Individual interviews
Yuri
Wanting to relax but can’t part with Japanese beauty goods.
Yuri, whose beauty exudes from the inside. Her beauty secret is yoga that she continued for 5 years.
“I wanted some time to clear my mind and heart, so I started together with Tiffany. But Tiffany gave up after two weeks (laughs). The pose that gives me the best feeling is called Shavasana (Corpse pose). Facing upward, you draw out the strength from your whole body, while being in a meditating state. It has the result of sufficient relaxing sleep for one night!”
Furthermore she recently is crazy about vegetable juice.
“I put boiled vegetables in the mixer and drink it. More than boiled and raw vegetables, the vitamins and the absorption coefficient of nutrients are 90% better. When I add strawberries or banana, it becomes easier to drink.”
The thing she can’t part with in the airplane when going abroad are Japanese beauty goods.
“When changing into a jersey and missing my makeup, in Japan I always buy a large amount of hot eyemasks and put it on! It’s really an excellent thing.”
Tiffany
Fashionable and UV care (life)!
Now I’m dreaming of driving in my beloved car.
When going abroad, the member who is rumored to have the most luggage is Tiffany.
“I can’t relax if my hotel room is not reproduced like my own room. In the bathroom, I set up my makeup in a row and stuff my clothes in the closet. And because I want to change my shoes and bags every day my suitcase is filled to the brim. Packing is hard, but I can’t stop being fashionable. (laughs)”
The same importance as being fashionable is skin.
“UV care is important with winter treatment. You’d think the sunlight is weak and the UV rays are only few in winter, but actually it’s a lot. Because of measurements against dryness, sunscreen throughout the year is a must!”
Recently she got her long-awaited driver’s license! She took the members for a ride and drove to the Han river.
“My beloved car is a pink small (motor) car with hello kitty cushions placed inside. Glancing at the members getting excited listening to music, I focus on driving with my undivided attention.”
Sunny
Simple is best is my motto. The energetic source and smiling face of the members.
Sunny is an open-hearted girl, who doesn’t worry about small things. When traveling she also prefers simplicity.
“For a one night and two days trip I don't bring a suitcase. My luggage is very minimal. Whenever I look at Tiffany's suitcase, I wonder what is in there? On the contrary, it's very mysterious (laughs).”
During The Boys promotions she tried short blonde hair, it was a major change to a sharp matured woman.
“It was the first time after being born that I had short hair. I actually wanted to cut it really short,
but after talking with the staff we settled on this length. I'm pleased with it, but there are also members that think it's better to go back to long hair, so I'm thinking what to do next.”
In Girls' Generation she is always full of energy. What is the source of that energy?
“Even when I feel down, whenever I look at the members smile, I naturally become happy.
Being together with the members is my source of energy.”
Taeyeon
Keeping all the busy members together, the slightly strict older sister.
Taeyeon who is slightly older even among the 6 girls born in the same year in this group of 9.
"I feel that even though everyone is close in age and we have conflicts at times, everyone is pure and considerate of each other, so as the days continue to add up, our bonds continue to strengthen. Though I might be the oldest, instead of being the one to stand in front, I'm the type to look before taking each step. But when it comes down to the critical moment, I will clearly say what needs to be said. If I compare it to a family, I think I'm a bit of a father figure."
With stable singing skills and a voice that is full of feelings, she also has solo activities (OST songs) in Korea.
"When singing, you need performing skills and a bit of imagination. You have to treasure the emotions, and to not deviate from the colour of the song while pouring your heart into it."
To Taeyeon, what is her most treasured song?
"'Into the New World' probably. It was our first song we received after our long training period and if this song never existed, I don't think I would be here right now."
Jessica
Hot chocolate is my stress relieving item.
Famous as a fashionista, Jessica has a strong interest in Japanese fashion!
“Japanese style has an impression of taking unique items and putting it together well. It’s not a feeling that it’s aiming for something weird, rather it’s like showing off something cute. I also study fashion while looking through Japanese magazines. On the contrary, in Korea, [fashion] all together feels more simple. I’m not saying which is better, but I do love both [styles]. Recently, we have more oversea schedules and maybe it is due to riding airplanes for a long time, but anyhow, I think I have more comfortable casual styles.”
How does Jessica relieve stress?
“I eat sweets. I especially love chocolate! Every time I come to Japan, I pass by a store that has a rich hot chocolate drink, but previously, when I went with the other members, it seems the chocolate was too rich and some of the members didn’t like it (laughs).”
Sooyoung
Secret of maintaining the perfect style is doing pilates two times a week!
Sooyoung the member that is proud of her tall figure. Please tell us your secret to maintain that excellent style!
“Because I have a body that doesn't gain weight fast, I didn't feel the need to exercise.
On the contrary I lose weight too much which is why my clothes don't fit well or my dancing doesn't look pretty...which is why I thought I needed more muscles. Because I heard that pilates is hard, I was scared at first, but when I continued doing it, it felt like I received a muscle massage. I'm really pleased with it!”
Sooyoung who is famous of being proficient in Japanese and even MCed a concert in Japanese.
“A Japanese word I use a lot is 'nervous' (laughs). Also, I use a lot of gratitude words like 'thank you'. I also watch Japanese dramas without subtitles. My favorite dramas are 'Bara no nai hanaya’ (Flower Shop Without a Rose) and ‘Nobuta wo Produce’ (Producing Nobuta). The trick of studying is memorizing! When memorizing a sentence structure, with changing just the words, I can use it many times.”
Seohyun
“Using my time wisely”, that’s my rule.
Although the youngest, Seohyun is famous for being reliable. Does she have a rule for herself?
“In the past I always endeavored to ‘try to use my time well’. If you’re a student then it’d be good to spend time according to school, however now I need to manage myself. If I don’t decide what I’ll do at what time, then I’ll be washed away with busyness. I make an effort to not be lazy, but it’s very hard. (laughs)”
As they promote in different countries, it seems like Seohyun was surprised at how the passion of the cheering fans was not any different.
“Especially during concerts, even if the language is different, the sense of communication through music is the same no matter what country. Why the fans’ energy is the same is very mysterious.”
Then, what is her impression of Japanese fans?
“During last year’s Japan tour, there were fans who came to all 14 shows! I was very surprised! I’m very thankful.”
Yoona
I want to try the role of a rich young lady or appearing in a love comedy.
With a mysterious aura surrounding the charming cool beauty, Yoona has a surprising side.
“Actually, I love pulling pranks! Up to now, I can’t count all the pranks I pulled on the members. Every member is a victim. (laughs) Recently...I really pull so many pranks that I forget what I’ve done. The details of the pranks are trivial, but I’m also good at imitations! I have a huge repertoire and I can imitate the other members too~.”
Appearing in dramas like “Love Rain”, Yoona also is active as an actress. What role does she want to play in the future?
“Until now since I’ve played many characters that are quiet and do their best to live in underprivileged environments... Next, I wonder if a role from a rich family would be good? During a drama, I want to try wearing a lot of cute and pretty clothing as well. This time in “Love Rain”, I loved playing the cheerful and lively character Hana, but next I want to try challenge myself in a love comedy!”
Hyoyeon
I’ve loved dance from an early age! I may indeed have talent (laughs).
“From an early age, I just really loved dance. At first I started it as a hobby, but it seems I was born with talent. (laughs)”
Hyoyeon, who demonstrates magnificent dances in Girls’ Generation. Please tell us how you practice dance!
“In the past I would watch TV and practice mimicking the dances of popular artists at the time. Recently, I’m studying the dances of the artist, Chris Brown. Everything about his stage from the energy felt to his performance and voice, is perfect!”
This year it’s been 5 years since debuting as Girls’ Generation. Looking back it’s really been a flash.
“Throughout the time of 5 years, I think our bonds have become stronger. We have come to know the different sides of each other and we have deepened our understanding of one another. Generally, if we’ve been together for 5 years, I think it wouldn’t be that strange if we get into fights over trivial matters, however, we have gotten along better.”
Main Interview
With refined performances and beautiful slender legs like a barbie doll, Girls' Generation created an instant sensation in Japan. This year it's their 6th year since their debut in Korea and they are active in places all over the world, as well as reaching a debut in America! A close-up of Girls' Generation, who are building a new generation while emitting a bright aura.
If you look back on the days from your debut until now, [what do you see]?
Seohyun: While running around the world happily, 5 years has passed already. I don't have any feeling that it has been that long.
Sooyoung: To the people around us it seems like we had a hard time, but we definitely don't feel like that. Maybe all of us are really tough (laughs).
Jessica: The fact that I was able to keep on going these 5 years is because of the members. Our strong bond is our weapon.
For the first half of this year you mostly worked abroad, so do you feel a difference in fans of different countries?
Tiffany: In Korea, singing the chorus together is the basis and because the majority are male fans a lower tone resounds. Because Western fans dance and sing together with us, it feels like the concert hall turns into a club! Let's party!
Hyoyeon: Japanese fans are focused on our performance throughout the song and when the song is finished the cheers are so loud that the concert hall is shaking.
Seohyun: I’m happy that the fans respect us as an artist.
In busy times, how do you refresh yourself?
Seohyun: There are lots of members that love to use aromas. I sleep with aroma oil applied on my temples.
Yoona: I also apply plenty of aromatic body mist when I go to bed. If I do so, I can sleep soundly.
Taeyeon: I'll say to myself 'There, there, you are a good kid Taeyeon,' and I cure myself. (laughs)
Sunny: It's only for something emotionally, but it makes me happy. Also, there are a lot of times we go eat something delicious
Jessica: Our regular place is a patbingsoo store that has red bean on top of shaved snow. It’s slightly sweet and it heals us.
Sooyoung: Lately, it's a trend among us to drive together to the Han river. While listening to music, we drive and relieve our stress.
Yuri: We went for a ride with Tiffany driving, but she is still a beginner so I was honestly scared.(laughs)
Tiffany: Hey! (gets angry)
Girls’ Generation’s 2nd Japanese album, “GIRLS’ GENERATION II -Girls & Peace-” was released on November 28th.
Taeyeon: From cool club sounds to sweet numbers, it’s an album filled with uptempo songs that will get you thinking of Girls’ Generation singing and dancing!
Tiffany: Recently I re-listened to our first album, “GIRLS’ GENERATION”. Honestly I thought, “We can’t make an album better than this”, however this album can top that. I recommend all the songs!
It’s amazing that all the songs are recommendations! What’s your favorite song?
Everyone: Hmm~ I can’t choose~!
Somehow pick one!
Taeyeon: If I have to choose, then it's 'Stay girls'. A girl who perseveres into becoming a wonderful matured woman is the main character of the beautiful lyrics. When hearing the refreshing melody, my mood becomes brighter.
Yoona: 'Stay girls' is the favorite song of all the members. I also listen to it while walking.
Seohyun: 'Oh', our Korean song that was remade with Japanese lyrics is also recommended.
I think we upgraded our expressions and it is also cuter than the Korean version.
Jessica: I like 'Not Alone' because I can imagine myself singing it while a spotlight is shining on me on stage. Although 'Reflection' is refined, the beat has a retro feeling to it and is very addicting.
Tiffany: I like 'Reflection' too~! I always liked songs with a beat more, but this song's musical interval fits me so I can sing it the best.
It (the album) has all Japanese musical compositions. Did it go well with the Japanese?
Sooyoung: We have gotten used to it, but as expected since it's not in our mother tongue, the lyrics are translated so we could sing it while understanding the world view.
Sunny: There is a hiragana letter that whenever it comes out it's hard for me and makes me nervous. It's 'つ(tsu)'. I want to overcome my fear of 'tsu' soon. (laughs)
Hyoyeon: When rapping the 'ん(n)' is also very tough.
Jessica: I'm not very good in memorizing lyrics in Korean, English or Japanese to begin with. (bitter laugh) Anyway, I’ll earnestly memorize and sing it!
This is just one of Jessica’s hard working points. With the album clearly worn on your belt, the arena tour will start next year from February.
Sooyoung: We have an artist’s luck to start the new year with concerts.
Sunny: Because the amount of our Japanese songs increased, we could show a live performance with only original Japanese songs.
Yuri: We are steadily in progress of preparations. Personally in order not to run out of breath, I'll run or do weightlift training and try to build up stamina.
What do you look forward to during the Japanese tour?
Sunny: Unagi (eel). After eating hitsumabushi in Nagoya, we all got addicted to unagi. During this year's tour we had unagi for 3 days in a row.
Yuri: Yes right. Because I ate too much unagi one time, I couldn't stop glowing during the concert and I was very energetic, so it was tough (laughs). But surely during next tour I definitely want to eat only unagi.
Tiffany: Also Hiroshima Okonomiyaki! I also want to go to the onsen to get smooth skin.
Yoona: But what I'm looking forward to the most is the cosplay by fans! When I see them imitating our clothes and hairstyles, I get really happy! All the members always look forward to what cosplay they will come in next.
Yuri: Everyone~! We can definitely see it from the stage! Please keep on doing lots of cosplay~!
Taeyeon: When having a talk like this I want to meet everyone fast. I'm anxiously awaiting next year!
