s all about fitness. I\u2019m really into working out these days, and that time gives me peace.<\/p>\n
San: I think everyone\u2019s got different interests\u2014 whether it\u2019s acting, writing lyrics, or composing. But for me, right now, I just want to stay focused on music. I want to keep building something great with the members.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: I\u2019ve got a long list\u2014fashion, acting, and honestly, a bunch more. There\u2019s a lot I still want to try, so keep watching.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: We all have our own style and dreams we want to chase. I\u2019m open to anything that lets me express myself.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: I think each of us has different interests. Music always comes first for me, but I\u2019d also love to try acting someday and show a new side of myself.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u2060\u2060If you could leave behind just one song to be remembered forever, what message would you want that song to carry?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hongjoong: Nothing lasts forever, but the wish for something to stay\u2014that feeling is universal. I\u2019d want the song to say that it\u2019s that hope, that longing, that actually gives life its meaning.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Seonghwa: I\u2019d choose \u201cStar 1117\u201d. That one\u2019s for ATINY. I want the message to be simple: \u201cWe were together.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yunho: I\u2019d tell my story. My life, my journey\u2014everything that brought me here.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Yeosang: I\u2019d leave \u201cSay My Name\u201d. No message, just the song.\u00a0<\/p>\n
San: I\u2019d want to leave behind the message, \u201cWe shine the brightest when we\u2019re truly ourselves.\u201d I hope people remember that, and feel it. And I\u2019d love for others to believe, \u201cI shine the most when I\u2019m just me.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mingi: Honestly\u2026 I don\u2019t know yet. (laughs) I feel like I need more life experience before I can give the right answer. Let me live a bit more first.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wooyoung: I\u2019d want it to tell ATEEZ\u2019s story\u2014how we ran side by side with ATINY, pushed through, and made it to the top.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Jongho: I\u2019d want to leave behind the message that we\u2019re all going through something\u2014and every single one of us deserves to be happy.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"When you listen to ATEEZ\u2019s music, watch their electrifying performances, and observe the intensity of their rehearsals, you…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":17204,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[64,63,3386,18352,134,3387,136,18353],"class_list":["post-17203","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-music","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-billboard-korea","tag-cover-shoot","tag-entertainment","tag-genre-kpop","tag-music","tag-photo-gallery"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17203","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17203"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17203\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17204"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17203"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17203"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17203"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}