EVAN, who left ENHYPEN and transformed into a solo artist, released his 1st mini-album "DEATH OF ME," which reflects his inner self like a mirror, and stated, "I want to be a source of strength for those going through difficult times."

EVAN held a press showcase for the release of his 1st mini-album "DEATH OF ME" at 2 p.m. on the 7th at the Grand Peace Palace of Kyung Hee University in Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, where he performed the title track. He explained about the title track, saying, "It is a song that contains my strong determination to stand at a new starting line. Although I faced various limitations, this title track embodies my resolve to ultimately overcome them."

Regarding his challenge as a solo artist for a new musical endeavor, EVAN emphasized, "I wanted to fully incorporate my own stories and message into the music, and that is the musical direction I pursue." At the same time, when asked if this album is an autobiographical story capturing his transition to solo activities, he drew a line, emphasizing, "It is an album that naturally weaves in the values and stories I have built since I was young."

This album is filled with songs of various genres, including the Pop R&B title track "Death of Me," UK garage, alternative rock, and dream pop. EVAN participated in writing the lyrics for all songs and took charge of composing and overall producing for most of the tracks, thereby capturing his own musical narrative.

Previously, ahead of the release of his 1st mini-album, EVAN confessed his battle with cancer for the first time in an interview with Weverse Magazine. He recalled that time, saying, "I was diagnosed with malignant lymphoma in the fourth grade of elementary school. Because I kept coughing, I initially thought it was just a cold and brushed it off, but while playing soccer, after taking four or five steps, I suddenly couldn't breathe. Later, I found out at the hospital that it was cancer."

Regarding the reason for making this confession, EVAN stated, "As an album that reflects my inner self, I wanted to naturally tell all of my stories. The treatment process for childhood cancer is rigorous and painful. It would be a lie to say that the process of receiving this treatment hasn't influenced who I am today. Ultimately, talking about that story was the momentum to show what is inside me. Taking this opportunity, I know there are many people suffering from childhood cancer, and I hope this story can be a small comfort and hope to them."
Finally, regarding a question about ENHYPEN's 8th mini-album "THE SIN : BLISS," released on the 30th of last month (local time) as a six-member group following EVAN's departure, which topped the Billboard main album chart "Billboard 200" for the first time since their debut, he shared his thoughts, saying, "I am proud."

EVAN added, "Reaching number one on the Billboard 200 was a goal that wasn't easy to achieve, and I think the best thing to do moving forward is to work hard and show our best in our respective places."

EVAN's 1st mini-album "DEATH OF ME" will be released through various music sites at 6 p.m. today.

Photo = Reporter Baek Seung-chul

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)