Paul Kim drops first English single after 12 years of K-drama hits
The South Korean singer-songwriter released 'Love Me Hard' on October 30, marking his debut in the English-language market after a decade of chart-topping ballads.
By Grace Anderson ·
Paul Kim released his first English-language track on October 30, ending a 12-year career defined by Korean ballads and K-drama soundtracks. The single, titled "Love Me Hard," marks his official entry into the English market after years of planning and delays.
Kim debuted in 2014 with songs like "Me After You" and "Traffic Light," which became staples in Korean television and music charts. He described the new release as a long time coming, noting that the project was repeatedly postponed due to the pandemic and logistical challenges in finding the right distribution process for international audiences.
The artist cited his time living in New Zealand and Japan as the primary inspiration for the shift. Kim said he wanted to explore how different languages affect musical style, viewing the project as a way to process his international experiences. He described the song as a traditional pop track, a genre he has rarely attempted compared to his usual ballad work.
Writing in English presented a specific challenge for Kim, who is a native Korean speaker. He said the goal was to show listeners and fellow South Koreans a different side of his artistry. He noted that while many K-pop songs mix 70% English and 30% Korean, he missed hearing songs that relied entirely on Korean lyrics. He viewed the new track as a test of his vocal abilities and songwriting process in a new linguistic context.
Kim has already recorded several additional English songs for upcoming projects. He told FOX 13 Seattle that he has been preparing this project for years and expects to release more material soon. He asked fans for patience as he finalizes the rollout of his new English-language catalog.
The release follows his 10th-anniversary album, "Sincerely yours," in 2025 and a recent Asian tour. Kim said he listens to music to relieve stress and hopes his work becomes part of listeners' daily lives, whether during travel, breakups, or moments of joy. He aims to maintain the emotional connection that has defined his career while expanding his global reach.
