Exclusive Interview with KIMU, a look at his career so far

Kim Woo officially entered the music scene through making his debut as a South Korean Singer Songwriter with the single ‘Prolly’ on August 10th 2022 underneath the stage name ‘KIMU‘. He would attract fans from across the globe with his easy to listen to songs ranging from and having the influences of indie, r&b and soul elements within his music. Some current examples including ‘Prolly’, ‘MÉ (for Annie)’, ‘Woo’ and ‘Love & Hate’. 

Surprising fans and kicking off the year, KIMU would release a self written and co composed and co arranged single [ Daito ]. The single itself released on February 10th 2024 showcases KIMU’s use of both the Korean and English language with r&b influences within the song.  

I got the chance to talk with KIMU about his career so far, his discography, tips for upcoming artists, how he views fan culture and more. Keep reading to learn more about what he has to say! 

Firstly thank you for taking the time and consideration for this interview. To start off with the basics, can you introduce yourself to the readers with a fact about you and a message to possible fans? 

Hi, I’m KIMU from South Korea. KIMU

When it comes to music and people in the entertainment agency, people often refer to themselves as ‘fans’. I’m really curious how you as an artist view this? Is there something you would like or wouldn’t like fans to do either when promoting your works or talking about you? How do you view fan culture? 

My fans are really precious to me. My music feels complete when it reaches the world and people listen to it, enjoying it. I do what I love, and it’s beautiful to see others love it too. I believe those are the fans. There’s nothing I don’t appreciate about my fans promoting my work. Every bit of attention and support is deeply appreciated.

With every music release there is always a process when it comes to writing, producing and arranging the tracks into a song that is okay to release. Can you tell fans a little about what your process is like and how you choose what song is suitable to release to the public? Do you have any tips for new artists coming into the scene of do’s and don’ts?. 

First, I choose a beat, and I hum a melody or freestyle on that beat, so the melody comes out first. Then, I write lyrics based on that melody and record it. I don’t choose what to release; I feel it, and then I release it. For the new artists, just keep try and produce music. Then you will find yours.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by KIMU (@kiwmmu)

Your music releases are easy to follow along and sing to, Prolly and your latest release ‘Daito’ are my personal favourites, if you had to pick a favourite, is there a song that sticks out to you or a song you wish to perform at a concert hall one day? Or do you have a different dream in mind for your songs?

I love all of my songs, but if I had to choose one, it would be “Prolly”. It’s a beautiful song, and I believe it will gain more hype later on.

The majority of your releases appear to contain r&b and indie influences, are these your personal favourite musical genres? Can you list some of your favourites or favourite artists?

I listen to most music genres, but hip-hop, indie&Rock and electronic music are my favourites. Some of my favourite songs include Oasis – Champagne Supernova, Lee go do – Mole, Green Day – Last Night on Earth, YOASOBI – たぶん, OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM – Tattoo, Aqua Bassino – Ola, Kendrick Lamar – LOVE.”

Can I ask what your overall goal as an artist is? From performing in a sold out concert hall or to fill a dome filled with listeners. Each artist has a different idea of success and happiness, what does this mean for you?

My dream is to create a song that everyone can cherish and sing along with, regardless of gender, age, or background, and to become a phenomenon.”

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by KIMU (@kiwmmu)

Looking back at where you started compared to now, is there anywhere you noticed a change in how you approach marketing or music? Is there anything you want to say to yourself in the past?

I don’t see any big differences, and there’s nothing to say to myself in the past because it’s the past.

Is there anyone you look to in the artist world for courage or strength in your own hard times? Is this someone you would want to work with in the future?

I want to work with YOASOBI in the future.

Lastly, thank you once again for your time and consideration for this interview! Could you tell us about your last release as well as a final message for the Kpopmap readers?

My last release was “Daito”, it’s a great song that anyone would enjoy it so please listen to it. Thank you Kpopmap and Kpopmap readers and please listen to my musics and keep support me. Thanks!”

KIMU kindly invites Kpopmap’s intrigued readers to explore his discography so far and sing along with him, welcoming them with open arms if they are looking for a new artist to support and don’t forget to let him know your favourite song on his social media.

Have you heard of KIMU’s music before or know a fact about him you would like to share? Consider sharing it with us in the comments! Congrats once again to KIMU for your latest release and to stay healthy during your music promotions.