Astro’s MJ, Jinjin say new unit work captures playful chemistry

Astro’s MJ, Jinjin say new unit work captures playful chemistry: K-POP / 연합뉴스 / 2025-08-13 08:10:41

▲ This photo provided by Fantagio shows Astro's new unit, "ZOONIZINI," consisting of the K-pop boy group's MJ (L) and Jinjin. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Aug. 13 (Yonhap) -- "To me, Jinjin is like front teeth — something I can’t do without. He’s younger than me, but there’s a lot I can learn from him. He’s someone I rely on and who gives me a sense of stability," MJ said.

"MJ is nicknamed ‘happy virus,’ so he’s always been good at lightening the mood. When I get sensitive during work, he’s like a ventilation window I can’t live without," Jinjin said.

When asked what they mean to each other, Astro’s eldest member MJ and leader Jinjin traded witty metaphors, often bursting into laughter at each other’s unexpected comparisons before nodding in agreement. Their banter reflected the upbeat chemistry they said they will carry into activities for their new unit, "ZOONIZINI," which debuts on Wednesday.

In an interview at Fantagio’s headquarters in Seoul’s Gangnam District, the pair said, "We captured our usual selves, so we’re satisfied with the work and confident in the outcome. Like the characters in the animated series ‘Tom and Jerry,’ our mischievous side shines through, which is our strength."

The unit’s name combines MJ’s real name, Myung-jun, and Jinjin’s real name, Jin-woo. Their first EP "Dice" features six songs, including the title track "Some things never change."

They said they wanted a name that is easy to remember, and the album includes music in popular genres. "We kept a bright mood so people can enjoy listening in the car. The best part is there’s not a single track to skip," Jinjin said.

MJ added, "We wanted the choreography for the title track to be easy so anyone can follow along. Out of all of Astro’s dances, this one is the easiest. You could probably do it ten times in a row," he said with a laugh.

The two said they had considered unit activities since last year and felt in sync from the concept stage. MJ proposed a theme of rolling dice to decide on a trip, while Jinjin determined the mood of each track.

"I thought for about six months about what kind of color we could create — me as the main vocalist and him as the rapper and dancer," Jinjin said. "The title track was originally a typical hip-hop song, but we scaled back the rap and adjusted it to fit MJ’s vocals."

They hope the album’s broad appeal will help it leave a lasting impression. Believing that good results come when they are personally satisfied, they plan to enjoy their unit activities.

"We want not only Astro fans but also first-time listeners to feel like they want to have fun with us. It’d be great if everyone who watches our stage becomes our fan and enjoys it together," Jinjin said.

Since leading Astro together from 2016, MJ and Jinjin have maintained close bonds with their bandmates, even seeing off member Cha Eun-woo as he began military service.

"When Eun-woo entered the training camp, the cheers were so loud I thought it was a public event," MJ recalled. "The place turned into something like a concert venue, and I was really surprised."

Looking ahead to Astro’s 10th debut anniversary next year, MJ said, "As the years go by, I’ve come to treasure each stage more. I’m grateful to share the stage and will keep showing growth as the eldest member."