Tuesday, October 14, 2008

When we talk about Lee Minwoo, the name of Shinhwa - the group that he has gone through 10 years of ups and downs with - inevitably pops up. Making their debut with Haegyulsah in 1998, they celebrated their 10th anniversary with their 9th album in 2008, and throughout the decade they have only gotten better, eventually being recognized as the top group in Korean pop. Lee Minwoo has also established himself as vocalist/rapper/choreographer of the group, but what kind of Shinhwa can we expect coming from Lee Minwoo's own perspective?


◆ Lee Minwoo's Shinhwa

The title of the longest-running idol group has been given to Shinhwa, like a medal of honor. What is their secret to keeping the group intact and at the peak?

"Rather than to call it a secret, I think calling it a reason would be more apt. After all, we've gone through trials and tribulations together, and we shouldered the burden together. Even if we were to disband, it won't be because the members want to strike out on their own. We're like brothers....lilke family to each other. Even after Eric has enlisted, aren't the five of us still carrying on as Shinhwa? I guess people can't overlook us in this case. That's probably because we're Shinhwa.

Eric was the first among the Shinhwa members to enlist when he reported for duty on 9th Oct. Kim Dongwan, Lee Minwoo, Junjin and Andy will also follow within these two years. Until the youngest member Andy returns from the army, there will be approximately 4 years before the members can reunite as Shinhwa. Although the fact that Shinhwa may be forgotten is a nagging worry at the back of his mind, Lee Minwoo laughs it off.

"I think, just like how we have faith in our friendship, I trust that everyone won't forget us either. If Shinhwa is a group that easily burns and cools in just a moment, then it should be a big worry for us. But we're not like that, we've come a long way. When Shinhwa reunites, maybe we should do an insurance CF. Longlasting friendship, isn't that a great theme? (laughs)"

Lee Minwoo said that during the sending-off party for Eric, the focus wasn't on army matters either. He even sent Eric an "aegyo" text message, "You're going to the army, is everything going well? Don't you want to meet me?"

"Eric didn't sulk or sigh after getting the message, he was just as laidback as always. In every sense, Eric seems to have that unique laidback pose. I want to be like him too."

"To get to where we are today, it's because of the strength of members and the fans." He added jokingly, "When we return from the army, will Shinhwa conquer the music scene and the variety scene?" Though all the members have all gone ahead with their solo music and/or acting activities, Shin Hyesung is the only one who hasn't tried acting yet. Lee Minwoo quipped, "Shin Hyesung secretly likes to act too."

"Rather than to come back as a solo act after serving my military duty, I'd rather come back with Shinhwa." It's clear to see the love he has for the group that has supported him for the past 10 years.


Source: 6 Senses
Chi trans: 彼岸花开成海 @ BESTSHINHWA
Eng trans: midnightgirl13@shinhwabiz

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