Jason Edwards – Interviews
There are festivals that leave a mark from the very first encounter, not only through their programming, but through the atmosphere they radiate. I discovered this festival in 2024, almost by chance, and immediately felt that it possessed something distinct: a sincere energy, an open stage where Korean and international artists could express themselves without filters, and an audience ready to experience each performance as a shared moment. Since that day, supporting this festival has become second nature, both as a reporter and as a direct witness to its evolution.
It is within this framework that I had the opportunity to conduct an email interview on August 2, 2026, with Kang Woo-in, an artist whose dance communicates far more than physical movements. His style—raw, free, and deeply instinctual—carries the marks of a personal journey where dance served a salvific role. On stage, he does not seek calculated perfection: he seeks truth. And the audience senses that truth immediately.
This edition of the festival brought together talents from diverse horizons, blending dance, DJ sets, hybrid performances, and unexpected collaborations. Among them, DJ MOOBEK, a key figure in the scene, provided Wooin with a platform where his energy could fully expand. Their duo, born from a chance meeting at a former agency, transformed into a natural collaboration driven by mutual admiration and obvious artistic complementarity. What stands out about Wooin is his approach to dance: treating it as a breathing space. He recalls traversing a difficult period in his life when a friend introduced him to this path. Since then, every movement has been a way to find liberation, rebuild himself, and convey authentic emotion. His groove, often described as unique, stems from this claimed inner freedom. Nothing is forced, nothing is exaggerated: everything is lived.
His first step onto the festival stage was a mixture of excitement, gratitude, and personal drive. He speaks of joy and shared energy, but also of that slight frustration that fuels a desire to push even further—a clarity that does not hold him back, but instead feeds his ambition to return with an even stronger performance, particularly at an upcoming event in Hawaii.
What he wishes to offer the audience is straightforward: a moment to leave everything else behind. Just as dance helped him navigate his own difficulties, he hopes his performances offer spectators a pause—a moment where worries fade to make room for joy, movement, and collective energy.
Today, Wooin moves forward with ambition and humility. He aims to explore new stages, take on new challenges, develop his distinct artistic identity, and deliver performances that bring strength and smiles. Through this interview, he looks back at his journey, his identity, his collaboration with MOOBEK, and his upcoming projects, revealing a sincere, passionate artist deeply attached to the idea that dance can be a sanctuary, a light, and a bridge for universal emotions.
1. Could you introduce yourself and explain how you started dancing?
When I dance, I can forget painful memories and heavy worries. Those moments provided a genuine source of comfort for me. Gradually, dance became much more than a simple hobby: it became an essential part of my life and the most precious starting point of who I am today.”
2. How did your collaboration with DJ MOOBEK begin?
He appreciated my approach and subsequently suggested that we work together. That is how our collaboration began naturally.”
3. What do you enjoy most when performing on stage with MOOBEK?
4. How would you describe your dance style and artistic identity?
This natural and singular expression is what makes my performances unique.”
5. Do you prepare your choreography in advance, or do you improvise based on the music and atmosphere?
For me, the combination of prepared movements and spontaneous expression is what makes a performance feel alive and allows for real communication with the audience.”
6. How did you experience your performance at this festival?
I was happy from start to finish. Sharing my energy with the audience was a truly precious moment. After the performance, I reflected on certain parts that I wished I had executed better, which left a bit of lingering regret—but that is also what motivates me to grow further.
Next time, I would like to return with an even more polished and enjoyable routine, particularly in Hawaii.”
7. What message or emotions do you hope to convey to the audience through your performances?
Jumping, laughing, sharing energy... If these moments can remain in their memories as a fond recollection for a long time, then I will have achieved my goal.”
8. What are your future plans or goals as a performer?
I want to remain consistent, never give up, and become an artist capable of bringing joy and smiles to many people. I hope you will look forward to my upcoming performances and continue to follow my journey. Thank you very much.”