Singer Kim Jong-kook, 49, announces marriage

Singer Kim Jong-kook / Courtesy of SBS

Singer and TV personality Kim Jong-kook, 49, has announced that he is getting married.

Kim revealed the news through a handwritten letter posted on his official fan community on Monday. “I always thought one day I might write something like this, but now that the moment has come, I am very nervous,” he wrote.

Kim first expressed gratitude to his fans, saying, “For such a long time you have trusted, supported and stayed by my side. That is why I wanted to share this news with you first.”

He then said, “I am getting married,” adding humorously, “This year marks my 30th anniversary since debut. Instead of making an album, I have made my other half.” Kim continued, “It’s very late, but isn’t it fortunate that I finally get to do this?”

The veteran singer and entertainer went on to promise, “I will try my best to live well. Thanks to the strength I’ve received from all of you over the years, I can now take on this new challenge in life.”

Kim’s wedding will be held privately in the near future, with only family and close acquaintances in attendance.

Speculation had been circulating earlier when he purchased a villa in Nonhyeon-dong, southern Seoul, which he later confirmed during a television appearance.

Kim Jong-kook’s marriage announcement posted on social media / Captured from social media

Debuting in 1995 as a member of the duo Turbo, Kim rose to stardom with a string of hits before successfully transitioning into a solo career with songs such as “One Man,” “Lovable” and “Walking in One Spot.”

He has also built a long career in entertainment variety programs, including “X-Man,” “Running Man” and “My Little Old Boy.”

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.