InterviewNiel's heartfelt comeback album reflects his evolution as pioneering solo artist

Singer Niel, a former member of the group Teen Top / Courtesy of EL&D Entertainment

Singer-songwriter Niel, best known for his early success as a member of K-pop group Teen Top, is releasing his first official mini-album since establishing his own label. This project marks a powerful step in his evolution as a pioneering solo artist and creative force.

“I finally had the freedom to make the music I truly wanted,” Niel said of the album, which highlights his signature emotional delivery with a shift toward more atmospheric, minor-toned sounds. “There were always creative limitations before. This time, I focused entirely on expressing my own feelings,” he told The Korea Times during an interview at a cafe in southern Seoul's Gangnam District on Friday.

Debuting as a member of Teen Top in 2010, Niel rose to fame with a string of hits including "Miss Right," "No More Perfume on You" and "To You," capturing the hearts of fans with the group’s distinctive charms. He later solidified his position as a solo artist with tracks like "Hweek" and "A Walk to Goodbye,” showcasing a more personal and emotionally nuanced side of his artistry.

Niel doesn’t mince words about why he needed a fresh start. “There were limitations when I was working under someone else’s direction,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to focus more on my own colors and my own direction.”

That direction veers unapologetically toward the minor.

“I know it’s not the mainstream path," he said. "But I wanted to show that there’s diversity in me. I’ve always been drawn to sounds that are more subtle, more emotional, even a little strange.”

Singer Niel in a concept photo / Courtesy of EL&D Entertainment

The title track "SHE" is paired with a moody music video that explores themes of emotional entrapment and transformation. “The string in the video represents being stuck in an inescapable mental space,” Niel explained. “I wanted the visuals, choreography and even the length of the music to fully express the depth of that feeling.”

He added, “Some might find it unconventional, but I chose this song the moment I heard it. I worked closely with the composer to make sure it was something I could really express — something that felt like me.”

Originally intended as a single, the project was expanded into a mini-album during production. “It just kept growing — I wanted to take the time to get every detail right,” he said.

Of the tracks, he assumes fans will gravitate toward “What’s the Excuse for Love?”— a nostalgic, band-driven melody perfect for sunset drives.

“It’s beautiful and addictive,” he said, smiling. “But for the title, I chose 'SHE' because it was the biggest departure for me. More than any other song, 'SHE' pushed me outside my comfort zone. This is something I’ve never done, I’ve never shown to my fans before. Everything — the lyrics, the sound, the mood — came together in a way that really felt like me.

Still, he kept expectations low.

“Even just before, I messaged fans asking them not to expect too much. But honestly, I was confident. I just wasn’t sure how they’d take it," he said. "Feedback from fans has always been candid. They don’t sugarcoat it, and I appreciate that. When something doesn’t work, they tell me — and that helps me grow.”

Singer Niel in a concept photo / Courtesy of EL&D Entertainment

A veteran of the K-pop scene since debuting with Teen Top in 2010, Niel reflected on his journey with a sense of maturity and humor. “Some of the fans I remember from our debut days are now married! One of them even told me, ‘You’re not allowed to marry yet!’” he laughed.

In addition to his music, Niel is currently working on a new music-themed YouTube program and continuing his musical theater activities.

“There’s synergy between all these parts of my career,” he said. “I feel like they support and inspire each other. I want to challenge myself across all genres. I don’t want to be limited.”

Looking ahead, Niel expressed interest in going overseas for fan events, and hinted at a potential Teen Top reunion to mark the group’s 15th anniversary once member Changjo completes his mandatory military service. “I’d love to go to Taiwan, Japan — even Europe if the opportunity comes. And for my birthday, I’m thinking of doing something special for fans abroad,” he said.

Niel’s return isn’t just another comeback — it’s an evolution marked by sincerity, risk and the courage to define artistry on his own terms.

“I’m truly grateful to everyone who waited for me, and even more so to those who continued to believe in me, no matter what I chose to do,” Niel said. “Moving forward, I’ll work hard to ensure that saying, ‘I’m a fan of Niel,’ is something to feel proud of.”

Niel’s new mini album “SHE” will be released through various online music sites at 6 p.m. on Tuesday.

Kim Min-ji (minji981217@gmail.com) is a Korea Times intern.