Plus Magazine

Through a long journey from competing in ＜Be Mbitious＞ to becoming stars in ＜Street Man Fighter＞, the members of Mbitious, united by their passion for dance, are now moving in one direction. We, Plus Magazine, had a chance to meet with them. The fifth person we met is JINWOO. His graceful moves not only attest that they weren't created in a fleeting moment, but from his calm yet confident responses, we could also discern his continuous pursuit of improvement.

What initially prompted you to start dancing?

Since my mother was a math teacher, she always wanted proof of my diligent studies. So when I was younger, I learned a lot by going to various academies. I studied Chinese characters and also participated in English speaking contests. The first experience that I found ‘fun’ was dance. My father, who used to dance at that time, taught me a few moves. Whenever opportunities like training camps or talent shows came up, I naturally took the stage with the dance I learned then.

While I was still interested in dance, a moment came during my second year of middle school when I seriously contemplated what truly brings me joy, as I sat at my desk studying. I could only think of dancing. I ran down that path and told my mother that I wanted to dance.

You went to a high school that specializes in performing arts, didn't you?

As I mentioned earlier, because I came from a family environment that was very passionate about studying, my parents strongly opposed when I said I would go to a high school related to the performing arts. They seemed to perceive it as a sort of youthful rebellion. My father was especially against it, but later, my mother, seeing the sincerity in me, put a lot of effort into persuading him.

What led you to decide to participate in ＜Be Mbitious＞ while building your own successful career?

After settling as a dancer, one of my biggest concerns was the position of being a dancer itself. While dancing for a long time, it became natural for me to introduce myself as a dancer and I took up my job with a clear conscience. However, since dancers tend to receive less spotlight compared to other artists, I was concerned about how I would be perceived by others. I guess I had a desire to shine on the stage as the main character as well. Just in time, I thought that participating in could fulfill my aspiration.

What changes have you experienced since joining Mbitious?

The biggest change is definitely that more people have taken an interest in my dance. Thanks to this, the number of people participating in the classes I open has increased, and not only professional dancers but also various people have courageously joined when I go abroad for workshops.

However, apart from that, my fundamental resolution as a dancer hasn't changed much. But now that more people are familiar with my dance, I believe I need to work harder as a dancer in a way that I can be proud of.

You recently participated in ＜FREESTYLER'S NIGHT＞, didn't you?

After participating in ＜Be Mbitious＞ and ＜Street Man Fighter＞, I had a lot of thoughts about what kind of figure I should present as a dancer in the future. I wanted to proceed in a direction that could be an example in the Scene. I thought ＜FREESTYLER'S NIGHT＞ could be the starting point for this, so I participated. I started dancing with street dance and spent a long time as a choreographer, so I saw it as an opportunity to self-assess how much I had changed. Therefore, I believed that participating would help clarify my direction. I had never been to a dance battle since I started as a choreographer, but at that time, I headed to the dance battle, reflecting on my mindset from the past.

Does that mean you have a strong attachment to the underground scene?   
 

Not exactly, but I think it's now meaningless to distinguish between the underground and the mainstream. In the past, when I introduced myself, I used to say ‘I'm a street dancer’ or ‘I've been a choreographer for about 7 years’. But looking back, all of my dance experiences were tied together on a single timeline. So, if you ask me if I have an attachment to the underground, I'd rather say that I've simply been acting as YOONJINWOO from the very beginning where I started.

What kind of crew is AITTY TOO, which also includes Tarzan, another member of Mbitious?

AITTY TOO is a group that feels akin to family, teachers, and close friends all in one. We all came from Gangneung and have known each other for a long time, some for as long as 15 years and at least for 7 years. Because we've spent so much time together, they are the people I heavily rely on and are an indispensable team when it comes to defining my identity.

You collaborated with Brian Puspos, a world-renowned dancer and singer. What was that experience like?   
 

Brian Puspos has been a world-class dancer since I first started dancing. Even the first-generation choreographers in South Korea drew a lot of inspiration from him. I never imagined I would have the opportunity to collaborate with such a person. It was a tremendous honor for me.

Above all, while it's motivating when my close friends or people around me praise me, it feels different when someone I've admired for a long time compliments me. When Brian Puspos personally gave positive comments about my dance moves, it gave me more confidence in my dance than ever before.

You've also served as a professor in the practical dance major. What prompted that?   
 

When I create a move or choreography, I like to approach it from a theoretical perspective, questioning why we should act in a certain way. Hence, I often say that while dance is performed with the body, the imagery is drawn in the mind.

I thought that at university, there would be a gathering of students who wanted to develop with sincerity, not only in their movements but also in theory. When teaching regular choreography classes, there tends to be a rush to progress with the movements, which relatively limits the opportunity to have in-depth discussions with the students.

Now as a teacher, what message do you wish to convey to young aspirants dreaming of becoming dancers?

Each person has a different path to success, so I don't think I can tell you which way is the right one. However, one thing I'm sure of is that what you think is cool now can change in the future.

As you experience things beyond your perspective and engage with more people, the views you've confined yourself to will gradually be challenged. I believe that only those who positively embrace such change and move forward can differentiate themselves from those who are trapped in their own preconceptions and unable to evolve. If you have a conviction, stick to it, but strive to adapt to change.

Throughout your long career, you've worked on a variety of projects. What's the most memorable one?   
 

There's a class in the U.S. called Midnight Masters. As the name suggests, it's a class where you share the dance you've prepared from late at night until dawn. About a year ago, I had the opportunity to lead this curriculum, which many dancers I admire often taught.

While sharing various insights with numerous dancers, I could reflect on the journey that led me to that place and draw inspiration for future directions. Furthermore, it was a memorable moment because I was able to accomplish one of the items on my bucket list as a dancer.

You recently participated in the choreography for NCT TAEYONG's ‘GWANDO’. There were quite a lot of people participating in the dance challenge through social media, right?

I feel like I'm taking my steps one at a time. Although I don't have much experience creating choreographies specifically for challenges, ‘GWANDO’ is one of the pieces where I've focused most on this aspect. As I see people enjoying it and participating, even a little, I thought my heart would overflow the day my choreography becomes a trend and a meme not only in South Korea but also globally. I believe it was an opportunity that set me on the path towards a new personal goal.

What do you do when you're not dancing?   
 

Actually, there are hardly any moments when I'm not dancing. But, if I do get a day off after a long time, I usually go shopping first. I also enjoy taking my dog for walks or studying music, just enjoying my little hobbies.

What kind of music do you listen to?

Recently, I've been hooked on a particular sound. I've been frequently listening to an album called [Love Sick] by an artist named Don Toliver. I've always really liked this artist, and the vibes of that album especially align well with my taste. Of course, opinions may vary, but I recommend you give it a listen from time to time.

What is the most memorable moment in your dancing career?

It was when I became the final member of Mbitious. I think the emotions from that time will still give me a thrill even if I reflect back on it after a long time.

What is a personal goal you would like to achieve?   

This is a feeling I had when I was working with Brian Puspos, but I also want to become an all-time legend. Later, when someone is doing the same work as me in this position, if they are asked the question, ‘How did it feel to collaborate with the world-renowned dancer JINWOO?’, my goal is to be a dancer who can give a positive response.

Do you have any messages you'd like to share with your fans?   
 

Expressing gratitude may seem too basic, but I didn't realize how much sacrifice being a fan requires. I am truly thankful for your dedicated support for us, and for me. I tend to be vulnerable to selfless love. Just as fans have always been a significant part of all my actions, I hope you will continue to be a strong pillar of support for me in the future. I will keep working hard. I love you all.   
 

| Interview by Baek Jongkwon (Editor for the music webzine IZM)