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Wonpil, ‘First Idol to Enlist in the Navy’: ‘I longed to return and perform as a full group; I praise myself’

DAY6 Wonpil.

DAY6 member Wonpil has pledged a long future with his fans. Following the release of his first solo mini-album, ‘Unpiltered,’ Wonpil is set to hold a solo concert at Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium in Songpa-gu, Seoul, from May 1st to 3rd, where he will connect with his audience.

When asked about the challenges of preparing for the new album, on which he is credited for every track, and the upcoming concert, Wonpil stated, “I’m still in the preparation phase, and now I must confront the reality of it. I wasn’t sure if I could do it, but I have held a solo concert before. I am preparing a stage and songs that My Day (his fan club) will enjoy. I don’t want a performance that only makes me look cool,” he revealed.

He offered a meaningful smile, careful not to reveal any spoilers, and added, “My Day will genuinely enjoy it.”

Wonpil.

With ‘Wonpil-like’ being the central theme of this album, what does ‘being himself’ signify for Wonpil?

Wonpil began by stating, “I try not to talk about difficult things. It’s pointless. When I have moments alone, things resolve themselves. I tend to forget easily,” but he admitted, “I’m sensitive when it comes to music. I’m still discovering what kind of person I am.”

Like blossoms enduring the harsh winds of late winter to bloom again in early spring, Wonpil has proven to be much stronger than expected.

Instead of simply stating it was difficult, Wonpil calmly said, “It’s something I want to do and have dreamed of my whole life, so it’s not hard.”

“I just want to do well. There are peers who dream of the same career and work tirelessly, and I am already in this position, so I feel happy and excited every moment,” he smiled.

DAY6.

DAY6 has now marked its 11th year.

After completing military service in 2023, DAY6 achieved a chart resurgence with ‘You Were Beautiful,’ earning public reevaluation and setting new standards for idol bands. Last August, they became the first domestic band to hold a concert at Goyang Sports Complex to celebrate their 10th anniversary.

Reflecting on his past, Wonpil expressed pride: “It was tough every time I embarked on a naval aircraft carrier. It was scary too. I only dreamed of completing my military service and returning as a full group, and I’m grateful to be active now and want to praise myself.”

Wonpil previously made headlines in 2022 as the first idol to enlist in the navy.

“Among the members, we jokingly say we’ll perform with IV drips attached. We look forward to our 15th and 20th anniversaries. What kind of music will we be doing at our 20th anniversary?” he shared, expressing his expectations.

Wonpil.

Meanwhile, a week before Wonpil’s comeback, fellow agency artist Yuna of ITZY made her solo debut on the 23rd.

Wonpil laughed, saying, “It’s not a competition. She prepared diligently for her debut. It would be great if we both do well. If my labelmates ask, I do all the challenges. We can offer what we can, but there’s nothing to get in return,” he joked.

Meanwhile, Wonpil’s first mini-album ‘Unpiltered’ and its title track ‘Love Ward’ will be released at 6 PM today.

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