DAY6’s Sungjin releases first solo album ‘30’ with title track ‘Check Pattern’

Since his debut in September 2015 as DAY6’s leader, vocalist, and guitarist, Sungjin has anchored the group with his powerful voice and exceptional instrument skills. He has helped shape DAY6’s musical identity, writing and composing hit tracks like "Congratulations", "Time of Our Life", "Welcome to the Show", "Happy", and "I’ll Try".

His first full-length solo album, 30, captures stories from his journey to age thirty in ten tracks. With a mix of emotions and reflective lyrics, Sungjin hopes his music can lighten the burdens of his listeners, even if only a little. The title track, "Check Pattern", explores the themes of meeting, parting, and regret, using the pattern of checks to symbolize the interconnectedness of life’s emotions. Its sound brings together piano, guitar, bass, and drums, creating a profound resonance.

Ahead of the album release on November 5th, Sungjin shared some personal insights on 30, describing it as a memoir that marks a new chapter in his music journey.

Interview Highlights with Sungjin

Q. 30 is your debut as a solo artist. How do you feel about releasing an album filled entirely with your own voice?

• First, I want to thank our My Day (fandom) who waited so long. It’s also exciting that now every member has a solo track, making us a team where everyone has their own spotlight.

Q. 30 reflects your journey to the age of thirty. What made you decide to base the album on this age, and what message do you want to convey?

• I wanted to capture my thoughts and experiences in music, and I finished these songs just as I turned thirty. This album discusses universal emotions and situations that most people experience. I hope it offers some comfort to those who listen.

Q. How has turning thirty been different from your twenties? How do you see your future musically?

• In my twenties, I imagined I’d have more peace and growth at thirty, so I focused hard on each day. Reaching thirty, I found myself paying attention to the present and learned to take care of myself. I feel more at ease now. Musically, I expect to explore more diverse themes and delve even deeper as I gain more life experiences.

Q. What made you decide to release a full-length solo album for your debut? What do you see as the biggest appeal of being a solo artist?

• I focused entirely on the messages I wanted to convey through music rather than the album’s length or form. Each song has its own story and message, which is why I put them all together in one album. The best part of being a solo artist is the freedom to express my ideas from start to finish.

Q. For Check Pattern, you collaborated with MonoTree’s Lee Joo Hyung and singer-songwriter Jukjae. How was the process, and what should listeners focus on in this song?

• Working with Lee Joo Hyung and Jukjae really added depth to the song, and it was a learning experience. Personally, when I listen, I imagine cozy, winter scenes. But ultimately, I want listeners to find their own interpretation.

Q. You’re the last DAY6 member to release a solo debut. Did your members offer any advice? How did they react to your album?

• They told me not to stress and to go for everything I want. When they listened, Wonpil liked Check Pattern, Young K preferred "Like a Child in a Fairy Tale" and "I Don’t Wanna Lose".

Q. You wrote all the songs in this album. Which track are you most attached to, and why?

• I’d say "I Don’t Wanna Lose". It was the first song I started writing for this album, and I put a lot of time and care into it.

Q. Your song "Afraid" has over 7 million views on YouTube. Are there songs on this album with similar vocal intensity?

• Thank you to everyone who continues to love "Afraid". I’d say "I Don’t Wanna Lose" has a similar vibe.

Q. Your pre-released track "Wednesday Night" is included in this album. What inspired it, and are there other songs with unique backstories?

• I thought "Wednesday Night" was perfect to share with My Day at our fan meeting because it reflects our time together. I also spent a long time perfecting I Don’t Wanna Lose, wanting it to be something special.

Q. You’ll hold your first solo concert from November 8 to 10. How do you feel about this milestone, and what can fans expect?

• I still can’t believe it’s happening! I want the concert to feel like an intimate experience where the audience can truly enjoy my music.

Q. DAY6 continues to gain popularity, with sold-out shows and chart-topping songs. Do you have any goals as a solo artist?

• My only goal is not to bring any shame to DAY6. I hope my music can connect with people and offer comfort when they need it.

Q. Any words for My Day who have been waiting for your solo debut?

• It’s been a long wait, hasn’t it? Thank you for your patience. I hope my album can bring you comfort whenever you need it. Stay healthy and happy!

SEE ALSO: Netizens react to DAY6 winning their first Daesang nine years after debut