The 13-member K-pop boy band Topp Dogg recently kicked off the US leg of their World TOPPKLASS World Tour in Houston, Texas on Feb. 5, to a sterling reception from fans. The tour also stops in Atlanta, Ga. and Miami Beach, Fla.

It was the Topp Dogg's first visit to North America and the first time Houston has hosted a major K-pop showcase. The excitement for their arrival only enhances Texas' growing reputation as a Korean entertainment stop, like New York or LA.

Topp Klass, the band's fan club, showed their support through flashmob performances, a variety of gifts and chanting through many of the performances. Last week, before taking the stage, the members shared their thoughts about the experience with KpopStarz in an exclusive interview conducted in both Korean and English.

Q: Describe the process when you were first asked to join Topp Dogg?

Yano: Well, I learned about it on a website [promoting an audition with Stardom Entertainment]. I sent my demo by email and then got an audition. When I found out that I would be a member of Topp Dogg after my audition, I knew that we would have to work hard [to debut].

Q: How do you record your music--does everyone go in at once or one by one?

Gohn: We go into the recording booth one by one. Depending on the part, whoever's vocals fit, goes in.

Q: Nakta, you first appeared on many fan's radars as a contestant on "MyDOL." Did you feel like any of the other members gave you a hard time as, initially, the most famous member of the group? 

Nakta: I really didn't have a lot of fans in "MyDOL," so Topp Dogg didn't really mind. (Bandmates laugh)

Q: Do you still keep in touch with the members of VIXX?

Nakta: When I see VIXX at showcases or for TV, we do greet each other.

Q: And Kidoh, do you remain in touch with the members of Bangtan Boys?

Kidoh: Yes! Why? Do you like BTS? Who do you like more, BTS or Topp Dogg? (Bandmates laugh)

Q: Who are your favorite rappers and why?

Jenissi: I like 2Pac very much. I first experienced hip-hop in junior high and I like 2Pac very much. I like the songs, "Life Goes On" and "Change." And I think his voice is unique.

Kidoh: Recently, I think Young Thug is the best rapper in America. He's got the most creative flow right now.

Q: So, do you consider yourselves a boy band or a rap group?

Kidoh: As a whole, Topp Dogg, we think we are a boy band.

Q: What was going through your minds last June when your mini album, "AmadeuS," was leaked online?

P-Goon: When the mini album was leaked, we were quite upset. Overall, we thought about it and thought that since it was leaked, people must want to know more about the album and the group. It's another way of thinking [about it].

Q: Is there anything you would like to say to your Western fans?

A-Tom: We feel lucky to have a chance to come to the Western countries. I'm delighted to see the difference between the US fans and the Korean/Eastern fans. I wish we could come to more international countries if we have the chance.

Topp Dogg wants you to keep up with their world tour on Instagram at @official_toppdogg.