▲ K-pop soloist Evan poses for photos during a media showcase for his first EP, "Death of Me," in Seoul on Sept. 7, 2026. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
▲ K-pop soloist Evan performs a track during a media showcase for his first EP, "Death of Me," in Seoul on Sept. 7, 2026. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

By Shim Sun-ah

SEOUL, Sept. 7 (Yonhap) -- K-pop singer Evan will release his debut solo EP, "Death of Me," on Monday, channeling personal turmoil into a new start following his departure from boy group Enhypen.

Scheduled for release at 6 p.m., the eight-track EP is the first individual album from the artist, formerly known as Heeseung.

He left the group in March to pursue an independent musical path, while remaining under Belift Lab. Three months later, he redebuted under the stage name Evan -- a childhood nickname from his time living overseas -- with the release of the debut digital single "Ride or Die."

At a media showcase in Seoul hours before the release, Evan addressed the mixed reactions surrounding his exit from the group.

"I would like to express my deep gratitude for the many voices of concern and affection that were directed toward me," he said. "While this decision to go solo was made after in-depth discussions, I fully understand the disappointment and worried messages from fans."

Evan added that he intends to repay that support through sincere music and genuine actions.

Taking a hands-on approach, Evan oversaw production across the project, composing and writing lyrics for nearly all of the EP's tracks.

"A lot of my ideas are reflected throughout the album," he said. "Capturing the stories that come from my sincere inner self into the songs was the most important element for me."

Led by the pop-R&B title track "Death of Me," the EP includes the prerelease single "Ride or Die," alongside other B-sides "Not Enough," "Noise," "Twilight," "Immature," "Overflow" and "Going Home."

Outlining his ambitions for the new release, Evan said he aims to perform on larger stages and offer hope through his artistry.

"I believe it is my important calling to give people the strength to overcome challenges through my music when they face exhausting and difficult situations," he said.

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[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]