Jae-bum Lim Announces Retirement: "Leaving on My Own Terms Amid Beautiful Days Is My Pride"

Announces, "Leaving the Stage After 40th Anniversary Tour"

Singer Jae-bum Lim. Photo by Yonhap News

Singer Jae-bum Lim (62) has announced his retirement from the music industry, marking the end of his 40th anniversary since debut.

On January 4, Lim shared a post on his official YouTube channel, stating, "My heart still burns with passion when I stand on stage, but I had to admit that, despite that passion, I am gradually losing what I once had."

He continued, "I looked back countless times and fought with myself," adding, "With this 40th anniversary tour, I intend to step away from the stage." He went on to say, "I believed that leaving on my own terms, at the best time and amidst the most beautiful days, is my last bit of pride and a way to express my gratitude."

Lim reaffirmed his decision in an interview on JTBC's 'Newsroom' aired the same day. He said, "This is something I have been contemplating for a long time," and explained, "I felt it was right to step down after giving everything I have and singing to the fullest one last time."

He expressed his feelings, saying, "Just as there is a saying that you should leave while the applause is still loud, I believe now is the best time to go," and added, "I hope to be remembered as someone who sang well in the Korean music industry."

Debuting in 1986 as the lead vocalist of the band Sinawe, Lim left behind numerous hit songs such as "For You," "Confession," "Flight," and "A Wound Deeper Than Love" with his signature rough voice and powerful vocals. In 2011, he created a sensation by appearing on MBC's 'I Am a Singer.'

After the passing of his wife in 2017, he temporarily halted his activities, but returned in 2022 with the support of his daughter. He is currently serving as a judge on JTBC's music competition program 'Sing Again 4' and is preparing to release his eighth full-length album.

The ongoing national tour, "I Am Jae-bum Lim," will serve as his farewell stage. The Seoul concerts will be held on January 17 and 18 at the KSPO Dome in Olympic Park, Songpa-gu, Seoul. Lim promised, "I will give my all, both in strength and heart, for my final performance."