8TURN, previously known as BOM (Boys of MNH), is a group under MNH Entertainment consisting of members SeungHeon, YunGyu, HaeMin, MinHo, JaeYun, MyungHo, YoonSung, and KyungMin. They debuted just this year on January 30, 2023 with the mini album titled, "8TURNRISE."
Despite being a fairly new group, 8TURN has grabbed the attention of many K-Pop fans for their catchy songs as well as obvious good looks. Seeing as they continue to garner a huge following across all platforms, it is expected that 8TURN will undoubtedly continue to make their mark in the industry.
On June 26th, 2023, 8TURN released their second mini-album, "UNCHARTERED DRIFT." While their initial debut talked about the eight members waking up the world of familiarity. However, the narrative persists and broadens with this new album as the members delve into the tumult of a midsummer night. Their unpredictable nature leads them to new adventures and goals.
"UNCHARTERED DRIFT" features five new tracks, including the title track 'EXCEL,' which boasts an energy-boosting beat and melody. The message of the song is that "I will be responsible for all my actions" and choosing to overcome any obstacles that come their way while achieving their dreams.
Kpopmap had the privilege of chatting with the up and coming group about their new album.
To start off, can you introduce yourselves and recommend a good movie or K-Drama?
Hello, I’m MyungHo, in charge of wearing cropped tops. I recommend the K-Dramas, “My Mister” and “Misaeng.”
MyungHo
Hello, I'm the leader, JaeYun, 8TURN's stone bed. Lately, I've been really into watching a Korean drama titled "Revenant," and I'd like to recommend it. Actress Kim TaeRi is part of the cast, and her acting is truly impressive!
JaeYun
Hi, I’m the gentle hyung of 8TURN, MinHo. I recommend the drama, “My Mister!”
MinHo
I really like the drama, “Itaewon Class.” It really motivates me to live my life to the fullest every time I watch it.
YoonSung
Hi, this is HaeMin of 8TURN. I'm a fan of Korean dramas like "Mr. Sunshine" and "Our Blues"! These shows offer a seamless blend of narratives and exceptional acting from the cast. It's almost as if you can connect with the main characters and become immersed in their stories!
HaeMin
Hello, I’m KyungMin, the cool guy of 8TURN. A K-Drama I’d like to recommend is “King the Land.” It is currently on air at the moment, and I recommend it because I love watching romance!
KyungMin
Hi, I’m a high-tension member of 8TURN, YunGyu. I really enjoyed watching a K-Drama called “Signal.”
YunGyu
This is SeungHeon, the youngest member of 8TURN. One of the Korean dramas I enjoyed watching is “The Uncanny Counter.” I really loved this show, and I even know all the OSTs by heart!
SeungHeon
With the recent release of your second mini album, “UNCHARTED DRIFT” which song in particular did you feel the most emotionally connected to?
My personal favorite among the songs is definitely the title track 'EXCEL'! Right from the first listen, I became hooked on its powerful sound and melody, so I spent a lot of time mastering the robust vocal performance, which in turn made me more attached to this song.
YoonSung
My favorite has to be 'SKETCH'! The reason is that 8TURN hasn't had many chances to showcase our playful, adorable, and cute aspects on stage yet. Through 'SKETCH,' we're able to fully bring out our charming and lively sides. It's a lot of fun and brings a cheerful atmosphere!
HaeMin
How do you hope your fans will connect with "UNCHARTED DRIFT" on an emotional level?
While working on this album, I pondered over the message of "taking responsibility for my own actions" and thought about how to interpret the direction this song is leading me. Centered around the theme of deviation in everyday life, my hope is that when the public engages with this album, they'll sense a connection to deviating from the norm and find a means of stress relief. I hope that the audience experiences this sentiment through the song.
MinHo
I would be happy if the fans could turn to our music whenever they are in need of a boost of energy! My hope is that our songs can help connect with our fans in different moments, whether it's during their workouts or travel.
YunGyu
MNH Entertainment
Is there a particular memory or event in preparing for this album that you can share with the readers?
On the final day of the music video shoot, there was a scene where I got to drive a cleaning car for the first time! The scene involved a car chase with the security guard, and I recall being very excited while filming that scene.
MyungHo
As we were filming the music video, we had the chance to film with a supporting cast for the first time, and they were students! The choreography during the chorus involved dynamic moves, making it quite powerful. While filming that, YoonSung lost his ear cuff so he was looking for it. While doing that, a little episode unfolded – there were a lot of students there so they all helped him find the ear cuff.
SeongHeon
MNH Entertainment
How do you approach the process of selecting the title track for your album? What made you choose the title track for "UNCHARTED DRIFT"?
Ever since our debut, I've been contemplating the trajectory for our next album and the desired vibe and sound for the title track. After 'TIC TAC,' I thought we needed to present a more vibrant summer atmosphere filled with our passion, which led to the creation of 'EXCEL.'
JaeYun
I wanted to perform a song that exudes a greater sense of maturity and energy compared to our debut album's title track, 'TIC TAC.' In order to showcase this to a wider audience, we returned with the title track of our second album, 'EXCEL.'
KyungMin
MNH Entertainment
If you could describe this album in ONE word, what would it be and why?
I'd choose "growth.” This is because the second album deals with our commitment to evolve from our debut and carve our unique path. Also, throughout the album's preparation, I've witnessed significant growth among our members as well.
YunGyu
I'd pick the word "fun"! Not only did we enjoy performing this song, but also because I genuinely enjoyed singing and dancing to it during our promotions.
SeungHeon
MNH Entertainment
It hasn’t been long since 8TURN has debuted, but looking ahead, what can fans expect from 8TURN in terms of future releases and/or projects? Are there certain concepts that you want to explore?
Starting with 'TIC TAC' and now 'EXCEL,' both songs boast vibrant energy and embody the strong essence as well as the mischievous aspect of 8TURN. 8TURN has the potential to deliver even more intense and passionate music, so I hope everyone looks forward to it!
JaeYun
Since our debut wasn't too long ago, there are a lot of aspects we're yet to reveal. With each member possessing distinct styles and strengths, I’m confident that we’ll be able to pull off a variety of concepts. Personally, I would love to try a dreamy concept.
YoonSung
On a more serious note, how do you handle the pressure and expectations that come with being in the spotlight?
First of all, I'm very excited about being in the spotlight, and that is exactly what I’ve been dreaming of for a very long time. Therefore, I do want more of that spotlight! Also, with that visibility, I aim to present diverse aspects of myself that will allow people to see the new side of me.
HaeMin
I do not get much pressure daily, but I do firmly believe that once you are on the stage, you need to adapt and harmonize with the stage. So I try to refine my skills to suit our stages.
KyungMin
MNH Entertainment
For anyone who does not know 8TURN or is a new fan, what would you like for them to know that sets you apart from other groups?
I would say that each of the 8 members possesses unique personalities and charms. When these diverse qualities converge, it generates fresh synergy and allure. Our impeccable teamwork enables us to showcase every aspect of our group!
MyungHo
Each of us possesses distinct and unique charms; our personalities, voices, and dance styles all differ significantly. Despite these differences, we achieve remarkable harmony and unity. If you observe our stage performances, you'll notice the dance moves are precise and synchronized, yet if you focus on each member, you'll spot subtle differences in their dance styles. This blend of individuality and synchronization allows 8TURN to radiate both personal and team charm!
MinHo
MNH Entertainment
And lastly, anything you want to say to TURNING or new fans?
To TURNINGs and our future TURNINGs! Thank you immensely for continuously showering us with your unwavering support and love. We will commit to constant growth, maintaining humility, and delivering shining performances on stage so continue sending us your love!
MyungHo
To our fans! It has been 100 days since our debut! I'm overjoyed to celebrate this 100th day with all of you and thank you for being by my side ever since our debut. We will not stop to offer you music and performances that will make you proud to be our fan! Thank you!
JaeYun
We will definitely show you our ongoing growth, so please keep an eye on us and continue your wonderful support!
MinHo
To our fans!!! Thank you for being by our side and enjoying this 2nd album! We'll put our heart and soul into preparing for the next promotion, so please look forward to it! Even to our new fans- let’s be together for the longest time!
YoonSung
To TURNINGs and all those who will soon be TURNING! Even though we might not be perfect, please know that we're listening to everything you say! We will surely become artists you can admire and take pride in, so please continue showing your love and support.
HaeMin
Thank you for supporting us as we continue to mature and develop, despite our imperfections! I hope we can continue this journey together, and we will rely on you as much as you will rely on us. To all of our new fans, rest assured that we'll undoubtedly unveil our unique charms! Let's delve deeper into getting to know 8TURN better!
KyungMin
To our fans who always cheer us on and support us! Thank you always! We are determined to present to you many wonderful things, so do keep an eye on us!
YunGyu
To our fans! Our 2nd album promotions have wrapped up successfully, and I wanted to express my gratitude for your enjoyment and support, and for letting us perform with joy! I promise to become someone who can give back this love. To those who have recently joined, we're determined to make your experience even more delightful and filled with happiness!!
SeungHeon
Thank you again, 8TURN for taking the time to answer these questions! We hope that TURNING and new fans will continue to support you in everything!
Make sure to listen to 8TURN's newest album here:
