Thursday, September 29, 2011

[NEWS] A glimpse at the real SE7EN

The Korean heartthrob let his hair down and chilled with xinmsn for a quick interview, where he let us in on his upcoming album and even his restaurant in Korea.

Text & Photos: Joelle Chong

Known for his on-stage presence and strong charisma, we were taken by surprise when Korean singer Choi Dong-wook (better known by his stage name SE7EN) turned out to be a friendly and fun guy to be with.

Set to perform at the World Runway Premiere Fashionquake Aid 2011 -- a fashion contest event -- xinmsn sat down with Se7en backstage, at the Singapore Indoor Stadium for a 10-minute interview.

It took some time for the singer to warm up to us; but when he eventually did, the interview breezed by in a cacophony of laughter.

Prior to his performance, we quizzed Se7en -- who answered all our questions in fluent English -- on one fashion accessory he cannot live without.

With no favourites, the singer had a difficult time deciding, choosing from rings to necklaces, before quipping "sunglasses". Just when we thought he had made up his mind, Se7en chuckled and said, "I don't know!"

However, the 27-year-old admitted to having a large collection of sunglasses, which should not come as a surprise since they have always been part of his fashion ensemble.


It has been a year since Se7en released his last EP, Digital Bounce. Fans, who are anxiously anticipating his comeback, can look forward to new material from the singer soon.

"I'm making an album now in Korea and Japan, so I'm recording and writing new songs every day. Keep a look out [for my new album]," he let on sincerely.

Se7en then revealed he would probably take a pop approach in his next album.

"Pop. Pop, pop, popping pop," the singer said, before entering a wacky rhythm of "pop" and "popping".


Having previously worked with T.O.P, his YG junior and member of Korean boy band Big Bang, on the single 'Digital Bounce', when asked if there was anyone else from YG he would like to work with, he flippantly answered, "Whatever, I don't care."

While the answer might seem flamboyant and a little insincere, Se7en followed-up with a compliment and said, "All the YG juniors are good."

Like most entertainers, who preferred to have another source of income, Se7en also owns a chicken restaurant back in Korea. The singer let on that it was interesting and fun being a boss, but at the same time, it was hard work too.

When asked if it was difficult juggling two jobs, the singer smiled and said, "Not really. I don't know. I have a lot time. I can do both."

It was not difficult to see the passion Se7en has for his business venture as he talked animatedly, with his eyes shining brightly.

The surprise in his voice was evident when he was told we visited his restaurant and found the food tasty. The singer immediately went into a tirade of questions, as if asking for feedback.

No stranger to Singapore, this trip marked Se7en's fourth visit in a span of twelve months.

When asked where he'd love to visit if he had more time, Se7en replied without a pause, "Casino. Marina Bay Sands. I heard that it's very luxurious and nice."

The 27-year-old also expressed his wish to visit the rooftop swimming pool because he has "never been there".

Later that night, Se7en turned the heat up at the stadium, at around 9.25pm. Fans waved their neon-green lightsticks -- which were in the form of the number seven -- excitedly to the beats of the first track 'Digital Bounce'.

Se7en then introduced 'Come Back to Me' -- his debut song back in 2003 -- to the audience and even shook a lucky fan's hand. He later had everyone on the balls of their feet when he sang and danced to 'La La La', before wrapping the day up with 'Passion'.


As soon as Se7en ended his performance, fans rushed out of the stadium, hoping to catch a glimpse of the performer when he walked out to board his ride. They were awarded with handshakes and smiles from a very affable Se7en, who came forth to interact with fans.

"I wish I could have a showcase in Singapore. I want to do that. Anytime, just call me. I'll come down," Se7en grinned boyishly at the end of the interview.


Taken from: xin.msn.com

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