“Entertainment and workouts are a study in safeguarding his singing”

Kim Jong-kook is marking his 30th anniversary since debut, having spent nearly a decade as a singer before expanding into the realm of variety and fitness. Through the era of Turbo’s memorable dance anthems, his husky, resonant voice and emotional nuance helped establish a distinctly Korean take on the dance-pop mold. For the 30th anniversary, he performed The Originals in Seoul’s Bluesquare SOL Travel Hall on October 18–19, demonstrating a stage presence sharpened by years of television realism and life experience. His singer’s identity now feels more layered than ever, no longer traceable to a single origin, as his performances reflect a broadened musical sensibility. A Turbo medley—featuring X, Love Is, Black Cat, Twist King, Good Bye Yesterday, and White Love (performed on the ski slope)—had the audience leaping to their feet. Guests on the nights included Cha Tae-hyun and Ma Seon-ho on the first day, and Yang Se-chan, Jonathan, and Shorry on the second. He emphasized that his pride lies more in singing than in muscle, and that entertainment work and training may well be the study needed to safeguard the singer within him. With a voice that remains vibrant, Kim Jong-kook’s 30-year journey stands as an evolving testament to his craft.