Kim Jaejoong returned with a new episode of his popular talk show, JaeFriends, and this time, he hosted 5th generation artists for the first time.
Kim Jaejoong | @jj_1986_jj/Instagram
For JaeFriends‘ 26th episode, BOYNEXTDOOR‘s Jaehyun, Taesan, and Leehan joined the veteran idol, who debuted the same year leader Jaehyun was born.
Jaejoong had greeted the six BOYNEXTDOOR members backstage at the 2023 Asia Artist Awards, but this was his first time formally sitting down with the members, though he knows the group’s company founder and producer, Zico.
(From left:) BOYNEXTDOOR’s Taesan, Leehan, and Jaehyun, Kim Jaejoong | uhmg/YouTube
During the episode, the members discussed what it’s like to work with Zico, and their answers earned praise from netizens.
The rookie boy group members have already established themselves as talented songwriters with their contribution to their debut EP and single-album.
BOYNEXTDOOR | @BOYNEXTDOOR_KOZ/Twitter
Jaejoong pointed out that, even though the group worked with Zico, it didn’t seem like they “copied” his sound. The BOYNEXTDOOR members agreed, stating they “never copy him.”
When Jaejoong pointed out that it can be easy to adopt a specific sound from a producer, BOYNEXTDOOR clarified that they consistently make a conscious effort to show their own colors, even if Zico writes their song.
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The BOYNEXTDOOR members added that instead of being a group known for working with Zico, they want to be a group that has a positive impact on Zico’s career.
Taesan concluded that the group wants to make Zico “the world’s best K-Pop producer.”
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Netizens loved their response to being asked about Zico and their goals to continue to distinguish themselves as musical artists.
I love their way of thinking. instead of building their group image on Zico’s name, they want THEIR name, BOYNEXTDOOR to reflect and give positive impact on Zico’s image. pic.twitter.com/O091AJBGvI
— 세라 (@pppxxdppa) February 8, 2024
jaehyun further mentioned how all the members want BOYNEXTDOOR to have a positive effect on ZICO (KOZ entertainment) rather than them benefiting off of ZICO’s name.
such aware and talented boys fr!
— daily jaehyun (@myungjaedaily) February 8, 2024
Another reason why I love these boys thank youuu https://t.co/QgWUbCQ9OR
— sleepyhead (@mrbrainturn_n) February 8, 2024
