Image Credit: SM Entertainment
On the 18th, Kai embarked on his first solo concert tour 'KAION' at the Handball Stadium located in Olympic Park, Songpa-gu, Seoul.
The event was systematically divided into four thematic parts, each corresponding to 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 English typography 'KAI', complemented by VCRs synchronized with the song's moods, a large LED display, and elaborate props to augment the visual spectacle.
The concert began with 'Sinner' from Kai's third mini album, as he made his entrance in red attire. The audience was greeted with performances of 'Mmmh', the title track from his first mini album, and 'Nothing On Me'. The venue resonated with chants of Kai's birth name, 'Kim Jongin', from the audience.
With a wide smile reflecting his delight at the fans' enthusiasm, Kai welcomed attendees to the 'KAION' concert, making efforts to connect with fans throughout the venue. He warmly asked, "Did you miss me?" and admitted, "It's the second day, and I'm a bit more anxious than yesterday. The first day was filled with the excitement of 'Can I pull this off?', whereas today, there's the eagerness to excel and enjoy the experience."
The first segment wrapped up with renditions of 'Hello Stranger' from his debut mini album, 'Slidin'' from his third mini album, and 'Ride Or Die' from his initial mini album.
The second segment opened with dance interpretations of EXO's tracks 'My Lady', 'Baby Don't Cry', and 'Into Your World'. Wearing a three-piece suit, Kai delivered solo dances for each song, with fans joining in vocally. He expressed his appreciation for fans through a heart gesture during 'Come In' from his second mini album.
Reflecting on the EXO medley, Kai remarked, "How was it after such a long time?" and continued, "Dancing while hearing EXO-L's chorus again was overwhelming. It evoked numerous memories from our debut till now. During 'Into Your World', I almost became emotional."
Kai elaborated, "I hope you enjoyed the introductory and transitional videos. The feedback was exceptional. They illustrated the evolution of the new Kai. I wonder if you noticed a different side of me. Even after 14 years, there’s so much more to show," assuring fans of an enduring connection.
Subsequently, Kai appeared in rimless glasses, performing 'Vanilla' from his second mini album, 'Peaches' as the title track, and 'Adult Swim' from his fourth mini album.
"I'll change the song's atmosphere," Kai announced, donning a suit jacket. The audience erupted in cheers as he performed 'Wait On Me', the lead track from his fourth mini album, along with 'Pressure', 'Walls Don't Talk', and 'Bomba' from his third mini album.
The concert reached a pinnacle during the third segment as Kai emerged in a leather jacket and black cap. He delivered a powerful performance of the unreleased solo track 'Confession' and 'Domino' from his second mini album, elevating the concert's intensity.
Breathing heavily, Kai described the segment as "the death section," as the applause from EXO-L poured in. He shared, "With this concert, I aimed to demonstrate that I have returned. I wanted to ensure the time you've spent waiting and supporting me was worthwhile. Most importantly, I hoped to reaffirm your feelings for me, reminding you of why you enjoy my performances."
He encouraged the audience, "Let's go wild today," and performed 'Reason' from his debut mini album.
As the concert neared its conclusion, Kai expressed, "Today was truly joyous and fulfilling. I'm incredibly grateful that my fellow members came to support me," acknowledging Suho, Chanyeol, and D.O. He continued, "Their support enabled me to organize this concert. Thank you to my members and all of you for being part of 'KAION'. I will return with an even more remarkable performance after further growth," promising the audience. He concluded the third segment with the popular solo hit 'Rover'.
Despite the curtain fall, EXO-L continued chanting 'Kim Jongin'. In response, Kai performed 'Blue' from his second mini album. Kai conveyed his gratitude for the encore, stating, "This felt like the most exhausting performance I've ever done. I expended all my energy during 'Rover'." During a photo session, EXO-L surprised him with a slogan event saying "Jongin, we love you," which moved him to tears.
Kai expressed, "I'm deeply moved and elated. The experience evoked numerous emotions. Despite fear and uncertainties, my thoughts were always with you. Being on stage brings me unparalleled joy. Today reinforced my love for performing in front of you. I will never forget this day," and he concluded the Seoul concert with 'To Be Honest' from his second mini album.