Image Courtesy: SM Entertainment
The event took place on the 18th of the month, within the confines of the Handball Stadium located at Olympic Park in Songpa-gu, Seoul, marking the launch of Kai's initial solo tour, 'KAION'.
The concert was segmented into four thematic sections, each reflecting the differing emotional undertones of Kai’s musical repertoire: 'The Stranger in the Mirror', 'The Many Selves Within Me', 'All Selves Unite', and 'A New Journey of Mine'. The stage featured Kai’s name in English typography, supported by VCRs and a large LED screen, complemented by props that collectively elevated the audience’s visual experience.
Commencing with 'Sinner' from his third mini album, Kai, clad in a red blouse and trousers, engaged the audience with tracks such as 'Mmmh' from his initial mini album and 'Nothing On Me'. The crowd resonated with chants of his real name, 'Kim Jongin'.
Kai, visibly buoyed by the audience's enthusiasm, warmly invited everyone to his debut solo concert 'KAION'. In addressing his audience, he inquired, "Did you miss me?" and candidly shared, "It's the second day, and I'm more nervous than the initial one. While the first day was filled with the challenge of 'Can I do this?', today, my focus is on performing well and enjoying the experience."
The conclusion of the first segment was marked by renditions of 'Hello Stranger' from his first mini album, 'Slidin'' from the third, and 'Ride Or Die' from the initial mini album.
The subsequent segment commenced with dance interpretations to the rhythm of EXO tracks 'My Lady', 'Baby Don't Cry', and 'Into Your World'. Kai, in a three-piece suit, delivered solo dance performances, with the fans' vocal accompaniment completing the tableau. He then expressed affection for his audience with a heart gesture during 'Come In' from his second mini album.
Kai reflected with, "How did you find the EXO medley after such a hiatus?" and further remarked, "Dancing while hearing EXO-L's harmonious support was overwhelming, rekindling many cherished memories from our debut to the present. 'Into Your World' almost brought me to tears."
Continuing, he noted, "I hope you appreciated the introductory and bridging visuals. The reception was positive, highlighting the emergence of a renewed Kai. Despite 14 years passing, there remains so much to reveal. New dimensions continue to emerge," as he pledged eternal dedication to his fans.
He reappeared with rimless spectacles, performing 'Vanilla' from his second mini album, the title track 'Peaches', and 'Adult Swim' from his fourth mini album.
"I'll shift the song's atmosphere," Kai announced, donning a suit jacket. The audience responded with fervent applause to his performances of 'Wait On Me', the lead track from his fourth mini album, as well as 'Pressure', 'Walls Don't Talk', and 'Bomba' from his third mini album.
As the third segment commenced, Kai, adorned in a leather jacket and black cap, performed unreleased solo track 'Confession' and 'Domino' from his second mini album, elevating the concert's energy to its zenith.
Out of breath, Kai remarked, "This is the intense section," amid robust applause from EXO-L. He expressed, "Through this concert, I aimed to reaffirm my presence. I wanted to ensure the waiting time wasn't regretted and hoped it would reaffirm your sentiments for me. 'That's why I like Kai', 'No one but Kai fulfills me', 'My true dopamine is Kai'—these are the affirmations I sought."
Encouraging the audience to "Let's go crazy today," Kai delivered 'Reason' from his first mini album.
As the concert neared its conclusion, Kai commented, "Today has been truly delightful and enjoyable. I'm immensely grateful to my fellow members for attending," specifically acknowledging Suho, Chanyeol, and D.O. He added, "Thanks to the support of my brothers, this concert was made possible. I express my gratitude to them and to all of you for making my first solo concert 'KAION' a reality. I promise to return with an even more impressive performance." The third segment concluded with the widely cherished solo track 'Rover'.
Even post-performance, EXO-L continued chanting 'Kim Jongin'. In response, Kai delivered 'Blue' from his second mini album, expressing gratitude, "Thank you for the encore." He added, "This may be the most demanding performance I’ve ever given, expending all my energy during 'Rover'." While taking photos, he was moved by a surprise slogan event by EXO-L proclaiming "Jongin, we love you," bringing him to tears.
Kai expressed, "I'm incredibly moved and joyful. This event stirred a multitude of emotions. Despite fears and numerous thoughts, focusing on you allowed me to conduct this concert. On stage, my sole emotion is happiness. Today reaffirmed that performing for you is my greatest joy. I will forever cherish this day," concluding the Seoul concert with 'To Be Honest' from his second mini album.