Korean Music Legend Im Jae-bum Announces Retirement After 40 Years

Korean singer Im Jae-bum has announced his retirement after a remarkable 40-year career in the music industry.

On the October 4th episode of JTBC's 'Newsroom,' Im Jae-bum appeared as a guest and reflected on his extensive career, which began with the release of Sinawe's first album in 1986. He expressed, "I never realized how quickly time would pass. I feel like I didn't lead the music, but rather, the music led me. It was as if an invisible thread of various genres and senior musicians pulled me along."

Describing his 40-year journey as 'destined,' Im Jae-bum shared, "It felt like fate, a time I couldn't escape even if I tried. Through music, I saw films, learned about love, and understood relationships. Music has been my oldest friend, supporting me through loneliness, pain, and hardship."

Im Jae-bum emphasized the importance of his daughter over music, stating, "I spend time with my daughter because I have no friends. When I'm not working, I talk, play, and listen to music with her. Her laughter brings me joy and happiness."

When asked to say a word to his daughter, he tenderly expressed, "I truly love you. You have been my strength to endure until now, and you will be my strength to live on. I live for you."

Currently on his 40th-anniversary national tour 'I Am Im Jae-bum,' he confessed, "I tremble before going on stage. The staff work hard to calm me down. I pray to give my best performance and bring joy to the audience."

Regarding his future plans, Im Jae-bum announced, "I have some sad news for my fans. After much thought, I've decided to leave the stage after this 40th-anniversary concert."

Explaining his decision to retire, he said, "It's something I've contemplated for a long time. I believe it's only right to step down while I can still give my all on stage. As the saying goes, 'Leave while the applause is still loud.' I think now is the best time to put down the microphone."

Reflecting on his retirement announcement, Im Jae-bum shared, "I'm experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. The 40 years seem to have passed in an instant. I hope fans won't be too shocked or saddened. Even after I leave, I hope you'll support other musicians. Please stay with me until the end of this tour."

Im Jae-bum expressed his wish to be remembered as "a singer who sang well" in the Korean music industry. He also shared his hope that fans would sing the song 'Insa' back to him during his farewell performances.

Reported by Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia