CNBlue, UVERworld rock together with 'Unlimited Challenge' in Seoul

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CNBlue, UVERworld rock together with 'Unlimited Challenge' in Seoul

Published: 28 Jul. 2024, 14:06 Updated: 28 Jul. 2024, 17:17

Bands CNBlue and UVERworld at Pia Arena MM on June 15 [FNC ENTERTAINMENT]

The vibrant worlds of Korean and Japanese rock collided on Saturday as Korea's CNBlue and Japan's UVERworld held their joint concert "Unlimited Challenge" at Korea University's Tiger Dome in Seongbuk District, central Seoul. This performance marked the second installment of the concert series, following its debut on June 15 at Pia Arena MM in Japan, and was UVERworld’s inaugural performance in Korea.

In anticipation of the Seoul show, the two bands held a joint interview on Friday at FNC Entertainment headquarters in Gangnam District, southern Seoul. The session featured CNBlue’s vocalist Jung Yong-Hwa alongside UVERworld’s vocalist Takuya Shimizu and drummer Shintarou Tamaki.

“It is nice that this exchange happened for a second time,” said Jung. “I am learning so much [from UVERworld].”

Jung shared that he was seeking new motivation at this point in his career, and the Japanese band’s live performance gave him what he needed.

“I was shocked by the overwhelming energy and the way the band sequenced its songs in the setlist,” he said, reflecting on UVERworld's impact during their joint concert in Japan. “I was also influenced by how the message it wanted to convey through music is powerfully delivered on stage sets with visuals playing on the back screen.”

Rock band UVERworld [FNC ENTERTAINMENT]

“We went on stage after CNBlue finished its set anxious — in a good way — since they were great performers,” said Shimizu, commenting on the two bands' performance in June. “I also tend to use my whole body energetically when performing, but Jung seems to do even more physical activity on stage than I do. It is something I respect.”

The collaboration between the bands was conceived over a shared meal. Shimizu said he attended a CNBlue concert in Japan as a fan, which led to discussions about the idea of a joint concert over food.

“I always thought CNBlue was a really great band, so when they said they'd like to work together, I eagerly jumped at the chance right then and there,” he said.

“We were talking about our love for live performances,” Jung added. “UVERworld seemed to share our attitude toward performing live, and that made us want to work together."

Rock band CNBlue [FNC ENTERTAINMENT]

Reflecting on the June concert, Jung described it as “writing a story of our own,” emphasizing the mutual inspiration and positive influence for fans of both bands. Shimizu expressed his desire to continue collaborating, saying that he hopes they can keep doing joint performances, even in very large venues, despite the pressure and challenges.

"It was a shame that fans in Japan didn't know about such a great band,” said Shimizu. “I wanted to let people know there are such wonderful artists through the concert."

Bands CNBlue and UVERworld [FNC ENTERTAINMENT]

CNBlue debuted as a four-member rock band in 2010, with its first EP, “Bluetory,” elevating the group to fame with the lead track “Loner.” The band restructured itself as a three-member band after the departure of Lee Jong-hyun over accusations of involvement in the Burning Sun scandal.

UVERworld is a six-member rock group known as the band behind the theme song "D-Technolife" from the anime "Bleach" (2004-2012). Formed in 2000, it has released 11 full-length albums. UVERworld is beloved as one of Japan's representative rock bands, having played in major venues such as Budokan, the Tokyo Dome, and Nissan Stadium.

BY KIM MIN-YOUNG [kim.minyoung5@joongang.co.kr]