Former TVXQ! members Kim Jaejoong and Kim Junsu will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut with a special joint concert in Seoul this November. The concerts, titled “Identity”, will take place from November 8 to 10, as announced by Kim Jaejoong’s agency, Palm Tree Island, on Friday. Performing under the name JX, derived from the first letters of their stage names, Jaejoong and Xia, the two artists will reunite for the first time in years for this milestone event.

Kim Jaejoong and Kim Junsu originally debuted with TVXQ! in 2003, quickly becoming one of the most iconic K-pop groups of their generation. However, in 2010, the two, along with Park Yoochun, left the group following a legal dispute with their label SM Entertainment over what they claimed to be unfair contract terms. After their departure, they formed the trio JYJ, which found success both in Korea and internationally. Despite this, the group effectively disbanded in 2019 after Park Yoochun became embroiled in multiple scandals, including drug-related charges, leaving Kim Jaejoong and Kim Junsu to pursue solo careers.

While the two have primarily focused on individual projects in recent years, their collaboration is not entirely new. In 2022, they came together to record the theme song for the Japanese TV drama “Waru”, showcasing their enduring chemistry as vocalists. However, the “Identity” concerts mark their most significant reunion on stage, allowing fans to celebrate their shared history and achievements as two of K-pop’s most respected artists.

Kim Junsu and Kim Jaejoong have remained active in the entertainment industry. In June 2023, Junsu released the digital single “Our Season”, adding to his impressive discography, while Jaejoong released his fourth solo studio album, “Flower Garden”, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile singer-songwriter. Both have maintained a strong fan base throughout their solo careers, thanks to their vocal prowess and stage presence.

The 20th anniversary concerts not only highlight their individual growth but also serve as a nostalgic homage to their journey together. From their early days as part of one of K-pop's most successful groups to their legal battles and the formation of JYJ, the pair’s career reflects the changing dynamics of the K-pop industry over the last two decades. Their ability to weather controversies and continue to find success speaks to their resilience and enduring appeal.

As K-pop continues to evolve, the upcoming performances by Jaejoong and Junsu as JX are expected to draw attention from both longtime fans and newer audiences eager to witness the reunion of two legendary figures in the genre. The concerts will likely feature a mix of their solo hits as well as collaborative performances, offering a comprehensive look at their 20-year legacy in the music industry.

Fans across Korea and beyond are anticipating the emotional and powerful performances that the pair are known for. The “Identity” concerts promise to be a landmark moment in K-pop history, celebrating not just the past but also the ongoing contributions of two of its most influential artists.

Sayart / Chloe Kim, 2022chloe.k@gmil.com