K-pop icon TAEMIN is poised to make a major global statement in 2026 with the release of his first-ever English-language single, “Long Way Home.” Dropping on March 26 at 9:00 p.m. PST / March 27 at 1:00 p.m. KST, the track marks a significant milestone in the artist’s ever-evolving career and signals a new chapter in his international reach.
“Long Way Home” is described as a moody, atmospheric pop and R&B ballad that leans into cinematic storytelling. Built on haunting melodies and a deeply emotive vocal performance, the song explores themes of longing, distance, and the emotional pull of finding one’s way back—both physically and metaphorically. Known for his sharp performance style and boundary-pushing concepts, TAEMIN takes a more introspective approach here, revealing a softer yet expansive side of his artistry that longtime fans and new listeners alike can connect with.
The single also boasts an impressive creative team. TAEMIN collaborated with producers and songwriters Ben Parris and Corey Marlon Lindsay-Keay, also known as Believve, who have worked with artists like Usher, Imagine Dragons, and Muni Long. Their involvement brings a polished, cross-genre sensibility to the track, blending global pop influences with refined R&B textures. The release is backed by The Yoo Group in partnership with Def Jam Recordings’ distribution arm Definity, further underscoring the scale and ambition of this project.
The timing of “Long Way Home” aligns with what is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal years of TAEMIN’s career. He is set to perform at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, where he will make history as the first Korean solo male artist to appear on the lineup. This achievement adds to a growing list of global milestones, including becoming the first K-pop artist featured in Amazon Music’s “In The Paint” series in collaboration with the National Basketball Association. Additionally, TAEMIN broke new ground as the first solo artist to have an exhibition dedicated entirely to him at the GRAMMY Museum.
With “Long Way Home,” TAEMIN continues to expand his artistic identity while strengthening his position as a global force in music. The single will be available across all major streaming platforms, offering fans worldwide an opportunity to experience this new era firsthand.
About TAEMIN
South Korean superstar TAEMIN is one of the most respected and influential artists in K-pop. A celebrated solo artist and a member of the iconic group SHINee, he has also been active as part of SuperM, SM Entertainment’s global project group.
He has released music that has charted internationally, including on Billboard, sold millions of albums worldwide, and earned major industry awards. Through his artistry, he has inspired countless contemporary K-pop artists, earning him the title “IDOL’S IDOL.”
TAEMIN has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, from major festivals and award shows to high-profile fashion events. He recently wrapped up the largest solo world tour of his career, with sold-out shows across the United States, Latin America, and Europe once again proving his powerful global impact.
In January 2026, TAEMIN headlined a sold-out solo concert at Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas. Following up in April, he will be performing at Coachella, marking the first-ever appearance by a K-pop male solo artist on the festival lineup.
Since his debut in 2008, TAEMIN has spent nearly two decades redefining K-pop and expanding the boundaries of the genre through his performances and artistic vision. With a series of acclaimed hits such as “MOVE,” “WANT,” “Advice,” and “Guilty,” he has consistently proven his excellence as both a performer and a vocalist. In 2024, he released the EP ETERNAL, which topped the iTunes Albums Top charts in at least 38 countries worldwide, further solidifying his global stature.
TAEMIN recently joined Galaxy Corporation and will take part in global initiatives that combine entertainment with next-generation technologies.
