JYJ's Jaejoong: "I Like Being Called An Idol"

In a recent interview, JYJ‘s Jaejoong revealed his thoughts on being an idol and challenged the stereotypical way of looking at idols.

Jaejoong stated his discontent with idols commonly being looked down upon in the music industry, causing some to dislike the label and later strive to erase the label, “I like being called an idol. Many people have prejudiced thoughts when it comes to idols but when I see my juniors these days, there are so many of them who could succeed as solo singers. I don’t think it’s right to keep them tied to a stereotyped belief based on the name or appearance of their group.”

According to Jaejoong, “Idols are actually at a position where they can try out more things than the usual singer. I see it as a job that you can gain more from when you compare it to other jobs as a celebrity.”

JYJ, Jaejoong’s group, is known as an idol group who has challenged, and succeeded in, various aspects of the entertainment industry. Kim Junsu is an multi-awarded musical actor, starring in hit musicals such as “Mozart!” and “Tears Of Heaven“. Park Yoochun is also an award-winning actor and has taken on lead roles in domestic dramas such as “Sungkyunkwan Scandal” and “Miss Ripley” while Jaejoong himself has starred in dramas “Hard To Say I Love You” in Japan, and is currently in SBS’ “Protect The Boss“. Jaejoong also recently directed JYJ’s 2011 World Tour which held shows in Asia and North America, as well as LG Whisen’s Rhythmic All Stars Gala Show. As a group, JYJ have expanded their fanbase to the US, releasing an American album and working with the likes of Kanye West and Rodney Jerkins.

Using his own group as an example, Jaejoong continued to say that “The members of JYJ are now getting into our late 20s but we’re still idols, and we’ll probably still call ourselves idols, even when we reach our 30s.”

Source: joynews24, dongbangdata