After a decade-long hiatus from full-length releases, legendary South Korean singer-songwriter Shin Seung-hun, famously known as the "Emperor of Ballads," is making his highly anticipated return to the music scene. The veteran artist unveiled his 12th studio album "SINCERELY MELODIES" on Tuesday at 6 p.m., marking his first complete album in 10 years and what he describes as a project written with the mindset that it could be his final work.

Shin Seung-hun has been one of South Korea's most beloved musical voices since his debut in 1990, with his delicate tenor voice drawing comparisons to iconic figures like Cho Yong-pil. Throughout his 35-year career, he has created numerous cultural touchstones that have resonated across multiple generations, including timeless hits such as "Reflection of You in Your Smile" (1990), "Invisible Love" (1992), and "I Believe" (2002). These songs have served as the soundtrack to countless moments of heartbreak and nostalgia for Korean music lovers.

The new album, released under Shin's own independent label Dorothy Company, showcases 11 tracks that he personally wrote, composed, and produced. While his record label described the work as "the culmination of a master musician's decades of craft," Shin offered a more personal perspective during a press conference held at a hotel in Seoul's Gangnam District on Monday. "It's called 'SINCERELY MELODIES' because it means 'melodies written sincerely from the heart,'" he explained to reporters. "I wrote this album thinking it could be my last. My passion and emotions felt dulled, and I thought this might be the last time I could write an entire album on my own. That sincerity is what gave the album its title."

Despite the current music industry's shift toward streaming platforms and single releases, Shin remains committed to the traditional full-length album format. "These days, albums have lost their meaning," he acknowledged during the press conference. "But I hope people listen as if I'm introducing 11 of my own children." This sentiment reflects his belief in the importance of cohesive musical storytelling and the deeper connection that complete albums can create with listeners.

Among the album's standout tracks, "Gravity of You" represents a significant departure for the artist, blending acoustic guitar elements with electric textures to capture the complex emotions experienced at both the beginning and end of romantic relationships. Shin considers this particular song his first true concert anthem, explaining, "I wanted to write a song about becoming a good adult, about how I hope others live after hearing it. I've never had a real sing-along song, but I think this might be the one." Another notable track, "TRULY," explores the theme of love that can only be recognized and appreciated with the passage of time, with lyrics carefully crafted to follow the natural rhythm of the Korean language. "It's a song that can quietly move someone when they feel like crying," Shin reflected. "After 35 years, I thought to myself, this is the kind of ballad I should be writing."

The singer was remarkably candid about the significant changes that have transformed the Korean music landscape since his commercial peak. Ballads, which once formed the core foundation of Korean pop music, have gradually been overshadowed by the highly manufactured, performance-driven K-pop phenomenon that has taken the world by storm. "Music passes by quickly these days and ballad singers have ended up background music, something playing while people talk," he observed with a mixture of resignation and determination.

Despite these industry challenges, Shin maintains unwavering confidence in the enduring power and relevance of the ballad genre. "Past moments don't disappear. Like the foam on a beer, when everything finally fades, I believe the true essence of ballads will emerge," he stated with conviction. This philosophy reflects his belief that authentic emotional expression in music will ultimately outlast trends and commercial pressures.

Shin's conviction about the lasting power of ballads will face its ultimate test this fall when he celebrates his remarkable 35-year career milestone with a special two-night concert series. The "SINCERELY 35" concerts are scheduled to take place at Olympic Hall in eastern Seoul on November 1-2, providing fans with an opportunity to experience his new material alongside his classic hits in a live setting.

Reflecting on his role as an artist and his responsibility to his audience, Shin concluded the press conference with characteristic humility and purpose. "I'm a singer, so I'd rather my songs than my words speak to people," he said. "My duty is to make music that comforts listeners when life gets hard." This statement encapsulates the artist's enduring commitment to creating music that serves as emotional support and solace for his listeners, regardless of how the industry around him continues to evolve.