2PM's Jun. K Finds His Voice Again: 'I Needed Time to Find Myself'

After a significant hiatus, 2PM member Jun. K has returned with his third mini-album, 'I'm into,' sharing candid reflections on his journey. Despite 18 years in the industry and being a pioneer of the K-pop wave, he remains grounded, stating, "I don't think my visuals or singing skills are considered exceptionally good by the public." He revealed that his latest album centers around 'his own story.'

The title track, 'Think Too Much,' is a funky pop-dance song that encourages listeners to 'just work it out your way' and 'do as you please, it's okay.' Jun. K explained that he chose this song because it felt like something he could have fun dancing and performing to on stage.

While this comeback follows his digital single 'Simple dance' just three months prior, it marks his first solo album release in seven years and five months since his second mini-album, '23, Male, Single,' in January 2018. He elaborated on this extended break, admitting, "I felt a lack of skill, not satisfaction. I fell into a rut and even experienced depression. I needed time to find myself." He confessed that his reserved nature, even avoiding sports like basketball or soccer for fear of injury, mirrored how he used to withdraw emotionally, pondering, "What if I regret this in 10 years?" This introspection extended to his musical pursuits.

Encouragement from close friends, songwriter Jung Jae-hyung and singer Lee Juck, played a pivotal role in bringing him back. During a trip to Tokyo, they reassured him, "Stop overthinking. You're not seeing yourself clearly. You're doing so well right now."

Experiencing the joy of singing and dancing again during his 'Simple dance' promotions, Jun. K realized how much he enjoyed performing and also gained a deeper appreciation for his colleagues. This renewed passion led him to decide on a swift return with 'I'm into' within three months.

This period of long absence and hardship proved to be a necessary phase for his inner growth, aligning with JYP Entertainment's philosophy of trusting and supporting artists. He still refers to JYP's founder, Park Jin-young, as 'JYP hyung' and shared, "I often express my desires to him, asking him why he thinks a certain way. But he never puts on airs and listens to me. If his responses were authoritarian, our conversations wouldn't continue. He always meets me at my level, allowing me to reconsider his opinions." Jun. K expressed admiration for Park Jin-young's recent appointment as co-chair of the Presidential Committee on Cultural Exchange, calling it a surprising yet courageous move that mirrors his approach to music creation.

He further commented on Park Jin-young's dedication to his craft: "He never settles for mediocrity, even when writing a single line of lyrics. He stresses that one should never insert just any words to fill a syllable." This meticulous approach is why Jun. K remains with JYP. Despite the company's growth and evolving work methods since his debut, JYP remains his sole sanctuary. "There's still so much to learn at JYP, thanks to JYP hyung. If I ever felt he was wrong or disliked him, I would leave, but even then, I'd reconsider. I believe there's always a reason. I've never felt deception from him. For me, JYP is a playground where I can be more playful, dance, sing, and run freely."

Jun. K, whose real name is Kim Min-jun, debuted with 2PM in 2008 and embarked on his solo career in 2017. His music is known for its honest introspection and relatable lyrics, resonating deeply with fans. The album 'I'm into' is seen as a testament to his musical evolution and self-discovery.