Summary
Highlights
Taecyeon introduces his new K-drama series 'Heartbeat,' a romantic comedy about a half-vampire trying to become fully human. He explains that he chose this lighter role after a dark and heavy drama, looking for a project that would be fun and allow him to use supernatural powers. The drama is airing on KBS and Amazon Prime, starting June 26th.
Taecyeon recounts his journey into the entertainment industry, starting from his childhood in Korea and his move to Boston at age 12. He describes how he ended up auditioning for JYP Entertainment in New York after seeing a pop-up ad, primarily for modeling, as he expressed no prior interest in singing or dancing. His parents allowed him to pursue the opportunity, and he initially set a one-year trial period in Korea.
Taecyeon reflects on 2PM's debut era (around 2008-2010), a significant period for K-pop with groups like Wonder Girls, Girls' Generation, and Big Bang also rising. He recalls performing early in their career when many fans were still cheering for other groups like TVXQ, which motivated them to work harder. He emphasizes the current close bond among 2PM members, likening it to family.
Taecyeon began acting in 2010 and describes the initial challenges, particularly the stereotypical views on idols venturing into acting. He was initially scared to take on acting roles due to concerns about potentially harming 2PM's image and the pressure of working with established actors like 문근영. He shares a humorous anecdote about asking for fewer lines in his first drama, 'Cinderella's Sister'.
Taecyeon discusses his past and present 'dream roles,' including his desire to play antagonists, which was restricted by his former agency (JYP) to maintain a 'clean image.' He expresses satisfaction with having played villain roles, such as in 'Vincenzo,' and now a vampire. He also talks about his new representation with WME, and his openness to projects in the States, but highlights his preference to avoid stereotypical Asian roles like 'nerds' or 'kung fu kids'.
Taecyeon shares amusing anecdotes from his university days, including taking a final exam in his stage costume after a performance gig in 2009. He also recounts a widely circulated story about 'striking' a Yonsei University student with a cheering stick during a sports competition in 2013, clarifying it was a playful push with an inflatable stick during a post-game celebration, a tradition stemming from a rivalry between Korean universities.
Taecyeon confirms that he actively uses Twitter, searching for his name and 2PM to keep up with fan discussions and even responding to random rants. He describes his recent experience at the Gold Gala as surprisingly fun and emotionally significant, seeing Asian Americans gather and support each other, a stark contrast to his upbringing in a community with very few Asian families. He humorously notes how different the party culture was compared to Korean events.
Taecyeon reminds viewers to check out his new drama 'Heartbeat' and the upcoming 2PM 15th-anniversary concert in September. He also prompts listeners to stream his written song 'Promise' and encourages interaction with the podcast through subscriptions, likes, and comments.