The first Korean performer at Japan Expo answers KoME's questions after his showcase.
Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Baby Jin: My name is Baby Jin, from South Korea. I'm a producer, composer, actor, model, and singer/rapper.
Is it your first time in France ? Did you have time to visit around?
Baby Jin: Yes, it's my first time. Actually I didn't have time to really visit around yet. I just went in the streets and to Paris (Editor's note: Japan Expo is one hour from Paris).
You are the first Korean artist performing a showcase at Japan Expo. How do you feel about it?
Baby Jin: Aah, many people thought I was from Japan, but I don't care. Asia is Asia. I mean, people are the same, maybe just different skin color, you know? So, I don't care about nationality, but I'm from Korea. (laugh)
Why did you accept the invitation and come to Japan Expo?
Baby Jin: Because I'm interested. I like Japanese culture and I like Europe, France, I love fashion and music and house electronic sounds. For electronic/house sounds, I think France is the best of the world.
In your first single named Baby Jin you worked with Joohee from 8eight. How was it to work with her?
Baby Jin: Yeah, yeah, we trained before her debuts. She's my younger friend. But when she debuted, her looks changed. I was like, "Hello...?" (laugh) It feels a little bit weird, you know? (laugh) But it's okay, no problem.
How is your work as a producer?
Baby Jin: It's difficult. My basics are hip-hop but I want it to sound more creative. Now I'm interested in house music and sounds.
Which artist would you like to work with as a producer and as a singer?
Baby Jin: It’s a difficult question. Why not work in the USA or France... With artists like, David Guetta, Justice, Timbaland...
Is there a famous Korean artist that has caught your attention lately or that you are a fan of?
Baby Jin: Not really, I don't really listen to Korean music… I really don’t care about nationality, but I'm looking for some good music. Music is like food. You have to find good food, eat it and it will be good for your health. It's the same with music. I have to find good ones. I don't care about what kind of music - rap, electronic, hip hop or classic, I don't care about it.
Apparently you're going to make your comeback with a new single entitled Ya My Star, could you tell us more about it?
Baby Jin: Well, as I was performing at Japan Expo, I created this version of Ya My Star only for Japan Expo. It's a remix just for Japan Expo. The original version sounds a little bit closer to hip-hop. I wanted to make a new sound, you know. Do you like it?
Yeah, that was cool. And do you have plans for an international career?
Baby Jin: First, I want to concentrate in Europe. I can go somewhere else later, because, you know in terms of sounds, Europe seems to be a good match with me.
What are you planning to do in France before you go back to Korea?
Baby Jin: I wanna try to make good business conncections, I wanna try to meet a lot of people.
Is there something that surprised or shocked you when you arrived in France?
Baby Jin: The first time, there were uncomfortable things like food, construction, people... But I love France, it's so beautiful. And I love Paris and French baguettes. You know, I eat French baguettes every day now. And you know, every time I go to the toilets, it's the same smell (laughs).
It seems that, after your performance, you gained many fans. Why is that, in your opinion?
Baby Jin: I don't know...it's my destiny?
Do you think you could come back to France or Europe?
Baby Jin: Yeah, maybe in October, to Paris.
Do you think it is necessary for Korean artists to sing and perform in English to be able to debut outside of Asia?
Baby Jin: Yeah, I think so but...language is not the only factor. You know, JYP and YG are trying to establish themselves in the American market right now. But I think they may need more practice for beats and sounds. I think that they try to sound very American but the quality doesn't equal American songs.
Ok, this will be our last question. Any last message for our readers?
Baby Jin: Thank you for this interview. I'm doing my best to make good music. I don't care if people don't like me, I just would like them to like my music. If possible, I'd like to meet good artists, work together and make some good stuff. I don't care if these are featuring roles or something else. I want to do anything I can.
KoME would like to thank KBM entertainment and Baby Jin.
