(machine translation)
<aespa Modelpress Interview>
The interview took place when KARINA, GISELLE, WINTER, and NINGNING visited the "aespa POP-UP STORE “KISS N TELL”," which was open for a limited time (July 23rd to August 2nd) at MITASHITA PARK in Shibuya, Tokyo. The members enjoyed themselves in the store, which was filled with the cute world of "KISS N TELL," exclaiming "It's so cute!" and signing large images of themselves.
Deepening Bonds with MY and the Secret Story Behind the Birth of "KISS N TELL"
— Congratulations on the fan meeting held over three days from July 18th to 20th. What was the most memorable thing for you?
Giselle: MY's cheers were so loud, and I felt so much energy. I felt that they were really focused on the moment, and I was able to enjoy it very much.
Ningning: Playing games for three consecutive days. Being able to play games so close to everyone, and being able to see their faces clearly, was very memorable.
— This year, your first dome tour at Kyocera Dome Osaka and Tokyo Dome was a great success. As the venue size and fandom continue to grow, how do you feel that communication with Japanese MY and the sense of unity at live performances have changed compared to when you debuted?
Winter: I feel like we've become closer and more friendly with everyone through this fan meeting. I feel a stronger connection than at the beginning, and our bond is deepening. It makes me happy to feel so loved.
— At the fan meeting, you also premiered "KISS N TELL," the lead track from your 1st Japanese mini album. What significance does this Japanese original mini album hold for aespa, a group active worldwide?
Giselle: We've always hoped to release an album in Japan. In particular, "KISS N TELL," the lead track, was a song we were really interested in. Actually, it wasn't originally the title track, but it was so good that we discussed with our agency that we wanted to use it as the Japanese title track. Because we created this album with those memories in mind, it's a very meaningful album for us.
Relaxation in Japan and Highlights of the "Pop-up Store"
— You've probably been spending more time in Japan lately. Is there anything that helps you relax amidst your busy schedule?
Winter: Food. I love eating delicious food, so it gives me energy. But the time I spend with our fans is truly enjoyable and relaxing.
― Have you recently had a meal in Japan that really impressed you?
Winter: Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ). It was so delicious, I want to go eat the same yakiniku with the other members next time.
― I think many Japanese MYs will be visiting the "aespa POP-UP STORE “KISS N TELL”. What do you hope they'll enjoy?
Karina: I hope they enjoy this sparkling space itself. I think it's rare to see the costumes we actually wore in the music video, so I hope they'll take a look at them, and I hope they'll look at lots of merchandise, and take lots of pictures… there's so much (laughs). I hope they'll experience lots of things.
aespa to MY: "The Secret to Achieving Your Dreams" and a Powerful Message of Encouragement
― Many Modelpress readers are currently pursuing their dreams. Looking back on your lives so far, what do you think is necessary to achieve your dreams?
Winter: "Effort" and "luck." It might be sad, but I think luck is necessary. Effort is even more important, and you have to put in a lot of effort, but even so, a little bit of luck is necessary.
NingNing: Being healthy. I think everyone is working hard to achieve their dreams. That's why I think being healthy is the most important thing in achieving your dreams.
Giselle: I think you can't let your spirit weaken. That's because "believing in yourself" is important. If you think "I'm no good after all," you'll fail. No matter how many times you fail, it's important to keep believing in yourself.
Karina: First, "have confidence" in yourself. Knowing exactly what you like, what you want to do, and what kind of dreams you have will allow you to move forward. That's the first step, and the next is believing in yourself.
— I think your honest words will give readers strength. If there's a MY who's feeling discouraged right now, please give that MY a message that only you can convey.
Karina: As you go through life, you might realize that what you're finding difficult now isn't such a big deal, so I hope you won't get too discouraged. And I hope you'll overcome that experience, conquer yourself, and become stronger.
—Thank you for your valuable message.
★What I feel every time I interview them is their unwavering inner strength and their boundless love for MY. The story of how aespa, who released their 1st Japanese mini-album 'KISS N TELL,' personally negotiated with their agency to choose the title track, conveys their sincere passion for their activities in Japan. Behind their dazzling stage presence lies an innocent, genuine side, and their honest, straightforward words are directed towards readers pursuing their dreams. When you feel like giving up, you'll surely find courage in their strength and kindness. ★