Kim Jae-joong Releases 20th-Anniversary Album, ‘Flower Garden’

Kim Jae-joong has released his 20th-anniversary album, Flower Garden. The record features songs of various musical genres—from rock and R&B to soulful ballads—all rolled into one.

Flower Garden raises a toast to Kim’s storied career—his journey, his artistic evolution, and his versatility in the industry. For most of the album’s tracks, Kim is credited with composing the lyrics. The album’s press release outlines that, as many colorful flowers must blossom for a garden to be entirely formed, the title alludes to the years that Kim has been a practicing artist, and he recounts that experience and his 20-year relationship with his fans through this new musical offering.

With 14 tracks, including the pre-release single “I Am U,” released on June 11th, and a CD-only track titled “201208,” written, composed, and arranged by Kim, Flower Garden also includes two awesome collaborations: Moonbyul of Mamamoo, featured on “The Light,” and Miyavi, featured on “Dopamine.” The lead single, “Glorious Days,” is a rollicking rock song that flows with passion and emotion and is accompanied by an engaging music video that is vibrant and bursting with warm colors.

Kim’s proclivity for venturing into uncharted creative territory and pushing the limits of his craft is evident in the album’s varied sonic landscape. Thematically, it explores human feelings and experiences through which, and through its music and lyrics, the artist invites listeners to join him on a nostalgic getaway.

Flower Garden’s sound diversity is surely another highlight, showcasing Kim’s comfort level with different music. His skill to smoothly transition between genres adds to the cohesive and enjoyable listening experience that this album is all about, from the sweet R&B-influenced ballads to the rock-infused pieces. Flower Garden‘s release in South Korea, although after a gap of two years, speaks to his sustained influence in the country’s music scene. The warm welcome the album has gotten is merely a testament to Kim Jae-joong’s popularity and the rapport he has built with his fans over time.

Flower Garden, with its eclectic soundtrack, evocative storytelling, and Kim’s adept voice, reinforces his standing as a consummate artist in Korean entertainment. The singer, composer, and actor debuted in K-pop in December 2023 with the band TVXQ (alternatively DBSK and Tohoshinki in Japan). Later, he participated in founding the group JYJ in 2009. His first major acting role was also in 2009 via the television film Heaven’s Postman, culminating in more memorable appearances. Kim embarked on a solo career in 2013 and released his debut EP, Mine, a staggering success, followed by Love Covers (2019), his third consecutive number-one album in Japan.