𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐄 | k.raehyun

Magazine Interview

Q. What or who inspired you to be an idol?

"It was my good friend, Joochan who's a member of Golden Child. I didn't really have any thoughts of being an idol since I dreamt of taking after either my dad or my mum, but he told me about his dreams of being an idol, and I guess, it intrigued me. I took some dance lessons with him and immediately fell in love, so after that, I wanted to become an idol as well."

Q. Who is your role model?

"My mum. As cliché as it sounds, my mum has always been such an inspiring woman to me. She was a hardworking independent woman who owned her own flower shop, and she was so understanding to others around her. Her customers loved her because she was so warm and welcoming, that's what I want to be like for my fans and people around me."

Q. How does it feel being a female member in a male dominant group?

"At first I thought it was weird. I hadn't heard much about a singular female debuting in a male dominant group aside from NCT sunbaenim with Mayse. Over the course of years, I got closer to the members so now I feel less awkward being around them and knowing I can show younger females that I can stand out and be independent in a male dominant group gives me a lot of motivation to work harder."

Q. Are there any struggles in being the only female in the group?

"In the beginning, it was awkward to work with each other but as I mentioned earlier, over time we got closer and things became more natural. There are times when I need to lecture them about my feelings and my privacy but it's okay because they're all so understanding and patient with me."

Q. If you weren't an idol, what would you be doing?

"I think all ATINY know what I would be doing. I've said many times that I would either be following my dad's or my mum's footsteps. At the moment, I am more leaned toward my dad since I am studying to be a doctor however I think after I graduate, I will learn more about flowers and plants to honour my mum. So, either a doctor or a florist."

Q. Is it difficult to manage your education and your career schedules?

"It is difficult. Most of the time, I take my classes online because I am so busy with my idol schedules but when I can, I go to my classes in person. I always take my exams and practice tests in person. Now I have the time, I will be able to focus more on my studies for the time being before I leave for our next tour."

Q. How do you manage your stress?

"Normally, I dance my stress away because dance was what got me into liking the thought of being an idol, so it calms me. Sometimes I like talking to Hongjoong oppa or Seonghwa oppa, I talk to Eunchae a lot too. If they're busy and I am unable to dance for whatever reason then use this book I have, I use it to write my thoughts down and just doodling in."

Q. Who's the person you call when you need a shoulder to lean on?

"That would be my two best friends, Eunchae and Joochanie. I have told them a lot of things, both personal and work-wise. They bring me a lot of comfort with their presence and words of advice. I know that if I am ever in a very bad mental state, I can call them for help and they'll be there, so I am very thankful to have them both in my life."