With the persistent hazy conditions in Singapore over the past few days, there was no surprise that Lee Hongki of F.T. Island, a Korean pop rock band in town for a one-night concert, found the weather too hot for his liking, even though he had initially welcomed the change in temperature, having arrived from ice-cold Seoul last night. The stylist had the 5 flower boys decked in proper smart outfits for the Press Conference, which provided no relief for the lead singer's plight. Despite the heat compelling Hongki to wear his sunshades throughout the whole session, he was in his bubbly self and answered most of the questions posed during the Press Conference, held at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel on March 7.

When asked if there were any special segment for the Singapore concert, the charismatic lead singer emphasised that the 5 members had organised this Asia tour on their own and gave lots of input. Lee Jaejin (bass and vocal) was thankful to all their fans and professed that in return, the members will give their all for the Singapore FTHX (combining FT and Thanx) concert.

When asked on the greatest challenge they had as a band, Hongki claimed that there had been too many during their 8-year journey, "It's definitely not easy debuting at a young age and being the 1^st idol band in Korea, many had wondered how long F.T. Island can last in the industry, despite their acknowledgement that we were really good at playing instruments". The band has come a long way; they currently can make the type of music that they want - which will be apparent in their upcoming album which incorporated all the members' ideas and musical tastes. Although they are not sure of the acceptance level, they are highly anticipating the fans' reaction to this upcoming album.

Choi Jonghoon, F.T. Island's leader who happen to celebrate his birthday today, when asked if he will show any part of his well-toned body during the concert, after spending hours in the gym for the past few months "Although I've been working out, but I'm not ready to reveal any time soon!"

Jaejin, who sang the OST for Hongki's new drama Bride of the Century, declared "It's actually my first time following a drama and it was really fascinating to hear my singing in the show. However, I find Hongki's acting a little awkward in the first 2 episodes, perhaps due to his long absence from acting but he definitely got into the role from the 3^rd episode onwards". To defend himself, Hongki protested that only people who are usually around him felt that he was pretentiously acting in the role, but on the other hand, the audience found his acting natural.

To end the Press Conference, each member was asked to leave some words for their Singapore fans.

Song Seunghyun, guitarist commented "Although I've not been here for the past 2 years, I really like the fans and this country. We want everyone to enjoy the concert tomorrow." Jaejin mentioned that it was great to meet many of his fans during his previous visit for Kpop Star Hunt 3 finals, although they kept asking when F.T. Island will have a concert here, "Finally, we are here and I really hope everyone enjoys themselves tomorrow."

Choi Minhwan, the mild mannered youngest member finally spoke up "I hope we'll have a good show tomorrow. For fans that are used to wearing heels, we encourage you to wear sneakers so you can enjoy our music." Hongki further urged fans to bring towels and wear sneakers tomorrow as their arms and legs will certainly be very tired after the concert. Although being mocked by Hongki that he spoke like a pastor, the good natured Jonghoon ended the session with "Today is really a happy day, I'm delighted to be here in Singapore and I'm sure we'll have a great show tomorrow."

The group showed great camaraderie throughout the Press Conference which ended with a photo session for the media.

Watch the entire press conference captured by the KpopStarz team!

The 2014 FTISLAND 6th Anniversary [FTHX] Live In Singapore will be held at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on March 8, 2014 at 7pm.

Special thanks to ONE Production for inviting KpopStarz.com to cover 2014 FTISLAND 6th Anniversary [FTHX] Live In Singapore Press Conference.

Writer: Wang | Photos and Team Lead: Ong Melin