JunSung: “I want to stand against that loss of soul.”

The artist explains his interest in evoking nostalgia and going against the grain.

Photo courtesy of JunSung

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “JunSung is ___” or “JunSung’s music is ___”?
“JunSung is a vintage cinema.” In an era dominated by instant [digital] streaming, I see my music as that old-school theater that refuses to close its doors. It’s a space where I give my all to screen a “film” for the audience, preserving that classic, historical soul that’s becoming rare these days.

Who or what first inspired you to pursue a music career?
It was the day CNBLUE debuted on Music Bank when I was in fourth grade. Watching Jung Yong Hwa play guitar and sing, I had this instant “I want to do that” moment. Later, seeing Charlie Puth’s creative process gave me that same spark again. That’s when I knew music was my calling.

Is your album Not GEN - Z more about rejecting what is “so Gen Z” or redefining what is “so Gen Z”? 
I’m rejecting it. I was born into Gen Z, but I believe we shouldn't just follow this generation’s lead. The intensifying individualism and raw capitalism are killing the romance that existed in the ‘90s and 2000s. I want to stand against that loss of soul.

Not GEN - Z starts out very lively and high-energy, and it gets slower in the second half. Did you always intend to format the track list in that way?
It wasn't calculated at first, but the songs naturally found their places. I love the contrast. Listeners might start the album thinking, “Oh, he’s a dance artist,” but by the end, I want them to realize, “Wait, he’s a true musician.”

Was the album always going to be called Not GEN - Z, or did you have other titles in mind?
Great question! Believe it or not, the original title was Fantasy & Realizm. To me, fantasy is reality, and reality is fantasy. It was about my version of a utopia or paradise.

How did you choose which pre-released singles to include on Not GEN - Z?
“Twenty Five” is for those just starting out in society, and “Mom’s Mother” is for women who have lost their mothers, a [gesture of] comfort that is deeply lacking in this age. Both songs capture the joys and sorrows of everyday people. They were essential pieces of this full-length project.

Can you talk more about some of the songs on Not GEN - Z?
I wrote my manifesto, “I Don't Care About,” last July, when the pressure of [making] money after military service was weighing me down. I wasn't sure if it should be the lead single, but once I heard the mix and master[ing] by my partner/producer iBurn, I knew. Shout out to [the company] MUSICTWOS! 

I also highly recommend track six, “I Love You.” It features Ham Chun-ho, one of Korea’s legendary guitarists. The intro harmonies are a nod to 90s contemporary ballads, reminiscent of Boyz II Men. 

What has the feedback from Gen Z listeners been like to Not GEN - Z?!
Interestingly, my main listeners are actually women in their 30s and 40s. While younger listeners might react to the upbeat rhythms, it’s the older generation that truly connects with and finds truth in the lyrics.

What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
I don't “dream” in the traditional sense; I leave it to God. I just paint the inspiration I’m given. Whether I’m a star in a small theater or a global superstar, I just want people [to] truly love my music. I’ll just keep releasing albums and staying the course. 

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?
I want to leave you with three words: “Vision,” “Victory,” and “Value.” You will dream, fight the world, and win. But to do that, you must know what is “real.” My music holds these truths. Let’s not just follow this generation. Let’s live romantically! Also, please show love to my crew, MUSICTWOS, and iBurn! Love and thank you!

Check out Not GEN - Z here!

View the Substack version of this piece here!

Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.