Kang Daniel is set to make a comeback with a new album, marking a fresh start after the closure of his former agency. On August 30th, his new agency, ARA, released a comeback trailer, officially announcing his return. 


The trailer features intense sound and rapidly changing visuals, hinting at the album's title, "ACT," with a release date scheduled for September 2024. This comeback comes 15 months after his fourth mini-album, REALIEZ, which was released in June of the previous year.


"ACT" will be Kang Daniel's fifth mini-album and his first project under ARA, following his departure from his former agency, KONNECT Entertainment, which he founded after the disbandment of the project group Wanna One in June 2019. Recently, Kang Daniel faced internal turmoil at KONNECT Entertainment, including a legal dispute with the company's majority shareholder, identified as Mr. A, whom Kang accused of forgery. The agency eventually went through a process of closure amid this legal battle, and Kang Daniel stepped down as CEO. In June, he left KONNECT and signed an exclusive contract with ARA.


The comeback trailer, filled with symbolic imagery and showing Kang Daniel standing alone, has heightened anticipation and curiosity about the new album. 


ARA described "ACT" as an album that breaks Kang Daniel's long hiatus and quickly reconnects him with his fans. They also announced that the album, marking a significant turning point in his career, will be released in September, with comeback teasers to be gradually unveiled through their official social media channels.


Written by Yoon Seong Yeol
Translated by Lee So Yun