Interviewer: SAN-HA, congratulations on the release of DUSK! This is your first solo mini-album, and it’s a significant milestone in your career. How did the idea to debut as a solo artist come about, and what was the process of creating DUSK like?
SAN-HA: Thank you! The idea for a solo album has been on my mind for a while, but it became more serious around October of last year. I was really excited to explore this new chapter, but at the same time, I was overwhelmed with thoughts like, “How can I showcase my music to the public?” It was a period of confusion for me. I spent a lot of time researching different types of solo artists, thinking about what kind of music I wanted to make and what style would represent YOON SAN-HA. Should I just sing with a guitar? Should I dance and create a full performance? I took these thoughts to my company, and they suggested channeling that confusion into the album itself. That’s how DUSK was born.
Interviewer: So DUSK is a reflection of your journey toward self-discovery as a solo artist?
SAN-HA: Exactly. DUSK is about embracing the confusion I felt while trying to figure out who I am as a solo artist. The album has two versions: the DUSK version, which captures the struggles and uncertainty I went through, and the DAWN version, which shows me gaining confidence along the way. We deliberately shot the DUSK version first because I wanted to express those awkward emotions on camera. The DAWN version, on the other hand, reflects me finding my courage and getting more comfortable in my new role.
Interviewer: You mentioned researching other solo artists during your creative process. Who were some of your biggest inspirations?
SAN-HA: I looked at a lot of different solo artists, both past and present. Taemin and Kai were big inspirations, but I also studied female soloists like Choi Yena. One artist that really stood out to me was Gemini. I was impressed by how he could fill a room with just his vibe, even while sitting down and singing. That’s something I aspire to—to create an atmosphere that captivates the audience, no matter what the setting.
Interviewer: What were the biggest challenges you faced while working on DUSK, and what brought you the most joy?
SAN-HA: The preparation itself was one of the happiest parts for me. I love my singing voice, and hearing it across six tracks on this album gives me a lot of strength. I’ve even started listening to my own voice in the background while doing daily activities; it feels comforting. The hardest part, though, was working on this project alone. As the youngest member of ASTRO, I’ve always had my bandmates with me, so doing everything by myself felt lonely at times. Learning the choreography, especially for “Bleeding,” was challenging, but it also helped me gain more confidence.
Interviewer: You debuted at such a young age with ASTRO in 2016, and now it’s almost been a decade since then. What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from your journey so far?
SAN-HA: Debuting young definitely made me mature faster. I didn’t go through a typical teenage phase because I was surrounded by people who were already mature, and that environment forced me to grow up quickly. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is about balance. When you’re busy, be fully engaged in your work, but when you rest, really take that time to recharge. Now, when I take a break, I try to enjoy good scenery or do things that warm my heart. It’s important to take care of yourself mentally and physically.
Interviewer: You wrote the lyrics for the album opener “Yeowoobyul.” Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind it?
SAN-HA: “Yeowoobyul” was inspired by the comfort I find in looking up at the sky during difficult times. I often reflect on life when I do that. While researching different stars, I came across the term yeowoobyul, which in Korean describes a star that appears briefly between clouds on a bad day and then disappears. That image really resonated with me because it felt like the star was trying so hard to shine, even if only for a moment. The song carries a sense of longing and hope, and I want it to bring warmth to anyone who’s going through a tough time.
Interviewer: As you continue to explore your identity as a solo artist, how do you hope people will perceive this first step in your solo career?
SAN-HA: I’m still on the journey of finding my identity as a solo artist, and I’m okay with not having all the answers yet. By the time I release my second album, I hope to have a deeper understanding of who I am. For now, what I want people to see in me is authenticity. I put my heart and soul into my music, and I want that realness to come through in everything I do. I hope people can feel the genuine emotions I’m expressing.
Interviewer: Your dedication to staying true to yourself really shines through in DUSK. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, SAN-HA. We’re excited to see where this new path takes you.
SAN-HA: Thank you so much! I’m excited for what’s ahead too.