18 Questions About Maki (Thailand)

"I want to be a singer with a strong aura on stage like a K-pop singer." (Maki, 17, Thailand)

Maki is the so-called "red-haired one" in "The Debut: Dream Academy." She is a Thai girl who has been dancing since she was 12 years old.

In the first mission, we covered NewJeans "OMG" dance. The group mission was completed with a powerful, sharp-angle choreography. Perfect teamwork is a bonus.

It was possible because of the shining efforts rather than on stage. Maki said, "Especially, I prepared for the first mission for a really long time. After the shooting, tears burst out in relief." she confessed.

Maki's run to her dream does not stop.

Q. Self-introduction
My name is Maki. I am 17 years old and I grew up in Bangkok, Thailand. I'm an only child. I grew up doing six artistic activities such as singing, dancing, painting, and ice skating.

Q. What made you dream of becoming a K-pop artist?
Through the K-pop training system, countless artists and idols have debuted and succeeded. It's an opportunity to develop yourself and show the best to the world. I think it's a new way to grow into a global artist.

Q. There are many friends who have come from a long distance and are preparing for it, so what charm of K-pop are you fascinated with?
K-pop is now a global phenomenon and an ever-growing genre of music! K-pop's performance and concept were the most attractive. K-pop artists' performances were very unique and colorful! Communicate with the fans, not to mention the content provided to them.

Q. Which K-pop artist is your role model?
There are many role models, but I want to pick Chaewon eonnie from Le Sserafim! When I met Chaewon eonnie, it was nice that she was so kind and understanding. I felt a strong aura just by standing still. I want to have a strong presence on stage. I want to grow into an artist like her!

Q. What was the most difficult thing while carrying out missions with friends from various countries?
There were many difficulties in each mission. At first, the language barrier was the most difficult. But thanks to that. I think I've grown a lot. I learned how to communicate with each other through gestures and actions! It was really cute and fun. It definitely brought us closer!

Q. What is the most memorable mission? (or training course) and why?
The first mission was the most memorable! This is because we prepared a lot of time to show it to the world! Even the rehearsal was fun. When the shooting was over, all the members shed tears. I felt a sense of relief and pride in each other while removing the makeup. It was a touching moment that I will remember forever!

Q. What was the word that gave you the most energy during the mission?
The words that gave me the most strength during the mission were, "The teamwork is so good and the communication is also good." It gave me more energy.

Q. What is an item or secret that protects your physical strength while participating in "Dream Academy"?
I try my best to take care of myself because health is the most important thing! Take vitamins, eat good food, relax your muscles and take care of my body every day! I don't forget to sleep on nice pillows and blankets either :D

Q. What do you think is your killing point
It's really hard to choose one thing because I love watching TV shows and programs!!! Would you like to be on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert or a Netflix series?!

Q. I think there will be many moments while performing on stage? Please share your secrets for relieving tensions to viewers
Tension comes naturally. I don't think there's any way to stop it. I've been evaluated many times and I've always been nervous whenever I go on stage! But it's good to always remember how hard you've worked and that you're the one who is doing your best!

Q. How did you feel when you were trained with the K-pop system in Korea? And what's changed after the training?
Training in Korea was like a dream! It was an amazing experience, and I loved everything. I learned more about Korean culture, and there were many differences from training in LA. I definitely learned how to be more organized and take better care of myself.

Q. What are the unique strengths of Dream Academy?
I think it's special that you can pull off various concepts. So far, we've been able to show various sides of us in each mission. I'm looking forward to showing you more in the future!

Q. What do you want to achieve after your debut?
The biggest goal is to have a concert or tour! I want to experience the tour life like the seniors I respect! My goal is to release good music and inspire people, too!

Q. What's your favorite Korean food?
I've tried so many different foods here! Honestly, everything was delicious, but I can't get enough of Bulgogi and Mandu! I can eat it every day!

Q. Do you have any nicknames for calling each other?
For me, Brooklyn is Brookie, Celeste is pinkie pie, Ezrella is Ezrelly, Sophia is Spoi!!!! They all have different nicknames for each other. Sometimes it's confusing, but at the same time it's so much fun!

Q. What is your favorite K-Content?
I recently rewatched Netflix's "20th Century Girl." I really like it because it expresses pure emotions well!!! I also watch a lot of K-pop artists' performances. There are many things to learn, so I enjoy watching it!

Q. What's your MBTI?
My MBTI is INFJ! It keeps changing, but I think I've always been an introvert. I think I've become more outgoing as I spend longer time participating in this program. I can say it's half and half.

Q. Where do you want to go after the mission?
Participants' dream is to travel to each other's countries! If I have to choose only one place, I really want to go to Japan or Sweden!!!