hellokpop | Charie Navarro
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TAECYEON Reveals His Motivation As An Artist During The Press Conference In Manila
A few lucky PH Hottest and OKtizen meet TAECYEON ahead of his much-awaited solo fan meeting in Manila despite the gloomy weather.
2PM‘s OK TAECYEON grants his Filipino fans’ longing as he returns to the Philippines for his SpecialTY Fan Meeting in Manila. A day before the event, the 2nd generation idol spent a short yet wonderful night with members of the press and a few lucky fans who won the media conference raffle draw.
On September 22, Pulp Live World arranged a private media conference which was held at the Monet 1 Ballroom, Novotel. TAECYEON sat with the host, Kring Kim, and satisfied both media and fans’ curiosity about the idol-turned-actor.
It was about a decade ago when TAECYEON visited the Philippines along with his 2PM members. When asked about how he is feeling now that he is back in Manila, the “Heartbeat” star recalled 10 years ago. “It’s been quite a while since I’ve been here—10 years. Coming back is amazing. The last time I was here, it was very hot.”
TAECYEON also shared how the other members remember their Filipino fans. “Our Filipino fans were so supportive, loud, and they were so energetic.”
Reminiscing about his previous visit in Manila, he showed how unfortunate it is that he is not able to see clear skies. When the host asked if he was aware of what happened, TAECYEON sincerely wished everyone is safe.
TAECYEON as an idol
“It felt like it was yesterday when we all debuted.” TAECYEON debuted with 2PM on September 2008 with the single album Hottest Time of the Day under JYP Entertainment. As the original beastly idols, 2PM was also known to have devoured the K-pop industry with their acrobatic stunts, unique choreography, and addicting title tracks.
When asked if there was a huge change in his career from 14 years ago to the present, TAECYEON commented that nothing changed with how 2PM members treated each other. “We can always trust each other, help each other out, and support each other.”
“As 2PM, we share responsibility as a team. Responsibility-wise, it’s easier with a group rather than being a solo artist. It’s just you, you’re the only one who has to take care of your everyday business. That’s the only thing that sets it different, I think.”
TAECYEON as an actor
TAECYEON debuted as an actor with the 2010 KBS2 drama, Cinderella’s Stepsister. This was immediately followed by the sensational musical drama, Dream High in 2011.
He has also displayed his excellent skills through Who Are You (2013), Bring It On, Ghost (2016), Save Me (2017), Vincenzo (2021), Blind (2022), and Heartbeat (2023), to name a few.
When asked if there was a specific character, he had portrayed in his previous works that best speaks about himself, TAECYEON said all his roles have a piece of his personality. “I want to extend my spectrum as an actor. I would like to try out something that would show my physique. Like a boxer or swimmer.”
TAECYEON as Hottest’s President
Fans have dubbed TAECYEON as their president as he actively monitors Hottest and OKtizen’s reactions whenever they release an album or project. He then expressed his gratitude to fans who have constantly supported his every endeavor.
So, when asked what keeps him motivated, TAECYEON wholeheartedly said that what keeps him going as an artist is his fans. “You guys are my motivation.”
“Every time I go to work, perform, appear on tv and movie, without you guys, it’s basically meaningless. So, thank you,” he added.
TAECYEON also said there was not much of a difference between him as an actor or singer. “I feel myself to be represented as an entertainer.”
Nearing the end of the press conference, the host shoots one last question to the charming artist. He was asked about what he wanted people to remember him as. “It’s that I made people happy, I guess. I just want to be a part of your life wherein I can be your strength or energy.”
TAECYEON reveals his 2024 goal: “New acting project that will expand my spectrum.” Fans also asked if he could work on a project in the Philippines and he was very open to the idea.
Finally, TAECYEON bids goodbye to fans, leaving a Tagalog expression he had learned. “Kahit umuulan, salamat sa pagpunta.” TAECYEON also wished fans to always be happy and healthy.
Meanwhile, TAECYEON returned to the Philippines for his SpecialTY Fan Meeting in Manila on September 23 at the New Frontier Theater.
Event Covered By: Bea Ibañez
Photos: Charie Navarro
