Remix spoke with BIBI about her first world tour and her upcoming concert in Auckland
Remix caught up with K-pop’s cutest star, BIBI, to talk about her first world tour and visit to New Zealand shores. Genuine, quirky, and maybe one of the sweetest artists we’ve ever met, the 26-year-old is the latest sensation taking over the whole industry.
Image via @nakedbibi
How did you get into the creative world, and when did you start singing?
My early life was very normal. My family wasn’t wealthy—in fact, we were going through a hard time—and I had no idea that I could ever become an artist. When our financial situation improved a little, my family bought me a smartphone—I think I was 14. That’s when I started listening to music, watching YouTube videos, and discovering movies and slowly, my creative world began to open up. But even then, I didn’t really think I was making music, or that I’d become a singer. To me, being an artist meant being poor, and I always felt like I needed to make money—money, money, money—because I have a big family to support. I wasn’t pursuing music with a goal in mind, but then Tasha and Tiger JK found me on SoundCloud and reached out. And that’s how my career began.
How has your first-ever world tour been so far, and have there been any challenges you’ve had to navigate already?
It’s actually been a really smooth ride overall—except for when I got sick in Austin. It lasted the whole week and felt really long. Looking back, I’m 100% sure it was COVID. Because of that, I couldn’t hold hands with fans, which made me really sad. In LA, things got worse, and I had to get a steroid shot just so my throat would work again. It was the most painful shot of my life—I honestly felt like cutting my arm off, it hurt so much! But other than that, everything else has been smooth, and I’m feeling much better now.
Image via @nakedbibi
And what are you most excited about with this tour?
Of course, New Zealand and Australia! I’ve never been to New Zealand before, so I’m really excited. I love travelling and exploring new places. I’m not sure what other artists do when they’re on tour, but I hang out a lot with my dancers and the rest of our team—we’re like a little family. I’m especially excited to check out the thrift shops and go shopping. That’s honestly one of my favourite parts.
Image via @nakedbibi
What was the inspiration behind EVE: ROMANCE, and what did you want listeners to take away from that album?
This came from a dream I had when I was around 20 or 22. Over time, I added more details until it evolved into a complete story. I just hope that listening to my music helps people be kinder to themselves. I mean, go hard, chase what makes you feel good. But if you’re going through something, I hope you find peace and joy. I’m getting emotional... I just really love people. When I see my fans, I see so much kindness—they’re such lovely people. I don’t want them to get hurt. I don’t care about your race, beliefs, or gender. I just want everyone to feel loved.
Image via @nakedbibi
What is your favourite and least-favourite thing about the industry you’re in?
My favourite thing about this industry is the people—there are so many good people. Some are a little crazy, but crazy doesn’t mean bad! It’s fun, it’s energetic, and there’s always something going on. One thing I don’t love, though, is how much it can focus on appearances. I wasn’t a ‘cute’ kid growing up, but I’ve always been a confident girl. I never thought it mattered that I wasn’t considered cute—I knew my music was what mattered. But now, I do find myself caring a bit more. I wear more makeup, and I go on diets. And honestly, I don’t think that’s necessarily a bad thing. Wanting to look cute isn’t wrong, as long as it doesn’t define you.
Image via @nakedbibi
What steps do you take to help keep yourself mentally and physically balanced throughout the madness of being BIBI?
Go to your therapist and take your supplements—seriously. Working out helps a lot, too. I love reading and focusing on the little, everyday things. My personal favourite? Drinking wine with my friends on the weekend... starting at 10 am.
How different is BIBI to you personally?
I’m actually a very nerdy person. When I’m performing, I know I’m acting. I become dramatic, edgy, and full of energy. But in real life, I’m pretty chill. I watch movies, cry a lot, binge anime, and play games. That’s the real me.
What has been your most surreal moment so far in your career?
So far, this tour has had a huge impact on me. Seeing so many fans—I didn’t realise how many there were. Seeing their faces and even touching them made me realise just how many good people there are in the world.
BIBI will perform at Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre on October 15th. For complete tour and ticket information, visit
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