Members of Stray Kids, Bang Chan and Changbin, recently explored their growing international fanbase during a lively conversation on the YouTube channel GYM JONG KOOK. The episode, titled “With JYP Trainers… (Feat. Stray Kids’ Bang Chan, Changbin, Ma Sun Ho, Choi Han Jin),” was released on Thursday. In the video, Bang Chan and Changbin, both known for their impressive talents and strong work ethic, joined fitness enthusiast and singer Kim Jong Kook for a fun discussion.
Kim Jong Kook began by mentioning a recent video featuring JYP founder Park Jin Young, in which the music mogul enthusiastically praised Stray Kids. “I saw the video with Park Jin Young. He was really bragging about Stray Kids,” Kim Jong Kook joked. He then turned to Bang Chan, asking about the group’s rising popularity in the U.S. Bang Chan responded, “I didn’t really notice it before, but lately, we’ve been getting recognized more when we go out.”
When Changbin introduced himself as the group’s producer and rapper, Kim Jong Kook playfully teased, “Stop lying. You’re the gym buff of the group!” This comment got a good laugh from everyone, as Changbin is known for his dedication to fitness.
Kim Jong Kook also shared a personal story about Bang Chan’s parents. “I actually had dinner with your parents in Australia,” he revealed. “I was there for a concert, and the event organizer knew your folks, so we had a meal together. It’s a small world!” Bang Chan was visibly surprised by the connection, adding a personal touch to the interview.
As the conversation shifted to Stray Kids’ upcoming special album, Kim Jong Kook asked, “Are you planning on promoting it on music shows?” Changbin and Bang Chan responded, “If we get the chance, we’ll do it.” In a humorous twist, Kim Jong Kook called over the producer of the popular Korean music show Show! Music Core, who was at the gym. The producer expressed enthusiasm about having Stray Kids on the show, saying, “We really want Stray Kids, but their tour schedule is packed.” Despite the tight schedule, he added, “We’re always open to it whenever they have time.”
To lighten the mood, Kim Jong Kook jokingly said, “Every time I see you, I feel like you resemble Mikey from Turbo,” referencing the iconic K-pop duo. “When you two are together, it’s like seeing Turbo,” he added, drawing laughs from the group.
The conversation also touched on Changbin’s fitness routine. When asked how long he had been working out, Changbin revealed, “About five years.” Kim Jong Kook jokingly asked, “Did the company let you work out like this?” Changbin shared a humorous story: “When I gained about 10 kg (approximately 22 pounds), they told me, ‘Maybe you should stop.’ Then, when I gained another 15 kg (about 33 pounds), they said, ‘Okay, this isn’t good.’ After that, they just gave up trying to control it,” he laughed.
Bang Chan, also known for his athleticism, said, “I’m pretty similar to Changbin. Back in Australia, I used to work as a swimming coach.” When Kim Jong Kook asked if there is any rivalry between fitness buffs from different groups, Bang Chan admitted, “Yes, there is,” while Changbin playfully disagreed, saying, “Not for me.”
Finally, Stray Kids is set to release their highly anticipated new album, SKZHOP HIPTAPE’ 合 (HOP), on Friday.
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