WayV's Xiaojun on Finding His Purpose: "I Want My Music to Bring Comfort" [Q&A]

WayV's Xiaojun makes his solo debut with his first EP, "Hey, Somebody," exploring themes of healing, self-worth and finding one's place in the world.

The five-track EP and its title track, "Hey, Somebody," are to be released on Oct. 26 at noon KST. The project includes Chinese and English versions of the title track, along with songs Xiaojun helped write and compose.

"Hey, Somebody" follows the journey of someone who once felt like a "nobody" but gradually discovers their own value. The mid-tempo track combines changing arrangements with Xiaojun's vocals to deliver a message of encouragement and self-acceptance.

Xiaojun also took part in developing the title track's choreography and proposed the musical theater-inspired concept for its music video.

The EP marks a new chapter for the WayV member, who hopes his music can offer listeners comfort rather than simply entertainment.

Below is a Q&A with Xiaojun.

Q. How do you feel about making your solo debut?

Xiaojun: I really want everyone to hear this album as soon as possible. I'm excited to think that I can bring even a little more comfort and healing into the world.

Q. Why did you choose healing and comfort as the central themes of this album?

Xiaojun: This album is also part of keeping a promise I made to myself. When I debuted, I said I wanted to become a singer who could give people even a little strength and positive energy. I believe that is one of my roles and responsibilities as a singer.

Q. What has been bringing you the most comfort lately?

Xiaojun: Seeing my thoughts and ideas being accepted, brought to life one by one and eventually turned into a finished work has been a source of comfort and healing in itself.

Q. What did you focus on most while preparing your first solo album?

Xiaojun: I spent the most time thinking about how to understand things from the listener's perspective.I didn't want the album to feel like I was trying to teach anyone something or give them a lesson. I wanted it to feel like someone sharing their feelings and giving them a warm hug.

Q. What kind of song is the title track, "Hey, Somebody"?

Xiaojun: "Hey, Somebody" contains a variety of emotions and arrangements within a single song, almost like a movie. I wanted to convey that we are all special in our own ways, that we each shine differently and that everyone deserves to be noticed and loved.

Q. You participated in writing and composing "Sky High" and "Wave." What messages did you want to convey through these songs?

Xiaojun: "Sky High" has a melody that I really love. I've always wanted to tell fans, "Do you know how much love you're surrounding me with?" I think this song will allow me to express those feelings more openly and share them with more people.

Wave" is for people who may have lost themselves because of the difficulties and disappointments they've faced in life.

I don't want them to feel they need to change who they are, because they're already shining just as they are. Sometimes you might forget how wonderful you are, or perhaps you haven't realized it yet. That's why I want to keep reminding you.

Q. The music video for "Hey, Somebody" has a musical theater-inspired concept. How involved were you in developing its story and choreography?

Xiaojun: I personally suggested the overall direction of the music video's story and I also participated in creating parts of the title track's choreography.

I'm especially grateful that the company actively listened to my ideas. I was really happy to see the things I had imagined in my head come to life.

Q. How did the WayV members react when they heard your solo music? Did they offer any words of encouragement?

Xiaojun: A lot of people around me said the title track was unique and special. Some said they had never heard a song quite like it before. The members were also genuinely happy that I finally had the opportunity to create and present something of my own.

Q. What do you hope to achieve through your solo debut?

Xiaojun: I hope people listen to this album and tell me things like, "This album really gave me strength," or "This song brought comfort to my everyday life."

Hearing those words would bring me more happiness and fulfillment than any other achievement.

Q. What would you like to say to fans who have been waiting for your solo debut?

Xiaojun: You've waited a long time, haven't you? I'll continue to be the "superhero" in your life. I want to help send your worries and troubles far away and lighten even a little of the weight on your shoulders.

I'll always be by your side, giving you strength.