[article-2] Jang Keun Suk’s criteria for ‘Asia Prince Junior’? Must be loyal

Original source: OSEN
English translation: Hazy Lee from ECI

In a blink of an eye, this is the 25th anniversary of his debut. From the little boy in the 1992 undergarment advertisement that everyone is familiar with, he is now a senior where many juniors look up to. Especially establishing a foundation in his name, it also conveyed the key message of the show ‘Produce 101’, and attracted the attention of many.

– You are 30. Compared to when you were in the 20s, any changes or things you hope to change?
I begin to manage my own spending as I no longer receive pocket money. My parents had all along managed my earnings, and now I have to start like a real man. I should start with selling the watches at home and put the money into good use. (laugh)

I hope to change the entertainment market in Korea, groom an all-rounder who can sing, act and do live performance. When these juniors grow up, it will so wonderful to hear them say to me “thank you senior, please be a sovereign”. Will feel so thankful. It is similar to ‘Produce 101’. 101 trainees practicing and working hard, when I attend ‘MAMA’ in future as a guest, I could hug my kids whom I have trained, that will be such a blessing.

– What are your criteria for Asia Prince junior?
To join my company, one has to first gain my trust. If I am investing in a gem, I will support generously. I will be grooming young potentials as a priority with the establishment of my foundation. I will be stringent on the external criteria, but the most important to me is still loyalty. No limit to male or female.

– Your co-lead in ‘Beautiful Man’, IU is now very active with various activities
Very good. Working hard in our own respective field. In fact, I don’t even have her phone number (laugh). My principle has always been, regardless of actors or actresses, to avoid meeting in private so as to get into the role of the drama. Maybe I would if I am curious about this person, but the schedule for filming is usually so tight that there isn’t time for meet up. The scripts are ready in the last minute, hence filming schedule will be aggressive, and so there isn’t any free time.

– Now a Korean Hallyu originator. How do you feel looking at your juniors?
Actually I don’t know the true motivations behind these juniors. Do they really love to sing or perform on stage, or merely to pursue money or a career, but I am sure there will be some who truly love to sing and act amongst them.

– Any junior that you give special attention to?
Jung Yong Hwa. Yesterday we had a ‘You’re Beautiful’ dinner in six years. The main casts all gathered. Yong Hwa is very hardworking. He quietly plays the music he enjoys and writes songs as well. Whenever I invite him for a drink, he never comes along. He doesn’t even look at his phone. Hours later he will reply, “I’m sorry bro. I didn’t reply fast enough”, and I always tell him, “It’s all right. Keep on living a busy life.” I hope he keeps on making great songs to perform and becomes a true rocker. [to be continued…]