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There’s a fresh sound shaking up the K-pop scene, and it goes by the name NEWBEAT. This seven-member group recently made their official debut with the bold and colorful album RAW AND RAD. Packed with dynamic tracks and meaningful messages, it’s clear this isn’t your average rookie group. We caught up with the members to hear all about their journey, inspirations, and dreams for the future.
Interview with NEWBEAT: Embracing the Raw and the Rad
Everyone:
Two, three! Hi, we are NEWBEAT!
Nice to meet you~
Interviewer – What was the preparation process for your debut like?
NEWBEAT:
We were able to prepare and grow through a variety of experiences and training—like dancing as A.C.E.’s backup dancers in the U.S., doing busking, and working on our full-length debut album. Each step helped us build the foundation for who we are today.
Interviewer Were there any specific themes or messages you wanted to convey in this album? Tell us more about the concept, like the unicorn symbolism.
NEWBEAT: (Jeon Yeoyeojeong):
Our mascot “Neurocorn” tells the story of a unicorn without a horn who questions why it’s different. Eventually, it learns that being different isn’t wrong—that everyone is unique. That’s the core message of our album: freedom, self-acceptance, and ambition. We express this through our songs and identity as a group.
Interviewer What was your first reaction when you learned you would finally debut?
NEWBEAT:(Choi Seohyun)
All of us had different trainee experiences, so this debut was something we’ve long anticipated. Debuting under a great company and with amazing teammates is truly exciting and rewarding!
Interviewer : Which song from your debut album would you recommend to fans?
Hong Minsung:
“We Are Young.” The lyrics are meaningful, and it’s actually the OST for our original content where we walk 100 km across Korea. It fits our rookie spirit perfectly.
Park Minseok:
Right! That track represents rawness and freedom—perfect for expressing our youthful ambition.
Interviewer : Your showcase will stream globally. How important is it to connect with international fans?
NEWBEAT: Jeon Yeoyeojeong)
Very important. We performed in the U.S. as backup dancers and during our busking tour, which gave us the opportunity to connect with global fans early on. We’re excited to meet them again now that we’ve debuted.
Interviewer What was the most memorable moment during your debut preparations?
NEWBEAT:(Park Minseok):
Recording the album. As our debut and first full-length album, there was a lot to record. The guidance from our producers helped us grow a lot, making the process incredibly memorable.
Interviewer (Jo Yunhu): Did any seniors give you advice that helped you along the way?
Jo Yunhu:
Yes—Jun from A.C.E. told me to prioritize mental health. He said, “Trust yourself, and enjoy the process.” That really helped me when I felt overwhelmed.
Interviewer (Jeon Yeoyeojeong): Is there a lyric that resonates most with you?
NEWBEAT:
In “We Are Young,” the chorus says, “Running through this tough world.” It reflects our journey and something many people can relate to.
Interviewer : “JeLLo” was such a fun track! Do you all like Jell-O? What’s your favorite dessert?
Kim Taeyang:
Actually, I love pistachio desserts the most!
Interviewer : What was the highlight of your U.S. busking tour?
NEWBEAT:(Hong Minsung)
Our final busking in Central Park, New York. The weather and energy were perfect. We even performed “Standing Next to You” with dance crews we had worked with—it felt like a mega-crew finale. Truly unforgettable.
Interviewer What are your feelings as you debut with RAW AND RAD?
NEWBEAT: (Park Minseok):
Every moment feels new and exciting. We put our hearts into this album and are grateful for this opportunity. Thank you for celebrating it with us.
Interviewer Your pre-releases “JeLLo” and “HICCUPS” are very different. How do they represent your versatility?
NEWBEAT: (Choi Seohyun):
They each tell different stories. “JeLLo” is warm and kitschy, while “HICCUPS” is energetic and unique. We wanted to showcase our range and experiment with diverse styles.
Interviewer How do you deal with the pressures of debuting in such a competitive industry?
NEWBEAT:(Jeon Yeoyeojeong):
At first, we were nervous about preparing a full album. But we turned that pressure into confidence. Now, we’re proud and excited to share our music.
Interviewer : What sets NEWBEAT apart from other K-pop groups?
NEWBEAT:(Jeon Yeoyeojeong)
We have a clear concept and strong message—being different is okay. We try to be honest and raw, including the duality within us, and that authenticity is what makes us unique.
Interviewer: What did you think of the public’s response to “JeLLo” and “HICCUPS”?
NEWBEAT: (Jo Yunhu)
We saw a lot of positive reactions online. It was so motivating and encouraging—especially during tough practice sessions. We’re excited for fans to hear the title track, too!
Interviewer ): How did these pre-releases shape your expectations for debut?
NEWBEAT:(Jeon Yeoyeojeong
They helped introduce our concept and individual charms. We hope they build anticipation for the rest of our journey.
Interviewer : What’s your favorite part of performing for fans?
Kim Taeyang:(Kim Taeyang)
Though I’m shy, I feel truly happy when I perform. I think that joy is something all seven of us share.
Interviewer : What’s one word to describe your debut song?
NEWBEAT: Park Minseok
“Flip.” Our debut track, “Flip the Coin,” expresses our wish to flip the K-pop world with our talent and performances.
Interviewer : Which song from RAW AND RAD represents each member?
Kim Riwoo:
“We Are Young” for me—it’s bright and hopeful, just like my personality.
Choi Seohyun:
“HICCUPS” for me. I suit old-school hip-hop and enjoy powerful, freestyle-like performances.
Interviewer (Park Minseok): How would you define NEWBEAT’s unique sound?
NEWBEAT:
Our sound mixes the raw and the radical—wild but soft. We’ve drawn inspiration from old-school hip-hop and infused it with charm and diversity to create something fresh and mysterious.
Interviewer (Park Minseok): K-pop is highly competitive. What will help NEWBEAT stand out?
NEWBEAT:
Our message: being different is okay. Many people can relate to that, and our team is committed to making meaningful music that reflects it.
Interviewer (Jo Yunhu): How has performing internationally helped your growth?
NEWBEAT:
Those overseas experiences taught us confidence, fan interaction, and appreciation for live performances—things you can’t always learn in a studio.
Interviewer (Jeon Yeoyeojeong): Your songs have a funky, retro edge. Any inspirations?
NEWBEAT:
We were influenced by first-generation K-pop idols and practiced their songs during training. That helped us dive into the old-school hip-hop style that defines many of our tracks.
Interviewer (Hong Minsung): What goals have you set for the group?
NEWBEAT:
Our short-term goal is to win Rookie of the Year. But more than awards, we aim to keep learning, stay humble, and communicate with our fans to grow into even better artists.
Interviewer (Park Minseok): What’s next for NEWBEAT?
NEWBEAT:
We’ll continue promoting our debut album and focus on creating more music and fan interactions. We can’t wait to share more with you.
Interviewer (Jeon Yeoyeojeong): How would you like NEWBEAT to be remembered?
NEWBEAT:
As a group full of sincerity and passion. We want people to see our raw, true selves and feel the heart behind our music.
Interviewer (Choi Seohyun): What’s NEWBEAT’s greatest strength?
Choi Seohyun:
We’re confident in our singing, dancing, rapping, and visuals. But above all, our sincerity and passion on stage is our biggest strength.
Interviewer (Hong Minsung): What was the hardest part of being a trainee?
NEWBEAT:
The uncertainty of debuting was mentally tough. Constant practice without clear results was challenging—but those struggles helped us grow and form this strong team.
Interviewer (Jeon Yeoyeojeong): “HICCUPS” has a bold sound. Were you nervous debuting with something so unique?
NEWBEAT:
Yes, we were a bit nervous. But since we’re rookies, it felt right to show our determination and boldness through something so daring.
Interviewer : What does RAW AND RAD mean to you?
NEWBEAT:(Park Minseok)
It represents our raw passion and spirit of challenge. We embraced our imperfections and poured our hearts into this album.
Interviewer : If you could live as another member for a day, who would you choose?
Kim Riwoo:
I’d choose Minsung. He’s muscular, can do tumbling and b-boying, and hits incredible high notes. I’d love to experience all of that!
Interviewer : Any funny behind-the-scenes moments from recording?
Choi Seohyun:
I recorded the hiccup sound in “HICCUPS,” and the directors really liked it! That made me super proud.
Hong Minsung:
When we decided to record the hiccup ourselves, all seven of us practiced hiccup sounds everywhere like a choir—it was hilarious!
Everyone:
This was NEWBEAT~
Thank you for having us!
As NEWBEAT steps boldly into the spotlight, they bring with them not only polished performances and a dynamic sound but also a message that resonates far beyond music. With RAW AND RAD, the group isn’t just aiming for chart success—they’re inviting fans to embrace their true selves, challenge norms, and grow together. As they begin their journey, one thing is clear: NEWBEAT is here not just to perform, but to make an impact.
