If you’ve ever been healed by the warm and refreshing vibes of K-Dramas, you must have heard of SORAN. Since their debut in 2009, they have become the ultimate choice for music fans seeking comfort through their life-inspired lyrics and melodies. Although the group has now transitioned into a "one-man band" led by Ko Young-bae, he has further elevated SORAN’s signature humor and sensitivity to a whole new level.

In this interview, Ko reveals that his inspiration often stems from the most mundane daily routines, because "life-adjacent" moments are what spark the deepest flutters of the heart. For his upcoming Taipei show, he not only expressed interest in collaborating with Hebe Tien and Karencici but also shared poignantly that if he were to write a song for Taipei, it would be a story of first love—tinged with a hint of sadness and lingering echoes, much like a Taiwanese film. Are you ready to shout your heart out at Billboard Live TAIPEI? SORAN is ready to warm your soul with his most sincere voice.

Q1: Transitioning from a trio to a "one-man band" led by you, what has been the most direct chemical change in SORAN’s musical color? You’ve mentioned moving forward with the blessings of your former members—how do you reinterpret the classic songs created collectively as a band now that you stand on stage solo?

• SORAN: Since I decided to keep the name "SORAN," I intend to maintain the music and performance style we’ve always had. At the same time, I’m working with my new touring musicians to add fresh musical elements and interpretations to our works.

Q2: Your lyrics turn daily trifles—like salad or reading—into moving stories. How do you capture the "musicality" in these ordinary moments? Your shows are famous for high interaction, and Billboard Live TAIPEI is a very intimate venue. What kind of interaction are you expecting, or is there a specific chant or move you’d like the Taipei audience to learn?

• SORAN: I believe expressions close to daily life are more heart-fluttering and relatable. Musically and lyrically, I strive to keep things accessible so that listeners feel a sense of closeness. Moments at home or emotions from interacting with fans become themes for my music. That’s why I’m so excited to spend time with the Taipei audience. A SORAN show is much happier when we shout and sing along together. Please, scream as much as you like! I’ll teach you the details when we meet, so just come with an open heart.

Q3: Have you heard any music from Taiwanese artists? Who left an impression, and is there anyone you’d particularly like to collaborate with?

• SORAN: I really like Hebe Tien’s "A Little Happiness" and Karencici’s "I’m Jealous." The emotional depth of their lyrics left a strong impression on me. It would be amazing if we could collaborate someday.

Q4: What is your impression of Taiwan? If you were to write a song for Taiwan or Taipei, what kind of song would it be? Is there anywhere specific you want to visit or any local snacks you want to try during this trip?

• SORAN: I had a very happy time traveling here a few years ago. The beef noodles and dim sum were so delicious that I definitely want to have them again. If I were to write a song inspired by Taiwan, I’d want to create something with the atmosphere of a sentimental Taiwanese movie—a song about the slightly sad and bittersweet lingering feelings of a first love.

"A SORAN show is always happier when you sing along loudly!" This is our unchanging promise. From his obsession with beef noodles to his anticipation of the warmth of Taiwanese fans, Ko Young-bae returns to Taipei with years of happy memories.

On April 11, join us at Billboard Live TAIPEI to experience a musical energy quite different from massive festivals—one that is close enough to touch. Tickets are on sale now. Just come and have fun!