Kim Jae-joong Celebrates 20th Anniversary: 'I Won't Limit Myself'
 This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
| ▲ This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, June 26 (Yonhap) -- "I'll be entering my 40s next year, but I still feel like a boy at heart. I'm happy knowing I can still feel stress while chasing my dreams," says singer Kim Jae-joong (38), who debuted in 2003 with the group TVXQ and has navigated numerous ups and downs over the past 20 years.
Having written a brilliant history in both Korea and Japan as a member of the iconic K-pop group, Kim also had moments of regret due to mistakes that embarrassed his fans. Reflecting on the past two decades, Kim expressed gratitude and honor for the time that seems to have flown by. In celebration of his 20th anniversary, he will release his fourth full album, "Flower Garden," on the 26th, filled with his sincere reflections.
 This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
| ▲ This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
In an interview on the 25th at the Incode Entertainment office, Kim described "Flower Garden" as the most meaningful solo album he has released. He explained, "This album celebrates the glorious days of the past 20 years and is dedicated to those who have supported me."
The album features 14 tracks, including the title song "Glorious Day," which reminisces about the love shared with fans, "Shower," which explores thoughts on love, and "Don't," a playful message to obsessive fans. Kim participated in writing most of the lyrics, delivering honest messages. He emphasized the meticulous effort put into perfecting the album, including redoing production just before its release.
He stated, "People will realize that Kim Jae-joong can express himself in this way. I even rewrote lyrics composed by others to match my style. I hope this album will delight listeners' ears, hearts, and eyes."
He also revealed a dedication to perfection, recounting how he discovered a typo in the album lyrics and decided to scrap and reprint 80,000 copies. "A 20th-anniversary album should be collectible, and covering mistakes with stickers was unacceptable," he said.
 This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
| ▲ This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
After founding Incode Entertainment last year, Kim faced financial concerns regarding the profitability of his commemorative album. He resolved to set a good example for his junior idols and was motivated by those critical of his musical activities.
"I need to demonstrate something before advising juniors," Kim said. "Setting limits isn't right. I wanted to leave a good precedent rather than just achieving good results." He added, "I intentionally read negative comments to reflect on myself and improve. Some might wonder why Kim Jae-joong still releases music, but I believe that's precisely why I should."
Having grown significantly in his solo career, Kim aims to showcase more of his potential before turning 40. He discovered new possibilities in rock music and plans to continue challenging himself.
"The track 'The Light' includes lyrics about not conforming to one's age. I still consider myself learning and growing in my 30s. I want to challenge myself more while I'm healthy."
 This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
| ▲ This image provided by iNKODE Entertainment shows singer-actor Kim Jae-joong. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
In addition to his music career, Kim has expanded into other media, such as the YouTube talk show "JaeFriends" and the drama "Bad Memory Eraser," breaking free from the constraints of his group's mysterious image. Last month, he joyfully appeared on the terrestrial variety show "Stars' Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant" for the first time in 15 years following a contractual dispute with his former agency.
"Something so trivial made me tear up with gratitude," Kim said. "Although my schedule is packed until next summer, I'm open to more TV appearances afterward."
Still dreaming big, Kim is filling his 20th anniversary with positive endeavors. He will embark on an Asia tour starting in Seoul next month and plans to establish an Incode branch in Japan. He also hinted at organizing an event with Kim Junsu.
Above all, Kim aims to avoid repeating past mistakes and maintain a long, healthy career. "As both human and businessman Kim Jae-joong, I want to minimize mistakes and fill my life with good deeds. I hope to achieve my dreams despite facing limitations," he concluded.
 Kim Jae-joong Celebrates 20th Anniversary: 'I Won't Limit Myself' |
| ▲ This image of Korean singer-actor Kim Jae-joong is provided by iNKODE Entertainment. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |