I thought I sang the final song, but it was fine. Let’s keep making music.

To mark the 40th anniversary of Deulgukhwa’s first album release, a legendary all-human rights interview ensemble, a new song titled “Congratulations” is set to debut at a concert held at Yonsei University’s auditorium on the 20th and 21st of this month. Jeon In-kwon, a respected figure in the Korean pop music realm known for hitting all the right notes with iconic tracks like “March,” “Round and Round,” and “Don’t Worry, My Love,” is the lead singer of the band Deulgukhwa. The year 2025 not only celebrates the milestone of the band’s first album release but also symbolizes the passage of 40 fruitful years.

Jeon In-kwon, now 72 years old by Korean age, contemplates his musical journey, remarking, “I sang the song thinking it was the last one, but it was okay. Let’s do music again until we have strength.” However, despite his dedication to his craft, he ever so humorously added, “Honestly, I don’t know my age. The next 10 years are easy.” His spirits are high despite the passing years, and he remains as passionate and jovial as ever. He reflected, “Everyone who is older says, ‘It’s still good,’ and so am I. It’s still good.”

During a recent interview in a practice room in Mapo-gu, Seoul, Jeon In-kwon shared his plans to dedicate the next three years to his other passion – painting. He expressed his love for painting figures and self-portraits, showcasing a side of him that extends beyond music. His preparations for the 40th anniversary Deulgukhwa performance are a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft.

This year’s milestone celebrates the release of the groundbreaking first album by Deulgukhwa, a record that shook the foundation of Korean pop music and spawned hits like “Marching” and “Everyday With You.” The band’s inception in 1983 marked the beginning of the golden era for Korean band music, with members such as Choi Sung-won, Heo Sung-wook, Cho Deok-hwan, and Joo Chan-kwon making significant contributions to the music landscape.

As Jeon In-kwon reflects on past successes, he cherishes the enduring relevance of songs like “After Love,” “Round,” and “Don’t Worry.” These timeless tracks continue to resonate with audiences, reminding them to live freely. Each song tells a story of friendship and honesty, conveying a powerful message of unity and resilience. Jeon In-kwon’s commitment to his artistry shines through as he passionately shared his musical journey and his belief in the importance of cultivating genuine connections with others.

The upcoming concert will feature a collaboration between former Deulgukhwa members and Jeon In-kwon’s band, highlighting a bond that has stood the test of time. With a new song titled “Congratulations” set to debut at the concert, the performance promises to uplift and inspire both the musicians and the audience. Jeon In-kwon’s dedication to his music and his unwavering optimism underscore his enduring legacy in the Korean music industry.