Most are likely familiar with the global phenomenon "Way Back Home," a masterpiece crafted by the hands of SHAUN. As a hit-making producer for titans like BTS and EXO, SHAUN has always maintained a low-profile yet cool-headed craftsmanship within the world of music.

Ahead of his performance at Billboard Live TAIPEI on May 2nd, SHAUN joined us for an exclusive interview. This time, stepping away from the electronic flash of the DJ booth, he arrives with a brand-new Full Band setup. He admits that he isn't obsessed with record-breaking numbers; instead, he is eager to present his most private and pure emotions—embodied in his new works "LAST PAGE" and "Diary"—to his Taiwanese fans, much like a well-filled book.

Q1. Your song "Way Back Home" became a global sensation. How has this success affected your life? What does it feel like to have a track with over 5 billion streams, and do you feel more pressure when writing new music in the future?

A: To be honest, I don't think my life has changed significantly because of just one song. Rather than focusing on record-breaking numbers, I believe every moment of that journey was a necessary step in making me who I am today. As for pressure, I think that if you try to satisfy everyone’s expectations or standards, your musical range inevitably becomes narrow. So, instead of worrying about what listeners might want to hear, I try to focus on expressing what I want to share. I believe that’s the only way I can continue my musical journey in a healthy way.

Q2. This tour specifically emphasizes a "Full Band" arrangement. Compared to the electronic energy of your usual DJ Sets, what kind of emotional depth or tension do you feel the band arrangement adds when performing your new project "LAST PAGE"?

A: My new single, "Diary," is a track where I focused specifically on "delivery" rather than trying to make it sound fancy or flashy. In the past, I enjoyed layering sounds or joining contrasting expressions, but for this song, I kept everything as clean and simple as possible so that the message wouldn't be overshadowed. I hope that through the band set, the audience can feel that raw, natural quality and harmony more vividly and comfortably.

Q3. Having produced songs for idol groups like EXO and BTS, what is the biggest difference in your mindset when writing for others versus creating for yourself? Do you tend to save your most private or experimental ideas for your own albums?

A: When I work on my own albums, I focus on faithfully capturing who I am at the moment. This EP, in particular, is a collection of the emotions and thoughts I experienced throughout 2025, put together like a well-filled book. Rather than setting up a grand narrative or universe, I prefer to pack my albums with the sounds and messages I want to express freely as a producer and singer-songwriter.

Q4. You’ve mentioned admiring the Taiwanese singer ØZI. Do you have plans for any international collaboration projects? Besides ØZI, are there other Taiwanese artists whose music has left an impression on you, or anyone else you’d like to work with?

A: I sometimes listen to Taiwanese musicians’ music but not quite specific with who I listen to. I’m always open to trying new things if the opportunity arises. I always want to create great music and share it with people, and I’d love to perform anywhere I’m invited. I hope to interact with more Taiwanese artists through this visit and find new inspiration from the local scene.

Q5. Have you ever been to Taiwan before? What is your impression of Taiwan, and is there anywhere specific you want to visit or any local snacks you want to try during this trip?

A: I’ve always had the impression that Taiwan is a place with very warm and passionate energy, so I have high expectations for this visit. Taiwan is famous for its diverse and delicious street food, and although I’ll be busy preparing for the shows, I definitely want to take some time to experience the local flavors. Most of all, I want to take this opportunity to connect with my fans in Taiwan through music and return home with healthy and happy memories.

"Rather than conforming to others' standards, I focus on expressing my true self." Perhaps this is the secret behind SHAUN’s ability to consistently create moving melodies. From his excitement for Taiwanese cuisine to his admiration for local artists like ØZI, SHAUN is ready to share the private chapters of his musical diary on an intimate stage.

On May 2nd, witness how SHAUN reinterprets his legendary hits with a Full Band. As the music flows, let’s turn to the latest page of his musical journey together.