Singer Kim Yeon-ja Looks Back on 52-Year Career, From Returning Penniless to Reaching New Heights With "Amor Fati"

Singer Kim Yeon-ja opened up about her 52-year career in the music industry.

Appearing on the tvN variety show You Quiz on the Block, which aired on September 30, Kim shared that she was a first-generation Hallyu singer who performed in Japan, Brazil, Cuba, Russia, and other countries. However, she confessed that she had nothing left in her possession when she wrapped up her overseas activities and returned to South Korea. She said, "My ex-husband was also the head of the company. I tried to bring back at least a little bit, but I was told I had to leave empty-handed."

She later experienced a second peak in her career when her song "Amor Fati" enjoyed a sudden chart resurgence. Kim expressed, "I spent days so grateful it was hard to believe. I had a 20-year hiatus in Korea, but 'Amor Fati' filled it all in. Thanks to that, my journey as a singer seems to have broadened." She surprised the cast members by adding, "I am performing at festival stages all across the country. My dance team and I travel in two separate cars, and during busy times, gas money alone costs about 600,000 won a day."

She also shared a story tied to performing at university festivals. Recalling the 2018 Pusan National University festival that became a hot topic due to students singing along in unison, Kim said, "I received a request and was half in doubt. I went with concerns, but the response was amazing." Later, when Kim appeared on a program where 300 people performed on stage together, 150 students from Pusan National University volunteered to support her. Kim has continued her ties with the university by performing at its festival again and donating scholarships.

Reflecting on the past years, Kim said, "I always want to tell myself that I did well. I navigated things well even at a young age, and people around me helped me get this far. I think I will continue to live that kind of life as long as my voice holds out." Mentioning her mother, who is battling Parkinson's disease, she said, "She suffered a lot when she was young. If a miracle happens, I hope she can return to us looking healthy again."

Marking the 52nd anniversary of her debut this year, Kim released her new song "Can You See That Star?" on September 30, the day of the broadcast.

(Photo: tvN You Quiz on the Block broadcast capture)

(SBS Star News, reported by Kang Kyung-yoon)

※