In this candid discussion, the members of the K-pop group ATEEZ share personal anecdotes and reflections on their journey, their international influence, and the profound emotional bond they share with their fanbase, known as ATINY. The conversation highlights the group's humble beginnings, their transition into global icons, and the humorous, relatable moments that define their interpersonal chemistry.
The members reflect on the surreal experience of seeing their music resonate in regions as distant as South America. They recount a moment where their music video was played in a public setting—not because their fans had gathered, but because "ordinary people" were engaging with their art. This realization of their reach, even in places "on the other side" of the globe like Argentina, underscores the universality of their music. The members expressed genuine gratitude for the cultural exchange, noting how "cool" it is that people are "singing in Korean" in countries so far from their home.
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the "reality show" nature of their profession. The members discuss the challenges of working with environmental translators and the nervous energy present on set. One humorous highlight includes the naming of "Duck-san," a spontaneous nickname born from a scene that perfectly matched the aesthetic of a duck. Furthermore, the members address moments of physical vulnerability, such as when Johnny "fell down," emphasizing the resilience required in their performance-heavy careers.
Seong Hwa’s demeanor is also a point of intrigue, with members noting the distinct difference in "Seong Hwa's eyes when he's not performing," contrasting his intense stage persona with his off-camera personality. Similarly, the group teases YUNHO for having a "strong name" and a fierce character profile, which contrasts with the group's lighthearted, brotherly teasing.
The group revisits their early content, specifically a video uploaded on "October 3, 2018," before their official debut. With "1,000,000 subscribers" now supporting them, reflecting on that early footage feels like looking at a "baby." They discuss the evolution of their image—joking about Hongjoong’s "expensive coat, thrones, and power"—and acknowledge the growth in their public speaking and performance abilities. YUNHO, in particular, is praised for being "good at speaking," despite the inherent awkwardness of performing in foreign languages.
The most poignant moments of the podcast center on their relationship with ATINY. The members recount the emotional weight of their performances, where they were "so touched" that they couldn't help but cry. WOOYOUNG and YEOSANG share the vulnerability of these memories, noting how seeing their members and fans made the experience unforgettable. They express deep appreciation for fans who speak Korean fluently, noting that while their own pronunciation might sometimes be "funny," they are deeply moved by the effort fans make to connect with them.
Finally, the group touches upon the anticipation surrounding their future projects. Seong Hwa shares a cryptic note that promises "peace of mind," leaving fans to speculate about potential comebacks. The members acknowledge that their fans are experts at finding "spoilers on the stage," noting that while fans are often very perceptive, their theories might only represent about "70% of the fans' expectations." They maintain a balance between transparency and mystery, keeping the excitement alive for what comes next.
This conversation serves as a testament to ATEEZ’s grounded nature. Despite their massive success and global reach, they remain focused on the "meaningful" connections they have built with their audience. Through laughter, tears, and shared history, ATEEZ continues to navigate their path, fueled by the unwavering support of their fans and their own evolving artistic identity.