Kang Daniel Returns with Mature Image Amidst Legal Battles and New Album Release

Singer Kang Daniel has shown a more mature side as he navigates through agency disputes and fraud victimization.

On the 23rd, Kang Daniel held an interview at a cafe in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, to commemorate the release of his fifth mini-album 'ACT.' Sporting silver hair and a black suit, Kang Daniel displayed a more relaxed smile as he prepared for his comeback after 1 year and 3 months.

Regarding the fake news and malicious comments he faces as a top idol, Kang Daniel remarked, "I think criticism or reproach is also a form of love now. Maybe they worry about me more than my mom does," adding, "Isn't it a love-hate relationship? If it continues, it becomes love."

During his hiatus, Kang Daniel confessed that he has matured mentally. He said, "Singing has become more comfortable than before. Especially since this album is entirely my story," adding, "I used to feel nervous and scared, to be precise, I felt fear, but now I know how to enjoy that fear. I've grown in that aspect."

Kang Daniel also shared, "I used to be scared and afraid when I saw people's faces on stage. But now, it's not like that anymore," he laughed. He added, "The panic disorder I once suffered from is now cured."

Previously, Kang Daniel filed a criminal complaint against the major shareholder of his former agency, Connect Entertainment, for forgery of private documents, embezzlement, breach of trust, information network intrusion, and computer fraud. The fraud damage includes the unauthorized use of names amounting to 10 billion KRW, at least 2 billion KRW withdrawn from the agency's account, and 1.7 billion KRW from Kang Daniel's account.

Kang Daniel's new album 'ACT' intriguingly unfolds his more solid inner self through the theme of theater. Each track encapsulates various scenes he has experienced. The album's musical quality has evolved by combining diverse elements such as EDM sound, trap, house, and R&B.

Kang Daniel participated in writing all six tracks on the album. He also directly contacted and communicated with emerging composers in the U.S., such as NØLL, CHANDO, and Michael Lanza, overseeing the entire album production.

The title track 'Electric Shock' features a unique shuffle groove in modern pop R&B. Trap drums and synthesizer bass support Kang Daniel's fast vocal rhythm.

In the music video, Kang Daniel plays two roles. The story unfolds with the star Kang Daniel in front of the public and the 'nerd Daniel' who feels isolated when alone. The theatrical image of the entire album and the electric, lightning imagery of the title track naturally match, adding to the visual enjoyment.

The performance was completed in collaboration with the top domestic dance crew We Dem Boyz. The duo, known for their perfect synergy, is set to showcase another dynamic and high-level performance. Chungha also participated in the fourth track 'Come back to me,' drawing attention. The hook, where Kang Daniel and Chungha's vocals intersect, creates an attractive groove.

The album will be released at 6 PM today.

Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr