interview by JANA LETONJA

JINI, a talented solo artist, has captivated audiences worldwide with her mesmerizing vocals and unique style. This October,  she released her much-anticipated debut EP, showcasing her incredible musical talents and pushing boundaries with her innovative sound. In addition to her rising career in music, JINI has been chosen as a distinguished ambassador for MAC Cosmetics.

Jini, this October you released your debut EP, which showcases your unique style and innovative sound. Tell us more about it and what inspired it.
‘An Iron Hand In A Velvet Glove’ is the name of my debut EP and it shows contrasting sides of myself that I wanted my fans to see. It has unique sounds, but it’s also easy listening. I think my album has a variety of styles that everyone can enjoy. 

vest and skirt GCDS
earrings and belt MON SECRET

top ORIENS
skirt COPERNI
shoes THOM SOLO
sunglasses and bag LUAR
bracelets LETRA
rings MON SECRET

How did your career in music begin? What made you passionate about music from early on?
I enjoyed watching weekly K-pop music shows when I was young. It naturally became an inspiration and my goal to work towards a career in music. 

What are your biggest dreams for the future of your musical career?
Since I’m just starting my solo career, I want to go on tour to meet more fans and perform on stages worldwide.  

Besides music, you have also become an ambassador for MAC Cosmetics. How did this ambassadorship come together? What excites you the most about it?
I was given a great opportunity to become an ambassador for MAC Cosmetics before my solo debut. I’m really excited to be attached to an awesome brand and enjoy using products that I already loved.

dress COPERNI
rings LETRA

top UNROW TOP
earrings and rings MON SECRET

top MARK GONG
sunglasses GENTLE MONSTER
earrings and rings MON SECRET

Beauty is also strongly connected with fashion. How important is fashion to you?
I have a lot of interest in beauty and fashion. I’m constantly trying to discover the new trends and think about what would be most fitting for me.

When you are not performing or in the studio recording, how do you love spending your time? What are your biggest passions beside music?
I’m a homebody most of the time. I like to stay comfortable when I’m not working, so I enjoy pampering myself with a massage from time to time. Lately, it’s my passion to stay warm since Seoul is too cold right now. 

What can you share with us about your exciting upcoming projects?
I’m already back in the studio working on more music right now, trying to figure out what would be the best sound and performance I can showcase after the first EP. I want to travel more and meet my fans everywhere.

full look LUAR
shoes PARIS TEXAS

full look MARK GONG

TEAM CREDITS:
talent JINI
photography ANGELLA CHOE
creative direction & styling KENDY
lighting direction BYRON NICKLEBERRY
hair YUICHI ISHIDA using Authentic Beauty Concept / K18 Biomimetic Hairscience 
makeup HAYLEY KASSEL using Shiseido and RMS Beauty
nails MICHELLE TRAN
set design JIAHAO PENG
styling assistant JAMIE VEAR
production ISAGANI MILLAMA
public relations PLATFORM PR
studio CONSCIOUS MINDS STUDIO
editor TIMI LETONJA