Im Siwan Releases 1st Solo Mini Album ‘The Reason’ 15 Years After Debut

From ZE:A’s main vocal to acclaimed actor, Im Siwan is finally returning as a solo singer roughly 15 years after his debut with his first mini album “The Reason.” Through this record, he looks back on why he still wants to sing and shares a meaningful new chapter with fans.

According to Korean media, Im Siwan released his first solo mini album “The Reason” on December 5, officially marking his debut as a solo artist. Having started as a member of boy group ZE:A and later gaining recognition as an actor through dramas like “Misaeng,” “Strangers From Hell,” and “Extraordinary Attorney Woo,” he has never let go of his passion for music despite a busy acting schedule. Reports highlight that he actively took part in shaping the album’s concept and direction, hoping to repay longtime fans and reintroduce himself to the public as “singer Im Siwan” with a renewed stage presence.

The title “The Reason” reflects the motivations that have carried him through different stages of life and his career. Media describe the tracklist as a collection that captures his emotions across gentle ballads and more rhythmic arrangements, functioning almost like a heartfelt confession about where he stands today. In interviews, Im Siwan admitted feeling both nervous and excited to hold the microphone again, even dyeing his hair blonde and adjusting his styling to match the album’s concept, joking that the preparation felt like getting ready for a long-awaited stage rather than another drama project. Whether fans have supported him since ZE:A days or discovered him through his acting roles, this record offers a more candid and mature side of Im Siwan.

• Releases his first solo mini album “The Reason” roughly 15 years after debut, officially returning as a solo singer.
• Transitions from ZE:A’s main vocal to a sought-after actor, and now circles back to music, highlighting his dual-career journey.
• The album centers on the reasons that kept him moving forward, featuring songs that showcase his vocal tone and emotional range.

## 【KStarLoud Deep Analysis】 Im Siwan’s solo debut is not a typical case of an idol quickly releasing a solo album, but rather a return to music after firmly establishing himself as an actor. That makes the key narrative about “a first album built on 15 years of experience.” In the broader K-pop landscape, he holds a rare position with fandoms spanning group-era supporters, drama viewers, and OST listeners. If “The Reason” earns solid word of mouth and stage performances, it could create a compounding effect for his future music and soundtrack work, while offering a compelling model of how an actor can successfully reconnect with their roots as a singer.