Guess who’s back and turning up the heat? EXO’s Kai has made his grand return with his fourth mini album, “Wait On Me,” and his first-ever solo concert tour, KAION. After nearly two years away from the public eye due to mandatory military service, Kai is back bolder, sharper, and ready to own the stage like never before.
The Comeback Album: Wait On Me
Best known as a member of the legendary K-Pop group EXO, Kai has, over the past few years, also been steadily creating an impressive solo discography. On April 21, 2025, Kai dropped “Wait On Me,” his first release since “Rover,” and fans are already calling it his most refined work yet. The seven-track album features the title track “Wait On Me” and the pre-release single “Adult Swim,” both of which reflect a more confident, matured Kai. With Afrobeats-inspired rhythms, smooth R&B textures, and polished pop production, “Wait On Me” is global in sound but still unmistakably Kai.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Kai shared, “‘Adult Swim’ is a very meaningful track: If I were the Kai [of a few years ago], I might not have chosen this track. Because of these two years away and the experience from that time, that became the factor that made me choose this song.” This time away also gave him space to reflect on his journey, both personally and professionally. “I’ve wondered where my peak could be. At the same time, I wasn’t too curious about others’ perspectives or thoughts.”
Critics have praised the album for its emotional depth and genre-blending sound, highlighting Kai’s richer vocals and bolder artistic choices. Teaming up with international producers like Jacob Aaron (of ENHYPEN and NMIXX fame), Kai continues to push boundaries with global flair and personal storytelling. The result? An album that feels both personal and expansive, proof that Kai isn’t just making a comeback; he’s back to reclaim the throne of the “King of K-Pop.”
The album comes in three collectible versions: player version, sleeve version, and the photobook version (each packed with unique inclusions like postcards, photocards, polaroids, image cards, postcards, and lyric papers).
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KAION
Riding the wave of his album release, Kai launched “KAION,” his first solo tour named after a fusion of “Kai” and “ion,” perfectly capturing the vibrant energy and connection that he brings on stage. The tour kicked off with two sold-out nights in Seoul at the Olympic Handball Gymnasium on May 17–18 before making its way through ten major cities across Asia, including Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Jakarta, Singapore, Taipei, Manila, Bangkok, two nights in Yokohama, and Hong Kong.
The Seoul shows delivered everything fans hoped for and more, opening with intense, captivating tracks like “Sinner” and “Nothing On Me,” then flowing to softer favorites like “Vanilla” and “Peaches.” Fresh tracks from “Wait On Me” were also sprinkled throughout the setlist, showing Kai’s artistic evolution. One of the standout moments? A stripped-down acoustic medley of EXO classics, a fun throwback that had long-time fans emotional and singing along. From powerful choreography to intimate encore performances like “Blue,” the KAION tour is an immersive experience that traces the journey from EXO’s main dancer to a full-fledged solo artist.
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A Turning Point for Kai and K-Pop
Kai’s 2025 comeback isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a turning point in K-Pop. As more idols branch out into solo careers, Kai sets the gold standard by balancing group legacy with individual growth. His return has reignited interest in EXO while carving out a fresh identity that blends R&B, Afrobeats, Latin rhythms, and electro-pop, reflecting K-pop’s global direction.
Conclusion
What is your favorite Kai era so far? Now’s the time to grab your albums and/or merchandise before they sell out! Check out Delivered Korea’s ‘We Buy, We Ship’ or ‘You Buy, We Ship’ services or the DKshop to have them delivered quickly to your doorstep.
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