SHINee’s Key is living proof that a long, evolving career in K-pop is possible—even well into your 30s. At 33, the multi-talented artist has embraced a new chapter in his career that’s just as vibrant and ambitious as his debut years. Backstage at SM Entertainment’s SMTown Live in Los Angeles, Key opened up about his journey, his creative mindset, and what it means to reunite with fans in the U.S. after more than a decade.
“It’s been so long,” Key said, reflecting on SHINee’s last visit to L.A. “We had to pause for military service, then the pandemic. I really missed our fans here.” He admitted that stepping back onto a U.S. stage was an emotional moment—both heartwarming and bittersweet. “When I saw the fans with my own eyes, it felt like love. But I also felt sorry for being away so long.”
Despite the time apart, Key is more than ready to reconnect. He revealed he’s planning a potential solo tour in the U.S., in addition to more group activities with SHINee. “As a solo artist or as SHINee—as many times as we can—I want to come back,” he said.
Key has also witnessed how the global perception of K-pop has changed dramatically. What once felt like a niche genre now dominates worldwide music charts and trends. “Years ago, K-pop in the U.S. felt like anime music—just a few passionate fans,” he said. “But now? People don’t care about language. They just feel the music. I sing in Korean, Japanese, English—whatever I want.”
That artistic freedom, he explains, is one of K-pop’s most powerful qualities. “In K-pop, there’s no fixed genre. You can mix everything—cultures, visuals, stories—into one album. It’s the perfect place for someone like me.”
Even more significant is Key’s perspective on aging in the industry. “When I was NCT’s age, I never imagined I’d still be doing this in my 30s,” he confessed. “Everyone said careers don’t last this long. But after I turned 30, that’s when all the good things started happening.”
Now, he wants to show younger idols that a lasting career is possible. “I want my juniors to see that it doesn’t have to end in your 20s. You can keep going. I didn’t plan this. I just didn’t quit.”
As for what’s next, Key is already thinking about future music. While his last release, Pleasure Shop, showed a softer side, he’s ready to return to something bolder. “I miss ‘Gasoline’ so much. I want to bring that energy back.”
No matter the project, Key says he carries many versions of himself into everything he does—pop star, comedian, model, and ordinary person. “There’s no single ‘me’ anymore,” he smiles. “There’s a lot of me—and I’m okay with that.”