In the ever-evolving world of K-pop, Grizzly emerges as a unique voice, challenging the boundaries of music, fashion, and self-expression. With his latest EP, “SO WHAT!”, Grizzly delivers a bold statement that celebrates freedom and authenticity, capturing the essence of his artistic journey. Known for blending unconventional sounds with deeply personal messages, the EP showcases Grizzly’s commitment to pushing the limits of creativity while staying true to his own identity.
- MV Director (Assist. Jun Yong Choi) ICP
- Styling by Ha Neul Gwak @Tough Wang Studio, Sori Park
- Hair by Atsushi Imai
- Make-up by Ju Yeon Park @Overmars
In this exclusive interview, Grizzly dives into the inspirations behind “SO WHAT!”, reflecting on themes of liberation and individuality that have long defined his music. From the explosive energy of “FTS” to the introspective calm of “Heartattack,” Grizzly’s work highlights his ability to balance contrasts effortlessly. He shares how fashion, language, and his formative experiences wandering through Nampo-dong shaped his artistry, creating a dynamic fusion of sound and style that resonates on a global scale.
As K-pop continues to captivate international audiences, Grizzly’s music stands out for its raw honesty and emotional depth. Collaborations with industry giants like NCT DREAM and Chung Ha have only strengthened his position, while milestones like “Beige Coat” ranking #4 on the Apple Music Korea R&B Chart affirm his growing impact. Yet, Grizzly remains grounded, embracing the challenges of staying authentic in a world that often demands conformity.
Through this candid conversation, Grizzly opens up about his creative process, artistic influences, and dreams of sharing his music worldwide. For his fans—both in Korea and beyond—“SO WHAT!” is more than an EP; it’s an invitation to break free, embrace individuality, and celebrate life in its purest, most unfiltered form.
EP “SO WHAT!” makes a bold statement about freedom and authenticity. What inspired you to explore these themes in your EP, and how do they complement your music?
These themes are words I have always yearned for internally. While making music in Korea for a long time, I often found myself thinking that there seemed to be something predetermined, a wall of something indescribable. In this regard, I embedded the messages I wanted to convey and the texture of my music into this EP.
Your music challenges traditional norms, both in sound and lyrics. How do fashion and language play a role in your creative process, and how do they complement your music?
This is actually one of the questions I most want to be asked. I believe my fashion and various sounds are intricately woven into the larger framework of music. Since I was young, I have had a strong desire to be different from others. I was exposed to good music and fashion at an early age, and my classmates reminisced about how I used to wander around Nampo-dong (a central commercial and shopping area in Busan, South Korea) with my earphones in. This might be why I enjoy music and fashion that are diverse in color. They feel like they resonate in the same language to me. Different music genres and fashion colors seem to shape who I am, although some around me sometimes express that it feels too ambiguous. Now, I no longer worry about such comments because I know myself best. I am someone who pursues unconventional music and fashion.
The EP features a range of emotions, from the introspective “Heartattack” to the bold “FTS”. What was the biggest challenge in balancing these contrasts within a single project?
I experienced no difficulty at all. I invested a year in creating a full album, and when I tried to outline the big picture, I found myself getting serious. I was initially trapped in a swamp of lyrical and melancholic emotions. Then, while on a 3-day, 4-night songwriting camp away from home, where nature welcomed us, the song “FTS” emerged. After creating that track, I thought, “This is it.” I had finally written a song that maximized the emotions I wanted to express.
“FTS” stands out as one of the most daring tracks on the EP. What’s the core message you wanted to convey through this song, and how does it fit into the overall narrative of the project?
I believe it might resonate with the hidden feelings or thoughts that everyone has deep down. Personally, I’m not fond of swear words like “FUCK!” nor do I particularly enjoy swearing in Korean. However, I think there is no better expression for the desires surging within me and the urge to explode them than using such language. Imagine winning the lottery; isn’t the natural reaction more likely to be “FUCK!!” rather than a mere “I’m so happy!”? I hope that listeners of this song or viewers of the music video can unfold something within themselves, perhaps opening the sunroof of a car and feeling liberated. Hence, I believe this song holds one of the most significant powers in the album.
Korean music is gaining increasing traction on a global scale. What excites you the most about reaching an international audience, and how do you plan to connect with them?
I want to express my gratitude to many seniors and peers who have paved the way for this market with good music. Honestly, I can’t say I feel it very strongly, as I don’t receive much feedback that resonates with me. However, I would love to perform around the world and share my music with audiences everywhere.
Vanity Teen explores the intersection of fashion, youth, and creativity. How do your personal style and aesthetic vision influence your music, and what message do you aim to share with younger generations through them?
I don’t have a specific point that I want to convey to anyone. I merely hope they can feel something. Honestly, if my music evokes a single scene from their lives, then that’s enough for me. I believe all artists feel the same way. It’s genuinely challenging to express something with clear intent. My personal style and vision satisfy me on their own.
Your track “Beige Coat” achieved remarkable success, ranking #4 on the Apple Music Korea R&B Chart, and you’ve been featured as a Spotify ‘Radar Korea Artist.” How do these milestones influence your creative process, and what do they mean to you as an artist striving for international recognition?
There are both positive and negative aspects to these achievements. Positively, I’m incredibly grateful for it all. On the negative side, I’ve often questioned whether such songs truly fit me. I think this question might stem from a kind of arrogance that came because the song was well-received. Nowadays, I am trying to move away from that arrogance in pursuit of music that resonates with more people, much like “Beige Coat.”
You’ve collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry, from NCT DREAM to Chung Ha. How do these collaborations shape your artistry, and is there a particular partnership that stands out as especially meaningful or transformative for your career?
It’s fun. One point is that regardless of whose song I’m writing, I strive to create it according to my thoughts rather than their stories. This can take a lot of energy. The song “ANL,” which I worked on with NCT DREAM, was something I was requested to do in a hurry. I don’t think I have ever concentrated as much in such a short time frame of only one day. Thankfully, I believe I was granted an opportunity by God, as the lyrics flowed effortlessly. I have a fond memory of collaborating with Chung Ha, with whom I still maintain a friendship. We created her first solo debut album together. Although we don’t see each other often, I’ve always felt we share a similar vibe. If the opportunity arises, I would love to work with great people again, especially Lee Su-hyun from AKMU; that’s my wish (laughs).