Lee Bong Returns to Music After 27 Years with New Single ‘Yellow & Pink’

South Korean entertainer Lee Bong, known for his 1990s radio and television career, has announced a return to music with a new single under the alias Black Kong. The artist, who last released a song in 1999, will drop “Yellow & Pink” on October 30, marking his first musical project in 27 years.

A 27-Year Return to Music

Lee Bong, who rose to fame in the 1990s as a radio DJ and actor, has not released a new album since “Killing Time” in 1999. His return comes after decades of work in television, including roles in dramas like “Feeling” and “Soom,” as well as hosting gigs on shows like “Infinite Challenge.” The new single, released under the stage name Black Kong, features two tracks: “Mozzarella” and “Pink Order,” with Lee Bong credited as a lyricist.

“I’m excited to reconnect with fans through music after so long,” Lee Bong said in a statement. “I hope these songs bring joy and comfort to those who listen.” The artist’s agency confirmed the project originated from his long-standing habit of journaling, with lyrics drawn from archived notes. “The songs reflect his personal reflections and emotions over time,” the release stated.

The Creative Process Behind ‘Yellow & Pink’

Lee Bong’s creative process for the single involved revisiting handwritten notes compiled over years. “He would jot down thoughts and feelings daily, later revisiting them to transform into lyrics,” the agency explained. This approach is highlighted in “Mozzarella,” which the artist described as a “love letter to his past.” The track’s title, a nod to the cheese, symbolizes “a slow, enduring affection,” according to a press statement.

The project also marks Lee Bong’s return to radio, where he has hosted KBS’s “Lee Bong’s Lara Land” since 2022. His career trajectory includes a 9-year stint as a DJ on KBS 2FM’s “Volume Up,” a role that cemented his status as a 1990s radio icon. Despite his music hiatus, he remained active in television, appearing on MBC’s “Infinite Challenge” in 2015 and recent shows like “Radio Star” and “Masked Singer.”

Why This Comeback Matters

Lee Bong’s return resonates with 1990s audiences who remember his radio and television work. His 1990s-era “Volume Up” DJ persona, known for its “calm and sophisticated” style, is credited with helping define the era’s radio culture. The new single, while a departure from his earlier music, aligns with his reputation for blending personal storytelling with accessible melodies.

What’s Next for Lee Bong?

While no further details about an album or tour have been announced, Lee Bong’s agency hinted at future projects. “This single is just the beginning,” a representative said in an interview. The artist is also set to appear in an upcoming KBS drama, though the role has not been disclosed.

For fans, the comeback offers a chance to revisit a cultural figure whose influence spans decades. As Lee Bong prepares to drop “Yellow & Pink,” his journey from radio icon to music returnee underscores the enduring appeal of artists who blend personal authenticity with artistic reinvention.