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Kim Jaehwan, who first came into the spotlight with the Mnet reality competition show ‘Produce 101 Season 2’ and made his debut as a member of Wanna One, has returned with a new single, ‘Ponytail.’ Now having his name up as a prominent K-pop solo vocalist, he recently showed off his hidden charm by making an unexpected transition from ballads to energetic dance music with ‘Lucky!.’ In this exclusive M Countdown Magazine interview, Kim Jaehwan dishes about the behind-the-scenes of his latest single ‘Ponytail.’

Hello, nice to meet you! Could you please greet the readers of M Countdown Magazine and briefly introduce yourself?

Hello, everyone! I’m Kim Jaehwan, who made a comeback with the song ‘Ponytail.’ Nice to meet you!

After releasing the remake song ‘I Love You’ last year, you have come back with an original song this time. How do you feel about meeting WIN:D again?

This is my first comeback ever since I moved my agency, so I have been looking forward to my comeback as much as WIN:D would have. I have some exciting stages planned, and I am eager to see myself on stage and also to check every reaction from WIN:D.

The title of your single is ‘Ponytail,’ which refers to a hairstyle. Could you explain the meaning behind it?

I sing about the desire to get closer to someone we have a crush on. I hope you enjoy it!

Is there anything you would like to share more about ‘Ponytail’?

It is a retro-funk song with an appealing hook in the top line. I would say it is a song that is both enjoyable to listen to and watch by blending the iconic top lines with my vocal techniques.

While warming up for the release of this original song, you declared that WIN:D should get past the Kim Jaehwan they knew before. What are those new charms you wish to show off?

Alongside my improved dancing skills, I believe it would be my distinctive vocal style and musical vibe that has become even more trendy than before.

Are there any interesting behind stories while preparing to roll out ‘Ponytail’ by yourself?

It is actually a song that I wrote in a week of intense lower-body workouts, so the energy the song intended to convey was so strong that it was quite challenging to capture it while making a guide and recording again with Korean lyrics.

As a representative K-pop vocalist, what is the killing part of ‘Ponytail’ from your point of view?

I think it might be the part where I sing, “Delay the boring promises, all night long,” especially the word ‘Long.’

As it is such a powerful R&B song, expectations for the performance are also high. What are some key dance moves that fans should take a closer look into?

The on-trend choreography and arrangements will be attractive to watch, as well as some hip-hop elements and dance breaks that are embedded throughout the song.

Your previous title track, ‘Lucky!,’ was also a funky dance song. How will your moves be different for ‘Ponytail,’ compared to ‘Lucky!’?

I guess the distinction lies in whether it is more of a K-pop funk or pop-funk. Adding on to that, in terms of performance aspects, there seem to be different points of fun and coolness.

Is there a part of your comeback stage that viewers should pay keen attention to?

Performing live has always been my priority, so I would like to ask for your attention on how I approach dancing and finish my live performance with excitement as a way to connect with the audience.

Since it has been a while since you had your last comeback, WIN:D must have their fingers crossed to see you as an ending fairy. Could you show us those ending fairy selfies and explain the poses you have in mind?

To be honest, I have some doubts when it comes to taking new and original poses of my own, haha. I think it might be better to briefly show the key dance moves of ‘Ponytail’ instead.

It has already been over four years since you had your solo debut. Is there a particularly memorable moment for you?

Every moment has been memorable, and I cherish every moment I get to spend with WIN:D. I am always grateful.

What are your goals set for this song and activity?

I have not set some grand goals, but I aspire to be an amusing and cool artist, someone that WIN:D can take pride in. The most critical task for me would be to make the audience look forward to my upcoming albums and stages.

Lastly, could you say a few words to your fans who have been eagerly waiting for your comeback stage?

I actually worked hard behind the scenes to come back with a new song as soon as possible. Thank you for always standing behind me and giving me lots of love. I will make sure to pay back with my performances and live shows. I always wish for your health and happiness. Please take good care of yourselves. I love you guys so much, WIN:D!