Jung Jihoon, The Original Maknae: An H.O.T/Shinhwa Story

H.O.T Dream Concert

May 1997

So many things happened during past few months since Jihoon debuted as part of H.O.T, he became recognized as the youngest idol to have ever debut at fourteen years. He was marketed as having a youthful and innocent appearance. As such the term "maknae" began to be echoed by fans.

Despite the successful debut, his age became something of controversy. The media felt debuting a young child was dangerous and unethical. Critcs argued instead of dancing around, he should "hit the books" and focus on studying. It got so bad that Sooman threatened legal action if any harassment against the boy was made.

Despite that rocky beginning, life in school was good. He quickly became popular overnight. Girls all over couldn't resist seeing the dancing maknae. To Jihoon, it quickly got annoying. He was followed everywhere he went and there was no sense of privacy.

SM's reputation began to grow as trainees all over Seoul joined the agency in the hopes to be like them. One such trainee was Lee Minwoo. Despite being shorter than others, his vocal talents was top notched. Another one was American trainee Eric Mun, known for his visuals and rap skills. Even female trainees began auditioning in hopes of being their own idols.

"Are you ready boys because we won't be back for a while." Sooman said.

"I'll be fine, but Jaewon isn't." Tony snickered.

"Yah, why do you always start with me!?" Jaewon sighed growing annoyed at him.

"You're just too easy to tease." Woohyuk pointed out.

"Good luck on your show boys." Japanese-Korean trainee Shoo waved.

"We'll be rooting you oppas!" Another trainee named Eugene said with a bright smile.

"Take some pictures for us!" Minwoo shouted.

"Make sure you trainees behave when we're absent." Sooman made a subtle nod the managers as they guided the six onto a metro. Jihoon sat next to Kangta whike the others stood by.

"It's been chaotic hyungs. In some ways it still feels like a dream." Jaewon express his shock.

"I know what you mean. If you ask me, I would be part of a boy and last year. I would've laughed." Tony replied.

"For real, it's been crazy as hell. Kinda cool we get to interact with the fans." Kangta said.

Jihoon just sat by and listened. He had to agree, this does feel like a dream. He wanted to be a celebrity, but one like this? He was conflicted what to feel. On one hand he likes to the newfound attention, but now he can't have decent privacy. He feels concerned for his family since the media knows his address.

"Yo kid, what's the matter with you? You should be happy we're competing." Kangta elbowed the boy.

"I mean I am happy, but... It's just everything moved so quickly I barely have time to adjust. It's I became a nobody to a celebrity overnight. Now my parents can't find decent privacy and I don't anything to happen to Hana. I just want my family to feel safe. I'm worried if my fame grows, that my family might be in danger. I'm worried about my fame." Jihoon expressed his concern.

Sometimes they forget he's just a child. Kangta pulled over Jihoon over to him as he comforted him like a little brother.

"I think I may know what you mean, but you shouldn't let the fame overwhelm you. Your family will be fine, don't you trust yourself? You're a good kid, man. I never seen anyone as thoughtful as you. I know life has great things for you." Kangta stated, with a gentle smile.

Once the bus arrives at a local arena, the six boys arrived with massive fanfare. The boys all waved their hands towards the crowd. Their costumes consisted black vests over a long white sleeves. Each of the members has individual faces paint with their Hangulized names.