Our 5 wishes For EXO Chen's return
EXO's main vocalist Kim Jongdae, better known as Chen, enlisted for mandatory military service last October 26, 2020. That makes him the fourth member of the group to do so, following Xiumin, D.O., and Suho.
Source: SM Entertainment
As his return on April 25 is fast approaching, we're wishing for nothing but the best for our best boy! Here are some of the the things we're looking forward to after Jongdae's discharge:
KJD3
Source: weareoneEXO (Twitter)
Soloist Chen debuted in 2019 with April, and a Flower led by the single “Beautiful Goodbye.” In the latter part of the same year, it was followed by his sophomore release Dear My Dear, and its title track “Shall we?” Both albums were filled with his signature heavenly voice, unmatched vocal technique, and powerful high notes.
And we're betting everything we have to say that his 3rd record - may it be another EP or a full album this time around - will surely be another divine collection of songs that only the best vocalist in KPop can pull off!
KDrama OSTs
The catchy and lovely OST “Everytime” was performed by Chen along with Punch. As one of the soundtracks of the worldwide hit Descendants of the Sun, it is easily one of the most popular music in KDramaland. He also sang “Cherry Blossom Love Song” for the top-rated Sageuk 100 Days My Prince, which starred his fellow EXO member Doh Kyungsoo, among other songs.
His latest OST was “Your Moonlight” from Do You Like Brahms? and once the OST King is back, we honestly can't wait to hear his voice again as we watch our favorite Korean dramas!
Chentube content
To the delight of EXO-Ls and Soondingies, Jongdae launched his own YouTube channel three years ago. He has uploaded ten videos since then, most of which are unbelievably wonderful covers. The latest content we got was his own rendition of the ballad “Breath” by Park Hyo-shin.
With the upcoming discharge of our top-tier singer, we're really hopeful that Chentube will make a comeback too so we can be blessed with his stunning vocals again!
Bubble subscription
Source: weareoneEXO (Twitter)
Other than Chentube, Jongdae has no personal social networking account, so connecting with him is not as easy as with the other idols. Even though some may consider this a challenge, the love from his true fans has only gone stronger through the years.
But would it be too much to ask for the KPop gods to bless us with a Chen Bubble subscription? We truly hope not! *Insert shut-up-and-take-my-money meme*
EXO comeback
Source: SM Entertainment
We've said this before and we'll say it again: EXO comebacks are always a main event in K-Pop. Chen missed the latest one - OT7 release and another million-seller “Don't Fight The Feeling” - and we're so excited beyond words to have him back for the next one!
We won't deny how much we enjoyed and loved the nonet's 2021 special album, but not having Jongdae's voice and presence in the mix really felt different, and just made us miss him even more!
Before Jongdae left for the military, he left a gift for us through the song called “Hello.” It's still vivid in our memory how much the message of the song resonated with us, and how much tears were shed as we listen to his serenade. And now that he's finally about to return, we get emotional again by the thought that we get to say “hello” to each other once more.
Source: weareoneEXO (FB)
Let's welcome Chen with love, Eri-ya!
Meanwhile, check out the K-pop idols who released a solo album in 2021 in this gallery: