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| ▲ Singer-entertainer Son Dong-pyo of K-pop boy band MIRAE appears on this photo provided by RBW·DSP Media on April 1, 2024. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, April 1 (Yonhap) -- "Do you know what's really amazing? On January 1st last year, I dreamt of winning the rookie award at an entertainment awards ceremony. But then, at the end of the year, it actually happened. Haha."
Son Dong-pyo of the group MIRAE is a member who tirelessly shuttles between Korea and Japan for activities. Perhaps to the public, he may be more familiar as a rising star in the variety show scene rather than just a singer.
He appeared on prominent TV programs like 'Strong Heart League' and 'Hot Place - Local Cool Place' last year, and ended the year by winning the 'Rising Star Award' at the SBS Entertainment Awards.
Meeting him recently at the RBW headquarters in Seoul's Gwangjin-gu, Son Dong-pyo expressed, "I was truly happy. I felt like it was just the beginning."
He confidently stated, "I feel proud and motivated to work even harder, as I have been called upon in many places and recognized for my efforts."
Son Dong-pyo rose to fame by participating in the Mnet audition program 'Produce X 101' in 2019, where he debuted as a member of X1. Later, in 2021, he debuted again with MIRAE, actively engaging in both stage performances and variety shows.
Last month, he appeared on the prominent talk show 'Radio Star' on MBC TV, where he confidently held his own among seasoned broadcasters like Kim Dong-hyun, KCM, and Cho Won-hee.
When asked about the secret to his popularity, Son Dong-pyo humbly responded, "I don't think I'm particularly good at (broadcasting) or exceptionally talented. I just put my sincerity into everything I do. I believe sincerity resonates with people. Perhaps that's why the production teams consider me for opportunities."
He described his charm as being like a catalyst, saying, "I can create the atmosphere with necessary remarks, and there's a certain level of tension guaranteed in variety shows. Being honest, lively, and irreplaceable, even if people want to hate, they can't."
While he fully showcases his personality on broadcasts, in person, he is logical and calm, bridging the gap between the two seamlessly.
Son Dong-pyo confessed, "Yes, there's quite a big gap between my broadcast and private personas. Initially, people who see my quiet and reserved side in private are surprised. It used to stress me out."
He further stated, "Now, I've accepted both aspects as part of myself. It's like switching a button from 'off' to 'on' in front of the camera. Since I recognize both as part of me, I feel more at ease."
Despite showing a playful and cute side to the public, Son Dong-pyo expressed a desire for a 180-degree transformation to showcase a more masculine charm.
He said, "I've thought about doing PT and Pilates to bulk up. Of course, I don't know if fans will like it," he laughed.
Son Dong-pyo revealed his aspiration to try acting, saying, "If given the chance, I would like to try acting too. I attended an acting academy in my second year of middle school and even acted in a short film."
MIRAE aims to reach out to more audiences as a team that continues to strive for improvement. However, as Son Dong-pyo establishes himself in the entertainment industry, he feels a slight disparity between his stage and TV appearances.
He explained, "It would be embarrassing if I couldn't perform well on stage while excelling in variety shows. However, I believe I give my best in both settings. It's interesting to switch between the different personas of Son Dong-pyo on stage and in variety shows."
He added, "From the beginning, my dream has been to be an all-around entertainer, doing singing, variety shows, and acting. Thankfully, many opportunities have arisen in variety shows. It seems like everyone has their own timing."
MIRAE celebrates its 4th debut anniversary this year. Considering the typical seven-year contract period for idol groups, they've reached a turning point.
Son Dong-pyo expressed, "I'm pondering a lot about future activities. There's a lot I want to show and do. I don't consider variety shows as a side gig. I want to balance music and variety shows."
When asked about his desired TV programs to appear on, he listed 'I Live Alone', 'Running Man', 'Knowing Bros', and many others. He emphasized, "I won't turn down any opportunities."
He concluded, "From my trainee days until now, I've set certain boundaries for myself. But sometimes, I feel like I need to cross those boundaries and experience trial and error to move on to the next chapter. I want to give 'Human Son Dong-pyo' a breather, so I can work even harder."
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| ▲ Singer-entertainer Son Dong-pyo of K-pop boy band MIRAE appears on this photo provided by RBW·DSP Media on April 1, 2024. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
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