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BTS’s Jin hasn’t had a moment of rest since completing his military service in June 2024. In less than a year, the eldest member of the world’s biggest band released his debut solo album HAPPY, launched a variety show with high-profile guests (including none other than Tom Cruise), filmed shows for Netflix, endorsed global brands, represented South Korea in the Paris Olympic Torch Relay, turned heads at Fashion Week, performed on stage with Coldplay in Seoul, and now, he’s dropped his second solo album, Echo.
Released on Friday, May 16, Echo landed on all major streaming platforms alongside the music video for its lead single, “Don’t Say You Love Me.” The emotionally charged visual features acclaimed actress Shin Sae Kyeong as Jin’s on-screen partner in a story about a love on the edge. In a recent appearance on the South Korean variety show “Handsome Guys”, Jin revealed it was his first time acting alongside a professional actress and admitted to feeling nervous, calling the experience harder than he had imagined. But the final result tells a different story.
The chemistry between Jin and Shin is undeniable. Set against the cinematic backdrop of Singapore, the video captures the push and pull of a couple caught in limbo, unsure whether to hold on or let go. The visuals are as breathtaking as they are heart-wrenching, with Jin’s expressive performance and Shin’s grace coming together like a scene out of a beautifully tragic romance film.
The album itself continues this emotional depth. In addition to “Don’t Say You Love Me,” Echo features six other tracks that explore a range of genres and moods, from touching pop ballads to spirited pop-punk and even country-infused rock with “Rope It.” Jin co-wrote several tracks, including “With the Clouds” and “Loser” featuring YENA, showcasing not just his vocal growth but his expanding artistry as a songwriter.
Following the success of HAPPY, which introduced fans to Jin’s solo identity, Echo deepens that connection with a more mature and diverse soundscape. It’s hard to pick a favorite track, each offers something distinct, yet the album maintains a cohesive, authentic vibe rooted in Jin’s love for band music.
As if the album weren’t enough, Jin is about to hit the road for his first-ever solo tour, titled #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR. Inspired by his variety show Run Jin, the tour kicks off June 28–29 in Goyang, South Korea, with livestreamed performances available via Weverse. He’ll then take the stage across Japan, the U.S., the UK, and Europe, including stops in Chiba, Osaka, Anaheim, Dallas, Tampa, Newark, London, and Amsterdam. Tickets for major cities like Seoul and Amsterdam sold out within days, so if he’s heading to your city, this is your chance to witness the Worldwide Handsome in his solo spotlight.
With the remaining five BTS members nearing the end of their military service, ARMYs worldwide are counting down the days to see the group reunited. In the meantime, Jin and J-Hope are holding down the fort with impactful solo projects that remind us just how strong the BTS legacy truly is. Still, we remain endlessly grateful for the content we’ve received over the past three years, including Echo. Because when it comes to BTS, our favorite song is always the next one, whether it’s together or solo.
Listen to Echo below: