[Hanteo On-Site] Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jongup: A Comeback Filled with Tears and Emotion

The members of the group B.A.P have reunited after six and a half years.

Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jongup held a media showcase at Ilji Art Hall in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 8th to celebrate the release of their EP 'CURTAIN CALL' and to kick off their new activities.

The reason why their new album is attracting attention is that it marks the reunion of four members from the legendary group B.A.P, a name that still resonates with many K-pop fans.

Debuting in January 2012, B.A.P quickly rose to popularity, sweeping rookie awards that year and gaining high popularity, particularly in Europe and overseas, being recognized as a leading 'global idol' group.

In this context, Bang Yongguk introduced the album, stating, "This 'CURTAIN CALL' album carries the meaning of us returning to the stage to respond to the fans who cheered for us after we had left the stage."

Jung Daehyun added, "Our top priority was to show the four of us together again. We wanted to showcase how we've grown in various ways during the six-year hiatus," expressing his determination for their comeback after a long break.

However, this comeback will not be under the name B.A.P or a new team name, but rather under the members' individual names. Regarding this, Yoo Youngjae said, "We thought it would be great to perform under our original team name, but realistically, it was difficult. We discussed creating a new team name, but after having been active under that name for so long..." He couldn't hold back his emotions and broke down in tears, evoking a sense of poignancy.

Jung Daehyun quickly explained, "When we realized we couldn't use the original team name, we decided it would be better to perform under our real names, which is why we came out like this."
 

While it is certainly a joyous occasion for longtime fans to see Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jongup together again, it is unfortunate that the youngest member, Zelo (Choi Junhong), could not join them in this activity due to his military service.

Moon Jongup explained, "We naturally thought we would reunite and had been talking about it for a long time. So, I proposed this project to match the timing of Youngjae's discharge from the military. Although we were concerned about preparing for activities right after his discharge, Youngjae was supportive, so we were able to come together. Of course, we also talked to Junhong about it, but since he enlisted last year, it couldn't be helped. Junhong is cheering us on from afar."

Yoo Youngjae also added, "Junhong helped a lot with receiving songs and is supporting our activities. We're really grateful for that. Even while he's in the military, he constantly checks in, asking if we need anything or if everything is going well. Junhong really wants to join us, but the situation doesn't allow it. We're hoping to work together when a good opportunity arises."

With the hint of Zelo's future participation, it's clear that this album is not their last. Bang Yongguk emphasized, "The concept of this album is an extension of the album we wanted to create as B.A.P. Now that the album is out in the world, the word 'last' has been used. Think of it as the end of our world view. We are always thinking about reuniting as a team. I hope people don't get too caught up in the word 'last.'"

Given that this is their first stage as a team in a long time, the members are putting a lot of effort into this comeback. They are set to appear on Mnet's 'M Countdown' today and will also hold a fan concert.

Jung Daehyun shared, "We prepared the setlist with songs that fans love. We're practicing hard to perform our existing songs even better than before, so that fans can keep their nostalgia for us. Of course, it's become more physically challenging, so we're putting in a lot of practice."

Moon Jongup expressed his excitement, saying, "I want to enjoy this promotion. We've missed out on a lot of time together, and I regret that. I want to enjoy this time with the members and the fans."

'CURTAIN CALL' is the first new release by Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jongup in about six and a half years, following B.A.P's eighth single 'EGO' in 2017.

The title track 'Gone' breaks away from the stereotypical idol music mold and focuses on showcasing the members' vocal abilities. The lyrics capture the mixed emotions of reminiscing about the fans and the complex feelings the members are experiencing at this moment. Bang Yongguk's participation in the production added significance to the track.

Additionally, 'CURTAIN CALL' includes a total of five tracks: '빛바랜 날들 이젠 잊고 다 안녕,' 'Love,' 'Stand it all,' and 'Way Back.' It was released at 6 PM on the 8th.