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NCT Dream talks about impact of K-pop culture in L.A. and forthcoming ‘futuristic’ album

BBG News

Last week, LA made history by hosting a grand celebration as various K-pop artists from SM Entertainment gathered to mark their 30-year anniversary. This momentous event took place at the Dignity Health Sports Park, with some of the most prominent K-pop acts performing on stage.

In recent years, SM Entertainment, one of Asia’s foremost entertainment firms, has played a pivotal role in the worldwide expansion of K-pop, maintaining its status as an influential player within the industry.

Iconic groups like EXO, SHINee, and TVXQ were added to the impressive roster, sharing the stage with current phenomena such as aespa, NCT 127, and NCT Dream. The night’s loudest applause was reserved for the energetic performance by NCT Dream, which left the audience electrified.

The seven-person group, made up of Mark, Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung, showcased their abilities to the Los Angeles audience by performing “When I’m With You,” “Smoothie,” and “Hot Sauce.

The team garnered significant recognition following the release of their sixth mini-album titled “Dreamscape” in November. This album mirrored the artistic development and maturity of its members, inviting listeners to delve deep into their personal and emotional worlds.

Enthusiasts are already excited for the upcoming new album from NCT Dream, set to arrive later this year. Although specifics regarding its release have yet to be disclosed, Mark has confirmed that they will perform songs from it at the Dream Show 4 concert in July. This “forward-looking” album is anticipated to debut in late summer and will showcase their continued personal and artistic development. Prior to their SMTown performance, the band members shared insights about their music and fellow musicians.

This is an incredible milestone for K-pop and the label. Can you imagine how exhilarating it must have been to travel to Los Angeles for a performance at SMTown?

Haechan: I’m really excited about this entire journey, as it’s a unique opportunity to commemorate 30 years alongside artists and team members whom I admire greatly.

How was the performance in Mexico City with the NCT Nation coming together?

It’s heartwarming to see so many NCT fans unite with their enthusiasm, and we reciprocated that energy. We can’t wait to witness the passionate Los Angeles NCT fans cheering them on!

How did you manage with the altitude while performing in Mexico City?

What mattered most before the performance was ensuring we were in good health. In the lead-up to the show, I prioritized resting, eating well, and preparing myself thoroughly.

Los Angeles has grown significantly as a center for K-pop in recent times. Could you share some of your most cherished moments from performing there?

Jaemin expresses his enthusiasm because he believes there’s an abundance of passionate NCTzens in L.A., drawing energy from their fervor. Consequently, he’s thrilled to be back performing for them once more.

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Were there many veteran K-pop stars from groups like EXO, SHINee, and Super Junior that you saw perform at SMTown? Were they role models for you during your childhood and did they influence you as you began your career in the music industry?

Mark: I admire each one of them greatly, and I believe we all felt the same way. However, if I were to single out one, it would be TVXQ. He has consistently offered valuable guidance, instilling discipline in us and sharing wisdom that’s been beneficial, even up until now.

What was a memorable piece of advice that TVXQ gave you that stuck with you?

Mark: He provided precise insights about our dancing and stage presence. As artists, he also trained our minds to recognize the significance of rehearsals, emphasizing their importance – a lesson I’ve found invaluable.

How important is that discipline as a K-pop artist?

Mark: It’s clear that since it’s his advice and he has such extensive experience, what he says about the significance of rehearsals must be valid. After all, one can hardly dispute the truth in this matter.

Have your years in the music industry possibly made you a role model for the newer NCT Nation groups? Ever had them seek your guidance on maneuvering through this industry?

Haechan: I wish that they would look up to us someday!

Have you recalled any remarkable piece of counsel or wisdom that someone at SM Entertainment shared with you during your entry into the entertainment field?

One profound quote that truly resonated with me, although not directly connected to SM Town, is about the individual who possesses great patience, comfort, and confidence in their actions, originates from a powerful and resilient heart.

1) As members of NCT Dream, you’ve shared a common journey growing up together. Since the group initially represented the adolescent branch of NCT, I’m curious about your transformation from performing as teenagers to maturing performers. Was this transition challenging or did it feel like a natural progression for you?

Haechan: It brings me great joy to reflect on the fact that when we were young, our working hours were limited to 10 p.m. However, currently, there are no restrictions, and this freedom makes me even more elated.

It’s only natural that we, as we age, experience growth, and this is equally applicable to the evolution of our music.

How do you feel that your sound has matured as you’ve grown older?

Haechan: Our music has consistently been tailored to suit our generation’s taste since the start. Over time, as we mature, so does our musical style, mirroring our personal development.

How did your recent album, “Dreamscape,” represent that growth?

Mark: The inspiration behind the album is our personal journey, as we embodied growth and underwent it ourselves. “Dreamscape” symbolizes our paradise, inviting fans to join us in escaping the nightmares we’ve faced. Despite the challenges and dark times, there exists a paradise, a sanctuary hidden within our minds. We aimed to express this reality through our own experiences as well. Though we are often associated with positivity and sharing beautiful dreams, we too have experienced turbulent times. However, through music, love, and unity, we navigate the world’s ups and downs together.

That must create a stronger bond with the fans because they see the human side of NCT Dream.

Mark: We are all human.

As a group, what’s the collaborative process to come up with your latest concepts?

Jeno: During our discussions with team members, each person tends to have unique perspectives. Typically, the company serves as a guide, offering a framework for the concept, while we also add our individual viewpoints to it.

Are you working on new music? If so, what do you want to express and explore?

As a Follower: I find that our essence embodies an eternal youthfulness, yet paradoxically, we’re deeply invested in the future. It’s amusing how we can encapsulate both these aspects seamlessly. This duality serves as the foundation for the concept behind our album.

Are you going to be exploring new genres to create this futuristic vibe?

Mark: The essence is clearly audible. Our music incorporates advanced and audio-based components. We’re planning a show, the Dream Show 4, in July, prior to the release of our album. There, we’ll be presenting many of the fresh tunes.

How does it feel to spread the beauty of Korean culture to the world with big events like this?

Haechan: It’s clear that our work in this field isn’t just for one purpose, but I’m incredibly thrilled that we get to express what we enjoy and love while also sharing our culture with people worldwide. We are grateful for the opportunity!

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2025-05-20 13:32

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