I AM WHAT I AM

South Korean superstar I.M is all about the new - new music, new challenges, a new start. What exactly does that mean? Ambika Muttoo explains, through a contemplative interview with the artiste

- Ambika Muttoo

You know, a good thing is a good thing. Real recognises real," says I.M through the window of a Zoom call from Seoul, on the eve of the release of his second solo EP, Overdrive. It's a telling statement that offers insight into his psyche, both as an artiste and a human being. For context, I.M (Im Chang-kyun) is a member of the K-pop phenomenon Monsta X, which debuted back in 2015. "When I have confidence in it, I feel like fans have confidence too. And what I'm sure about, fans are very much a hundred percent sure about too," he states softly, about his state of mind during release week - a stretch that could, understandably, be exhausting and nerve-wracking for an artiste. It's also heartening to see his faith in the symbiotic relationship with Monbebe, MX's global fanbase. "So, if it's a really good thing, people are going to recognise me. And, of course, lots of people are going to listen to my album; I really believe that," he adds calmly, as he sits in a spartan room, completely makeup free, swathed in a black hoodie, with dusty, dark blue hair framing his forehead. A single-strand pearl choker with a gold clasp makes its presence felt around his neck. However dressed down I.M might be, he always has style. That quiet confidence is born from artistic evolution, and this current six-track album offers proof.