Exclusive: EXO’s Chen on performing in Dubai, music and more
K-pop star recently visited the city again, for a performance at the opening of Korea 360
Dubai: Chen from the popular K-pop group EXO, visited Dubai recently and performed at the opening of Korea360 at Grand Hyatt Dubai, for hundreds of fans on April 11.
Part of the prominent K-pop group, EXO, who are known for their captivating performances, intense choreography, diverse music and significant contribution to the Hallyu wave – Kim Jong-dae famously known as Chen, captivated fans with his strong vocals.
The 32-year-old k-pop idol, who is the main vocalist of the group, performed his solo hits including Everytime from the hit K-drama, Descendants of the Sun, Starlight and more.
In an exclusive interview with Gulf News, Chen spoke about his music, wish to visit Dubai again and more.
On April 21, Chen announced the release of his new digital single Broken Party, set to release on April 28.
How does it feel to be back in Dubai performing to your UAE fan base?
I’m so happy and honoured to be able to greet you all once again. This time feels extra special because I’ve been invited to celebrate the grand opening of Korea 360, and I’m truly delighted to be part of it. More than anything, the thought of meeting my fans here in Dubai once again has had me excited since yesterday. I came here with a fluttering heart, and I’m really looking forward to the performance today – wondering what kind of beautiful memories we’ll create together. I can’t wait to get on stage.
Have you seen a lot of changes?
I don’t think much has changed. My fans who always warmly welcome me are still here just the same. If I had to mention something a little different, Korean people are really into Dubai chocolates these days. So, I was told to make sure I buy some during this visit (laughs). Every time I come to Dubai, I always feel like I want to return someday just for a holiday. During a past schedule, I had the chance to visit the desert and also go to the beach. So I really hope that someday, not for work but just for leisure, I’ll get to visit again and fully enjoy the UAE.
When working on a song for a solo project, is it the visual image or music that comes first?
It really depends on the situation. Sometimes, if a message I want to convey comes to mind before anything else, I start by building a story around that. Other times, a song unexpectedly touches my heart, and then I create a story that fits with that composition – or sometimes, the song is released just as it is. So, it varies depending on the moment.
Is there a specific sound or genre you’ve always wanted to experiment with but haven’t yet?
I once released a mini album in Japan that featured band music. If I get the opportunity, I’d love to release another album with a full band sound.
Have you ever scrapped a song entirely even though it was almost finished? What made you decide to walk away from it?
When I work on music, it often takes a long time to get results that I feel are truly perfect or satisfying. There are also many projects that didn’t turn out the way I hoped. I think at times like that, I’ve felt a kind of wall in the way I express myself. Among the songs I’ve worked on, there are some that never got released. One, in particular, had its full melody and lyrics completed, but it wasn’t included in the album because it didn’t quite match the overall vibe. I always find myself facing the challenge of how to express what I want to say through music, and I continue working through that struggle.
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
When I got o karaoke in Korea, honestly, I don’t usually sing my own songs. More often than not, I sing hip-hop tracks that I enjoyed listening to when I was younger, or band music that brings back memories.
What’s your dream vacation spot?
As I mentioned earlier, I’d really love to come back to Dubai just to enjoy it as a tourist. There’s such a variety of delicious food to try, and I’d love to explore even more of the famous landmarks. If I have the time and opportunity, I hope to learn more about what makes Dubai special—its culture, its people, and everything it has to offer.
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