Legacy of Kim Jae-joong: 20 Years and Counting

Kim Jae-joong has lately celebrated his 20th anniversary with Flower Garden, an album he released to mark the occasion.

What I’ve gleaned from what we discussed is that exactly what inspires his music—the kind that he makes, the songs that he writes—profoundly matters to him, and he’s been on it, doing it for years—still sustaining and thriving in a highly demanding and volatile space as K-pop or Korean entertainment to be more precise. 

In the two decades since he moved to Seoul to audition for SM Entertainment, the former TVXQ member and solo artist has compiled an extensive eclectic discography that most effectively narrates his story. From doing errands for a living and other expenses and acting as an extra in film projects until finally overcoming challenges and becoming the iconic name he is today, it’s a remarkable feat surely by any standards—any artist worth his salt would agree. He says, “Many events have happened over the last 20 years, and I have made it this far, thanks to all the fans who have stayed by my side. Looking back in time, I think it encouraged me to spend even longer with my fans.”

His Flower Garden is a metaphor—as flowers should grow fully for a garden to be complete—the name corresponds to Kim Jae-joong’s (or just Jae Joong as he’s recognized in South Korea) time cultivating his career; he recalls those years and his prolonged association with fans. So, conceptually, the album and its songs delve into those thoughts and memories. Because it was for the 20th anniversary, he shared that he proactively participated in drafting the lyrics so he could fully express himself through music. “I tried to maintain the identity of my solo career because I wanted to focus on the music everyone could sing along to and have fun with, as well as the rock genre. I hope the listeners feel the interesting sounds and expressions derived from the variety of colors in this album. I also think they can have fun interpreting the lyrics, ranging from simple to complicated, in terms of the general nuance.”

Kim was very young when he came to Seoul following his dream of music. “I first got interested when I was in elementary school because that was when I learned about pop music from my sisters. In addition, when I was young, I just wanted to get away from my hometown. To do so, I wanted to pursue the music industry, which I liked and was interested in.” It was an uphill climb thereafter through travails, but he had what it took to succeed—possibly most importantly, a strong positive vision and plenty of perseverance—to realize the targets he set. “There were many waves, but I realized that I was not the only one riding those waves. I would like to thank everyone who stayed by my side during the journey.” Well, it only exemplifies the beginning, the initial manifestations of talent, ambition, and willpower that evolved into an all-inclusive artistic legacy. 

A smidge more into the early glimpses of his story, Kim says his various experiences have driven him to work in this industry for a long time. “It is truly a priceless journey, and I always think I am lucky for that journey.” In the grand scheme of K-pop, “I debuted when the foundations of the current K-pop were starting to build, and the industry was not as systemized as now. Of course, there is always room for improvement, but I think it is essential for the industry and agencies to consider ways to grow with the artists, reaching for a common goal over a long period,” he adds.

I guess that’s the rationale behind establishing his agency ‘iNKODE’, besides the fact that he has a greater say in his career while building others’, an approach that reflects the current wave of establishing one’s label for more effective marketing and sharing underlying stories that matter—central to an artist’s identity and appeal. “I decided to establish a company because I wanted to not only perform as an artist but also produce idol artists. It is not easy to find a balance between the two ends, but it’s very fun as long as it keeps me busy. My goal would be to work for a long time with the artists, creating an environment where the company and the artists can trust each other and build a long-term partnership.”

That’s also a thing about his songs—a sound that comes from a shared belief in what he wants to make and what his listeners are expecting out of his music. “I think the process of finding a balance between what I like and what fans want took quite a long time. I also believe my sound is a musical product that is still growing based on a long time and trust.” As a well-rounded artist, Kim is here to show “my sincerity,” in his words and has invariably sought new ways for self-expression and thrived on challenges. “It is a precious and lucky opportunity that allowed me to venture out in more ways, and it came from a somewhat painful but grateful environment.”

A substantial part of that feeling of being grateful is pegged on the love he’s been receiving from fans. “I always hear them saying, ‘Jae Joong, you make me live.’ Hearing them say this also makes me live.” For aspiring musicians, he emphasizes the importance of the right attitude and emotional and mental well-being. “Life is long; I hope you continue growing for a long time with a healthy mindset. I will try my best to become an artist whom you can look forward to. I also strive to be an artist who holds gratitude for everything, no matter how big or small.”