K-pop Icons Reflect on Their Two-Decade Journey in the Music Industry

Courtesy of SM Entertainment

In commemorating their 20th anniversary, TVXQ, a prominent K-pop group, expressed their commitment to a gradual and continuous presence in the music business. The duo, comprised of Yunho and Changmin, shared insights during a recent press conference in Seoul.

TVXQ's 20th-anniversary celebration included the release of their ninth studio album, titled "20&2." The group, initially debuting as a quintet with the single "Hug" in December 2003, has earned significant acclaim and amassed a considerable fanbase, particularly among the so-called "second-generation" K-pop acts from the early 2000s to mid-2010s. 

▲ Courtesy of SM EntertainmentNotable achievements in TVXQ's history include being the first Korean group to top the Japanese major music chart Oricon’s Weekly and hosting the inaugural K-pop standalone concert at Tokyo Dome in 2009. In 2010, three members departed to form the trio JYJ, while Changmin and Yunho continued as a duo.

The latest album, "20&2," marks the first release in five years, offering a retrospective look at the duo's two-decade journey and outlining future plans for TVXQ. Additionally, Yunho mentioned diverse content prepared for fans, hinting at forthcoming unveilings.

In celebration of their milestone, TVXQ organized a two-day concert in Seoul on Dec. 30-31. The event aims to evoke nostalgia among fans, featuring a setlist filled with the group's classic hits.

The album's title track, "Rebel," falls within the pop dance genre and conveys a message of continual evolution and accomplishment. The duo emphasized the track's powerful and energetic performance, designed to showcase their skills on stage.

Yunho and Changmin expressed their enduring passion for performing live, considering it a central aspect of their artistic journey. The duo likened their growth to that of matured wine, asserting that their years of experience have brought richness and splendor to their stage presence.

Both members acknowledged the vital role played by their fans, citing their unwavering support as the driving force that has sustained TVXQ throughout their 20-year career. The commitment to touching emotions through their performances remains a core aspiration for the duo.

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Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com