Singer-actor Lee Jun-young is back with a project that cements his status as a true all-rounder. Fresh off the Netflix series "When Life Gives You Tangerines", Lee dropped his first mini album "Last Dance" on Sept. 22, marking a show-stopping return to his roots as a recording artist after five years.
For the former U-KISS member, "Last Dance" is a full-spectrum showcase of his identity―singer, actor, and dancer―highlighting the color and confidence he brings onstage, including performances under his dancer moniker, Liberty.
The lead track "Bounce" is a tight hip-hop cut with razor-sharp, rhythmic production built for head-nodding and freestyle-driven choreography. Its co-title track, "Why Are You Doing This to Me", is a soaring ballad that puts his solid tone and explosive vocals front and center. Together, the dual singles flex two completely different sides―dance and ballad―winning over global fans in the process.
The set also includes "Insomnia", "Mr. Clean" (feat. Reddy), and instrumental versions of the double title tracks. Notably, Lee co-wrote and co-composed "Mr. Clean", infusing the album with a deeper, more personal sound.
Keeping the momentum of his global breakout, Lee walked us through the new record in a candid Q&A.
Here’s Lee Jun-young’s Q&A about his first mini album, "Last Dance".
Q. How does it feel to return as a singer after five years with "Last Dance"?
A. It still feels a little surreal. It hasn’t fully sunk in yet.
Q. Tell us about the dual title tracks, "Bounce" and "Why Are You Doing This to Me".
A. "Bounce" rides a beat that makes your head move without thinking, and the choreography leans into freestyle hip-hop. "Why Are You Doing This to Me" captures the emotions of lovers at a breakup. The two songs pull in opposite directions―and that contrast is the point.
Q. Why did you decide to go with double title tracks?
A. Our team held a title-track vote, and the two songs tied―so we made them a pair.
Q. What should fans watch for in the "Bounce" performance? Any signature moves?
A. The uninterrupted flow. Like the lyrics say, the goal is to move however you want―that’s the heart of it.
Q. You took part in writing "Mr. Clean". What story were you aiming to tell?
A. I wanted to capture how I’ve been feeling as my surroundings and circumstances changed.
Q. What do you focus on when creating music, and where do you find inspiration?
A. I’m most inspired when I’m with my dancers. For this album, I kept the process loose and easy―very instinct-driven.
Q. Any memorable moments from recording, photos, or the music video shoot?
A. For the first time, everything came together quickly and smoothly. I even thought, “Is it okay for it to be this problem-free?” It made me feel like, “I must be living right.”
Q. You’ve been everywhere this year―projects, TV shows, ads, photo shoots, an Asia tour. Was prepping the album overwhelming?
A. I didn’t feel pressured. I treated it like it might be my last and did everything I wanted to do, thanks to the support from the Billions family, 20 incredible dancers, Reddy for the feature, and everyone who poured their energy into "Last Dance". I’m truly grateful.
Q. If you had to sum up "Last Dance" in one word or sentence?
A. Romance―because the feelings I have right now can only be captured right now.
Q. Any reactions or labels you’re hoping to hear, or goals you want to hit with this release?
A. None in particular. I’ll just keep my head down, stay consistent, and give it my all―like me, as always.
Q. A message for fans who’ve been waiting for your new album?
A. I’m truly sorry to have kept you waiting. I made this with joy, and I hope you take away a lot of positive energy. Stay healthy and be happy!
Photo= Billions
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)