Welcome back to Fan Chant, a weekly column for K-pop fans, stans, and newbies alike. This week features an interview with Omega X. Also, if you love reading Fan Chant, don’t forget to subscribe to my companion newsletter to get it delivered right to your inbox!
For anyone looking for a good underdog story, look no further than Omega X, an 11-member K-pop act who recently returned with an EP titled iykyk. From the start, Omega X’s story has been one of resilience — the members of the group were formed from acts that had previously disbanded. Omega X was their second chance at K-pop success. This time last this year, though, social media was flooded with a slew of deeply upsetting stories involving the members of the band experiencing alleged abuse and harassment, all of which came to a head when a video circulated showing a representative of their management company in a physical altercation with a distressed member. Following this moment, Omega X were left in America, and claim that they were required to use personal funds and money from their parents to make their way back to South Korea. Spire Entertainment’s then-CEO, Kang Seong-hee, quickly resigned. This sparked a legal battle for the members, who have since successfully extricated themselves from their contracts with Spire Entertainment and have made the decision to move forward together.
It’s an admirable story from a group whose members ranged from 21 to 27 years old at the time these grim details were first uncovered, especially in a moment when renewed energy has appeared in the conversation around the treatment of K-pop idols and the much-needed protections for these young artists. It’s a joy to confirm that the music these guys are working on is also really fun. All the members are involved with the group’s creative process, and their latest single, “JUNK FOOD,” is a particularly happy release, considering the road Omega X walked to reach this point. Watch the music video for the release below, and read on for an interview with the members.
It’s been so great to see you guys come back with iykyk. I know this year in particular has been filled with challenges — how did it feel to share this collection of songs?
JAEHAN: First and foremost, I would like to say thank you to our fans, FOR X, for staying with us during the long hiatus. Also, I want to extend my gratitude to our families and everyone who has supported us. With this album as the new beginning, we’ll start the journey again, so I hope you keep an eye on us, support us, and enjoy the journey with us.
XEN: As much as we prepared, we had high anticipation. Most of all, I was happy to be back on the stage and sing for everyone who was cheering for us. We went through a lot, but we’d like to think of them as experiences of life, and I believe we were able to complete a great album with new mindsets and teamwork among members. We hope to send comfort to all listeners of our music.
Do you have any favorite memories from working on this project together? Were there any days in the studio that felt particularly special?
HWICHAN: We all shared a lot of opinions while preparing for this album. There were many events, but I felt comfortable while working on iykyk because members participated in the creative process of all five songs, including composition, lyrics, arrangement, and production. That was my favorite part of working on this album.
HANGYEOM: The most memorable moment for me was recording the title track, “JUNK FOOD.” I was in charge of directing rap parts, and I got to learn more about the members’ strengths, which I believe to be helpful when I’m working on songs in the future.
What do you guys love about your team dynamic these days? Do any of you have something that you’ve learned from a bandmate lately?
SEBIN: I love to see members leaning on each other while overcoming whatever challenges we face together. I believe as a group, our strengths are never giving up, keeping our focus, and just running toward our goal. Recently, I have found a lot to learn from KEVIN’s gentle attitude and TAEDONG’s considerate heart.
HYUK: Preparation for the performance of “JUNK FOOD” took a little longer than usual because it was a bit different from the styles we were used to. We had a shorter time to prepare, so that was a challenge for all of us. Our strong teamwork shined through when everyone gave enough time to members who seemed to feel awkward with the new style and helped them during practice sessions. It still remains memorable to witness how much we cared for each other.
I think my favorite on this project is “HEY!” Do any of you have something you love about one of the songs on iykyk?
TAEDONG: My favorite is also “HEY!” I love the track’s bright and energetic vibe, and it brings our energy up as well when we perform the song. It brings me a smile every time I dance to it, so that is my favorite track.
KEVIN: My favorite is the last track of the album, “ISLAND.” It is very special that members unfolded our story in the lyrics which can be relatable to all listeners, and it is simply a good song! It also gives me a soft, warm sentiment every time I listen to it.
“JUNK FOOD” gives me a bit of NCT energy! Are there any acts or artists you guys are really inspired by these days?
JUNGHOON: I do listen to NCT’s music a lot daily. Personally, I’m a fan of the hip-hop genre, so I find a lot of NCT songs to suit my musical taste perfectly. When I work on music and lyrics, I often get inspired by NCT’s music and performances.
YECHAN: While working on the arrangement of “ISLAND,” I fell in love with rock and pop-funk genres. I’ve been listening to in loving memory, the album by blackbear at least once a day! I get inspired a lot by it.
A lot of the members are involved with the music-making process. Do any of you have some specific songwriting/choreography/production aspirations?
JAEHAN: I hope to continue creative work without stopping, and I wish to make music that people can relate to and feel happy when listening. In addition, I hope you to join us on our music journey! Let’s continue making it together!
HANGYEOM: My main goal is to make songs and choreographies that perfectly suit OMEGA X with my members as we continue living and promoting together. After working on more songs and discovering my unique style, I hope to try making my solo album that is filled with my style one day. I sometimes release songs that I made based on my personal taste on SoundCloud, so please give them a lot of support too!
As we reach the end of the year, what are some goals you have for 2024? Do you have any messages for the fans as we head into a new year?
JEHYUN: One goal is to receive the Best Performance award at the award shows for 2024! We’ll continue presenting cool performances next year, so do look forward to our performances.
YECHAN: In 2024, I hope to tour around even more countries to meet all FOR X around the world, make a comeback with a great album, and receive awards!
SEBIN: I always tell FOR X that even when we’re feeling tired or sad, ‘let’s stay happy.’ Rather than pretending to be happy, I want them to find their own happiness, embrace themselves, and keep a positive attitude to be satisfied with whatever situation and outcomes they may face. Let’s always stay happy, FOR X!
TAEDONG: If there is a better word or expression than ‘I love you’ in this world, I would like to say that to our fans always. We exist today because FOR X has been with us, and we’re forever grateful for them. Thank you very much for always believing in us and staying next to us. We’ll always stay humble and be the people you can be proud of.
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Photo courtesy of JYP Entertainment…
