13th year of career as an artist, kenoHis real name is Kang Hyung Gu, and he has established himself as a very all-rounder. During this period, which he calls his “first chapter,” he blossomed as a member of the boy group Pentagon under Cube Entertainment. He honed his artistry in every way possible, growing as a singer, dancer, painter, rapper, choreographer, and composer.
In October 2023, KINO left Cube and moved on to Chapter 2 just two months later. On December 15th, he launched his own agency ‘Naked’. The name expresses his desire to show only his truest self.
The new year has only just begun, but it’s already been a big year for solo artist and CEO KINO. He ushered in January with the release of his first single as Naked, “Fashion Style,” and ended it on a high note with his first solo concert in Seoul on January 27, his 26th birthday.
A few days after the concert, KINO opened up to Clash about his new journey, artistry, and the real Hyunggu.
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Please tell us a little about your latest release “Fashion Style”.
Kino: “Fashion Style” is a confidence-boosting song. Perfect as driving music. I wanted to tell the listeners, “You are beautiful in your own skin.” Listening to this song makes me feel nostalgic. The main instrumental, the synth lead, gives you the same feel of songs from your childhood.
As a CEO, you’ve moved into a role with entirely new responsibilities. What has your experience been like so far?
K: There are many challenges. I learn new things every day and face many challenges while doing my own thing along with my team. For example, how to properly pay taxes to your customers. That’s something I’ve never done before.that’s the hardest part myself, now. But I have a lot of good people around me who help me. So I think I’m doing well.
Why did you decide to launch Naked now?
K: I had a very specific career vision. I was confident that if I had my own team and focused on the music, I would be successful. It felt like the time was right. I didn’t make it complicated, I just decided one day. And everyone wonders, “Are we freer than before?” I never have. I have more responsibility and have to listen carefully to my team. But I feel like I can do better if I do it this way.
Why was it important for you to further explore being a soloist and artist in your own right?
K: As a member of the Department of Defense, I naturally had responsibilities as part of a team. Now I have my own team. If I make a mistake as a member (of the Department of Defense), other members will cover for me. I’m careful with my every step because now there’s no one to protect me. But now I can show my music and content more freely than before. (Pentagon) I made dance and hip-hop music. Now I’m writing more easy listening songs. I want to become a more real Kino and a more real Hyungu. I am focused on expressing my life.
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What do you hope to achieve in the future as an artist and as an individual?
K: (Laughs) Of course I want fame and fortune. (More laughter) No, these days there is no line between my personal life and work. My focus is just on my music and how I can reach more people through this journey. that’s it.
You held a concert in Seoul on your birthday. how was it?
K: It was an unforgettable experience. After the concert ended, I felt that I had made the right choice and that I was able to show not only myself but also my fans a healthy side. That night, I received confirmation that our fans love this new KINO. It was a very important night for my second chapter.
It was difficult (to make the show). It took me almost 2 hours just by myself. I was a little lonely, but once I started creating concerts with my team, I gained confidence. I have been in this industry for 13 years and was always archiving my ideas for solo exhibitions. I really tried to channel all those ideas into my concerts. I think we did well. I was nervous because the first step is the most important. But I did it.
Why create one? What drives you to do that work?
K: I love seeing my fans and all people enjoying my work and finding comfort in my work. That is the biggest driving force in my musical life. When I see something like that, it reminds me that I can’t quit. Whether it’s painting, acting, or music, the format doesn’t matter. I just want to show and tell my life to the audience and the world through my stories and works. I feel great if they feel my emotions and I share my emotions correctly.
Was there a particular moment in your life when you realized that creating was what you wanted to do?
KINO: I think it was around 2013…I started learning singing and dancing in 2010, but at that time I was just doing it for fun. I started writing music in 2013 and wanted to sing. my music, my Story. That was the beginning of the first chapter of my musical journey. After that, I had a moment where I was able to showcase my music when I released my first original song, “It’s Over.” The reaction from the fans was amazing, and I thought, “Ah, people love me because of my music.”
Where do you get your inspiration from?
K: That’s a very simple question, but at the same time a very difficult question. I have a huge responsibility to make music and to be successful with my team. I’m always looking for inspiration from everywhere. When I walk around and see people talking…that’s my biggest source of inspiration. I also take inspiration from great artists like Andy Warhol and Van Gogh. My life is my inspiration. Every part of my life inspires my creations.
Of course, there are times when you get stuck. I think all creative people have similar tough times. But there is a quote by Chuck Close that I love. “Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work.” I just show up and get to work.
What is your favorite part of the music production process?
K: I’m taking a nap. (laughs) It’s essential for me. After working hard, you have to rest. I can write better after taking a nap. You can listen to music in a fresh way.
Do you think you have a proper understanding of when to work and when to rest?
K: No, never. It’s not just because of new responsibilities. That’s my personality. I don’t want to say I’m a perfect person, but if I’m successful, it’s because of my personality.
Are you a perfectionist?
K: I was like that too, but not anymore. Because of him. (gestures to his manager) His perfectionism is even stronger than mine, so I’m taking a step back now…
How would you describe the music you make?
K: young people. Of course, I tell my story and life through my lyrics, but I believe it’s not just for me. It’s for all young people. Once I realized that, I knew I had to be very honest in my music. Being honest is a very important part of Naked.
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Do you want people to see Pentagon’s KINO and solo artist KINO as two separate artists? Or do you want to be seen as an individual artist?
K: another. Both have completely different musical colors. I used to make other genres of music, but my style has completely changed. Of course I love both of them, but they are completely different artists. As part of the team, it’s just for the Pentagon. As a solo artist, it’s not for anyone. It’s more of my own identity.
And what do you want people to know about your musical identity?
K: An artist who makes good music. That’s the only thing I want. I want to say, “Ah, I should have liked KINO sooner,” so that I won’t regret it later. I have no regrets. Just like me now. What are you waiting for?
You are always exploring different art forms. What art form have you not tried yet?
K: It’s embarrassing, but I want to try acting. I’m not ready now. I don’t think it’s my time yet because I have to focus on my music. But I would like to try it if I have a chance. I like movies more than the series, and would like to try my hand at playing a student role.
What else should I know about KINO?
K: He is an artist who makes good songs. Also, I would like to meet the fans in person as soon as possible. Please give me a time. Wherever you are, I’ll be right there. thank you.
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Text and photos: Ciara Glagola // @ciaraglagola