[Exclusive] “I Fought to Endure and Survived” — Chu Hyuk-jin’s Journey of Limitless Challenges (Interview ③)

These days, skill is a given, but a singer’s personal narrative, character, and sincerity are what truly resonate with the public. Chu Hyuk-jin is carving out his own path, moving forward at his own pace through constant reflection, trial and error, and the strength to endure.

In an exclusive interview with MHN to celebrate the release of his new song “Eopeochina Mechina,” Chu Hyuk-jin shared honest thoughts on his recent activities, musical struggles, evolving stage philosophy, and his future direction.

After making a name for himself on “Mr. Trot 2,” Chu Hyuk-jin received immense love on “Mr. Trot 3” for his unique performance and energy. He proved both his skill and popularity by landing a spot in the final TOP 7 and has been actively meeting fans through the “Mr. Trot 3” national tour.

One of the biggest reasons Chu Hyuk-jin challenged himself again with “Mr. Trot 3” was the “concert stage.” The happiness and energy he felt while breathing with the audience were simply too powerful. While he felt more like a guest in the previous season, being part of the TOP 7 this time gave him a stronger sense of belonging and a more confident mindset.

Of course, the journey to the TOP 7 wasn’t easy. Having already been known through “Mr. Trot 2,” the expectations from those around him felt like a burden. However, instead of aiming for the top titles like “Jin,” “Sun,” or “Mi,” he focused on the realistic goal of simply making it into the TOP 7.

“The reactions around me were split. Some said, ‘You’ll definitely do well,’ while others worried, ‘You’re doing great now, what if you get eliminated early and it looks bad?’ But I felt more like, ‘Even if I’m out in the first round, let’s just sing the songs I want to sing.’ If I failed quickly, that responsibility would be mine. So rather than being greedy, I challenged myself with the mindset of performing without regrets. I didn’t even hope for ‘Jin,’ ‘Sun,’ or ‘Mi’; I ran solely toward the TOP 7.”

From “Mr. Trot 2” to “Mr. Trot 3” and various spin-off programs, Chu Hyuk-jin has spent nearly 5 to 6 years immersed in trot auditions. Through these competitions and broadcasts, he has steadily built his stage experience, public appeal, and his own unique color.

Among these, he picked TV Chosun’s “Golden Friday” as the program that suits him best, explaining that the environment allows him to focus more on the stage and the raw emotion of the music.

“‘Golden Friday’ feels different from other programs. Since the stage and the panel seats are separated, I can focus more on the performance itself. The atmosphere is much more immersive. Also, I don’t just sing my own songs; when legendary seniors appear, I reinterpret their songs, similar to ‘Immortal Songs.’ This adds more sincerity to the music, and I really get to feel the joy of singing.”

With new stars from various trot competitions pouring out every year, contestants with similar images and characters are naturally increasing. Since it’s becoming harder to survive on momentary hype alone, it’s now an era where creating one’s own narrative, color, and sincerity that the public can relate to is more important than just competing in skill.

“I strongly believe that a singer must ultimately show themselves through skill and the stage. Of course, these days, stories about family backgrounds or life experiences get a lot of sympathy and are seen as important. But in my case, I believe the process I’ve walked as a singer itself becomes a narrative that makes me who I am.”

“Actually, I’ve never once regressed or stopped. Even in moments when things weren’t going well, I think I’ve made it this far by enduring, striving, and trying to survive. I believe those times themselves became my narrative. I think that’s why many people notice those parts of me and cheer me on.”

Through his new song “Eopeochina Mechina,” Chu Hyuk-jin delivers the message, “Don’t live too desperately; let’s live a bit more with the flow.” However, there is one value he refuses to let go of: his initial heart for his fans.

“I really want to hold onto my initial heart for my fans, even if I have to struggle to do so. My fandom might grow larger, and I might receive more love in the future. But I don’t think the promises or the feelings between me and my fans should change because of that.”

“Ultimately, the reason I can stand on stage, be loved, and earn money is all because of my fans. I never want to take that for granted. That’s why I want to walk with my fans for a longer time and with more sincerity.”

Rather than flashy success or external conditions, Chu Hyuk-jin’s biggest goal is to remain a trot singer who is remembered for a long time. While he has realistic wishes like a nice car or a nice house, what’s more important is the conviction that he has walked his path without regrets. Instead of being shaken by immediate results, he finds meaning in the process of fiercely running and building his own time.

“I think the most important thing is to keep doing what I need to do. Silently fulfilling my role as a singer and building it up step by step. Of course, since I’m human, I have the greed to do better and hope for good results. But in the end, I believe the key is to keep walking my path without wavering.”

“Looking back, I think I’ve run really hard without any regrets. Even when things weren’t working out, I didn’t run away or stop. That’s why I can say I’m living a life I’m not ashamed of and can be proud of.”

Above all, the greatest strength that has allowed Chu Hyuk-jin to endure is the existence of his fandom, “Chustini.” Every time he hears his fans telling him “don’t lose heart” during tough times, his gratitude only grows.

“Ultimately, my fans are my biggest strength. Whenever I waver, they make me able to stand up again. My fandom has grown much larger than before, but that actually makes me more grateful and cautious.”

“In reality, fans can’t like only me forever. I don’t feel sad or resentful if they come to like another singer. However, I always hope that those who support me now will stay with me for a long time. Just as I have until now, I want to live a life that isn’t shameful to my fans yesterday, today, and tomorrow. So please don’t go anywhere else, and please don’t ‘cheat’ on me. I’m serious.”

Regarding his future activities, Chu Hyuk-jin emphasized that he “doesn’t want to set limits for himself.” While keeping music and the stage at the center as a trot singer, he is always open to challenges in various other fields. Since he enjoys doing things in a fun and interesting way, he expressed his will to expand his horizons rather than trapping himself in a specific image or frame.

“I want to do everything in a fun way. I don’t want to put restrictions on myself. Since I originally majored in acting, I’m always open to acting, and I want to try various challenges in variety shows as well. After all, the world doesn’t always flow exactly how I want it to. That’s why I try to keep everything open.”

“I’m trying to do as much as possible of the things I can do and the things my fans would like. I want to try golf variety shows in the future, and I want to continue showing a great side of myself as a singer by actively promoting on music shows. I hope you look forward to it.”