Beloved K-Pop Idol Announces Return After A Nearly 6 Year Hiatus And Lawsuit
In 2017, the second season of the wildly popular Produce 101 series introduced dozens of trainees to viewers. Ultimately, the show produced the temporary group WANNA ONE.
However, many of the show’s trainees who did not make the group left a lasting impact on many, including Samuel Kim. Samuel, then a trainee under Brave Entertainment, was already known for his time as a trainee under Pledis alongside SEVENTEEN and his debut with musician One in 1PUNCH.
Ultimately, Samuel ranked 18th overall, but many were assured he would have a long, successful career because he was so young and had time to debut again. He debuted as a solo artist, releasing his first full album in 2017 and multiple mini-albums throughout 2018.
In 2019, Samuel filed a lawsuit for the non-existence of an exclusive contract with Brave Entertainment after the company disputed his departure. The same year, the idol suffered tragic loss after his father was murdered at his home in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Not much was heard from the star until he won the lawsuit in 2021, with him hosting the Arirang Radio program Radio N’ Us in 2022.
Fans have been waiting for the idol to make his comeback officially and got teased with an apparent tracklist in February.
Since then, Samuel has confirmed his newest album, Now, will be released on April 21 and shared a teaser video in advance! The short teaser has the idol’s voice talking about hard times and growth, reflecting his aging since his debut.
As you can imagine, fans have been pumped up for his return, leaving comments of praise and support in the comments of his teaser.
We’re so excited to see what Samuel has in store!
