Plus Magazine

| Written by Park soojin (Editor for the music webzine IZM)

What stands out is that his first work was released as a mixtape. Originally, a mixtape referred to a collection of tracks compiled by DJs or artists onto a tape. However, today it has come to represent an unofficial album where musicians release self-composed or remixed songs.

Nowadays, many mixtapes are officially released, blurring the lines between mixtapes and regular albums. When a project is labeled as a mixtape, it usually implies that it focuses more on musical experimentation and delivering a personal message rather than being purely for commercial success.

In the K-pop scene, mixtapes have long served as a means for idols to explore their own musical paths. For instance, RM, the leader of BTS, released his first mixtape [RM] in 2015, honestly showcasing his passion for music and inner conflicts. In 2018, his second mixtape [mono.], with its emotional and lyrical atmosphere, earned praise from both critics and the public. Additionally, artists like MONSTA X’s Jooheon and GOT7’s Jackson Wang have also expanded their musical careers through mixtapes.
 

Similarly, YEONJUN highlights a new facet of himself not previously showcased in TOMORROW X TOGETHER with this mixtape, which blends electronic sounds with hip-hop. In short, he delivers powerful and, intense music. By alternating between low-pitched piano sounds and high-toned choruses, he creates a unique texture, using the everyday concept of “gum” to symbolically express persistence and confidence in pursuing dreams.

The boldness of his lyrics stands out. In an interview, he mentioned that he came up with the idea while chewing gum during a schedule. The song is filled with casual yet impactful lines like “Yeah I make it chewy like 껌 질겅,” “단물 빠질 일 없어,” and “귀에 착붙 this song 못 떼어내.” These lines exude a trendy, swag-filled energy, while also reflecting YEONJUN’s passion for his dreams.

YEONJUN’s involvement in every aspect of the song, from writing and composing to performing, is impressive. His expertise in dance shines through, as the performance captivates the audience right away. The gestures mimicking gum chewing and the intricate dance moves on stage significantly enhance the song’s impact. His tight and seamless choreography, along with expressive facial performances, create a dynamic and engaging experience.

If you want to experience this charm fully, the music video is a must-watch. The cool, free-spirited atmosphere in the video captures the core message of ‘GGUM’. The scene where YEONJUN blows up a bubble gum balloon that symbolizes growing confidence and his rebellious, confident presence as he roams a radio station further emphasizes his bold attitude. The vintage texture of the video, as if shot with an old digital camera, adds a unique touch, making it even more enjoyable to watch.

Since its release, ‘GGUM’ has continued its success. The song’s high-quality music, YEONJUN’s strong stage presence, and his engagement with fans through a social media challenge have all contributed to its popularity. As a dance master, he created two versions of the choreography, including a high-difficulty one, inspiring many to take on the challenge. This is one of the reasons the song has garnered so much attention.

The song topped Japan’s Oricon daily digital singles chart and also made it to Spotify’s Daily Top Songs chart (as of September 19) in seven countries and regions, including Korea, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia. By 9 AM on September 20, it also reached No. 1 on iTunes Top Songs charts in 32 countries. With these achievements, YEONJUN, the first member of TOMORROW X TOGETHER to go solo, has confidently kicked off his solo career. By expanding his musical horizons through the free-spirited format of a mixtape, YEONJUN’s journey continues to draw attention.
 

※ Manuscripts from outside writers may not reflect the editorial direction of this magazine.