LE SSERAFIM’s Kim Chaewon recently made a highly anticipated return to ‘Limousine Service’ on the KBS Kpop YouTube channel.
Her appearance on the 19th marked her first time back on the program in approximately four years since her debut.
Kim Chaewon opened her ‘Limousine Service’ segment with ‘CELEBRATION,’ a track from LE SSERAFIM’s upcoming second full-length album. This lead single was first unveiled on the 24th of last month, ahead of the album’s full release on the 22nd.
With the group’s comeback fast approaching, Chaewon also shared insights into the new album. She particularly drew attention by spontaneously performing a snippet of track number 6, titled ‘How Can We Get Closer?’ She explained that many songs on the album delve into the relationships between the members. This specific track was penned by Huh Yunjin, reflecting her feelings about the bond within the group and depicting the journey of understanding and growing closer despite individual differences in personality and expression.
Host Lee Mujin praised her performance, remarking, “I feel like you’ve leveled up significantly. You’re much more relaxed compared to your debut days.”
LE SSERAFIM (comprising Kim Chaewon, Sakura, Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, and Hong Eunchae) is set to release their highly anticipated second full-length album, ‘PUREFLOW’ pt.1, on the 22nd at 1 PM KST. This album is built upon the strong bond and camaraderie of the five members, conveying a powerful message of growth and transformation as they confront fears and continue to move forward. The title track, ‘BOOMPALA,’ explores the concept that ‘fear can often be an illusion, merely a projection of perspective and attitude.’ Adding to its appeal, ‘BOOMPALA’ samples the globally acclaimed hit ‘Macarena,’ promising a bright and cheerful energy that everyone can enjoy.
However, alongside the exciting comeback news, an unfortunate development was also announced. Kim Chaewon has temporarily halted her activities leading up to the release. On the 19th, Source Music, the group’s agency, issued a statement explaining that “Kim Chaewon recently received hospital treatment for neck pain, and medical professionals advised her to rest for a period and monitor her recovery.” The agency emphasized, “Prioritizing the artist’s health and safety as our utmost value, and after comprehensively considering the medical opinion and the artist’s current condition, we have determined that focused recovery is essential for her to continue activities in a more stable state.” Consequently, Kim Chaewon will regrettably be absent from upcoming events, including university festivals, Spotify PURE FLOWERS LIVE, and music broadcast performances.
Prior to the full album release, LE SSERAFIM had pre-released ‘CELEBRATION’ on the 24th of last month. While this track was intended as a welcome gift for fans, its subsequent stage performance raised concerns among some viewers. The intense choreography, notably featuring vigorous headbanging, led to requests for the agency to consider modifying the dance moves due to safety worries.
The controversy was further fueled by recent live broadcasts where other members appeared to be experiencing neck pain, which was observed by fans. Consequently, Kim Chaewon’s temporary hiatus due to a neck injury has only intensified fan concern and anger, particularly given the prior warnings about the choreography’s intensity.
