Idols are well-rounded. To them, differentiating between dance, singing and acting is meaningless. The question 'why is he not acting, even though he's an idol?' nowadays  may be more practical. Musicals have become a stage where they are able to show off their talents and gifts without any filtering, and feel the applause and cheers of the audience. Maybe that is why there are more idols growing their careers as a musical actor, beyond just expanding their fields. It is this attitude of theirs that the cynical viewpoint of idols simply being 'ticket sellers' is becoming powerless.

(omitted introduction about Jo Kwon) Playing the role of Anatoly, 'Chess' is CNU's musical debut. He's been on the lookout for an opportunity to enter the musical scene, and is carefully taking his first step. CNU is in charge of vocals and rap in B1A4. Unlike the other members who have been active in their individual activities through dramas and variety shows, he has been quiet. Upon gaining mechnical time and a peace of mind, he is finally showing his determination.

'Chess' is about ambitions, love and political conflict that breaks out at the world chess championships between American champion Freddie Trumper and Russian champion Anatoly Karpov. Both Jo Kwon and CNU are still baby-faced. The image of how they will look playing the role of Anatoly does not come easily. But we see the mature musical actor Jo Kwon cheering on his junior CNU, and a tacitum and sincere rookie musical actor CNU.

The lead role of Anatoly is being taken on by a full idol cast. Being of similar age ranges, there is bound to be a war of nerves.

CNU: Not at all. I do not think it's time to be competitive.

Jo Kwon: There is no time to be using up our emotions being that. There is only 1 month to practice, and the amount of things to do is as high as a mountain. All 4 of us are feeling the burden and are nervous. In a week, we practice about 5~6 hours a day. Recently my mind is only filled with 'Chess'.

Even though it's the same character, the character's personality is different depending on who is the actor. What have you been doing to express Anatoly in your own way?

Jo Kwon: We react to how the general public sees us. All 4 of us look so different, and I think even if we just stood on stage without saying anything our images would be totally different. Even without much work, our chemistry with the other actors and the overall feeling will definitely be different. Of course individually, the Anatoly character will also be different.

What character is Anatoly?

Jo Kwon: He is Russian, and the protagonist of a star-crossed love. He is nothing like me. I have never been to Russia, I'm not that old and I'm unmarried. I have no experience in being married then cheating on my wife (laugh). To us, it hits home better when we regard it as a virtual reality. We think a lot about how to solve this gap between ourselves and the character. Honestly, our voices and looks are very boyish. But instead of lowering our voice by a tone against our will to create an imposing feeling, we try to maintain our voices naturally.

CNU, this is your first musical.

CNU: Since this is the premiere of this musical (in Korea) and my first musical I am feeling very burdened. That is why I look very closely at the other actors in the other roles, as well as Jo Kwon. Honestly, just looking at the seniors give me inspiration. I also take into account how the actors express themselves by watching videos of 'Chess' in Broadway.

From the name of the production and flow of the content, chess plays a very important role. When we were taking pictures, CNU mentioned that he is totally unfamiliar with playing chess.

CNU: It would have been good if I could learn it beforehand... (laugh).

Jo Kwon: We will get used to it as we practice. Just like a jigsaw puzzle, everything has a start and an end. It is the same for concerts and performances (laugh). I haven't done many musicals, but when I did 'Priscilla' and my debut musical 'Jesus Christ Superstar' I ran into difficulties too. There are many scenes that we play chess in the musical, so it's possible that we become great chess players as we practice and get used to it. It will take its place so long we do it naturally. But of course it needs to take its place before the first show, and not at the last show. You will go, "Ah, I'm just getting the grasp of it now, but it's ending already?"

Is the casting schedule out? Who is doing the first show?

CNU: It's Ken.

Jo Kwon: He will be feeling really burdened. It's the premiere of a masterpiece, and on a stage as huge as the Sejong Cultural Centre. And the key important role of Anatoly is being taken on by 4 idols. Musical fans will probably be looking on at us with half anticipation and half worry. I hope that all 4 of us can receive favourable comments, instead of unfavourable ones.

The centre of gravity will probably be on Key and Jo Kwon, who have more experiences with musicals.

CNU: That's right. Ken and I depend (on each other) very much. We don't express it but in my heart I tend to lean on him.

Jo Kwon: Me too, as I think 'I'm not the only singer here!' (laugh).

Doesn't the musical stage feel strange since it's a different field from the stages that you have stood on as a singer?

CNU: When we practice, there are about 30 people in the chorus and the musical director. It is definitely a different vibe from the practice room that we dance and sing in. I'm now used to that, but perhaps due to the pressure I keep wanting to go to the washroom. I clearly went before practice started but I keep wanting to go again... (laugh). Unconsciously the psychological pressure is huge. Oh yes, we had a group dinner a couple of days ago. 

Jo Kwon: CNU stayed till the end.

CNU: I spoke to the seniors over alcohol, and contrary to everyone's image they all treated me very comfortably. I grew a lot closer to Shin Sungwoo who is taking on the role of my rival Freddie - he has the same surname as me and is of the same generation in the clan.

Jo Kwon: That's why it went on for so long huh? (laugh)

Idols have so many overseas schedules that it's tough to even match practice schedules. There has been talk of conflict with the other actors due to that.

Jo Kwon: That is all dependent on oneself. Whether you have many or little schedules, even if your drama and album promotions overlap with each other it depends on how you handle it. If you cannot turn up for practice, you should have the basic courtesy to practice to your best efforts alone. That way the seniors and other actors will look upon you favourably. All 4 of us are very clear about that. Honestly, to have overlapping schedules is so tiring I feel it to my bones. When I did 'Jesus Christ Superstar', it overlapped with my drama filming, and I thought to myself that this is not something that humans should be doing. Back then I think I was too greedy by wanting to have the best of both worlds. As expected, greed destroys a person (laugh). I think it's more sensible to be doing just one thing at a time.

CNU: Right now I feel like I'm biting off more than I can chew. Because of the production of songs for our next album... It's worrying.

Jo Kwon: This is also dependent on oneself. Anyway back then I did well in both my musical and drama so I believe you can do it too.

Have you watched any of Jo Kwon's musicals personally before?

CNU: I did not manage to watch it personally but I did look out for what musicals he did.

(omitted question for Jo Kwon)

There must have been many musical offers, but what is the reason you chose 'Chess' as your debut piece?

CNU: I've always wanted to do musicals. Previously there have been several opportunities but due to various conditions I did not manage to do them. Right now we are taking a break from album promotions, and I feel mentally calm. Should I say that I have the peaceful mind that will allow me to focus completely on the musical..? Even though we have not done the first show yet, I feel that it was good for me to have taken on this challenge. In the time I have been practicing for the musical, I've managed to write one song. I'm receiving lots of inspirations (from the musical).

After being in a group as an idol, there seems to be thirst for a personal activities.

(omitted Jo Kwon's answer)

CNU: Ever since I was young, I've always prepared to enter the course of applied music as a student. And by a stroke of luck I managed to become a trainee and eventually debut. While doing the musical, I've started to think about the vocalizations and sounds that that I'd set aside. It feels like I'm back to my roots.

(omitted question for Jo Kwon)

Despite a packed schedule, idols take out time to do musicals. What's the reason to do it to the point of overworking?

CNU: It's not that only idols specially feel the charm of musicals, but musical is a genre that is very charming in itself. There are many people who are captivated by musicals, and I think idols are just one part of those people.

Jo Kwon: I think the title of 'idol' is  very restrictive in our country. It is true that even if we do the same thing (as others), being an idol has its merits. That is also why people have a prejudice towards us. Because of this, whenever idols do musicals we have to think very hard about it. It's only right to do musicals only when we are fully prepared and have a earnest passion for me. Rather than having indsets like 'since the company is asking me to do, I should do it,' and 'other idols are doing it, shall I do it too?', it's important to think that since we are already doing it, we should work hard at it. This difference in mindset changes the results. The general public judges us cool-headedly.

When you are on stage, can you differentiate fans and general public by the sounds of their applause and cheers?

Jo Kwon: During curtain call, it's very obvious. Fans have this very special atmosphere. In the few seconds that we walk to the front, it's very obvious who is my fan and who is not. During the meeting with the staff for this musical, this topic came up. Since all 4 of us are idols, we should put up notices on our official fancafe in advance (laugh). We are concerned about whether the fans who come watch us will react hugely to the love line and kiss scene. In 'Chess', the kiss scene is a really important one, but if the fans start screaming then we're in trouble. I think all 4 of us need to write a letter to our fans before our first stage. "Please look at it interestingly, please look at it only as acting."

Is it a deep kiss?

Jo Kwon: Come and see it for yourself.

CNU: In order to be immersed in my emotions, even if it's not a deep kiss I will do a deep one (laugh).

This production is probably a challenge even to the agency  who decided on an all-idol cast for the lead role.

Jo Kwon: I've watched the version done by popera singer Josh Groban, and he also has a boyish feel to him. I felt hopeful watching that. That version of 'Chess' ended up having 90% of the Josh Groban feel. It was a case where the artiste absorbed himself into the production and created a synergy. We may be young but as long as we express ourselves well I think the audience will be pulled in too.

As a musical actor, what sort of picture are you drawing?

CNU: Firstly, I feel the need to do well in my first production. The meaning of my name is 'a friend you can believe in' [T/N: 信(신) is the hanja for belief and 友(우) is the hanja for friend.] I want to be like what my name represents. An actor that the audience can believe in and watch on. I would be committing a huge discourtesy if the audience is all anxious and sleepy upon seeing me on stage, right?

(omitted Jo Kwon's answer)

Source: @hheajin8

Translation Credits: skipfire.tistory.com

Please take out with full credits to source and translator.

A letter from Jeju Island

BANAs~ Hello hello hello hello hello~~ (I'm so glad to be here that unknowingly I said hello 5 timesㅠㅠ)

BANA~ I'm so glad to be here. How has everyone been doing?

The weather's really nice recently right? I hope everyone enjoys some carefreeness by going on a stroll after work or school~

Right! I heard the news all the way at Jeju Island. I heard that our members are dreaming of being power bloggers~! 

After coming to post on the cafe, it seems like our members are doing well and so are our BANAs...

(Everyone is doing just fine without me huh --+ ㅜㅜㅜㅜㅜㅜㅜ)

Now that I'm back in Seoul, I wanted to see our BANAs so I'm here~

It's my first time being apart from the members for such extended periods so it's strange and lonely...

I am enjoying the carefreeness of being aloen~

You guys know that I really dislike being alone right?

I have never even slept alone in a hotel) room overseas too ㅜㅜ

I hear from the company staff that my roommate Duck is living very very ve~ry healthily and well ㅋㅋ

But despite using the bedroom himself it's still a mess~~ ㅋㅋ Sandeul-ah I'm sorry~~~

Anyway to tell you guys a little about my life in Jeju Island

On other thoughts! I'll introduce it to you using pictures~

I am definitely not following in the footsteps of the other members~^^ ㅋㅋㅋ

Like what you see, I'm eating lots of delicious food in Jeju Island and getting lots of strength to work hard filming~

ㅋㅋㅋ No matter where you go, the food on Jeju Island is delicious. I feel like my cheek fats are growing. (They might become like Sandeul's cheeks ㅜㅜ)

Looking at the pictures from today's drama press conference, it does look like I've put on weight~

Even though B1A4 is not promoting our music album as 5, but we are all working hard on preparing, and living healthily so please do not worry about us and take care of yourself in this period of season change, and work hard at your individual roles~

Us B1A4 is always looking and feeling and receiving strength from the soundless cheers that you send us, so even if we don't see each other for an extended period of time let's always cheer on each other with our hearts and become each other's strength!! Got it??~

We are now of that sort of relationship! The kind that understands each other even without words... How many years has it been for us~~ Right?

I'll be back with an even better appearance so please keep smiling and talking here~

Thank you always, and us B1A4 appreciates you BANAs very very*10000000 much~~

Bye~

Source: http://cafe.daum.net/-b1a4/kKIq/100

Translation Credits: skipfire.tistory.com

Please take out with full credits to source and translator.

Title: A Happy Day

BANAs you guys must be asleep now right??
I can't fall asleep so I'm listening to a song that my father let me listen to when I was young - How Deep is Your Love by Bee Gees. I listened to this song for the first time when I was in elementary school, but it's nice even when I hear it now. Everyone go listen to it tooㅎㅎ It's been such a long time since I've written here so I'm not sure what to write. Firstly I'm sorry I haven't done so oftenㅜㅜ I should visit more regularly.. Heuk.. Yesterday we had a fan sign for Hats On. It was nice to meet our BANAs after such a long time. I know there are also BANAs who couldn't come, but I hear that you all are cheering us on from far away so please don't be too disappointed. There's still our Seoul concert. The members and company staff are all working hard to prepare for it so please look forward. Going on the ROAD TRIP tour this time round made me realize how precious our BANAs and the people around me are. There are times that we are so busy that I forget to be thankful for the people closest to me, for the people who help us with our work.Whenever that happens, no matter how busy your daily life is, please slow down just once and look at your surrounding. You will see the people looking over you, and thinking about you - family, friends, colleagues, mentors... I try not to forget to always be thankful to these people, but I think it's not easy. But if you try, you will get used to it so everyone should look around yourselves and express your feelings honestly.They say sincerity will eventually get acrossㅎㅎ In future I will express myself better and thank my family, our members and the company staff more often. And I want to say thank you to the BANAs who are always cheering for us right by our side. We will work even harder in future to make better music and give just that little bit more strength to whatever our BANAs are doing, through our performances. So BANAs, whenever you're tired and worn out, listen to our songs and get a little strength!! Don't forget that B1A4 is always cheering you on^^

Today is Sunday so everyone please have an enjoyable weekend~~ Rest well and prepare for Monday... Heuheuheu...
Monday... Monday... Mo..nd..ay.....ㅋㅋㅋ
See you all at the Seoul concert!!
Bye~~!!!

-Baro-

Source: http://cafe.daum.net/-b1a4/kKIq/86

Translation Credits: skipfire.tistory.com

Please remove all translations with full credits to source and translator

What do you think is the reason why B1A4's songs receive so much love?
Jinyoung: I think it's because the songs contain stories that anyone may come across in their daily lives so people like it. It's the stories of people our generation.
Sandeul: I agree with Jinyoung hyung. Apart from our album, we also work hard to show a variety of concepts and stage performances. I think the fans like that side of us, so we are really thankful.

We're curious where you get your musical influences.
Jinyoung: I get a lot of inspiration from my daily life. I am constantly making melodies, and I'm not the type to adhere to a specific time for making music. I like watching movies, and there are times that I get inspiration while watching. I also get ideas from listening to the stories of people around me.
CNU: I am similar to Jinyoung. I immediately record down something when I get the inspiration for it in my daily life. And to maximize the emotions, I pay more attention to the things and people around me.
Baro: I receive a lot of help from the members, and listen to opinions a lot. I do not set aside time specially to write lyrics. Be it when I'm listening to music alone at home, lying comfortably in the hotel room on tour, or when watching a movie. Whenever inspiration hits me, I note them all down in a notebook.

When making music, are there any disputes amongst the members?
Sandeul: There haven't been much disputes we've had while making music.
Gongchan: It's been 4 years since our debut so I think we've come up with some know-hows. To prevent any disputes from arising, we would discuss the song way ahead of production. We discuss a lot about how to improve the song. Because we produce while sharing opinions, even if there are disputes it eventually leads to a better direction for the song.

Are you preparing for your next album?
Jinyoung: We are constantly working on our album. Due to our busy schedules we may not be able to work on them everyday, but whenever we have time we wrote lyrics and compose songs. Please hold on for a while more and wait for B1A4's next album.
CNU: The exact time period for the sale of our next album has not been decided upon, but we are always wondering about and preparing what we should show the fans next.
Baro: I feel that whatever B1A4 has shown everyone thus far is only a part of us. There are many genres and concepts that we wish to try in future. We will repay everyone with good music, as much as everyone believes in and waits for us!

We are curious about your individual activities in the near future.
Jinyoung: Right now I need to focus on musical activities, but if there is a chance I want to challenge acting once more. I think the fans like a side of me that is different from the one they see on stage.
CNU: I think the same as Jinyoung. There is a feeling of exhilaration, one that is different from the feelings of being on stage. I want to meet my fans as both a musician and an actor.
Sandeul: I want to do more musical. I really enjoyed the previous musical I did, and was really happy.
Baro: I want to do more acting. I have not been able to participate in many dramas, but I felt the charm of acting. I want to act in my own color.
Gongchan: I participated actively in variety programs during our previous promotions, and the fans liked it a lot. I want to expand the things I do, not only music but also variety and acting.

This is your first world tour.
Sandeul: We're giving it our all in ROAD TRIP shows, and with a happy mindset because we get to meet our fans from other countries.The culture may differ, but I felt the same passion for music.
Baro: I feel that we learn a lot and become a lot mature from meeting the fans from all over the fans. I want to make better music and put on better performance through the memories shared and experiences made!
Gongchan: We have had a concert annually since 2012, but the meaning behind having to be able to do a world tour feels very different.

How does it feel to see so many fans enjoying your concert from on stage?
Baro: There are many times it gets overwhelming. And I feel in those moments that I have to do better. In order to treasure these memories for a long time, I have been taking pictures of the fans from the different countries all throughout the tour!
Sandeul: The feeling of exhilaration from being on stage is something that cannot be expressed in words. Because I'm usually so active on stage there are times that I get breathless, but seeing the fans enjoy the show excitedly I don't feel tired and instead get more energy!

It's your fourth concert since debut, do you have any secret know-hows you're learned?
CNU: We have been travelling with a band for this concert too. We've fallen into the charms of a live performance that happens as we match to the band. Our songs are edited for the band during the concert and they have a very different sound from the original songs.
Gongchan: I think I have learnt how to match to our fans! Firstly eye contact is important. Greeting every fan through my eyes and hands makes the atmosphere much hotter.

Are there any special episodes from your long world tour?
Jinyoung: The hotel room in Taiwan had a bathroom that was so huge all five of us could go in. And so we sang one of our songs impromptu. We made music by using things we found in the bathroom. It was amazing to realize that we could make music that way too.
CNU: In the first row at one of our Australia shows sat a guy with a robust physique. He had a sprout hairband on, sang along to all our songs and cheered us on, leaving a very deep impression on me. I was very touched at how everyone enjoyed our music together.

Is there anything you're preparing for the main Seoul concert in November?
CNU: I cannot reveal what we're preparing now but there is something special for the Korean fans so please look forward to it (laugh). We will work hard at preparing so please hold on for a while and wait for us!

We're curious about the reasons why you guys have been regularly been participating in good deeds, other than having donation booths.
Jinyoung: Actually, I'm not too sure if 'good deed' is a word that we can use. More than a 'good deed', we're just doing things we can out of kindness so receiving this kind of question is a little embarrassing. We're still lacking in many ways but we do feel that it's a responsibility for us to give back to the community.
CNU: We are idols that get a lot of support from teens in their 10s, so we do feel that every action of ours influences them greatly. Every small action we do gets viewed upon as a great issue so we are also very cautious. We are doing this so that those who do not receive as much spotlight from the community also gets viewed upon warmly too.

How do you feel about the fans' donation activities?
CNU: Our fans are actually doing a lot of donating without showing it off outwardly. They send a lot of donation certificates in our name to the office. I am really proud that such people are my fans, and I definitely feel a lot more responsible.
Sandeul: I am very happy and thankful! Should I say it's the feeling of the fans becoming one with what we meant to do..?
Gongchan: I feel the same as Sandeul hyung. It's really cool and I feel really proud of the fans actively participating in doing good. BANAs! I sincerely thank you and I love you. (laugh)


Jinyoung: To the Korean fans who are now waiting for us! I really miss all of you. We are working really hard to prepare for the concert so please just wait a little while more.
CNU: With Korea being the last stop of our ROAD TRIP, we are even more excited. I really miss our BANAs. And to the fans who are taking the national exams, you've been working very hard. Please work hard in the remaining time you have, and B1A4 is cheering you on and hoping you have a good outcome. Fighting!
Gongchan: Has everyone watched the behind the scenes video from ROAD TRIP made for you BANAs? Even if you miss us, please watch those videos and hold on for a while more. See you soon.
Sandeul: Our concert is 2 days after the national exams. They say the day of the examinations is going to be extremely cold. BANAs who are taking the exams, please dress warmly. Your health is most important so please spend some effort taking care of yourself. Sit for the exams confidently, and come to our concert to release all the pent up stress and anxiety.

Source: Navercast

Translation Credits: skipfire.tistory.com

Please remove all translations with full credits to source and translator.

Q. How do you feel about coming to Taiwan again? Did anything change?
Jinyoung: This is our first time in a year to Taiwan, so I'm quite happy. The fans have waited for a long time so we're very excited too. So when we found out when we were coming to Taiwan we were really happy. The moment we got off the plane there were so many people welcoming so so I felt really good! And the atmosphere at yesterday's concert was really high so we're still reeling from happiness from that. I hope we can come to Taiwan often to meet everyone (laugh).

Q. Were there any interesting things that happened at the concert yesterday?
(Upon hearing this question, the members smiled even wider.)
CNU: There are so many... (with a very serious face, as if he was back in the concert yesterday)
Jinyoung: Oh~ When we were singing the last song of the night, the fans held up banners that said “let's be together forever”. At first I didn't realize what the fans were holding up because it was a very upbeat song, and only belatedly realized what was on the banner. It left a lasting memory, especially to see the Taiwan fans holding up banners printed in Korean. I was quite amazed, and it was very meaningful.

Q. You sang a few songs from your new album yesterday too. Can you talk about your latest album?
Jinyoung: SOLO DAY is made solely from songs that were created by the members so it really shows off the individual musical color of the B1A4 members. The songs are of different genres, and is nice to listen to in summer. I hope everyone listens to our music!

Q. The members show up as different characters in the music video for SOLO DAY. At the end, a UFO appears as well. When you were filming the music video, were there any memorable episodes or memories?
Baro: Did we have any? (looks at Gongchan)
Gongchan: There were lots! For the music video, I had the image of a flower vagabond. In one of the scenes filmed at the beach, the local people looked at me and walked away after handing me $2. (the members burst out laughing~)
CNU: As for a lasting memory~ Because the music video was filmed in America, the weather was great. Afternoons were very toasty and the filming went well. But it becomes really cold at night. As we had lots of filming at the beach, the sea breeze kept blowing. It was like experiencing both summer and winter in the span of a day. So it was very memorable.

Q. An alien appears at the last part of the music video. Do you guys believe that aliens exist?
Baro: I believe they exist. In this unbelievably wide universe, Earth already has so many people living on it. Maybe there is another planet in this universe that has existence similar to those on Earth. I personally believe that aliens exist, but I don't believe there are ghosts.
CNU: I think the same way as Baro. Other than humans on Earth, I think there are other forms of life on other planets. And like Baro, I don't believe that there are ghosts.
Sandeul: Like Baro, I definitely believe in the existence of aliens. But~ I also believe in ghosts.
Jinyoung: So I guess you'll be able to see ghosts. People who say they believe in ghosts tend to be able to see them after they say so! (Jinyoung is teasing Sandeul on purpose)
Sandeul: I believe that aliens existence. This universe has Earth. I have heard the rumour that in another dimension, there is a planet that is like Earth.
Gongchan: That's a fact! (laugh)
Sandeul: Really? So you've seen it before?
Gongchan: I've seen photos and reports.
Sandeul: I only believed it after seeing it in the news. In the report, it says that on another planet there is an exact replica of me. If we are on Earth, then somewhere else there is also another Earth...
Jinyoung: Actually I believe in that too! After all it's such a wide universe, the concept that only Earth exists is too confined.

Q. Since all of you believe in aliens, have you ever suspected one of the members being an alien?
(Upon hearing the questions, all of them turn to look at Gongchan...)
CNU: Yes yes (laugh), our maknae Gongchan is one! But rather than him being an alien, it is more accurate to say that he has some kind of special power. I ever suspected that he has some kind of superpower. And his eyesight is really good.
Gongchan: The hyungs all feel that I'm like an alien, but I'm not too sure about that myself. I'm just someone who goes with my gut feel, but~ is that odd too?

Q. A lot of B1A4's music has been released in Taiwan as well. Can you recommend to the Taiwan BANAs different songs that fit different occasions?
Baro: On rainy days, I want to recommend 잘돼가. It is suitable to listen on rainy days, and when you're watching the sunset. When you're feeling a little depressed, this song can help to soothe your feelings out.
CNU: I want to recommend a song that is good for when you're a little nervous, or surprised. And that is 이게무슨일이야, haha. This song is very appropriate when you listen when you're frightened or feeling ridiculous at something. (The members then all make a surprised expression, while saying 이게무슨일이야! They are so in tune with each other, it's so cute.)
Jinyoung: I want to recommend a song to listen to when you're lonely - Lonely. Just as the song title suggests, listening to the song might make you feel more lonely but it also means that we are sharing that feeling of loneliness by singing to that same song.
Sandeul: It'll be nice to listen to Beautiful Target on someone's birthday. This song is very suitable for the mood of a birthday party, celebrating with your friends over a cake. The moment you play Beautiful Target, your mood will improve and the atmosphere of the birthday party will improe.
Gongchan: Our fans are mostly working or studying, so they need to spend long periods of time concentrating on something. When they get tired, it will be the time to listen to 물한잔, and release all that stress.

Q. It's been more than 3 years since your debut. What is the most touching and unforgettable thing, or something you find amazing up until now?
Jinyoung: There are so many. For me it should be when I saw the images on the LED background at our debut stage. It was my dream to be a singer ever since I was young, and it was so surreal to have been able to stand on stage, sing and appear on television. It was really memorable for me.
Baro: When we got our first ever first place with 이게무슨일이야, I cried alongside the fans. That was the most unforgettable moment for me. And when we released our full length studio album WHO AM I, all of the songs in the album entered the music charts. We were all so amazed at that moment. We would have been really happy even if only our title song entered the charts, but it was so unexpected that all the songs entered it. We are really thankful to the fans and those who listened to our songs.

Q. B1A4 has had very good rapport with your fans. Other than your representative animals, have you ever thought of what animals are representative of BANAs?
Baro: I feel like BANAs are like peacocks. When peacocks spread their feathers, they are all in different colors. Our BANAs have a lot of different charms - the beautiful, the cute... They are pretty even when they cry. They're also quite interesting, active and have their own colors they shine in. So BANAs are like peacocks. (CNU nods his head in agreement.)
Jinyoung: I feel they are like frogs. I'm not sure why too, but maybe it's because of its color. Whenever I think about BANAs, grass green comes to my mind naturally. So I unconsciously think about frogs since they are cute and active.
Sandeul: They are like ducklings. Ducklings follow their mother around in a line behind her. Seeing BANAs makes me want to protect their feelings, so they remind me of ducklings. (This time Gongchan laughs and nods his head.)

Q. In your previous TRENDY interview, B1A4 shared your respective roles in the dormitory. 3 years down the road, have those roles changed?
Jinyoung: Even though everyone has a responsibility they are in charge of, we tend to decide everything now with rock paper scissors. That way it is the most fair. (laugh)

Q. We are more than halfway through 2014. What are some of the things B1A4 wish to fulfill before the year ends?
Jinyoung: Be it with the members, or by myself, I hope we can go on a holiday before the year ends. To be able to accumulate experiences, and make some special memories.
Baro: I also want to be able to go on a holiday. Either I go alone, or we make time together to go – I just wish for an enjoyable holiday.
CNU: I'm almost the same with them. Maybe it's because we always say “let's go, let's go on a holiday together”, so our thoughts are almost similar. Be it a domestic holiday, or even a holiday in Taiwan. Touring different countries is our dream.
Sandeul: The things we want to accomplish are all the same, we really want to go on a holiday. I think even Gongchan will think so too, right? (tapping Gongchan, who sits next to him)
Gongchan: Of course, going on a holiday will be nice~ But there's only a few months left and we also have our world tour. I actually hope to have more opportunities to meet the fans, or have different shows.
Sandeul: We will try to fulfill this dream! Our own road trip!

Source: cnupark.com

Translation Credits: skipfire.tistory.com

Please remove all translations with full credits to source and translator.

Q. You're about to go on your first ever overseas tour '2014 B1A4 ROAD TRIP' ever since debut.

▲ (Gongchan) We've been so busy with our SOLO DAY promotions and the overseas tour that we are going out of our minds. But weirdly, even though our bodies are busy we don't feel tired. From long ago, the overseas fans have been telling us through SNS that they want to see us. I'm looking forward to finally being able to personally meet the fans from different places. (Sandeul) The fact that there are people looking forward to our overseas tour is amazing to us. We're thankful that they are aware of us, listen to our songs and express their wish to see us. I want to fly there immediately. (Jinyoung) In August we will be starting with Taiwan and Shanghai, then Manila in September. We will enjoy our time with the fans and return.

Q. You are famous for being modest, which hasn't changed since your debut. Is it B1A4's principle, or is it the result of training from the company?

▲(Sandeul) I think it's both. The company never gave us very severe training but they always tell us not to lose our beginner's mindset, and are very considerate to us. But the biggest reason is because all five of us match well without anyone being out of step. (Jinyoung) Even when I look at us coolly and objective, none of the members are difficult to get along with, and is kind in our nature. To the point that I dare to swear upon it. (Baro) Actually before meeting the members, I was straightforward and had no consideration for others. But living with the members taught me a lot. Everyone is really kind. And I'm sure the fans are all aware of that.

Q. Instead of a manly image, B1A4 has more of a boyish image. Do you have any plans to try a transformation?

▲ (Gongchan) I haven't thought about a shocking transformation. We want to establish our own image the way we are doing now. When time passes, there are going to be many concepts we want to try but cannot. So we have to do them when we still can! (Baro) I don't think there's any urgency about that now. Instead of forcing a transformation, I think it will be better to change naturally as time passes.

▲ (Baro) Even though it's the members who I see 24 hours a day, there may be troubles that arise considering the unfamiliar environment. I left telling myself if any friction arises we need to settle them well, but there was nothing much to compromise or settle – we matched that well. It was amazing. (Jinyoung) I used to go on holidays often ever since I was young, but it was a trip that made me realize that there are still many nice places in Korea that I don't know about. Even though it was for a show, we filmed it thinking of it more as a holiday than a show so I think viewers will be very comfortable watching it. (Sandeul) There are many things that I did for the first time on the show. Fishing and camping. If I get the chance, I want to travel to many more places.

Q. We are aware you have been going back and forth while strengthening your position in Japan. How is hallyu in Japan nowadays? How is B1A4 doing there?

▲ (Sandeul) Actually we haven't been able to promote for long periods of time in Japan. But we're definitely a lot more love than what we expected. There is BANA JAPAN in Japan, and they are very similar to the Korean fans. Because that is why we are very comfortable there, and there really isn't a feeling of them being like non-domestic fans. (CNU) I think there is a steady interest in hallyu in Japan. Whenever we release a new song (in Japan), they immediately feedback to us about it. We're very touched that they're cheering us on even from faraway.

Q. You have no dating scandals. Are you guys really not in relationships? How do you feel about going public with your relationship?

▲ (CNU) I feel that the fans in general will not be happy about even with us just discussing whether we like or do not like to go public with our relationship, whether we receive such a question. But even if I had to choose, I would choose not to go public. Now the fans are more important to me, and I don't want to do things that the fans do not like. (Gongchan) I don't even have a female celebrity I am close to. It's to that extent that we have no chance (to date), so for the time being there won't be any issue of our fans having their hearts broken. And if I were to have a girlfriend, I would not want to go public about it.

Q. (Jinyoung) You are involved in a lot of composing and lyric writing. How do you use the profit you make from your copyrights?

▲ My parents are managing my finances for me. I'm still young, and I know nothing about managing my money so I left it all up to my parents. I don't intend to manage my own money until I become more of an adult with my thoughts. It's not because of the money that I'm doing music, so I don't want to lose that kind of mindset. (Even so, what is the one thing you want to do if you get a lump sum of money?) Music equipment. They are more expensive than you expect. If I get a huge sum of money now I would want to buy music equipment, without any hesitation.

Q. (Jinyoung) The blonde hair you had in the music video fit you really well. Why did you change it?

▲ Actually I'm not very comfortable with a style that stood out. The blonde hair was nice but it was a burden. It's not that I disliked it or wasn't happy with it, but I wanted to go for brown hair. That's my hair color now, doesn't it fit me well? I am really satisfied with it. I'm suddenly curious as to what the fans think.

Q. (Jinyoung) It's nice to see the leader having a gentle charisma.

▲ From when I was young, I loved running for class president, or being the leader in front of my friends. I don't want to influence the members with my strength or age. Instead of actions, I want to be a leader who can influence my followers' heart. Even though I am not really the type to get angry, I still say all I need to say, and the members do follow me well. The driving force behind my leadership are the members who always trust and follow me.

Q. (Jinyoung) Your sensitivity is very outstanding.

▲ Do you call this sensitivity? Compared to others, I have a lot more tears. And I cry at really random moments. Instead of crying at sad movies, I cry more when I watch romance movies. I think my concept of sadness is quite different from others. And because my occupation involves me making music and I spend most of my time creating music, I try not to lose that sensitivity. I think a lot, and I try to feel a variety of emotions.

Q. (CNU) You moved from lyric writing to composing as well. Which one fits you more?

▲ They are the same, they both fit me well. So my copyright fees should be split half half as well right? When I'm writing lyrics, I think the influence of my personality is very strong. Even as a guy, I have a very weak and sentimental heart, and that is reflected in my writing. And composing is to attach a melody to the song lyrics, so it is very interesting. When I'm able to hear something that was only in my mind, the feeling is beyond words.

Q. (CNU) Through this album, you had many changes to your style. Have you thought of cutting your hair even shorter?

▲ If the fans want it, then I'll cut it. Even shorter hair is possible. A crew cut is possible too. And my style for this album is one of many, and I wish to try a variety of hair styles in further too. Even though those who liked my long hair are feeling regretful, I trust that they will like me regardless of my hair length. Am I right?

Q. (Sandeul) You're in the 14^th cohort of Myeongji University. How are you spending your campus life?

▲ I've actually been so busy with schedules that I haven't been able to attend classes, neither have I been able to actually make friends. But I'm thankful that whenever I attend classes occasionally, the seniors and classmates take very good care of me. I also want to take good care of my classmates and juniors, but I haven't had such a chance. And I also want to attend an MT if ever possible. I want to spend as much time possible enjoying my campus life.

Q. (Sandeul) Your appearance on KBS Immortal Song is unforgettable. What is your favourite song to sing recently?

▲ Recently I like singing Kim Kwangseok's 'About Thirty'. Even though I'm not thirty yet, his songs are good whenever I listen to them. From the lyrical lyrics to the melody that makes me hum to it, it's the one song that I've fallen into recently.

Q. (Baro) You've been frequently going on traveling programs. Did you like traveling, and where do you want to go to?

▲ I really like going traveling. But come to think of it, there hasn't been once that I left to travel somewhere on a whim. It's a pity that all the times that I could have gone traveling if I had set my mind to it have now gone to waste. That thought became even stronger after I went traveling with the members. Now, if I have any spare time, I just want to travel. And the location is without fail Spain. I want to see all the soccer stadiums I can in Spain. Spain is not even number 1 in my heart – it's number 0.

Q. (Baro) You successfully pulled off the role of a 6 year old intellectually disabled child in SBS drama God's Gift 14 days. Do you have any other role you would want to challenge?

▲ Actually I was suggested for another role in that drama, but the director recommended me for it so I ended up doing it. Even though I was a little impatient, I wanted to challenge myself in that role. I'm not fully satisfied with my acting, but I'm thankful that there are many people who have looked kindly upon it. If I could do it again, I think I can do so much better so there's a lot of regret left now. A role that I'd like to do... More than a role, I want to try acting in a urgent war movie like 태극기 휘날리며 (Taegukgi) or 포화 속으로 (71: Into The Fire).

Q. (Gongchan) I saw the scene where you lifted gagwoman Kim Hyesun on KBS Escape Crisis No. 1. I'm curious where is the source of all the energy from your thin body.

▲ It's my love of rice. I love eating so instead of energy that comes from exercising, I think it's from the love of rice. Often you would like that people with my body shape or face are weak, but I am actually very strong. There are times that Sandeul hyung or Jinyoung hyung fall asleep in the living room because they are too tired. Those times I actually lift them up and carry them back into their rooms. (Who is the lightest?) It's Jinyoung hyung. I exerted strength before I lifted him up, but he was lighter than I expected so I was surprised.

Q. (Gongchan) You do really well without being nervous on variety shows. Are you intending to go on variety shows often?

▲ I was really nervous but I guess it wasn't obvious? For variety shows... So long you invite me on, I am confident I can do it. I am usually very active and I love moving around, so I actually want to go on a show like SBS Law of The Jungle. Experiencing all sorts of things to survive... It makes me want to challenge it just thinking about it. No matter what it is, so long I'm given the opportunity I will work hard to do well. There are still many sides to me that I haven't shown you all so please look forward to it.

Open Your Heart, Open My Heart


Baro→Sandeul: While on holiday with the members this time, I made a promise with Sandeul. To go on holiday together. If it's too hard for all five of us to find a time together, just the two of us will do. I don't know if Sandeul remembers this promise. Anyway Sandeul-ah, I will always be waiting for you to hold yourself to that promise. Let's go on holiday together!

Sandeul→Gongchan: As a Kyungsangdo man, I am not good with expressing myself. But this time while preparing for the concert I got very sensitive. Gongchan then whispered to me in my ears that he's thankful I'm a fellow members so I ended up crying. I don't know why he whispered into my ear then, but he was really sincere. Now that I look back then, it's a little embarrassing but Gongchan-ah, thank you!

Gongchan→Jinyoung: There are times that I feel sorry for hyung, and there are times I think that he's bearing so much responsibility just because he's the leader. I feel even more pained whenever I see you not expressing your difficulties and always being positive. You always tell us to have strength – that may seem meaningless to some people, but whenever I hear you say that I'm always thankful. I always feel you caring for us and treating us preciously.

Jinyoung→CNU: I have lots of things to say to CNU. Even though we're both hyungs, he is always considerate to me because I'm the leader. I'm sorry, and thank you. I feel that way to all the members, but even more so to CNU. I've always had such thoughts, but I've been too shy to express it myself normally but I want to take this chance to say it to you. CNU-ya! I feel like I can rely on someone, because you're around. Thank you.

CNU→Baro: Baro is the person I've been with the longest amongst the members. And there's even more to be thankful and sorry to him about. It's not what I mean, but there are many times that I nag or say things that I don't like to say. They are things that I say thinking of the best for him, but there have probably been many occasions that Baro hated to hear them. But I'm thankful that even so he follows me like my real younger brother, and listens and accepts what I have to say positively. There are many times that I regret saying what I said. But you know it's all for your own good right? Thank you, and sorry.

Source: Naver

Translation Credits: skipfire.tistory.com

Please remove all translations with full credits to source and translator.