Exclusive Interview: EXO’s Xiumin Discusses His Album ‘Interview X’ and Future Aspirations

EXO’s XIUMIN is making waves in the K-pop world with his latest album, Interview X, which showcases a fresh and diverse artistic evolution from his first solo release, Brand New, nearly three years ago.

Released under his new label, INB100, this marks XIUMIN’s second solo mini-album. The album title cleverly incorporates his name; the “X” symbolizes XIUMIN while the “unknown X” highlights the fresh sides he unveils throughout the project.

Themed around the idea of an “interview,” Interview X offers listeners a deeper insight into XIUMIN’s distinctive artistry. With six tracks, the album features the catchy lead single “WHEE!,” alongside B-sides like “Can’t Help Myself,” “Make You LaLa,” “Switch Off,” “Lost Paradise,” and “Love is U,” which was co-written by fellow EXO member CHEN.

Following the album’s launch, XIUMIN kicked off his much-anticipated 2025 fan concert tour across Asia, dubbed ‘X Times ( ).’ The tour includes stops in major cities such as Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, and Manila.

Before his upcoming Manila concert, allkpop had a chance to sit down with XIUMIN to discuss Interview X, the fan tour, and his aspirations as an artist. Here’s our exclusive interview!

allkpop: It’s been two months since the release of Interview X. What fan reactions have stood out to you?

XIUMIN: The first feedback I appreciated most was hearing fans say that the album’s songs are diverse and worth the wait. It’s great to see such positive responses. This tour has helped me understand what fans enjoy most, and I’m excited to take that into consideration for my next project.

allkpop: What has been the highlight of your tour so far? You mentioned wanting to perform “Make You LaLa” with your fans. How has that experience been?

XIUMIN: I designed “Make You LaLa” for that shared experience with my fans during the tour. Inviting them to sing along has been the happiest part for me—it truly felt like a shared performance culture.

allkpop: This is your first solo tour. How did you prepare for it?

XIUMIN: I always approach every performance with the same dedication, but this time, needing to carry the stage on my own added pressure. I worked hard to make each experience surprising and satisfying for the fans. Thankfully, the positive response has made it all worthwhile.

allkpop: Which tracks are you most excited and challenged to perform?

XIUMIN: I’m super excited for “Make You LaLa,” but I find “Lost Paradise” and “Can’t Help Myself” quite challenging since I haven’t performed them live before. I hope the fans love them!

allkpop: If you could leave a lasting impression on the industry, what would it be?

XIUMIN: I want people to see me as an artist who truly gives his all. I hope to be remembered as passionate and hard-working, continuously growing in my craft.

allkpop: What are your plans for the rest of the year now that you’ve released your album?

XIUMIN: There’s still a lot left in the year, and I’m hoping to release another single album. Participating heavily in Interview X was rewarding, and I’m motivated to produce even more for my next project.

Connect with XIUMIN:

Instagram: @e_xiu_o
X (Twitter): @XIUMIN_INB100