Shorelle, a well-known K-pop songwriter, shares her insights into the process of writing songs for the K-pop industry, including her most recent collaboration as a co-writer on BTS Jin's "Heart on the Window." In this interview, Shorelle discusses her journey in the K-pop scene, her creative approach, and the emotional depth behind her music. She reflects on the differences between writing for artists and writing for TV or movie projects, as well as the inspiration she draws from both personal experiences and universal emotions.

This interview took place via email between November 14 and 17.

Could you please introduce yourself and tell us about your music career? 

Hello, I’m Shorelle, a K-pop singer-songwriter originally from Italy, now living in Seoul. I write songs for renowned artists such as BTS Jin, TWICE’s Nayeon, ITZY, Taeyeon, LE SSERAFIM, EXO’s D.O., KARD, and MAVE. Additionally, I’m often featured as a singer or artist on K-drama OSTs and in video games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Tencent’s Game for Peace.

How did you get interested in K-Pop, and is there a particular reason why this genre of music appeals to you?

I first got into K-pop by listening to Big Bang after some friends recommended them to me. While studying at ACM, an academy for music composers in London, one of my professors offered me a publishing deal to write for Korean and Japanese artists. That’s when I truly immersed myself in the genre and immediately fell in love with it, diving into the music of BTS, Stray Kids, ATEEZ, as well as Jay Park and Gray.

What I love about K-pop is the immense hard work and attention given to visuals and dance routines, as well as the trendy production sounds. K-pop artists truly put on a show for their fans, filled with infectious melodies and catchy dance moves. 

Most importantly, K-pop artists are the ultimate example of how hard work and determination can take you far. As a songwriter and vocal coach, I have met many idols, and I have never seen more hardworking individuals. I think fans can sense the effort that goes into every song and performance, which is probably why they are so loyal and supportive of their idols. 

Which of your songs or projects are you most proud of, and what are the stories or emotions behind them that you hope to convey?

Each song is very special and unique, so I am not sure which one to pick. However, I am currently very excited about Jin releasing “Heart on the Window,” which I co-wrote with Pdogg and Alex Karlsson. During the writing process, as we were listening back to the melodic ideas, the image of a heart on a window came to me. In life, we navigate through various seasons, and things change, including people. However, I believe that a real feeling can survive the test of time, despite the circumstances, just like a heart engraved on a window. Both Jin and Wendy are brilliant singers, but I believe they truly outdid themselves on this song. I was blown away listening to their voices blending so well together, and their vocal performance was deeply heartfelt.  

Five years ago, I remember going to a BTS concert in London and writing a note to myself on the back of the concert ticket: "Never give up, even when the going gets tough. You were born to make music." I wrote this while Jin was performing his solo song “Epiphany” on stage, and I kept that ticket in my wallet all these years as my lucky charm. Now, I get to look back at it and feel proud of how far I have come.

Could you share your experience collaborating with K-pop artists and producers, and how these collaborations have influenced your creative process?

Recently, I was mesmerized by the mind of Pdogg musically while working with him on writing the song 'Heart on the Window' for Jin of BTS. His work ethic really inspired me to do better and work harder. He is by far the best and quickest vocal producer I have ever met, and in general, we just have so much fun working together. No matter how successful one becomes, the creative process requires the inner child to come out—the side of ourselves that we once labeled as “too weird” or “quirky” to be seen while growing up, desperately trying to fit in. The most successful artists and producers I have met so far have one thing in common: they allow that inner excited kid to come out and play whenever they are in the studio. That is where the genius lies; that is how the magic happens when you are just unapologetically yourself.

What emotional or personal experiences inspire your lyrics, and how does your songwriting process unfold from start to finish?

It is different every time and largely depends on what is happening in my life at that moment. If my heart is broken, writing a song is the best way to express unspoken feelings and resentment. It is a way to patch up a story that might otherwise be very sad. I draw a lot of inspiration from my personal life, and I feel like these songs always have something special about them. After all, they say you should only write about what you know, so having a good amount of life experience is useful for a songwriter. But I have also had songs that turned out really well even when I was not particularly inspired but had to submit something. I guess that comes with experience and doing this every day for the past few years.

Do you have a signature style in your song lyrics that sets you apart, and is there a common thread or connection between them?

When writing, I always try to focus on the concept, as I feel it influences not just the lyrics but the melody as well. Most of my songs are influenced by iconic female artists such as Beyoncé, Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, Charlie XCX, Mina, and Billie Holiday. I love drama and clever lines, so I’m never 100% happy with a song until I see the listener thinking, “Oh no, she did not just say that?” 

In terms of a common thread, I would say it’s really just my perspective on life and romance. Songwriting, for me, is therapy time. No matter how many times life lets me down, I can always write about it and turn it into a good song. So, bring on the drama!

Considering that K-pop songs have an international audience, what challenges do you face when translating or considering different cultures while writing lyrics, and what aspects do you pay attention to?

To be honest with you, I just write what I feel. I am relatively young, so I feel like I’m very close to the K-pop audience in many aspects, resonating with similar topics. Social issues such as women’s empowerment, personal growth, and self-love are definitely themes that appear in my lyrics and production. Despite the progress society is making toward gender equality, women are still very much underpaid, and when competing for the same job positions—especially at high levels—they rarely get chosen over male candidates. In the music industry, for instance, only 16% are women or female-identifying, and that includes not just singers, but also producers and songwriters.  

I do believe that lyrics have power and that songs can actually change the world. That’s why, in my own small way, I hope to contribute to inspiring the new generation of young creatives to go after their dreams and never, ever let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do, or what you can or cannot be. You are the master of your life and the creator of your own destiny.

Who are your favorite K-Pop artists or groups?

It is really difficult to choose, but I will go with my top three: Hwasa, ATEEZ, and BTS. As for songs, I wish I had written EXO's “Ko Ko Bop,” ENHYPEN's “Fever,” and iKON's “Love Scenario.” The first two were written by incredible songwriters like Tay Jasper and Alex Karlsson. I am still trying to figure out their writing formulas and unlock the “secrets” behind these bops!

How does it feel to live and work in Korea?

Work-wise, so far Korea has been treating me well. The music industry here is definitely very meritocratic, so if you have the talent and the hustle, people will start noticing and working with you. In terms of my personal life, well, that is a whole other story. I have a lot of amazing friends, but my dating pool is pretty much non-existent.  

I consider myself a strong and independent woman, which is kind of the opposite of the typical Korean male ideal type. I am very outspoken and know what I want, so if I like you, I will ask you out. This attitude is often a cultural shock to Korean guys who, in my experience, tend to prefer a softer and cuter personality in girls. Nothing against that, but that’s just simply not me I’m Italian.

For you, is there a difference between writing lyrics for TV series or movies and for real-life individuals?

I am not sure about other creatives, but for me personally, life is always the main source of inspiration for any song, whether it is for a moving image or for artists. The truth is, everyone goes through similar experiences, no matter where they are from or who they are. As humans, we have far more in common than we realize. Whether in fiction or reality, everyone experiences love, loss, happiness, solitude, and sadness throughout their lives.

The trick is finding the balance between what’s universal and what’s personal, the specific detail hidden in the bigger picture. We listen to lyrics with the hope of understanding and ultimately connecting with their message. Brilliant writing should appeal to a wide audience while still making each listener think, "Wow, this song was written just for me."

What advice do you have for those who aspire to become singers and songwriters in the K-Pop industry?

I think the best advice is to be brave and never give up. Songwriting is like a muscle, you have to train and write a lot of bad songs before you get good. However, one good song can change your career overnight. If you want to be seen as someone serious, you really have to dedicate yourself to your craft day and night. I have been writing songs professionally for almost 6 years now, and I still feel like I am barely scratching the surface! Experience is important, as is networking, so don’t be shy—reach out to people you admire or want to work with. As I have said before, never let anyone tell you what you can or cannot be. You can achieve anything you want if you believe enough in yourself.