Kim Junsu, the powerhouse vocalist and former TVXQ member, took a nostalgic trip down memory lane as he spilled some major tea about his debut days with the legendary group.

In a recent episode of '2nd Generation Idol Summit' on the YouTube channel 'Jibdaesung,' Kim Junsu joined the conversation as a special guest, engaging in some candid talks with Daesung.

Opening up about his whirlwind journey to stardom, Kim Junsu revealed a jaw-dropping anecdote from his trainee days, saying, "I remember being summoned back from a school trip to Jeju Island because investors were visiting SM. I didn't realize it then, but looking back, I see it was a pivotal moment."

He added, "It was my first school trip, and I had just touched down when I got the call to rush back to Seoul. Needless to say, my friends were green with envy."

Daesung chimed in with his own experience, sharing, "I never had the luxury of choice. It was always G-Dragon and Taeyang taking the spotlight as YG's future."

Reflecting on his commitment to SM, Kim Junsu revealed, "Even if I had other offers, I wouldn't have left. I was all in. I even sang H.O.T. or Shinhwa songs at auditions."

Recalling his audition days, he humorously reminisced, "My voice was so high-pitched back then; some mistook it for a girl's!"

Addressing the formation of TVXQ, Kim Junsu revealed, "We weren't just the best; we were SM's last hope. Failure wasn't an option."

He continued, "Originally slated to debut with Eunhyuk and Sungmin, fate had other plans. TVXQ took the spotlight."

Describing the chaotic debut process, he added, "It was a whirlwind. We went from being soloists to a group in a heartbeat. The name TVXQ wasn't even our first choice!"

Years after leaving SM, Kim Junsu reflected on his journey, saying, "Appearing on EBS's 'Space Sympathy' was a turning point. It wasn't a typical idol gig, and I'm forever grateful for the opportunity."

Despite facing setbacks, he remained resolute, saying, "I questioned myself, but giving up wasn't an option. I wanted to see how far I could go."

Kim Junsu's journey from trainee to superstar is a testament to perseverance and passion.

Source: (1)

Director Kim Hyung Joo of The Match has finally shared his thoughts on Yoo Ah In’s involvement in a drug scandal, calling it a major disappointment, especially considering the actor’s role as the lead in the film.

On March 19th, the director attended a press screening and briefing for The Match at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Alongside Kim, actors Lee Byung Hun, Ko Chang Seok, Hyun Bong Sik, Moon Jung Hee, and Jo Woo Jin were present to discuss the film.

The Match revolves around the legendary Go player Cho Hun Hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun), who, after a loss to his disciple, decides to challenge the top players again, driven by his competitive spirit. The movie is directed by Kim Hyung Joo.

Lee Byung Hun plays the iconic Go champion Cho Hun Hyun, while Yoo Ah In portrays his disciple, Lee Chang Ho.

During the event, Kim recalled the casting process, saying, "When we were casting, Lee Byung Hun was cast first. Just having him felt like we had the world, and then, getting Yoo Ah In as a bonus made me even happier."

Although filming wrapped up in 2021, Yoo Ah In's drug scandal led to the indefinite postponement of the film’s release. Now, nearly four years later, The Match is finally set to hit theaters on March 26th.

Reflecting on Yoo Ah In's scandal, Director Kim openly shared his frustration, calling it "irresponsible and disappointing" for the actor to make such a mistake as the lead.

He added, “Before being an actor, he made a mistake as a member of society and was punished, so I don’t think there’s much more to say.” Kim smiled bitterly as he spoke.

Describing the challenges he faced due to the scandal, Kim compared the experience to being trapped in "a hellish tunnel."

He said, "There was nothing I could do inside, so it was overwhelming. But now that we have the light of release, it feels like I can breathe. I’m deeply moved."

The director also shared that because Yoo Ah In was the lead actor, the film had to be released as it was, without editing. This has led some people to feel uneasy about watching the film, given the actor’s scandal.

When asked about this, Director Kim said, "Choosing and judging is up to the audience, so I can't force anything. But I hope they watch the movie as it is. I unintentionally got hurt before the release, so I hope people watch the movie warmly, as if applying ointment to a wound."

The Match will officially be released on March 26th.

Source: [1]