Singer Kim Chang-wan confessed to past alcohol addiction during the 10th anniversary special of 'How Did We Get Here?' and expressed gratitude for the affection of his wife, who helped him overcome it.
On the 1st, tvN's entertainment program 'How Did We Get Here?' premiered its 10th anniversary special broadcast.
During the event, Kim Chang-wan took the stage as a speaker, attracting attention. Having debuted in 1977 with the band Sanullim, Kim Chang-wan is a distinguished figure who won the Cultural Merit Medal at the '2024 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards' last year. He has been revered as a "true adult" by younger artists in the K-pop industry, including singer IU. He was well-suited as the first speaker for the 10th anniversary of 'How Did We Get Here?'.
MC and actor Kim Sang-jung also welcomed Kim Chang-wan, saying he is "an adult who has lived very deeply and quietly." Kim Chang-wan jokingly responded, "You haven't come to my performance, so that's why you say it is very loud," which drew laughter.
Kim Chang-wan experienced anxiety before being recognized as an adult loved by the public, beyond just the music industry. He revealed, "How imperfect of a job it is to be a singer. As the years go by, I grow older, and my range of movement narrows." His alternative was becoming a radio DJ. In a job he found as a stopgap, Kim Chang-wan discovered recognition and stability.
"I just did it sincerely," said Kim Chang-wan, revealing that his dedication to being present every day moved the public along with his songs. In response to younger artists' questions about what a DJ is, he replied, "Someone who is there at that time." Reflecting on his long career as a radio DJ, he recalls, "I struggled for about a month. I think the solid format of radio helped me endure."
Kim Chang-wan was also known as a notorious drinker. Comedian Hwang Je-seong remarked, "No one comes out sober after drinking at his house. I heard it's the kind of place where you go in on two feet but come out on four." This was a testament from the PD of the morning radio show he has been hosting for a long time. Kim Chang-wan, overwhelmed, covered his mouth with his index finger and added to the humor.
In fact, Kim Chang-wan disclosed, "To confess, I was very seriously alcohol dependent in the past." He has previously stated in entertainment programs like 'Healing Camp' about experiencing severe alcohol dependence during a period of intense job scarcity in his younger days. However, he noted, "Nevertheless, I chose a gradual method to quit (drinking). I took it slowly." He emphasized that personal willpower is crucial, but support from those around is necessary. He expressed deep gratitude and affection, saying, "My wife can't drink a drop, but she has never blamed me for drinking. Instead, she encouraged me to do other things like exercising."
Meanwhile, Kim Chang-wan is meeting audiences nationwide through Kim Chang-wan Band concerts and various music festivals and rock festivals. Additionally, he has been communicating with listeners since July of last year through the SBS Radio Love FM program 'Good Evening, Kim Chang-wan'.
[Photo] OSEN DB, tvN source.
[OSEN]