Magician Kim Jun-pyo on AI: "Offline performances will become more important"

Magician Kim Jun-pyo has addressed the questions posed by the advancement of AI technology to the art of magic and the psychological pressure he experiences as an artist. In a video released on the YouTube channel 'Hwang Garam and the Neighborhood Youth,' Kim shared his views on recent AI-related magic trends and technological shifts.

The Intersection of AI and Magic: "The value of offline will grow"

Kim noted instances where AI is being used as a guide for drama auditions and pointed out the emergence of hybrid magic in the magic community, which combines digital elements with traditional performance. He explained that creating magic videos using AI has become technically simple, reaching a level where it is difficult to distinguish from real footage.

Regarding this, Kim emphasized that magic is an art form of wonder and expression, suggesting that magic performed by machines may struggle to deliver the same emotional impact as humans. He predicted that as AI technology advances, the significance of offline performances will only increase.

Curating music and constructing scenarios for perfect execution

The video also revealed Kim's dedication to perfecting his performances. He stated that he designs his scenarios so that all elements culminate at the climax, a process in which he relies heavily on music. He shared an anecdote of traveling all the way to Sinseol-dong to find a CD specifically to use the opening song from the movie 'Le Grand Chef' for a performance.

Kim also mentioned that he studies the foreshadowing and payoff structures in the movie 'Interstellar' to craft the flow of his shows. He explained that he watches the film multiple times and takes notes to contemplate how to replicate similar narrative structures within his performances or Acts.

"Obsession with those who are better": The agony of an artist

Having started magic in his third year of middle school, Kim confessed to the psychological burden he feels when facing performers more talented than himself. He shared that he recently experienced such intense stress that he had to resume psychiatric medication after being unable to practice for over a week due to moving house. He noted that he has been devoting himself to practice to overcome the constant emergence of more skilled performers.

Discussing this obsession, he mentioned that once an artist reaches a certain level, it becomes vital to build a unique character. Kim added that he still feels a sense of excitement balancing his identity as a vocalist performing songs about his own life with his identity as a magician.