EXO's D.O. discusses new album, tour jitters, love for farming

EXO's D.O. discusses new album, tour jitters, love for farming
28 Apr 2024

K-pop group EXO's Doh Kyung-soo, aka D.O., recently sat down with Harper's Bazaar Korea to discuss his upcoming solo album Blossom, set to release on May 7.

This marks his first solo venture since leaving SM Entertainment.

The album, whose title translates to "growth," is a theme that deeply resonates with the singer.

He shared that the album's keyword is based on "his personal experiences he wanted to talk about the most at this time."

D.O.'s album is deeply personal
Album theme

In the candid discussion, the Korean artist elaborated on the theme of growth in his album, stating, "After all, in our lives, we all grow one step at a time."

He expressed, "We grow even as we feel pain, and we grow even when we're struggling. I really wanted [this album] to be an opportunity for everyone who listens to it—and also for me—to become a bit sturdier."

His new album consists of six tracks
About his album

Announced on April 8, Doh's new agency, Company Soosoo, revealed his highly-anticipated comeback.

On May 7 at 6:00pm (KST), the singer-songwriter will introduce Blossom—consisting of six tracks with the spotlight on the title track, Mars.

This release marks his first solo album release in almost eight months, with fans eagerly awaiting new solo material since his last acclaimed release, the second mini album titled Expectation, in September 2023.

In the interview, he pledged not to waste food
Farming experience

Reflecting on his time as a farmer on the variety show GBRB: Reap What You Sow, D.O. expressed deep respect for the profession.

He shared his newfound appreciation for farming and pledged not to waste food in the future.

The singer stated, "When I eat, I'm definitely not going to leave any perilla leaves or lettuce on the table [uneaten]. I'm also going to finish all my rice no matter what, without leaving any of it uneaten."

'I'm really nervous, but I'm equally excited...'
Tour anticipation

As he prepares for his upcoming fan concert tour BLOOM across Asia starting in June, Doh confessed to feeling anxious about performing solo.

He explained, "Up until now, I've always promoted with my [fellow EXO] members, so I didn't have many opportunities to stand on stage alone."

"During this fan-con tour of Asia, I'll be singing multiple songs on my own. So I'm really nervous, but I'm also equally excited."

Music career aside, know more about D.O.'s acting journey
About the artist

Best known for his role as a main vocalist in the Korean-Chinese boy band EXO, D.O.'s journey began when he won a local singing competition in 2010.

D.O. made his acting debut in the film Cart, and also contributed his vocals to the film's soundtrack with the song Crying Out.

His performance in the 2014 television drama It's Okay, That's Love earned him critical acclaim.

D.O. further solidified his reputation with his acting in the 2015 drama I Remember You.