Photo Credit: SM Entertainment
On the 18th of the month, Kai launched his first solo concert tour, entitled 'KAION', at the Handball Stadium located in Olympic Park, Songpa-gu, Seoul.
The concert was artistically segmented into four distinct phases, each reflecting the emotional tone of the songs: 'The Stranger in the Mirror', 'The Many Selves Within Me', 'All Selves Unite', and 'A New Journey of Mine'. The stage was intricately designed, showcasing Kai's signature English typography 'KAI', alongside visual content, such as VCRs aligned with song moods, a large LED screen, and sophisticated props, all of which contributed to an enhanced visual spectacle.
Kai commenced the event with 'Sinner' from his third mini album, making an entrance in an ensemble of red blouse and pants. He greeted the audience with the title track 'Mmmh' from his first mini album, followed by 'Nothing On Me', as the audience passionately chanted his name, 'Kim Jongin'.
Exuding a genuine smile and visibly appreciating the fans’ enthusiasm, Kai addressed the attendees of his inaugural solo performance 'KAION', engaging closely with fans at every vantage point. He affectionately asked, "Did you miss me?" and candidly shared, "Today marks the second day, and I feel slightly more anxious than yesterday. Initially, it was the excitement of 'Can I do this?', but today, it’s the eagerness to excel and thoroughly enjoy the experience."
The initial segment concluded with performances of 'Hello Stranger' from his first mini album, 'Slidin'' from his third mini album, and 'Ride Or Die' from his first mini album.
Transitioning to the second segment, Kai performed dance renditions to EXO's tracks 'My Lady', 'Baby Don't Cry', and 'Into Your World'. Attired in a three-piece suit, Kai delivered solo dance performances to all three songs, complemented by fans' vocal participation. He expressed his affection for fans with a heart gesture during the rendition of 'Come In' from his second mini album.
Kai remarked, "How did you find the EXO medley after such a long interval?" He continued, "Dancing while hearing EXO-L's chorus after so long was truly overwhelming. It evoked numerous cherished memories, resembling a retrospective journey from debut to the present with everyone. When 'Into Your World' played, I nearly became emotional."
He elaborated further, "I trust you appreciated the introductory and bridging videos. The feedback was outstanding. These depicted the journey of the evolving Kai. I’m curious if you discovered a novel facet of me. Even after 14 years, there remains abundant newness to unveil, with continuous innovations emerging," pledging an enduring connection with fans.
Kai then appeared sporting rimless glasses, delivering performances of 'Vanilla' from his second mini album, the title track 'Peaches', and 'Adult Swim' from his fourth mini album.
"I intend to alter the musical atmosphere," Kai declared as he donned a suit jacket. His performances of 'Wait On Me', the titular track from his fourth mini album, 'Pressure', 'Walls Don't Talk', and 'Bomba' from his third mini album elicited fervent cheers from the audience.
Approaching the zenith of the concert, the third segment commenced with Kai clad in a leather jacket and black cap. The stage, set for the unreleased solo piece 'Confession' and 'Domino' from his second mini album, elevated the concert's vibrancy to a pinnacle.
Pausing to catch his breath, Kai commented, "This is the challenging section," as applause from EXO-L resounded. He conveyed, "Through this concert, I aspired to demonstrate my return. I wanted to validate that the interval you waited and appreciated me was worthwhile. More importantly, I hoped this would enable you to reassess your sentiments towards me. 'That’s why I adore Kai', 'No one but Kai fulfills me', 'Kai is my true dopamine'—these are affirmations I wished to reinforce."
He added, "Let’s embrace the energy today," and continued with a performance of 'Reason' from his first mini album.
As the concert neared its conclusion, Kai expressed, "Today has genuinely been a joyful and fulfilling occasion. I am deeply grateful to my fellow members who attended the performance," acknowledging Suho, Chanyeol, and D.O. He further stated, "Thanks to the support from my brothers, I was able to conduct this concert. Appreciation to both the members and all of you for being part of my first solo concert 'KAION'. I shall return with a more remarkable performance after further growth," he vowed. The third segment concluded with a performance of his most favorably received solo track, 'Rover'.
Even after the performance concluded, the audience, identified as EXO-L, continued to chant 'Kim Jongin'. In response, Kai performed 'Blue' from his second mini album. He conveyed gratitude for the encore, remarking, "This feels like the most exhausting performance I’ve ever given. I expended all my energy during 'Rover'." During a photo session, EXO-L surprised him with a banner reading "Jongin, we love you," which moved him to tears.
Kai expressed, "I am profoundly touched and elated. The concert elicited a range of emotions in me. There was fear and numerous reflections, yet during those moments, thoughts of you prevailed. By focusing solely on you, I believe I was able to successfully hold the concert. On stage, I experience nothing but happiness, and today reaffirmed that performing for you is my utmost passion. I will cherish today forever," and he magnificently concluded the Seoul concert with 'To Be Honest' from his second mini album.