Photo Credit: SM Entertainment
On November 18th, the Handball Stadium at Olympic Park in Songpa-gu, Seoul, served as the venue for Kai's first solo concert tour 'KAION', which captivated attendees.
The concert was meticulously structured into four thematic segments, each reflecting the emotional tone of the songs performed: 'The Stranger in the Mirror', 'The Many Selves Within Me', 'All Selves Unite', and 'A New Journey of Mine'. The visual presentation was enhanced by the use of Kai's English typography 'KAI', synchronized VCRs, a large LED screen, and intricately designed props, all contributing to a rich visual experience.
The performance commenced with 'Sinner' from Kai's third mini album. Dressed in a striking red ensemble, he continued with 'Mmmh' from his debut mini album and 'Nothing On Me', eliciting enthusiastic chants of his birth name, 'Kim Jongin', from the audience.
Kai, with a radiant smile and evident delight in the audience's reception, addressed the attendees, reflecting a strong bond with fans in every section of the venue. He asked, "Did you miss me?" and candidly shared, "Although today is the second day, my nerves are more heightened compared to yesterday. Initially, it was about the anticipation of 'Can I do this?', but now it's the eagerness to excel and savor the moment."
The conclusion of the first segment featured performances of 'Hello Stranger', 'Slidin'', and 'Ride Or Die', spanning his first and third mini albums.
Transitioning to the second segment, Kai delivered dance routines set to EXO's tracks 'My Lady', 'Baby Don't Cry', and 'Into Your World'. Sporting a three-piece suit, he soloed these dances, with fans providing vocal accompaniment. Kai further engaged the audience with a heart gesture during 'Come In' from his second mini album.
Reflecting on the EXO medley, Kai queried, "How was the EXO medley after such a long time?" Adding, "Dancing to EXO-L's voices after so long was deeply moving, evoking nostalgia. It felt like a journey from our debut to the present with all of you, and 'Into Your World' nearly brought tears to my eyes."
Kai continued, "I hope the opening and bridge videos resonated with you. The feedback has been phenomenal. They depict the evolution of the new Kai. Perhaps you saw a fresh side of me. Even after 14 years, there's so much yet to unveil. New facets of me are constantly emerging," he said, pledging 'eternity' with his fans.
Appearing in rimless glasses, Kai performed 'Vanilla' from his second mini album, transitioned to the title track 'Peaches', and concluded with 'Adult Swim' from his fourth mini album.
"Let's shift the vibe," Kai announced, now in a suit jacket. He drew fervent applause with 'Wait On Me', the leading track from his fourth mini album, followed by 'Pressure', 'Walls Don't Talk', and 'Bomba' from his third mini album.
As the third segment began, Kai emerged in a leather jacket and black cap. The presentation of the unreleased solo track 'Confession' and 'Domino' from his second mini album heightened the concert's intensity.
Attempting to catch his breath, Kai remarked, "This is the excruciating section," over the applause of EXO-L. He articulated, "This concert was to reaffirm my presence. I wanted to ensure that the time you spent waiting and supporting me was worthwhile. Above all, I aimed for you to reassess your emotions for me. 'That's why I appreciate Kai', 'Only Kai fulfills my expectations', 'Kai is my true dopamine'—these are the sentiments I hoped to cement."
He encouraged, "Let's go wild today," leading into a performance of 'Reason' from his first mini album.
As the concert neared its conclusion, Kai expressed gratitude, saying, "Today was a genuinely joyous and fulfilling experience. I am deeply thankful that my fellow members attended the performance," acknowledging Suho, Chanyeol, and D.O. He continued, "Their encouragement was crucial for hosting this concert. Thank you to the members and all of you for being part of 'KAION'. I will come back with an even more remarkable stage after further growth," he promised, ending the third segment with his well-loved solo track 'Rover'.
Even after the performance wrapped up, EXO-L persisted in chanting 'Kim Jongin'. In response, Kai performed 'Blue' from his second mini album. He conveyed his gratitude, "Thank you for the encore," adding, "This seems like the most exhausting performance I've ever delivered. I expended all my energy during 'Rover'." While taking photographs, EXO-L surprised him with a banner proclaiming "Jongin, we love you," moving him to tears.
Kai concluded, "I'm deeply moved and elated. This time was filled with a multitude of emotions. Despite fear and numerous thoughts, it was the thought of you that carried me through. On stage, I feel nothing but joy. Today reaffirmed that performing in front of you is what I cherish most. I will never forget this day," he stated, closing the Seoul concert with a performance of 'To Be Honest' from his second mini album.