Jay B (제이비), leader of K-pop boy group GOT7, recently gave an exclusive interview, speaking in depth for the first time about past controversies concerning his private life. He admitted to having been careless in the past and stated that he now profoundly understands the responsibility that comes with being a public figure. Describing his transformation, he said, "The old me is dead," revealing a journey of much self-reflection and a desire to repay his fans' unwavering support through his actions.
Jay B met with media at a café in Seoul on October 27. He debuted in 2012 as a member of JJ Project, a duo under JYP Entertainment, alongside Park Jin-young (박진영), who is now active in acting. In 2014, he re-debuted as a member of the boy group GOT7 and has long served as its leader, holding a significant position within the group. While many fans acknowledge his contributions to GOT7 over the years, past controversies have disappointed some supporters, and related discussions continue to draw attention.
In 2023, Jay B sparked discussion due to a private life controversy when private messages he exchanged with a non-celebrity woman on social media were leaked. Additionally, in 2021, he faced controversy during a personal social media live stream when a wall in a corner of his room was seen covered with numerous close-up photos of women's backs and lower bodies. The images drew widespread public criticism after they were revealed.
Addressing the past incidents, Jay B admitted to feeling a profound sense of responsibility and acknowledged that his past actions were indeed careless. He stated, "I truly feel a deep sense of responsibility. I believe my past self was too careless. Honestly, except when attending events or working, like walking on the streets in the Hapjeong area, I don't really feel like a celebrity."
However, he further reflected, believing he should not neglect the responsibilities of a public figure simply because he doesn't feel like a celebrity in private. "That in itself isn't necessarily wrong, but rather than holding onto that mindset, I feel I should take more responsibility for myself." He confessed that he hadn't truly realized the impact of his identity in the past, but is now gradually coming to terms with the weight of this responsibility.
Jay B then revealed that he spent a lot of time reflecting. He said, "Honestly, since I was young, I've always found it hard to see myself as a celebrity, which is why I thought some things weren't a big deal, but that was actually my mistake. At the very least, I should have been aware to some extent that I am a public figure and lived with a corresponding attitude. Now, I truly feel how heavy this responsibility is."
Speaking about the meaning of his fans to him, Jay B also showed a sensitive side. He shared that the lyric that resonated most with him in his new album was: "I can't help you, but I can sing for you." He believes that to his fans, he is like an MP3 player; while he may not be able to directly assist them in real life, he hopes his music can be a companion.
Jay B said, "In reality, there's not much I can do to help them. But if they tell me I've helped them even a little, I would be very grateful." For him, even if he cannot truly intervene in his fans' lives, it is meaningful if his songs can bring comfort at some point.
He also admitted that he felt very sorry to his fans when the controversies occurred. "These things never happened when I was still at JYP Entertainment. Back then, I just felt I needed to work hard, but I don't know when my thinking went wrong." Jay B stated that realizing this made him want to repay his fans in his own way even more, and he hopes not to disappoint the support he has received all along.
Regarding whether the public misunderstands him, Jay B's answer was quite humble. When asked if he thought the public misunderstood him, he countered, "Misunderstanding? Does everyone really know me? I think now is the time for everyone to get to know me."
He then added that at least many people know GOT7, and Park Jin-young is more easily recognized by the public due to his appearances in multiple dramas. However, if the name Jay B is mentioned alone, he isn't entirely sure if the general public would immediately recognize him. "Perhaps some people know, but I don't think there are any deep misunderstandings about me. Perhaps this is also my responsibility, my responsibility for not actively letting everyone get to know me." He laughed as he said this.
Speaking of new fans who are just getting to know him, Jay B said the feeling is quite strange, even making him wonder, "What kind of person am I?" He also thanked these new supporters for being willing to get to know him, but jokingly added that he hopes they don't dig too deeply into his past.
"The old me is dead, gone. I have been reborn," Jay B said, describing his transformation. He also expressed gratitude to fans who supported him at different times. To fans who have been with him for many years, he wanted to say, "Thank you for always being my friend." To fans who have only recently gotten to know him, he said, "Please take care of me from now on, and thank you for being willing to be my friend."
Jay B admitted that he always treats his fans as true friends, but this does not mean he will act carelessly. After experiencing past controversies, he seems to have a clearer idea of the person he wants to be, and he hopes to slowly rebuild public perception and trust through his music and actions.
