Stay tuned for Pyo Kyung-min's latest K-pop stories, where she digs into the backstories that matter. She’d love to hear from you — share your thoughts at pzzang@koreatimes.co.kr. After all, every article gets better with insights from those who love the scene, just like she does!
BTOB's Lee Chang-sub aims for triumphant comeback after recovering from vocal condition
BTOB's member Lee Chang-sub poses during a media showcase celebrating the release of his latest studio album, "1991," at BlueSquare Mastercard Hall, Yongsan District, Seoul, Wednesday. Yonhap
By Pyo Kyung-min
K-pop vocalist releases solo album, '1991'
After overcoming a serious vocal condition that had sidelined his music career earlier this year, Lee Chang-sub, a member of the K-pop boy band BTOB, is now gearing up for a comeback with his first solo album in six years, titled "1991," an autobiographical project.
Lee, known for his role as lead vocalist of BTOB, had to abruptly halt all music activities earlier this year when he developed nodules on his vocal cords. Causing concern among fans, this sudden health issue forced Lee to withdraw from scheduled performances, as well as delay the release of his album, originally set for April.
After months focused on his recovery, the 33-year-old singer is now returning this fall with fresh music for his fans.
At a media showcase held Wednesday at the BlueSquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Lee revealed he was not fully healed yet but was happy to be able to release the album.
Lee Chang-sub of K-pop boy band BTOB performs "OLD TOWN," one of the double title tracks of his newly released studio album, "1991," at BlueSquare Mastercard Hall, Yongsan District, Seoul, Wednesday. Yonhap
"Earlier this year, I had to cancel all singing engagements due to vocal issues. I've been receiving voice therapy, and as I gradually improved, I was able to start preparing the album," Lee said. "Although I'm still recovering, I feel my health improving every day, and I'm trying to stay positive."
Lee also opened up about the emotional toll his vocal injury had on him, describing it as a deeply challenging time.
"It was the first time I truly felt depressed," Lee shared. "As I practiced, I realized I might never be able to produce the sounds I used to, and that was incredibly devastating. For the first time, I spoke to people around me about my depression. The stress was intense, and I even quit drinking, thinking that maybe my past lifestyle had contributed to the condition."
After these challenging times, Lee is now back with the release of "1991," the singer's first solo full-length album since debuting as a BTOB member 12 years ago.
The album's title, referencing his birth year, symbolizes his journey toward resilience and creative freedom. Spanning 12 tracks, it covers a wide range of genres, including ballads, rock, pop, funk and house.
"I've filled this album with the music styles and genres I love, making it a 100 percent reflection of what I wanted to do," Lee said.
The album features two title tracks, each showcasing a different side of Lee's artistry. The first, "33," is an autobiographical song that reflects on life and the lessons learned at the age of 33. Lee penned the lyrics himself, delivering a message of "perseverance and forward momentum."
The second title track, "OLD TOWN," is a city pop song that channels nostalgia through Lee's unique style.
Comparing the two songs, Lee explained, "'OLD TOWN' is about reflecting on the past, while '33' is about living in the present and imagining the future versions of myself and others."
Lee Chang-sub of K-pop boy band BTOB performs "OLD TOWN," one of the double title tracks of his newly released studio album, "1991," at BlueSquare Mastercard Hall, Yongsan District, Seoul, Wednesday. Yonhap
Concluding the event, Lee shared his long-standing aspirations as a solo artist.
"I'll always be a member of BTOB, but I also want to show my potential and depth as a solo artist," he said. "Carrying the weight of what the six of us used to share is heavy, but overcoming those challenges has made me stronger."
The singer also revealed plans for an upcoming solo concert slated for winter this year.
"A solo concert is also planned. It's scheduled to take place between November and December, and I'll be singing with a healthier voice. Until then, I hope 1991 is playing on repeat in your playlists," Lee teased.