For nearly 16 years now, singer-songwriter BANG YONGGUK has tirelessly worked to establish his own creative identity as an artist — and after years of acting as the leader of the group B.A.P and transitioning into life as a passion-driven soloist, he’s essentially validated his growing list of talents in every way.

In recent years, YONGGUK has even elevated his vast skill set through a desire to oversee the execution of his concepts, often credited as a lyricist, producer, and art director, who has gone as far as directing his own music videos.

Now, with a distinct penchant for music that incorporates some of the strongest components of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, pop, and more, the renowned group member turned solo star is offering insight into his priceless industry experiences.

Can you describe the experience of transitioning from being the leader of B.A.P to your exciting solo music career?

BANG YONGGUK: It was a time that flowed naturally and flexibly for me as an artist. I grew from my idol group activities to becoming a music maker, finding myself in the process. Beyond my career, I was able to learn more about myself as a person.

As a producer, you have also worked with a variety of artists and different voices. What do you find most fulfilling about producing music for others?

BANG YONGGUK: What I find most satisfying about making music is that I don't focus on catering to the public. Because of this, I might not have hit songs [laughs]. I also feel that producers and fans don't want me to compromise and create music with a mainstream target in mind.

As a soloist, your lyrics are known for tackling your own struggles and other social issues. How has your art helped you navigate those complex, relatable emotions?

BANG YONGGUK: There are trends of the times and themes that I, as a music maker, want to talk about. My life's position and emotions are also important elements in creating these works. Music has become the reason I breathe and live. It is also my only means of communicating with the world.

Your styles of music include jazz influences, rock/alternative, rap, R&B, and even pop concepts, which is a huge range for an artist to navigate. How do you typically decide on which style you want to explore — and is there a genre you’re currently more focused on or interested in?

BANG YONGGUK: I have become more open to studying and challenging various genres of music. I constantly strive to broaden my horizons and break stereotypes. Being receptive has made my style more diverse. Of course, I also believe it is important not to lose my own style within this diversity. Recently, I've been enjoying Euro garage and drill music. However, the music I listen to the most is still jazz.

You’ve recently returned with a series of incredible tracks that showcase your unique artistry, and that’s been incredible to witness! What were some of the influences that fueled this era?

BANG YONGGUK: Through the recent world tour, I developed a desire to include a wider variety of tracks in the setlist. I began to explore genres that I had never tried or had been hesitant to approach, abandoning my usual music style and reinterpreting these genres in my own way. This process led to the creation of my new EP album.

Is there one specific song in this collection that feels like it best represents where you’re currently at in life?

BANG YONGGUK: The song “BAD.” Recently, I've started creating more upbeat music, likely because I feel that my life has become a bit brighter than before. As I get older, it seems the weight of life has become somewhat lighter.

What’s the biggest thing, or lesson you’ve learned while working on this recent chapter of your career?

BANG YONGGUK: The realization that I need many people to move forward alone. In the past, I felt the pressure to achieve everything by myself. However, over the years, I've come to understand that it's the fans who have supported me for so long, and the many hardworking staff members who help turn my ideas into reality. It's the belief of all these people in me that makes it possible to share my music with the world. This is the emotion I've been feeling the most lately.

As you wrap up your recent US tour, is there one moment that particularly represents this tour’s experience?

BANG YONGGUK: A tour can't be expressed with just a single memory. Rather than moments, it's a long chapter of memories that stay in my heart and mind for a long time. Within that chapter, there are the fans' tears, laughter, cheers, the unique atmosphere of each city, the loneliness and emptiness after the performances, and the sense of accomplishment. These varied and complex chapters remain with me and are never erased. I always cherish these experiences. Sometimes, they even become an inspiration for creating my music.