Music is often seen as an extension of the artist—a canvas for their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. When a musician creates a track, they infuse it with a piece of themselves. For the listener, this connection unfolds into moments of realization, a sense of relatability, and a deeper understanding. Today, let’s check out an interview with NAMOOBOY, an indie artist from South Korea. This 26-year-old artist started music as a means of expression, borrowing from his personal experiences and emotions. As years went by, NAMOOBOY developed a sense of what music works best for him and his listeners. He recently spoke to HALSUG about his journey so far and his future plans as a musician.

Q: Hello NAMOOBOY! Please introduce yourself to our readers! Tell us about yourself and tell us why you picked the name “NAMOOBOY.”

Hello, my name is Jeong Seung-hwan, and I am active in Korea as NAMOOBOY. The name “NAMOOBOY” is the name I gave myself when I first started making music when I was 20 years old. It's a name I chose because I wanted to sing about youth like a boy, like a tree.

Q: Your latest single “My Story” with Kim Seung Joo is about a story that starts and ends with oneself. What served as the inspiration for this track?

The year 2024 was a year of turbulent change of mind. As time goes by, my place in this world will disappear and new names and voices will appear. There was a time when I was afraid of the world that was growing around me. I felt like there was no room for me to fit in at that time. But the moment I squeezed into that gap, I felt like I was going to lose myself. So, I decided to just live my life my way, with great courage. This is a song that expresses that commitment.

Q: What prompted you to venture into the music industry? Please tell us a little about your journey so far.

I didn't start music to make money. At some point though, I did start making money with music. This allowed me to read the needs of the public and the trends of the times. I have a bit of a rebellious streak, so I just do the music that I want to do. Of course, it would be a lie to say that one is not interested in the music industry, but I never made music to chase money.

Q: Have you ever faced a creative block when making music? How do you overcome this creative block?

There are many. As I get older, I feel like my creative blockage cycles are getting shorter. These days, I live my life being wary of that cycle. There are two main ways to overcome blockages: sitting at your desk all day and doing things that have nothing to do with your block. I tend to make hip-hop beats or do something else which is productive. If you create anything, that is also a creation.

Q: Which music genres do you find the easiest and the hardest to work with?

This is my very personal opinion, so I hope you don't misunderstand. I don't think there is an easy genre. A genre that's a bit difficult for me is EDM. It's not really my style... haha.

Q: Where do you usually find inspiration when you work on a track?

All of my songs are my stories. The things I've loved and hated throughout my life, going ahead in life, the elements of hate and longing—everything is expressed through a song.

Q: What challenges have you faced in your journey as an indie musician so far?

Being independent means that an artist has to do planning, production, distribution, promotion, and even performance on their own, which is a common difficulty. Fortunately, I realize that I am not a perfect person, and that I do not have much time. My mindset is “I’m just doing it” haha! Then, whether big or small, the results will follow.

Q: When not making music, how do you usually spend your day?

I usually spend my day watching animations or movies at home. When I go out, I sometimes go to see exhibitions.

Q: What are your plans for the next year?

I'm in a band called Frankly. One of the band members is currently serving in the military. They will be discharged from the military next year. We’re planning to prepare for our album activities next year. And as NAMOOBOY, I want to release a big album. I don't know yet if it will be a regular one or an EP (I'm thinking more towards a regular version), and I plan to be active with performances.

Q: Please share with us a message for HALSUG readers.

I am honored to be able to greet HALSUG readers who are living yesterday or tomorrow across the ocean. I dare to hope that one day I will be able to sing my songs to you in person. Thank you; I am NAMOOBOY!

What do you think of NAMOOBOY’s music? Tell us in the comments or connect with us over Instagram or X.

TO STAY UPDATED ON NAMOOBOY:
INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | SOUNDCLOUD

Artist Facts:

Name/Stage name: Jeong Seung-hwan/NAMOOBOY

Birthday: May 17, 1996

Nationality: South Korean

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

MBTI: INTP

Fave Drinks: Coffee

Fave Movies: Christopher Nolan's Movies

Day or Night?: Night

Song/Cover You Are Most Proud of: NAMOOBOY - “My Story” with Kim Seung Joo

Edited by Azat Jumadurdyyev