The day K-Pop fans all over the world have been waiting for has finally arrived. Queen HeeJin has made her solo comeback after seven years, and it is every bit as vivid, bright, and iconic as we imagined it would be, if not more. Imbued with the essence of HeeJin's spirited determination and cheerful vibrancy, HeeJin's solo album "K", which stands for Korea, and the title track 'Algorithm' do a fantastic job of ushering in a new era of HeeJin's evolved artistry as a solo artist.

The title track 'Algorithm' visually tells the story of a rebellious modern princess who dreams of exploring the world beyond her palace and becoming a K-Pop star. With HeeJin being K-Pop royalty herself, her song naturally brings out an empowering conviction that inspires us to reach for our dreams, too. Musically, it is a wonderfully addictive blend of 80s disco funk and dynamic K-Pop - so, yet another juxtaposition of the classic and the contemporary, just like in the music video. On the lyrical layer, it speaks of healing and moving on from a breakup when thoughts of an ex keep popping up like an algorithm. Still, HeeJin expresses her will to take the chance and look forward to a rosier future.

While the title track of HeeJin's solo album is undoubtedly dazzling, the b-side tracks are real hidden gems - especially songs like 'Video Game', 'Nokia', and 'Addiction', co-written by HeeJin. With crystal clear vocals like a nightingale, HeeJin captivates in her mini-album, offering a cornucopia of musical colors to immerse yourselves in. "K" may be a commercially successful release but it is also a passion project, and it shows.

In light of HeeJin's grand comeback, Kpopmap had the incredible opportunity to conduct a special exclusive interview with HeeJin. We spoke to her about all things "K" and Korea, as she took fans on a virtual journey of her favorite spots around the country, as seen through her eyes. So, if you want to know about The HeeJin View, complete with exclusive never-seen-before photos straight from HeeJin's own phone gallery, keep reading!

P.S. - We highly recommend listening to HeeJin's solo album "K" on Spotify below while you read the interview for maximum enjoyment!

 

The HeeJin View

Part 1: 'Algorithm'

The Making Of HeeJin's Solo Album "K", Behind-The-Scenes Of 'Algorithm' & More

 

Hello and welcome to Kpopmap, HeeJin! It is lovely to have you with us today. Thank you for taking the time to do this special interview with Kpopmap. Please say hello to global fans and introduce your latest album, "K"!

Hello, global fans!
This is HeeJin. I have made a comeback with my new album "K" and title track "Algorithm," which is my first solo release in seven years. The letter K in the album title is a reference to Korea and the listeners will be able to experience Korea's diverse beauty and charms. So, please check my new release out!

The release of "K" is not only significant to you as an artist but also to fans who have been waiting for you eagerly. It must not have been easy to decide on the concept for this new beginning. Has the idea or theme of this album always been on your mind? Can you tell us more about the brainstorming process that went into the different elements of this album?

It was the concept that the CEO thought of even before I joined Modhaus. When I first heard about this concept, I also found it very interesting!
In addition, I was deeply involved in the production of this album. And I also spent a lot of time thinking about how to integrate the traditional beauty of Korea into K-pop.

In your music video for 'Algorithm', you are a modern princess with a spirited personality who knows what she wants and goes for it. Fans are already wishing it was a K-Drama! What was it like filming in a palace?

It was my first time filming in such a large palace. It was even larger than I expected. I was astonished by its scale. We also had 20 actors who played Gungnyeo (court ladies), which made me feel as if I were a real princess walking around that huge palace by myself! It is one of the moments of my career that I will never forget.

If you could live in the world of any historical K-Drama, which one would it be and why?

I enjoyed watching "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo" very much. So, I want to experience life during the Goryeo Dynasty, which was the historical setting of the show! I want to see what kind of environment people lived in during that era and also wonder what life would be like without the phone.

If you were truly a princess, where in the palace would you spend the most time?

Probably the bed! Lol I love spending time in bed when I stay at home. But I think I need to have my phone with me.

Part 2: The Beauty of "K"

Exploring The Best Of Korea Through HeeJin's Eyes

 

Where in Korea have you found the best people? Can you share a heartwarming interaction or experience you've had with locals that left a lasting impression on you?

I like to have a conversation with the driver whenever I'm in a taxi.
One time, I had a conversation with this driver who told me that he was going to quit his job and was going on a trip to Africa with his wife! He also told me that his goal was to save some money so that he could travel around the world with his wife, which I thought was very sweet. I also learned that there were so many ways that people could find happiness in life in their own way.

Where in Korea have you found the most striking scenic beauty?

There are so many beautiful sites you can enjoy in Korea. I personally prefer enjoying watching how a familiar landscape changes throughout the four seasons, instead of visiting sites that are popular with tourists.
I remember walking my dog, Nori, near the Gwanchoksa temple in my hometown, Nonsan, while cherry trees were in full bloom everywhere.

You are known to be an incredible drawing artist. Have you ever drawn any pieces inspired by the beauty of Korea? Can you please share them with fans?

I tried drawing traditional Korean paintings with the brush pen before, but that was quite difficult, haha. Although I have not tried it after that, I would like to try again if I have the time!

If you had to recommend an off-beat location in Korea for tourists, where would it be and why?

I think a lot of tourists visit Gangnam in Seoul. However, if you make a detour and go to Eulji-ro you'll be able to enjoy the traditional beauty of Korea. I think you can experience a different vibe and unique charm in those places! (P.S. It's also the place where I took a picture for my album jacket cover haha)

During which season is Korea the most beautiful to you?

I believe it's spring. It is the shortest season and you can enjoy cherry blossoms which only bloom for a very brief period of time. I think that this short moment is beautiful.

 

Part 3: HeeJin, Please Recommend!

HeeJin's Recommendations For Your Trip To South Korea

 

Your favorite spot to unwind alone in Seoul

I recommend the Han River.

Your favorite cafe that is a hidden gem

Starbucks in Jeju? There is a signature menu that you can only have in Jeju.

Your favorite restaurant for a comforting meal

I believe having food delivered to your home is the best. I recommend trying pork kimchi jjim.

A unique cultural event or festival that you think your fans should experience in Korea

There is an annual firework festival in Mapo-gu!

Your go-to shopping destination

I like to shop online… but I think Seongsu-dong is the hot place for shopping these days.

The best place to witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset

I think people go to Jeongdongjin Beach to witness sunrise.

Your favorite local snack or street food in Seoul

Tteokbokki from Pojangmacha (street stall)!!! I love those.

A unique dish or specialty from your hometown that you think fans should try

Hmm… my mother's Bulgogi sandwich? lol

Your go-to place for traditional Korean barbecue

I recommend this pork belly restaurant called "Daesam"!

Thank you so much, HeeJin, for sharing your insights and personal connection to Korea with us. It's been a pleasure to explore "K" through your eyes and learn about the beauty of this wonderful country. Before we wrap up, could you tell us about any upcoming plans you have for your fans to look forward to? Finally, do you have anything you'd like to say to fans all over the world who are loving and supporting you?

I am afraid that my recommendations may not be that helpful to you! But thank you so much for reading my interview! I will continue to show a better performance in the future, so please give a lot of love and support to this album!

So, there we have it! Did you enjoy The HeeJin View? What is your favorite song on HeeJin's solo album? Tell us your thoughts and show your support for HeeJin and "K" in the comments section down below!

Don't forget to follow HeeJin on her Instagram (@0ct0ber19) for the latest updates on all things HeeJin and ARTMS (@official_artms) for more on the ARTMS project!