H.O.T.'s Kangta Reveals Struggles of Early Days at SM Entertainment

In a recent episode of the TV CHOSUN variety show 'Trot Idol: My Sister's True Heart' (트롯돌 입덕기:진심누나), legendary first-generation idol Kangta (강타) from H.O.T. shared surprising insights about the humble beginnings of his group. Alongside fellow H.O.T. member Tony An (토니안), Kangta discussed various aspects of idol life, from living arrangements to resolving conflicts within the group, offering valuable advice to the new boy group MYTRO (마이트로).

The show, produced in collaboration with SM Entertainment, focuses on the growth journey of MYTRO, who are gaining attention as the next generation of trot idols. In the upcoming eighth episode airing on November 23, MYTRO will receive their second new song titled 'Difficult' (어렵다), following their debut track 'Bam Bam Bam' (밤밤밤). This new song was crafted during a week-long SM songwriting camp that featured over 30 global K-pop composers, with Kangta himself contributing to the composition.

During the episode, Kangta recounted, "When we debuted as H.O.T., there were only four staff members at SM. We practiced in a makeshift studio without mirrors, using the glass windows to check our dance moves at night, and during the day, we recorded ourselves with a camcorder to refine our choreography." He added, "Our aspirations were modest; we dreamed of breaking into the top 10 on music programs."

Tony An also shared anecdotes from their H.O.T. days, providing practical tips for MYTRO. When asked how to handle conflicts among members, he humorously recalled a significant argument over a dumpling. He also shared that he often sought personal time by visiting an internet café in his stage outfit after schedules.

The candid stories and advice from Kangta and Tony An are expected to resonate with MYTRO, impressing viewers like Lee Young-ja (이영자), Song Eun-yi (송은이), and Kim Sook (김숙). The meeting of these first-generation legends with the rising stars of the trot idol scene has generated considerable interest.

'Trot Idol: My Sister's True Heart' promises to bring a fresh wave to the trot genre in South Korea, with the eighth episode set to air at 7:50 PM KST on November 23.