[Interview②] Kim Heejae "Regular Album Release in June, Supporting 'Mr. Trot' Six Brothers"

'Palsekjo' Kim Heejae's Acting Challenge
"First Full-Length Album Includes Self-Written Songs"
"2nd Year Living Alone, Open to Appearing on Observation Variety Shows"

Photo by Mokoent

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Singer and actor Kim Heejae (27) will release his first full-length album in June. He is determined to catch both rabbits of acting and singing.

On the morning of the 12th, Kim Heejae said in an interview with Asia Economy at a cafe in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, "I am preparing my first full-length album under my name since my debut as a singer," adding, "I think I will be able to present it like a gift to the fans who have supported me around June 7."

The MBC weekend drama "From Now Showtime," which will premiere on the 23rd, is a comedic detective story about the successful magician Chachaung (played by Park Haejin) and the righteous passionate police officer Go Seulhae (played by Jin Giju). Kim Heejae takes on the challenge of acting as the youngest police officer Lee Yongryeol in the drama.

On this day, Kim Heejae said, "My album will be released around the latter part of the drama," adding, "I am carefully selecting and working on the tracks for the album. There will also be songs with lyrics written by me included in the album."

Kim Heejae gained popularity by ranking 7th in the 2020 TV Chosun survival program "Tomorrow is Mr. Trot." He said that the "Mr. Trot" members who auditioned with him also supported his acting debut.

"When I told the 'Mr. Trot' members that I was starting acting, they said things like 'I think you'll do well' and 'It suits you well.' There were many skits and situational plays during the variety show 'Bongsunga Academy.' Even then, they told me I could act. Thankfully, they said they would watch the first broadcast live and support me by monitoring it together."

Photo by Mokoent

Photo by Mokoent

Kim Heejae also showed special affection for the 'Mr. Trot' members. He said, "Since the contract ended last September, we have met personally, but due to the COVID-19 personnel restrictions, we have never all gathered together. Recently, on Boom (Lee Minho) teacher's wedding day, we gathered for the first time in 6 to 7 months, and it felt like we had just seen each other yesterday. We shared updates on our schedules and performances we were preparing, and took photos."

"It's not easy to maintain relationships as adults. But the 'Mr. Trot' members are brothers who will be together for life. It feels like I have six brothers."

Kim Heejae said he plans to watch the first broadcast of "From Now Showtime" with his family. He laughed, saying, "Please understand if I am a bit clumsy in episodes 1 to 3." He also said, "I might have to watch it alone because I think I will be kicking the blanket in embarrassment."

"It's been about two years since I became independent. I like decorating my house alone in a cozy way. I also like lighting. It's not a fully furnished house, but if I get an offer to appear on an observational variety show, I would like to do it. But would it be fun? I'm not flashy or particularly entertaining. I usually keep quiet, but if I get an offer, I would be grateful and probably do it."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.