Subscribe

Exclusive: KAI On His Own Terms: The EXO Member Talks KAION, Fashion & Finding His Voice

“This tour feels like a new chapter,” he shares. “It’s my story, my energy—unfiltered.”
Published: May 21, 2025
Exclusive: KAI On His Own Terms: The EXO Member Talks KAION, Fashion & Finding His Voice
Photo: Courtesy of SM Entertainment

Mr. Rover is coming over—and this time, it’s solo. KAI of EXO is making his long-awaited return to Singapore with the "2025 KAI SOLO CONCERT TOUR <KAION> IN SINGAPORE", happening on 21 June at The Star Theatre. For EXO-Ls, it’s a moment nearly 13 years in the making: the chance to finally experience KAI live, on his own terms.

From his breakout debut as the first-revealed member of EXO to the platinum-certified success of KAI (开) and “Rover”, KAI has carved out a lane all his own—one where performance meets precision, and every move leaves a mark. With viral choreography, a genre-blurring sound, and a stage presence that’s impossible to ignore, KAI is more than just the centre of EXO. He’s a creative force who continues to evolve, surprise, and lead.

Related article: Exclusive: MEOVV Is Back With Their First EP MY EYES OPEN VVIDE

Exclusive: KAI On His Own Terms: The EXO Member Talks KAION, Fashion & Finding His Voice
Photo: Courtesy of SM Entertainment

Related article: Danielle Marsh In Her Element

And of course, there’s the fashion. With global campaigns for Gucci, Levi’s, and YSL Beauty (to name a few), and countless covers under his belt, KAI’s influence goes far beyond the stage. He doesn’t just wear the clothes—he shifts the mood.

Ahead of his first solo show in Singapore, we caught up with KAI on tour life, musical growth, and the style mindset that keeps him one step ahead.

Related article: STAYC Redefines K-Pop with [S]: A Bold Fusion of High Fashion & Sonic Innovation

“KAION” marks your first-ever solo concert tour. What can fans expect from this long-awaited show? 

I’m working really hard to make this show flawless, and it’s going to be packed with all kinds of stages. I hope the fans are getting ready for some heat!

From “Mmmh” to “Rover,” your solo discography is full of genre-defying hits and unforgettable choreography. How do you approach each comeback creatively—and what did you want to express with your latest mini-album?

In the early stages I think about how a song is going to work out in terms of movement and choreography; how what you hear and what you see come together into a full performance. And for the Wait On Me album, I wanted to explore deeper into what can be considered my own style. So, experimenting with possibilities but at the same time, trying to capture the classic image the fans love.

Related article: Song Ji-hyo Takes The Plunge In BBC Earth Docuseries Deep Dive Korea

Exclusive: KAI On His Own Terms: The EXO Member Talks KAION, Fashion & Finding His Voice
Photo: Courtesy of SM Entertainment

“Mmmh,” “Peaches,” and “Rover” each sparked their own viral moments and global fan response. What’s been the most meaningful reaction or memory for you from your solo era so far?

I have so many treasured memories it’s really difficult to pick one. For now, a moment that comes to mind is when I stood on stage for the Wait On Me album showcase. It was my first time coming face to face with EXO-L after such a long hiatus. It was honestly a very emotional moment for me.

Your influence spans music, fashion, and beauty—how do you stay grounded while navigating such a dynamic career, especially as you mark 14 years in the industry?

These days I’m really busy with my concert schedule, but I try to take care of myself by taking breaks from time to time. After all, health is the most important thing! Outside of work, I try to stick to a set routine in my daily life, and I think this helps me maintain some balance even when my schedules get busy.

Exclusive: KAI On His Own Terms: The EXO Member Talks KAION, Fashion & Finding His Voice
Photo: Courtesy of SM Entertainment

What does this tour represent to you personally and artistically?

"KAION" to me is almost like a new beginning. Alongside the Wait On Me release, this tour was an official announcement of KAI returning to stage. And of course, it’s my first time doing it alone, so it naturally drives me to give it my all. Officially, the title has double meanings, KAI + ON, and the term ‘AION’ (αἰών), which means eternity. Together, it means that KAI returning to the stage marks the beginning of eternity.

After more than a decade in the spotlight, what continues to inspire you to evolve as a performer?

Recently, I think it’s the new artists and new music. We live in a time where trends are changing so quickly, and there is so much content being released, but some songs still manage to stand out and stay with you. So there’s no set answer to ‘good music’ and I find that inspiring.

Exclusive: KAI On His Own Terms: The EXO Member Talks KAION, Fashion & Finding His Voice
Photo: Courtesy of SM Entertainment

You’ve performed on some of the world’s biggest stages. How does it feel returning to Singapore with your own solo concert—and how do you usually connect with local fans while you're here?

I’m really excited to come back to Singapore. I had great memories here, and I’ve been looking forward to coming back. And through the show, I hope to reconnect with Singapore EXO-L and make unforgettable memories together.

Finally, what message would you like to share with your fans in Singapore, especially those who’ve been waiting for this solo moment with you?

Thank you for waiting so patiently all this time, and I hope you’re just as excited as I am. I can’t wait to see you soon!

To purchase tickets, click here.

Stay ahead of the latest news, hottest trends, and dopest drops.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Subscription Form
magnifiercrosschevron-down