Kai, a member of the group EXO who completed military service, returned with a more intense gaze.

The Namsung lifestyle magazine Esquire revealed on the 18th the photoshoot featuring EXO's Kai on the cover of the April issue. This photoshoot is particularly noteworthy as it is the first conducted since his discharge in February.

Kai said, "In fact, until just yesterday, I had some worries about whether things would go well and felt a bit nervous, but when I actually came to the site, it felt just like doing the work I have always done." He added, "I realized that this work actually brings me peace of mind." According to reports, the staff expressed admiration throughout the shoot as Kai effortlessly balanced his remarkable concentration with his unique softness that lightened the atmosphere.

In the interview, Kai's sincere and warm side could also be glimpsed. He noted that he plans to return with a new solo mini-album in April and stated, "I wanted to create this album without any preconceived notions of 'Kai.'" This means he tried to work without being bound by what kind of musician Kai is or what should be shown at this time. Regarding the mood of the new song, he expressed, "It feels very hot but also very breezy."

He also discussed his upcoming first solo concert tour 'KAION' scheduled for May. Reflecting on the power of touring in 10 cities immediately after his discharge, Kai noted, "It's all thanks to the fans who have been waiting," and expressed a heartfelt desire, saying, "To repay that gratitude, I want to go beyond the 10 cities and go everywhere in the world."

When asked about the moment he is most looking forward to, he expressed his great anticipation, saying, "I expect to encounter a perfect moment that is certainly at the end of the relationship we share, a relationship that has nowhere else to go, between myself and the fans."

[Photo] Provided by Esquire.

[OSEN = Sun Mi-kyung reporter]