The singer-actor begins a new musical chapter after years on screen

Im Si-wan is returning to his musical roots. The singer-turned-actor has joined an SM Entertainment-affiliated label and officially begun work on his first solo album.

A long-awaited solo debut

On October 13, SM Entertainment confirmed to Dispatch: "A label under SM is preparing Im Si-wan's solo album. The release schedule and other details are currently being coordinated."

This marks Im's first official solo record since his debut 15 years ago. Though best known for his acting career, he has long demonstrated his musical sensibility through drama soundtracks such as Misaeng, The King Loves, and Boyhood.

From idol to actor — and back to music

Im Si-wan debuted in 2010 as a member of ZE:A (Children of Empire) before transitioning into acting, where he gained acclaim for roles in Moon Embracing the Sun, The Attorney, Squid Game Season 3, and the Netflix film Mantis.

Despite his successful acting career, Im has always kept his passion for singing alive. In a recent interview for Mantis, he remarked, "I never gave up on being a singer," hinting that a return to the stage was only a matter of time.

A new partnership and direction

Im recently concluded his exclusive contract with Plum A&C. Although his new agency has yet to be officially announced, insiders say his collaboration with SM Entertainment marks the beginning of a broader music-focused phase in his career.

Fans are eagerly anticipating how Im Si-wan — known for his delicate vocal tone and emotional depth — will express his artistry in a full-length solo project for the first time.