‘Singles’ has caught everyone‘s attention by revealing a visual pictorial of the mixed group Jatsubi, a new project they’ve taken on through their YouTube channel ‘Civilization Express (MMTG)’.

In the revealed pictorial, Jatsubi shows off a different charm with a free-spirited yet strong energy.

‘Civilization Express’‘s special project ‘The Great Jatsubi’ deals with the process in which Jaejae, Seunghun, and Gabi debut as a team called ‘Jatsubi’. We asked Jaejae about the planning intentions of the ‘Great Jatsubi’ project. Jaejae said, “We started with the bold goal of turning the music industry upside down in the second half of the year (laughs), but actually, we didn’t have any grand plans or goals. We just thought it would be fun if we, who are like-minded people, released music, and that‘s how we got along.“

He also said, “Aren’t we all K-pop ghosts who love music and are full of talent! It started with the simple thought that it would be fun if those people could get together and finish 2024 as a project,” he said, looking back on the beginning of Jatsby.

I asked if they all had a dream of becoming a singer in their hearts. Seung-heon said, “No. I just liked singing, I never thought about becoming a singer. I just lived for the fun of communicating with people in the corner of my room and putting on a show. I never thought about showing off my skills on stage, but once I started, it was so much fun.”

Gabi said, “My first dream when I was young was to be a singer. However, as I continued to dance, I liked dancing even more, so I became a dancer. As I got older, I felt comfortable, and I was happy that I had the opportunity to become a singer after being a professional dancer. I’m so grateful that I’m in this position at this time, exactly where I wanted to be. I’m so grateful for the opportunity.”

We also listened to their concerns. Jaejae said, ”I‘m most worried about the production cost. I have to do my best to show good results, but even if people around me help me with the production costs for songs or music videos, I can’t do it without financial support. I‘m going to work hard to earn the production cost by going to events,“ showing a strong sense of responsibility.

Seungheon said, ”I hope it’s a song that‘s pleasant to listen to. I want my voice to sound like a real singer’s voice. I have to practice a lot for live performances, and while recording this cover song, I felt that I was lacking, so I want to record the new song perfectly even if it takes a few days.“

Lastly, when asked if there was a skill they wanted to bring to each other, Gabi said, ”Jaejae‘s comment skills. I was in charge of the comment in ’Rachika‘, and when I saw her, I felt that people who really comment were different. She would comment based on the needs of the other person. I thought that was really cool. Seungheon remembers people well and is good at talking. He said, “He has a good memory and is excellent at remembering situations.”

Jaejae also said, “Seunghun’s learning speed of choreography. He’s really fast and really good. He always amazes me. Gabi is a professional. That’s why I can feel his pride in what he does, and I think his outstanding skills as a professional are beautifully portrayed.”

Choi Yoon-na, Donga.com reporter yyynnn@donga.com