Kim Gun-mo Returns After 6 Years, Fans Express Concern Over Gaunt Appearance

National singer Kim Gun-mo has returned to the stage after a six-year hiatus.

While he appeared composed, joking that he had rested as well as '6-year-old red ginseng,' his noticeably thinner face drew sympathetic reactions from fans. Kim Gun-mo, who had been silent for six years, is now back in the public eye.

On the 16th, singer Woody shared a photo on his social media with the caption, 'My hero, My idol,' featuring himself and Kim Gun-mo. Woody, who has always cited Kim Gun-mo as his idol, beamed next to the veteran artist, showcasing their strong bond.

However, fans' attention was drawn to Kim Gun-mo's changed appearance. In the photo, he looked significantly thinner and more worn out compared to his previous active days. Netizens expressed their worries, commenting, 'Don't get old, Gun-mo hyung,' 'He must have gone through a lot of hardship,' and 'He's lost so much weight.'

Kim Gun-mo's transformation hints at the difficult past six years. He faced a sudden sexual misconduct allegation in 2019, leading to a halt in all broadcast activities and concerts. Amidst public scrutiny, he engaged in legal battles. To compound his difficulties, he married pianist Jang Ji-yeon but later divorced. Although he was eventually cleared of the charges in 2022 following a dismissal by prosecutors and rejection of appeals, the emotional scars and lost time appear to have left a deep impact.

Despite these hardships, Kim Gun-mo has picked up the microphone again. Since August, he has been meeting fans through his nationwide concert tour, 'Kim Gun-mo.', reconnecting with the world through his music. At the Suwon concert on the 15th, he humorously compared his six-year absence to a 'red ginseng aging period,' quipping, 'I rested well for another year and have reappeared in great shape.'

It is undoubtedly a welcome event to hear Kim Gun-mo's voice again. However, his gaunt appearance, reflecting the turbulence he has endured, evokes a sense of pity. Many are cheering for his recovery and successful return to activities, hoping he can heal from the emotional wounds sustained during the unintended six-year hiatus, marked by personal turmoil including marriage and divorce.

Netizens reacted with concern, commenting things like 'Don't get old, Gun-mo hyung,' 'He must have gone through a lot of hardship,' and 'He's lost so much weight.' Others expressed support, saying, 'It's good to see him singing again,' and 'I'm rooting for you.'