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In the summer of 2023, after going through the long journey of the survival program [NCT Universe: LASTART], NCT WISH was formed, drawing attention for the harmony between Korean and Japanese members and being the last sub-unit under the “NCT brand”. With their pre-debut single titled ‘Hands Up’ and the track ‘We Go!’ released in October 2023, NCT WISH has taken a significant step closer to the fans with their much-awaited debut single ‘WISH’. The collaboration between NCT WISH and KENJIE, SM's acclaimed composer, and his iconic “SM sound” has sparked widespread excitement.
 

Hello, NCT WISH! You officially debuted on February 21st. This must be a poignant moment for you. How do you feel?

SION: We're currently engaged in activities within Korea, and being able to perform on music shows that we've grown up watching, in front of our fans, truly makes it feel like “we have officially debuted”. The pre-debut experiences were immensely beneficial to us, and we are now pondering over “how we can further enhance NCT WISH’s presence”.

What does the group's catchphrase ‘WISH for Our WISH’ mean?

SAKUYA: It encapsulates our desire to support and achieve the dreams and wishes of many through our music and love. We aspire for NCT WISH's music to be a source of strength for many and for NCT WISH to become a 'WISH icon' that people seek out when they need encouragement.

Could you explain about your debut single title track ‘WISH’?

SAKUYA: ‘WISH,’ our leading track, is infused with the themes of refreshment and hope. It's a message about boldly stepping into a new future, filled with our desires. The track refreshingly conveys our cherished feeling of fulfilling our initial wish of “officially debuting” alongside an optimistic energy.

‘WISH’ incorporates significant shifts across hip-hop, R&B, and electronica. How did you navigate the complexity of these styles, and what was the recording experience like?

SION: The diversity of the genres required us to be particularly mindful of rhythm flow and dynamic modulation to highlight our performance. The chorus, sung by all members, remains vivid in my memory due to the lively and enjoyable atmosphere we created during the recording.

JAEHEE's pre-chorus section before the group chorus is quite prominent, demanding high vocal range. How challenging was it to execute these vocal parts?
 

JAEHEE: Alongside the high notes, I devoted attention to the verses and ad-libs, where vocal technique was crucial. Because ‘WISH’ is such a beloved song to me, I aimed for perfection and ended up recording multiple takes.

The Korean language vocals and raps by Japanese members YUSHI, SAKUYA, RIKU, and RYO sounded incredibly natural. What do you focus on when performing songs in Korean?
 

YUSHI: Since I'm still learning, my focus is mainly on pronunciation. Every day, I commit to practicing more to become adept swiftly.
 

SAKUYA: I find the pronunciation of final consonants a bit challenging, so I'm diligently working on mastering this aspect.

RIKU: My focus is generally on overall pronunciation. Incorrect pronunciation can also lead to offbeat rhythms, which is why it's crucial.

RYO: Similar to other members, I pay extra attention to pronunciation. Although there are areas where I'm still improving, I strive to ensure that the audience can listen comfortably.

You’ve simultaneously released songs in both Korean and Japanese. Was it challenging for any of you to alternate between these languages?

JAEHEE: In the early stages of song practice, there was a mix-up where I accidentally blended the Korean and Japanese versions together, which was quite amusing. (laughs)

RIKU: Initially, I was slightly confused between the Korean and Japanese lyrics. However, as practice progressed, it became much clearer.

Before its official release, you debuted your performance of 'WISH' at [SMTOWN LIVE 2024]. How did it feel performing there?

YUSHI: It was both surreal and thrilling to have our debut performance at the massive Tokyo Dome. Although the pressure to perform well was higher because we had extensively practiced ‘WISH,’ completing the performance successfully was a relief.

At [SMTOWN LIVE 2024], the synchronized choreography of your performance was notably impressive, almost as if moving as one entity. Could you share the highlight of the ‘WISH’ choreography?

SION: There are multiple highlights in the ‘WISH’ choreography, in my opinion. The old school vibe of the hook really captures the song's essence, and I’d also point out the hand gestures in the chorus that resemble making a wish and the dance move that mimics Cupid firing an arrow as key moments.

The powerful energy of your latest track and your rendition of SUPER JUNIOR's ‘U’ in a performance video were standout moments. Are there other dances you’re currently focusing on in practice?

SION: Currently, we’re focusing on ‘WISH’ and ‘Sail Away’ due to ongoing promotions. We’ve identified some areas we’d like to improve upon after our live performances, so we’re dedicating some of our spare time to practice.

 

SM's renowned composer KENZIE wrote your song, and BoA, the director of [NCT Universe: LASTART] and a prominent figure in both Korean and Japanese pop music, produced it. Working with such esteemed seniors must have been significant for you. How was the experience?

RYO: Yes, having grown up listening to KENZIE's creations, debuting with a song written by her is truly an honor. Being a long-time admirer of producer BoA, both personally and alongside my family, the news of participating in [NCT Universe: LASTART] was surprising. Learning that BoA would be producing NCT WISH added to our joy. I'm inspired to dedicate myself to my music career, aspiring to emulate producer BoA, my idol.

Your music video is unique, with its short film-like introduction and Cupid's arrows. What were your reactions when you first heard about the music video concept?

SAKUYA: Everyone liked how the freshness and cuteness of NCT WISH matched well with Cupid. We really liked every concept that fit well with the music video's setting in Barcelona, Spain, so we had fun filming it.

In your album [WISH], alongside ‘WISH,’ ‘Sail Away’ is a refreshing song that brings to mind the beach and surfing. What are the key points of ‘Sail Away’?

RIKU: ‘Sail Away’ is a song with the theme of “sailing towards the future”. It's a great song to listen to when you want to feel hopeful and gain positive energy!
 

It's already been half a year since [NCT Universe: LASTART] was aired. What memories do you have of it?

RYO: During our trainee days, SION and YUSHI were already highly skilled, and I always thought they were amazing. Through [NCT Universe: LASTART], I learned a lot from them and was able to greatly improve my skills by relying on them sometimes. That’s why it remains a very precious and valuable time for me.

Among the various NCT sub-units, what do you think is unique about NCT WISH?

RIKU: More than a unique feature, we want to create our own identity in the future through the hopeful and positive concept of ‘WISH’!!

How do you view the evolution or changes in your music from ‘Hands Up’ and ‘We Go!’ released in October 2023 to the current [WISH] album?

SION: ‘Hands Up’ and ‘We Go!’ served as foundational steps towards our formation as a cohesive unit. Engaging in a pre-debut tour with these tracks allowed us to fine-tune our group dynamics. This journey has enabled us to present a more polished look and stronger synergy in ‘WISH,’ essentially introducing a unified NCT WISH to our audience.

Could each member share who your musical inspirations are?

SION: I was deeply influenced by EXO's KAI during my trainee days. His charismatic performance and exceptional skills made me aspire to shine like him on stage. (laughs)

YUSHI: My aspiration to become a singer was fueled by watching TVXQ! Their performance at [SMTOWN LIVE 2024] left a lasting impression on me. My goal is to become an enduringly loved artist like them.

JAEHEE: My vocal coach, Jang Jinyoung teacher, is my role model. Not just as my mentor but also as an artist, I admire him and strive to follow in his footsteps.

RYO: I admire NCT's DOYOUNG. His part in 'Timeless' initially drew me to NCT, and he has been my role model ever since. ^^

RIKU: NCT's MARK is who I look up to. His expressive prowess in delivering a song's emotion and his impressive stage presence are what I aim to emulate.

SAKUYA: Destiny Rogers is my role model. She's an American artist whose music I find incredibly appealing.

Now that you’ve debuted with [WISH], what aspirations do you have for NCT WISH's future?

YUSHI: We aim to persistently showcase the unique, bright, and optimistic identity of NCT WISH. Also, our goal is to build a communicative and energy-sharing relationship with our fans.

Finally, could you leave a message for the readers of M Countdown Magazine?
 

JAEHEE: We're committed to growing and evolving continuously! Please keep supporting NCT WISH! And don't forget to enjoy our debut track ‘WISH’ a lot!! (laughs)