Promotional photo for K-pop boy group EPEX's 'Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency.' Photos courtesy of C9 EntertainmentMany K-pop idols dedicate their youth to rigorous training in pursuit of their dream to debut on stage. This trainee period is marked by sacrifices as young aspirants often forgo typical teenage experiences, such as attending school or spending time with family and friends, in exchange of devoting long hours to honing their performance skills.

For Yewang, one of the eight members of K-pop boy band EPEX, these experiences were not only crucial in achieving his dream of becoming an idol, but also deeply influenced his connection to the group’s music. They resonate strongly with the themes explored in EPEX’s youth-centered album trilogy.

“Although I have fewer memories of school life compared to other friends, I believe my time as a trainee and an artist after the debut was necessary for my dream,” said the 19-year-old idol, who was just 16 when EPEX debuted in June 2021.

“Thanks to my memories and regrets from the past, I was able to focus on the main themes from this album, which were ‘deficiency’ and ‘choice.’ Also, I could really immerse myself in multiple emotions while recording for this album,” he added.

Yewang was referring to the recently released “Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency,” the second installment to the group’s “Youth” trilogy that began with “Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days” in April. 

Jeff, the group’s youngest member, echoed his bandmate’s sentiment: “I chose my career quite earlier than any of my peers. That resulted in spending little time with my friends, but now I’m growing much stronger with responsibility and pride for my work.”

“I find such various experiences and emotions immensely helpful when expressing music,” he said.

While “Youth Days”—led by the anthemic single “Youth2Youth”—explored the challenges of young adulthood, “Youth Deficiency” delves into the struggles and decisions young people face in confronting their shortcomings.

“‘Youth Deficiency’ conveys more vivid and direct messages in the songs’ lyrics, showcasing the darker sides of youth more apparently compared to the first chapter,” Ayden said in differentiating the two albums.

The eight-track album is fronted by “Universe,” a song that features a shuffle beat and emotive melody. Lyrically, the song is about making a special person one’s entire universe.

“We thought that ‘Universe’ represented the theme of ‘choice’ the best. It clearly shows a strong will to say, ‘My universe must be you.’ Most of all, as soon as we heard the song, we had a strong impression that this must be our new title track,” Baekseung said.

“Youth Deficiency” also features “It Is What It Is,” a bubbly track that tells listeners that it’s okay not to be perfect—something the group believes resonates with many young people. There’s “Attosecond,” which reflects on the fleeting nature of youth, and the uplifting drum-and-bass offering “Wonderful.” Additionally, “Closer” explores the loss of youth, the regrets that come with it, and the eventual growth that follows, among other songs.

Below is the rest of our interview with EPEX, which has been edited for length and clarity.

Q: The album’s title, “Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency,” sparks curiosity because of the term “youth deficiency.” Can you share more about the title and what it represents?

Jeff: We focused on the “deficiency” that every one of our youth would have. As EPEX is also going through youth, we wanted to send a message of comfort that we understand and empathize with your deficiencies.

Q: Before the release of this album, you shared “My Girl” as a pre-release track. What made you choose this song for the pre-release, and how do you feel it sets the tone for the full album?

Yewang: Before sharing the title track “Universe,” we wanted to share the story of the coincidental encounter with the person that one will choose to be their universe. That’s how the whole album’s story could be told. Therefore, we decided to release “My Girl” first.

Mu: In addition, we thought it would help the listeners to be immersed in various emotions from the eight tracks of this album if we pre-release a bright, cheerful love song such as “My Girl.”

Q: You made a comeback after nearly seven months. “Youth Deficiency” features eight songs, similar to your previous album, “Youth Days.” Did you begin working on this album right after “Youth Days” or was it developed in between releases?

Wish: We got into preparing the second full-length album right after wrapping up the first full-length album’s promotions. We worked on this album while going on a tour and filming YouTube content so the schedule was very busy every day, but we had lots of fun. 

Both albums are organically connected in terms of atmospheres and stories, so I think it was a little easier to understand the new album’s concept and songs. However, it feels quite challenging physically since the choreography got even harder. 

Yewang: Since we released two full-length albums in a row, we had many songs to work on and dedicated a lot of time to recording. Especially for this album, in order to convey our message well, we paid much attention to re-recording sessions as well. Looking back, I believe we made a good choice of preparing two full-length albums in a row because we learned so much from working on both albums.

Q: Going back to your “Youth” trilogy, many idol groups are also exploring themes of youth lately. What inspired you to continue tackling this topic and how does EPEX’s exploration of youth stand out from that of other groups?

A-min: Since we’re in our youth right now, we believed that we could deliver the theme most effectively. Also, what sets EPEX apart from others is that we are not only sharing the bright side of youth but also admitting the dark side of it, accepting deficiencies, and overcoming the struggles through tracks with various moods.

Q: It has been three years since EPEX debuted. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned as a group during your careers so far?

Keum: To me, ATEEZ’s advice for us to “burn up the stage every time you’re on it” remains memorable. For every stage, I always think of their comment to really give my best.

Baekseung: I think for me, it’s gratitude. We know the very reason why we can continue our work is because there are company members and staff members who work day and night for us, and most of all, [our fans] Zenith who always sends us love no matter what. 

Q: Any message for your Filipino fans?

Mu: We always feel the great love you send from afar. As much as you love us, we’ll work harder to bring you good memories and make opportunities to meet you in person.

Wish: I personally have a fond heart for the Philippines because I visited the country often when I was young. However, it always feels regretful because I wasn’t able to visit there as EPEX and present our performance to Filipino fans. It is our dream to meet Zenith around the world in person, so we’ll continue working hard to meet Filipino Zenith as soon as possible! Please wait a little bit more!