Interviews · ZERO: FEVER Era
SINGLES Korea — 'A World Called ATEEZ' Group Feature (Seonghwa)
SINGLES Korea's "A World Called ATEEZ" group feature, Seonghwa's reflections.
A SINGLES Korea group feature profiling all eight ATEEZ members individually through short first-person reflections on themes like self-confidence, brotherhood, and daily life, published August 31, 2021.
Seonghwa's Words — English Translation
On himself before he debuted: "I wasn't the type with high self-esteem — I used to cover half my face with my bangs. I'd dreamed of being a singer since elementary school, but I couldn't even really tell my parents. I said it in a roundabout way instead, that I wanted to become a musical actor and so needed to go into a practical music program (laughs). Now, thanks to the fans' love, I've gotten my confidence back. I hope everyone believes in their own possibilities and takes on things boldly, whatever they are. Life's too short to spend it just worrying over how you might shine."
On being the oldest member: "Honestly, back in my school days I was strict about hierarchy. I went to an all-boys high school and did a lot of outside activities, so greeting people properly was a given, and I felt a strong sense of duty that an older student had to look after the younger ones. I suppose it's because I'm the oldest in the team that I'm still a little like that now. These days I ask the younger members about things I'm curious about, and learn from them too, so I've let go of a lot of that pressure."
On the space between excitement and nerves: "I was really nervous the first time I stood on stage, but getting through it one step at a time seems to be what helped me grow. There's fear too whenever we start something new, like a variety show or a content shoot, but just being eight of us together, not alone, is comforting in itself. I keep my mind steady by telling myself that together, we can get through anything."
On the group being complete, all eight together: "When all eight of us, down to Mingi, are together, I really feel a sense of stability. We've spent so long together that we know well what each other likes and dislikes. The way we look out for each other is really touching."
On the time of day he loves most: "When I get back to the dorm after a schedule ends. And it's even better if the next day is a day off. Waking up in the morning, lying on the sofa, spending the time comfortably, chatting — that's healing in itself. It's a small happiness."
On what he'd do with some free time: "I'd want to go to my hometown. The juniors I was in a dance club with back in school still treat me like just 'Park Seonghwa,' not a singer. And of course, I really miss my family too — they send me photos of themselves pitching a tent and hanging out at home without me."
On the power of writing things down: "Whenever I'm reading a book, watching a drama or a movie, or even just talking with someone, I write down words or sentences that strike me in my notes app. Right now, on that list, I especially like the line: 'It's not failing that's embarrassing — it's not trying at all that is.' It's made me reflect on times I got scared and held back without even trying, and made me think about what it might mean to be more forgiving of failure."
Translated directly from the original Korean text of the SINGLES Korea article linked below.
Official Sources
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Era Context
ZERO: FEVER Era · 2020 – 2022
A period of rapid international growth. Seonghwa's role expands across broadcast stages, variety appearances, and the group's first large-scale tours, alongside a growing presence in fashion and magazine editorials.