KEY, a prominent member of the K-pop group SHINee, recently embarked on his first solo tour in the United States, captivating audiences with his innovative performance style. The series of concerts, titled KEYLAND: Uncanny Valley, kicked off at the Orpheum Theater in downtown Los Angeles on December 3, 2023. Despite a smaller dance crew compared to his concerts in Seoul, the show maintained the extravagant flair associated with the seasoned performer.
Upon his dramatic entrance, KEY donned an impressive silver corset and adorned shoulder pauldrons, creating a striking visual that set the tone for the evening. Opening with the edgy pop punk track “Strange,” he immediately engaged the audience, singing, “Dressed to the nines.” This theatricality, according to KEY, serves a dual purpose: it is both a means of artistic expression and a strategic choice to shroud his true identity.
“I don’t wear costumes to show my identity. I cannot say it’s 100% my style,” he explained in an interview with Billboard. “It’s more like strategy.” Throughout the concert, he gradually shed his elaborate attire, revealing a more casual look that resonated with fans. This shift culminated in a heartfelt performance of “Lavender Love,” showcasing a more approachable side of the artist.
The excitement surrounding his tour was amplified when KEY encountered his idol, actress Cynthia Erivo, just moments before the interview. Reflecting on the concert, he described headlining the show as “the greatest moment of this year” and remarked on the unique energy of U.S. fans, who tend to express their thoughts more vocally than fans in other countries.
When curating his setlist for the American leg of the tour, KEY made strategic choices to enhance the concert’s atmosphere. He opted to replace darker tracks like “Novacane” and “Trap” with more upbeat songs such as “Imagine” and “Glam,” aiming to leave audiences with a celebratory feeling.
Performances in the U.S. differ from those in Korea, particularly in scale. For this tour, he prioritized bringing a live band over a larger dance crew, citing the importance of musicianship in delivering his vision for songs like “Strange,” “BAD LOVE,” and “Gasoline.”
KEY’s elaborate costumes, especially during the opening, contrast sharply with the current trend in K-pop where idols often wear more casual, relatable attire. He acknowledged this shift but emphasized the importance of showcasing his artistic identity. “That kind of outfit makes me stronger as an artist. It’s my expression,” he noted, recalling how SHINee’s earlier styles have influenced contemporary fashion trends in the industry.
Looking ahead, KEY expressed a desire for SHINee to return to the U.S. as a group, although he could not confirm specific plans. He highlighted the challenges of coordinating schedules among the four members but reassured fans that they are continually preparing for future projects.
As he navigates his evolving career, KEY reflects on the lessons learned throughout his 18 years in the K-pop industry. “I don’t like learning something new, let me be honest,” he admitted, pointing out that while he enjoys performing, the rehearsal process remains a struggle.
He also discussed the changing landscape of K-pop, particularly regarding branding and social media. Having established his Instagram account over 14 years ago, KEY recognizes the saturation of content in the industry today. “It’s become a red ocean,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for artists to differentiate themselves in a crowded space.
When asked about his perspective on success, KEY shared that he does not chase results but instead focuses on enjoying the journey. “If I can have a show, then it’s OK, right?” he stated, underscoring his philosophy that happiness should not be contingent upon fame or fortune.
With a commitment to authenticity, KEY aims to navigate his career on his terms. He concluded the interview by reiterating his desire to live a fulfilling life, whether as an artist or in other roles outside the spotlight. “If, someday, I can’t do this anymore, I’ll just quit… and I’ll live my life — as a father, as a friend of someone, just an old man, I don’t know,” he said with a laugh, encapsulating his pragmatic yet hopeful outlook on the future.
