Stray Kids’ Bang Chan and Changbin Share Hilarious Behind-the-Scenes Stories with Kim Jong Kook

Stray Kids members Bang Chan and Changbin recently discussed their growing international fanbase in a fun and engaging conversation on the YouTube channel GYM JONG KOOK.

The episode, titled “With JYP Trainers… (Feat. Stray Kids’ Bang Chan, Changbin, Ma Sun Ho, Choi Han Jin)”, was released on Thursday. In the video, Changbin and Bang Chan, known for their impressive talents and work ethic, joined fitness enthusiast and singer Kim Jong Kook for a lively discussion.

Kim Jong Kook started by mentioning a recent video with JYP founder Park Jin Young, where the music mogul couldn’t stop praising Stray Kids. “I saw the video with Park Jin Young. He was really bragging about Stray Kids,” Kim Jong Kook joked. He then turned to Bang Chan, asking about the group’s increasing popularity in the U.S. Bang Chan shared, “I didn’t really notice it before, but lately, we’ve been getting recognized more when we go out.”

When Changbin introduced himself as the group’s producer and rapper, Kim Jong Kook couldn’t resist a playful tease: “Stop lying. You’re the gym buff of the group!” The comment got a good laugh from everyone, as Changbin is known for his dedication to fitness.

Kim Jong Kook also shared a fun story about Bang Chan’s parents. I actually had dinner with your parents in Australia,” he revealed. I was there for a concert, and the event organizer knew your folks, so we had a meal together. It’s a small world!” Bang Chan was visibly surprised by the connection, which added a personal touch to the interview.

As the conversation shifted to Stray Kids’ upcoming special album, Kim Jong Kook asked, “Are you planning on promoting it on music shows?” Changbin and Bang Chan responded, “If we get the chance, we’ll do it.” In a humorous twist, Kim Jong Kook called over the producer of the popular Korean music show Show! Music Core, who happened to be at the gym. The producer expressed his excitement about the possibility, saying, “We really want Stray Kids on the show, but their tour schedule is packed.” Despite the tight schedule, he added, “We’re always open to it whenever they have time.”

Kim Jong Kook, ever the jokester, lightened the mood by saying, “Every time I see you, I feel like you resemble Mikey from Turbo,” referencing the iconic K-pop duo. “When you two are together, it’s like seeing Turbo,” he added, drawing laughs from the group.

The conversation also delved into Changbin’s fitness routine. When asked how long he had been working out, Changbin revealed, “About five years.” Kim Jong Kook jokingly asked, “Did the company let you work out like this?” Changbin shared a funny story: “When I gained about 10 kg (approximately 22 pounds), they told me, ‘Maybe you should stop.’ Then, when I gained another 15 kg (about 33 pounds), they said, ‘Okay, this isn’t good.’ After that, they just gave up trying to control it,” he laughed.

Bang Chan, also known for his athleticism, said, “I’m pretty similar to Changbin. Back in Australia, I used to work as a swimming coach.” Kim Jong Kook asked, “Is there any rivalry between fitness buffs from different groups?” Bang Chan admitted, “Yes, there is,” while Changbin playfully disagreed, saying, “Not for me.”

Finally, Stray Kids is set to release their highly anticipated new album, SKZHOP HIPTAPE’ 合 (HOP)’, on Friday.