AxMxP Is K-Pop Rookie of the Month for September: Exclusive Photos

Ha Yoo Joon

You debuted on Sept. 10. One week later, how do you feel?
Honestly, it still doesn’t feel real. I’ve trained for years with this debut in mind, but I haven’t fully processed it yet.

As the frontman, you’re in charge of leading many moments on stage. How do you handle that responsibility?
I try to reflect on myself often. You can’t completely avoid feeling pressure, but I believe when my inner state is clear, that’s what shows outwardly too. I write down my emotions in a notebook to look at myself more closely.

What did you write most recently?
Something like, “I still feel like I’m only dreaming. I hope I can navigate this period well.” I’ll probably add a few more lines after today’s Billboard interview.

At your Olympic Hall showcase, you performed all 10 album tracks plus one OST track — 11 songs in total. How challenging was that?
It was the first time we had to fill two hours, including stage talk, so I was definitely worried. But once I got on stage, the fans’ energy carried me. Even with music show tapings right after, I didn’t feel exhausted. These days, every moment feels like a blessing.

Of your triple title tracks — “Shocking Drama,” “I Did It,” and “Love Poem (You Make Me a Poet)” — as well as previously released songs like “Monday To Sunday,” “Buzzer Beater,” and “SEE YOU LATER,” which one feels most special to you?
“Buzzer Beater.” It was the first song we received, and it feels like home — like it’s firmly within my range.

You co-wrote lyrics for “Headbang.” Do you plan to compose more in the future?
Definitely. I’ve been working on songs for years and have unreleased material. “Headbang” was something I wrote long ago that finally made it onto the debut album.

How do you balance rapping and singing on tracks like “I Did It”?
It’s exciting. I feel like I have two selves — one rap-driven, one vocal-driven — that are gradually merging into one.

What music inspires you now?
Besides our album, I listen to Stevie Wonder the most. Recently, I also crossed paths often with CORTIS during music shows, and as a hip-hop fan, I really admired their performances.

On stage, you often shout “Make some noise!” What does that mean for AxMxP?
Fans told me they lost their voices at our showcase because they kept shouting back (laughs). I love that connection. Singing alone is fine, but sharing that energy with others — that’s the real magic of being in a band.

What message do you hope to deliver through AxMxP’s music?
Each song carries its own message and color. For now, I just hope those nuances reach listeners. If our music helps someone release emotions they’ve held inside, that’s enough for me.

When have you felt the power of music most strongly?
When I first heard “White T-Shirt” in a taxi, crossing Yeongdong Bridge at sunset. I was overwhelmed and cried. Later, rehearsing that song for our showcase, I felt the same tears again. Music really is like a time machine.