OBON Returns with Emotionally Charged Mini-Album ‘RE:BORN’
Korean singer and actor Oh Jin-seok, also known by his stage name OBON, has officially made his long-awaited return to the music scene. On May 2 at 6 p.m. KST, OBON released his first mini-album titled ‘RE:BORN’ through major online music platforms, marking his debut as a solo artist under his new moniker.
This comeback comes over six years after his last digital single “Good Time (feat. nov)” dropped in February 2019. Fans both in South Korea and abroad are eagerly welcoming his artistic rebirth, as reflected in the album’s powerful theme and personal storytelling.
‘RE:BORN’ comprises three tracks that represent the past, present, and future—each narrating a deeply introspective and emotional journey. Rather than opting for elaborate lyrical flourishes, OBON wrote the lyrics for all tracks, peeling back layers of facade to honestly depict his feelings of failure, hope, and renewal.
The title track, ‘O’, is powered by robust rock sounds and thematically centers around ‘rebirth’ and ‘connection,’ capturing the thrill and resolution that come with a new beginning. The second track, ‘Weightless’, dives into the darkest periods of his life, layered with ethereal tones and delicately rendered emotions. In contrast, ‘Illusion’, the closing track, looks towards a not-entirely-hopeful future—yet celebrates the imagination that kept him anchored through solitude and doubt.
‘RE:BORN’ is now available for pre-order across several physical and digital music platforms. The physical release is scheduled for May 8.
In celebration of this pivotal musical rebirth, OBON will host his first-ever solo concert, titled ‘2025 OBON First Live RE:BORN’, on May 10 in Seoul. The event promises to be a milestone not only for OBON but for fans anticipating a renewed musical identity rooted in vulnerability and raw talent.
