singer-press conference
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| ▲ Singer Yim Jae-beum poses for a photo during a press conference in Seoul on Sept. 17, 2025, to mark his 40th debut anniversary. (Yonhap) |
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| ▲ Singer Yim Jae-beum speaks during a press conference in Seoul on Sept. 17, 2025, to mark his 40th debut anniversary. (Yonhap) |
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| ▲ Singer Yim Jae-beum speaks during a press conference in Seoul on Sept. 17, 2025, to mark his 40th debut anniversary. (Yonhap) |
singer-press conference
Rock legend Yim Jae-beum marks 40 years with gratitude to fans, family
SEOUL, Sept. 17 (Yonhap) -- Singer Yim Jae-beum said Wednesday that while singing has become more daunting over time, his perspective on music and life has matured with age as he prepares to celebrate his 40th anniversary next month.
"When I was young, I sang arrogantly, mistakenly thinking I could do it all without fear," said the revered figure in the country's rock and ballad scenes at a press conference in Seoul. "But after 40 years of music, even making a sound feels frightening. It gets harder as I go on, and I'm afraid to release a song carelessly."
Despite these challenges, the 62-year-old said he does not regret getting older.
"I have lost some power with age, and some people may not be satisfied with my voice compared to before," he said. "But I think the deepening of my thoughts on singing has helped my expression. I don't think getting older is that bad."
To mark his four-decade milestone, Yim released a new digital single, "Insa" (which translates to "Greeting"), his first new song in about three years since his seventh studio album, "Seven." The pop gospel-style track is a message of gratitude to his fans and a pledge for the future.
Yim explained that the lyrics of "Insa" resonated deeply with him, bringing him to tears during the recording process.
"It's a thank you to the fans who have stayed by my side for 40 years, and it can also be a thank you for all my mother has endlessly given me," he said.
The singer also reflected on changes in his personality. "My sharp edges have softened with age," he said. "In the past, if I didn't like something, I would immediately lash out. I think it was because I was lonely." He expressed regret for his past behavior, saying he now understands that people have different thoughts and situations. "I resent the me of the past who couldn't do that," he admitted. "I also feel sorry for the colleagues I showed my sharp side to."
"Insa" will be followed by a series of new songs, including "The Time You Come," all of which will be included in his upcoming eighth full-length album. He plans to gradually release music and videos in various genres, a departure from his past work.
Yim also announced a nationwide concert tour to commemorate his 40th anniversary, starting on Nov. 29 in Daegu, followed by shows in other big cities, such as Incheon, Seoul and Busan.
The tour will be a retrospective of his 40-year career, with a storytelling format that takes the audience from his early days with the heavy metal band Sinawe to his new work, according to the singer.
When asked about the release date of his new album, Yim remained cautious. "It's difficult to say exactly when," he said. "I'll record each song carefully in between performances and then release the album. I still don't know when it will be released."
He emphasized his focus on the present, adding, "There are many tasks left for the 40th anniversary, and I will only think about the 50th and 60th anniversaries after I have done my best on each one."
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