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The members all say you’re maturing really quickly, do you feel it yourself?
Sehun: Yes, everyone who sees me says so. I’ve grown taller, my shoulders have also broadened a lot, and it feels like it’ll keep going [like that]. when I think back to debut days I really have changed a lot … … but I hope I don’t grow any taller, I’ve grown too much already. (laughs)
As someone who appears cold on the exterior but is warmhearted on the inside, are you often mistaken as someone who is hard to get along with?
Sehun: (pretends to look hurt and misunderstood) Looking merely at my expressions, particularly when I’m expressionless, I will look rather tough and arrogant. But my personality really isn’t anything like that, and fans know it. But at the start, those who don’t know me too well will always bear some misconceptions. In truth I’m not a bad kid, I’m a kind kid. (smiles while answering)
When you’re misunderstood [for being cold and tough], will you feel somewhat lost?
Sehun: Yes. at the start I will feel a little hurt, but now I also know the reasons for such misunderstandings. Recently, in order to dispel these misunderstandings, I often try to make more lively and joyful expressions.
When you socialise with others, will you be the one to strike up a conversation or do you have to be pushed?
Sehun: I won’t actively initiate a conversation.
Can you tell us a bit about your growing process?
Sehun: my growing process? (suddenly turns towards Lay, “Hyung how did you answer this?” Lay: I said I grew up working very hard”) I’ve grown up working hard … (does an exact imitation like a recording machine) … … hahahha! (laughs out loud) Alright, it’s something rather meaningful - when I was in the sixth grade in elementary school, I would eat dukbokki in a little street nearby my house. That was when I was scouted by SM Entertainment, so if I hadn’t been eating dukbokki, perhaps I wouldn’t be a member of EXO today. (everyone laughs loudly)
As a dancer, what is the greatest charm of dancing, in your view?
Sehun: I think it’s that you can see another side of me. It’s hard isn’t it? I think it’s difficult too.
Are you the kind who places more importance on the technique or on emotion when dancing?
Sehun: The two are both very important, and both very difficult. But I think I’m the sort who focuses on emotion. (glances at Lay who is sitting opposite, “Hyung, how should I talk about this, hahaha!” here Lay violently stuffs a few spoonfuls of food into his mouth and answers, “I don’t want to be here, you don’t answer properly already”)
Are you close to your senior Donghae because you enjoy dance?
Sehun: Nah, it’s got nothing to do with dancing. When I first entered the company as a trainee, Donghae-hyung was the first to speak to me. From then on, from trainee days up till my debut, Donghae-hyung has always been very caring towards me, so that’s how we’ve wound up like this.
What’s one line of praise Donghae has said that has made you most happy?
Sehun: He’s never praised me …
Then has he ever said anything that hurt you before?
Sehun: I don’t think so, hahaha. The most memorable thing he’s said to me - grind [prepare] your weapons well. (t/n: something like train yourself well, to show your best)
List three of your best points:
Sehun: Um … … (half a minute passes) … …
You’re charismatic?
Sehun: No, no! Regarding good points, I really don’t know. Noona, tell me some (turns to face makeup noona who frantically waves him away). I think I’m a very interesting kid, secondly I think I’m a very warmhearted person, not as cold as my external appearance. Yes yes yes, if I were to praise myself, it would be that whatever I wear still looks especially stylish (says softly and shyly)
What’s your favourite life philosophy?
Sehun: You only live once, so do the things you enjoy, and live happily.
What’s your biggest frustration right now?
Sehun: In my opinion, I’m always worrying for my bandmates.
Then who do you worry for the most?
Sehun: All of them! I will worry a lot for my bandmates. EXO has to keep going, keep going forward, so I need to cherish every single member.
Does everyone occasionally neglect you, since you’re the maknae/youngest?
Sehun: No no, it’s not that way, they will never do that. (laughs)
Lastly, please say something for ELLE MEN’s first anniversary!
Sehun: First of all congratulations! (claps) I hope the magazine will last till your tenth anniversary, your hundredth anniversary. To spend such a meaningful day as your first anniversary with EXO, I feel very honoured and glad, and today’s photoshoot was especially meaningful. I hope the next time we can have this photoshoot with all the EXO members, thank you very much!
trans: fy-exo | source: elle men september 2014 issue
You looked especially skilled during the photoshoot earlier, do you practice often?
Chanyeol: In comparison to practicing in front of a mirror, experience is always more important. Due to frequent[ly going for] photoshoots, I am very familiar with the angles or poses that go better with different types of clothes and the like. I can also understand any directions or instructions that the photographer may give.
Which do you think is your best angle?
Chanyeol: I feel it’s my right side. (laughs)
Feedback can always be either positive or negative, but many people bear an indisputably positive opinion of you. Why do you think this is so?
Chanyeol: When you put it like that, I feel a little embarrassed (starts to look slightly bashful). Whenever we participate in talent shows or other events, I tend to exhibit very natural reactions, some of which are really bright, or doting towards other people, so I guess it may be why people think of me as such.
In that case, have you come across criticism from others?
Chanyeol: Yes, I have … for example, on some variety shows, when I make a joke, some viewers tend to think, “aren’t you being too much!”, and I’ve seen feedback like that online. I don’t think much of it since I tend to joke like that around friends, and they receive it likewise. But ever since, I tend to be a little more careful.
Besides the online users who don’t personally know you, have you experienced the people around you criticising you?
Chanyeol: Those around me? Not really. (laughs)
Your personality is one that is more straightforward, and very caring to others, and you seem like the type to be very enthusiastic and positive. Do you stay good-tempered even in the face of something displeasing to you?
Chanyeol: My typical personality results in my taking the initiative to enthusiastically participate in anything, and if I don’t give it my all, I will feel very moody. I have a very lively personality, and won’t really grow upset at tiny issues.
Under what circumstances will you grow intolerant and throw tantrums?
Chanyeol: I cannot tolerate impoliteness and immorality. In the presence of these, I grow very angry. but I wouldn’t throw a tantrum; instead I would quietly approach the person involved and point out his mistake. From my memory I feel like I’ve really never thrown a tantrum at all.
This is rather uncharacteristic of a Sagittarius, is it really tough to be so tolerant?
Chanyeol: Am I being tolerant? Hahaha, I think I’ve grown used to it. (aegyo)
We saw that you kept secretly writing song lyrics. What sort of music do you enjoy listening to on a typical basis? What’s your composing process like?
Chanyeol: When it comes to composing, I really have so much I’d like to say. I enjoy composing music for others to listen to, and often use the computer or guitar and piano to compose at home. once I’m done with my recording, I give it to my bandmates for their listening. I particularly enjoy [composing like] this.
What’s your composing style like lately?
Chanyeol: I like listening to all genres of music, so my composing varies likewise. But mostly jazz-pop, about 70% [of my composing] is jazz-pop.
At present, you certainly would have made some headway into variety shows and acting. Beyond that, do you have any other plans?
Chanyeol: Everything I enjoy doing, I am already currently doing, such as participating in variety shows, and preparing for a movie … … I think my biggest wish right now is to compose, and have my song recorded and released as a part of EXO’s album.
Would you be willing to undergo other new challenges?
Chanyeol: I always welcome new things, if it’s there for me to try then I would like to give it a shot.
In that case, are you only interested in new and different things?
Chanyeol: My attitude towards things goes along the lines of “if I start it I have to finish it”, otherwise I will feel very unsettled. As a child, if I began learning a new instrument, I would have to master it to a point where others would praise me for playing it well. That’s my personality, to do things all the way to the end.
To be honest, on the surface, such perseverance doesn’t show [when looking at you].
Chanyeol: Yeah? I’ve often heard others say that as well.
Have you ever experienced a situation in which, despite your genuine focus in doing something, others don’t see it and disagree?
Chanyeol: Many people often feel this way, when they first meet me and have yet to know me well. Because I’m always laughing, and am especially lively, people tend to think “ah, he’s a playful child who likes to joke around”. But after they know me better, they’ll understand that I’m someone who thinks a lot, and has a lot of depth. I believe [everyone] can feel it, when they’ve gotten familiar with me.
Does your happy personality have to do with your surrounding environment while growing up? Could you share a bit about your growing process as a child?
Chanyeol: I’ve always received a lot of my parents’ love from young, and I’ve always watched them and felt their love since. As such I’ve grown to be very optimistic and enthused myself.
So the feeling you give others really is very bright (like sunshine), and isn’t forced!
Chanyeol: That’s right, of course it’s not forced! (coquettish)
[You] need to thank your parents.
Chanyeol: Yes, I’m always very grateful and thankful to them.
What’s a life philosophy you like?
Chanyeol: Enjoy yourself!
What’s the biggest frustration for you right now?
Chanyeol: (thinks for a very long time) Nothing really! I don’t often have frustrations.
Perhaps you will after you’ve grown up a bit? (laughs)
Chanyeol: Hahaha, indeed, my young age is to blame right now.
Please list three of your best features. Your especially long legs?
Chanyeol: Long legs are third, hahaha! First place is probably my smile, and second is probably my passion … third … … I think I could give you ten strong points, haha.
Lastly, please say something for the first anniversary of ELLE MEN Hongkong!
Chanyeol: A huge congratulations to ELLE MEN for the welcoming of your first anniversary! May readers keep loving ELLE MEN, and keep loving EXO! I’m very honored to be able to be a part of ELLE MEN’s first anniversary, and I hope everyone enjoys the many faces of EXO, and we will continue to show everyone even better sides of ourselves. Fighting!
trans: fy-exo | source: elle men september 2014 issue
Q: How do you improve and become so well-rounded?
I have to develop in other areas to be able to progress. Even if I’m in charge of dance, I work hard to improve and master other talents such as playing piano, guitar, composing, songwriting, singing and so forth.
Q: Would you consider being an all-round person to be an advantage or a disadvantage?
I’m an artist. There is a saying that goes "Talents do not overwhelm one’s body." Also, as a Libra, I often look for perfection and proper balance in everything - almost to the point of pressuring myself too much. If I do something, I work hard and do it well.
Q: In an artist’s ‘life’ being well-rounded is an advantage, then?
Yes, yes. It’s a process of slow maturing so I can showcase everything I’ve learned in the future.
Q: Does your character develop placidly as well?
It’s not that good of a character. I’m usually very gentle but I get irritated easily. I bottle it up and become an spitfire when I explode. People don’t expect this from me.
Q:If an opportunity in acting arises, will you accept it?
Of course, that kind of opportunity would be another way of making music and writing songs. It would also help me grow in another area and make new friends. If I meet people who like the same music as me through acting then it would be even better!
Q: For example, writing the title song?
Ah… If that’s the case, I wouldn’t accept any performance fees since I would be part of the cast.
Q: What is your goal when it comes to music?
Musically, our seniors have set a good example. I never considered bringing Chinese music elsewhere before, but in this I have an advantage: not only am I a member of one of China’s top idol groups but I’m also part of an Asia-based group trained by a Korean company. Our promotions are done worldwide, and hopefully said bridge will allow me to harmonise. In ten years, or maybe five years, I hope to be able to bring Chinese music everywhere. That’s my biggest goal.
Q: If you were to return to China, had things gone differently. How would you adjust?
I would accept my failure and reflect. However, musically speaking, there’s no concrete answer. When making music, if either the melody or the lyrics meet the criteria, then your song is complete. It’s impossible for everyone to like your music. If someone listens to your song and feels what you feel, then that’s an accomplishment.
Q: What kind of songs do you listen to the most?
I enjoy listening to my own songs a lot. Would you like to listen? Currently I’m working on rap lyrics and a demo.
Q: Do you find inspiration in dramas?
I don’t have time to watch any! I think 'You Who Came From The Stars' is very popular, right? I really have no time to watch dramas. I think it’s about a girl from outer space.
Q: In five or ten years, how do you see yourself?
Other than making music, I should be looking for a girlfriend? Maybe getting married?
Q: Your career?
I have a big goal and it’ll take time to achieve it and there’s a lot to work on. I want to lead the Chinese music industry well and better.
Q: How did you become such a thoughtful and polite person?
I was raised by my grandparents, they taught me how to behave and respect elders. When I entered the company, I was overwhelmed by the changes in culture and it was a headache. In Korean culture, rankings are more important. You must bow and speak formally to those with a higher ranking, and interact informally with those who are on the same level as you or lower. However, everyone who has helped me grow and develop deserves respect, no matter their ranking.
Fans also have a lot to do with this. They do so much for us, even if we can’t have a close relationship with them, and even if I have never called them “my girlfriends.” While all we do is put make-up on, sit around in refreshed waiting rooms and go on stage to sweat - their hard work starts a long way before. Buying tickets and sometimes greeting us at the airport. I feel like such love is touching and endearing. It deserves respect so I will bow as many times as needed, I hope they don’t think it’s too much. For all you have done, a hundred or a thousand bows aren’t enough.
Q: How was your experience while growing up?
When I was little, my mum liked to show me clips of Michael Jackson. I wanted to learn how to moonwalk but I just couldn’t do it. During high school, I found my interest in popping and locking, I worked hard and became the lead dancer in our group. I learned that working hard and practising constantly were the best option. I would try and encourage my friends by telling them that they would do well in any company they decided to enter.
As a trainee, I endured ten hours of practice a day, sometimes I would even practice all day with no rest or sleep. There was a time when I didn’t do well and the teachers would look down on me, so that motivated me to improve. Being put down is the best kind of motivation to work harder.
Q: What is your life motto?
Work hard, work hard and keep working harder.
Q: Please, list out your top three qualities?
I did this recently, being grateful. This is how I genuinely feel. Other qualities would be, let me think about it, being talented hahaha! And hard-working!
Q: Lastly, please say a few celebratory words for ‘ELLE MEN’s first anniversary.
First of all, I feel very honoured and happy to be able to represent EXO in this photoshoot for ELLE MEN and to have the opportunity of getting closer to our friends in Hong Kong. At our past concert in Hong Kong, I wanted to say something: (Cantonese) Thank you for coming to our concert! Thank you, guys! I hope EXO can grow even further and show everyone a better image in the future. I hope everyone can give ELLE MEN and EXO a lot of love!
[LAY's handwritten message for ELLE MEN]
Happy birthday~ Hope you get more and more popular~
trans: fy-yixing
The credit is written in a photograph & trans: fy-yixing, fy-exo.