On July 25th, 2021, ED hosted an Artist Class featuring LEE GIKWANG of HIGHLIGHT, where he taught the choreography for his new song “NOT THE END” and answered student questions. Here, we share some of his most inspiring responses that offer a glimpse into his journey and mindset.
Motivation to Achieve Dreams
Question: What motivated you the most to work hard in order to achieve your dream?
LEE GIKWANG: Serena from the US sent me this question. What motivated me to work hard to achieve my dream? I think it would be you all, my fans who are here with me right now. It’s the weekend, a day off, and time is not something you can hold onto. All of you who took this precious time to come see me and take this class with me are my biggest motivation. Even though it’s virtual, collaborating with you all like this, being able to see your smiling faces, and seeing you having fun is making me genuinely so happy. Are you all happy? Good—I see you watching me while eating or looking at your phones. I hope you’re all having a good time.
Mastering Power Control in Dance
Question: People say that you’re good at power control. What do you think about it?
LEE GIKWANG: Sehee from Korea asked me this next question. Hmm, I don’t think that I’m really fantastic, but I guess I just practice a lot. The more I do, a song that felt fast feels slower to me and this gives me some breathing room, which then helps my body learn where to emphasize and where to let go a bit, where I should stop or give a little fast and slow, shall I say? So whatever the choreography might be, I do my best to practice really hard. This helps you dance with your own unique style with great, natural strength control without even realizing it. With things you do with your body, the more you do that thing with your body, the better you inevitably become. I hope that was a good answer.
Finding Worth in Difficult Times
Question: When you’re having a rough time, what is one thing that you look at to remind yourself that what you’re doing now is definitely worth it?
LEE GIKWANG: Miwmiw from Thailand asked this question. This, too, I’m not just saying empty words—interacting with you all and seeing your smiling faces, and when you feel our music and dance and receive it so happily, and put that down in writing and that feeling gets across to me. That’s when I feel so happy. That’s when I feel alive, and think that becoming a singer was such a good decision. So I hope that the pandemic will end soon and I can give you my energy in person, not virtually, and receive your energy as well at a performance—not just me, but the other members want this as well, and I imagine all other singers probably dream of this. You are my treasure!
LEE GIKWANG’s heartfelt responses offer a deep understanding of his dedication, practice, and the value he places on fan interactions. These insights are not only inspirational but also a testament to the importance of perseverance and connection in achieving one’s dreams.
Here’s a highlight video of the artist class and hope you enjoyed this Q&A session!
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