BUSAN, South Korea—Veteran South Korean singer Kim Gun-mo successfully launched the first show of his new national concert tour in Busan on September 27, marking his highly anticipated return to the music scene after a six-year hiatus. The concert, held at the KBS Hall, was his first official performance since he suspended all activities in late 2019 following a sexual assault allegation.
The comeback stage drew intense attention from both fans and the wider entertainment industry. According to concert producer iStar Media Company, Kim, a legendary figure in K-pop for his numerous hits like "Excuse" and "Wrongful Meeting," had meticulously prepared for months, even remodeling his private studio to match the venue's acoustics.
The 57-year-old singer's return follows a tumultuous period. After the initial allegations arose in 2019, he immediately ceased all public activities, including stepping down from the popular SBS reality show My Little Old Boy. However, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office ultimately cleared him of all charges in November 2021, a decision that was upheld after an appeal. Though legally exonerated, the extended hiatus also saw him navigate personal challenges, including a divorce.
A Period, Not a Comma
Kim Gun-mo opened the concert with a poignant voiceover, referencing his long absence by asking, "Was it a white blank space, or a deep darkness?"
Appearing on stage with a mix of excitement and visible nervousness, he offered a brief but candid update on his life. "I got married, I got divorced, and I lived like that," he shared with the audience. More importantly, he expressed a firm resolve for his future in music, declaring his intention to complete the tour and stating, "This time, I will put a period, not a comma," suggesting a decisive commitment to his career going forward.
The setlist spanned his career, featuring 27 songs, including signature hits such as "Moon of Seoul," "A sleepless night, rain falls," and "Speed." The enthusiastic cheers from his devoted fans pushed the show far past its scheduled run time, leading to two separate encores.
Overwhelmed by the outpouring of support, Kim Gun-mo concluded the emotional night by performing a deep, traditional Korean bow (큰절) to the audience, remaining in that posture for a significant moment to convey his profound gratitude for their enduring loyalty and patience.
The Kim Gun-mo Live Tour will continue across South Korea, with confirmed dates in Daegu next month, Suwon in November, Daejeon and Incheon in December, and a final stop in Seoul planned for early next year. His fervent fanbase has already demonstrated their support, with early ticket sales soaring to the top of major ticketing sites.
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