190830 Dicon Magazine Vol. 5 NCT 127

“NCT 127 and City of Angel”

Q. About NCT127 debut in the U.S. when did you first hear the news? How do you feel then? 

TAEYONG: I heard the news before our 1^st full length album comeback, and I was excited and scared because America was a far away country for me. When we first went to the U.S and started our promotion,  many people worked hard. I want to say thank you very much.

Q. What is NCT127’s strategy for entering the U.S.?

TAEYONG: I wanted to visit many places and show NCT127 refined performances and music. It was my first time recording an English version of the song. I wanted to let you know as many of us as possible.

Q. I don’t think the process was easy. What did you focus on and prepare?

TAEYONG: I paid a lot of attention to the stage. We had to prepare different versions of the performance, so we prepared a lot for it. I always checked in advance because the stage is different in size and condition.

Q. What are the words you had with the members before going to the US? What did you say to give each other strength?

TAEYONG: We tried to make each other positive. We worked hard together to prepare for the event. I thought it would help us a lot.

Q. When NCT127 announced its U.S. debut, no one expected its current success. There were many words at the time. They say it’s the company’s power, but the members showed it’s because of their skill and growth. How did you feel then?

TAEYONG: Ever since we were trainees, the company always trusted us and supported us. The company believed in our potential, and because we trusted the company, it’s been possible for all of us to stay. So I tried harder and did my best to show you a good side!

Q. You had a packed schedule upon your arrival in the US, How was it?

TAEYONG: First of all, we had no choice but to do it. Because it’s our first time going there. Of course, I was confused and scared, but without that experience, I wouldn’t be able to see NCT127 who grew up like this.

Q. Are there moments you want to give up? 

TAEYONG: It’s a lie if I say it’s not physically hard, but when I see everyone around me, I hope they are happy, and because of that I’m going to work harder. If you have a person with a positive mindset, no matter how hard it is, you will be able to smile. So I thought of becoming a person who gives positive energy and has a positive mindset even during hard times. 

Q. You worked harder than anyone else. The public doubted you but you proved yourself through growth. The fruit (of your hard work) was ranking 11th on ‘Billboard 200’. How did you feel when you heard the news?

TAEYONG: I think it’s a gift from a lot of people. I think it’s worth it while I’m on a tour in North America for a month. I remember singing and dancing on the set for joy. Thank you.

Q. You’re still on tour. What do you want to say to your global fans?

TAEYONG: When I really love you, I want you to always love and be loved. Let’s keep thinking about each other and make better memories.^^

Q. Lastly, what do you want to say to the members?

TAEYONG: We met in the same dream. I think we respect and love each other more than anyone else. I hope that we can rely on each other in times of difficulty and support each other. I hope we can continue to do well in the future! Fighting!

Q. And message to yourself?

TAEYONG: Taeyong, your body is your asset. Let’s be healthy!

Q. On October 7, 2018, you met Dispatch for the first time at the Apple Music Next up stage. We set up an outdoor stage at the LA Skyline. How did you feel back then?

TAEYONG: I want to say thank you for spending time with me in a beautiful scenery.

Q. The next day, October 8, US debut was announced on the Jimmy Kimmel Live show, went back to the hotel and gathered together on TV to monitor. Everyone watched TV with sleepy eyes. When it was announced. How did you feel?

TAEYONG: It was amazing. It was amazing that we debuted in the U.S. and many people congratulated us. Thank you so much.

Q. On October 11 2018, a solo photoshoot with Dispatch was done at a cafe in Downtown LA. there wasn’t any 007 plan. The local fans were waiting at the hotel entrance. Do you remember the photoshoot at the café on that day? I hope it was healing.

TAEYONG: I really enjoyed it. Thanks to the filming, I had a great time seeing some interesting things, and also the dogs. It was a good memory for us.

Q. On May 12, 2019, LA Concert was very loud from the start. It marked the end of the US tour. However, you were not feeling well?

TAEYONG: Actually, I’ve had a cold during our North American tour, and it was a bit physically challenging. But with the cheer and support of our fans, we were able to finish our performance well.

Q. You woke up early in the morning to prepare for the recording with James Corden. Back then, the members got up with sleepy eyes and ate the bread. What about this episode?

TAEYONG: I always look for food when I wake up. American breakfast is my style. We put on bagels, cream cheese, and we had coffee together. It was a very interesting experience for me. I played the Flinch game, met James Corden, and it was an incredible event.

190830 Dicon Magazine Vol. 5 NCT 127

translation by: taeyoyong / xodyd_ty