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'Activity Suspension' LE SSERAFIM's Kim Chaewon Sang Only Without Headbanging ('Limousine Service')

LE SSERAFIM's Kim Chaewon has suspended activities due to a neck injury, amid the group's upcoming album release.

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Editorial Team
May 20, 2026
2 min read
LE SSERAFIM (LE SSERAFIM) member Kim Chaewon appeared on the YouTube channel 'KBS Kpop' program 'Limousine Service' uploaded on the 19th. This marks her return to the program approximately four years after her initial appearance early in her debut. Kim Chaewon opened the show with 'CELEBRATION,' a lead single released on the 24th of last month and included in her second full album set for release on the 22nd. With the comeback approaching, she also shared details about the new album. "There are many songs that capture the relationships among the members," she said, drawing attention by singing track 6, 'How Can We Get Closer,' on the spot. The song was written by Huh Yunjin based on her feelings regarding her relationships with the other members. It depicts the process of understanding and growing closer to one another despite differing personalities and modes of expression. Lee Moo-jin remarked, "I can feel that many levels have been upgraded. She seems more relaxed than she was early in her debut," expressing admiration. LE SSERAFIM, consisting of Kim Chaewon, Sakura, Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, and Hong Eunchae, will release their second full album, 'PUREFLOW' pt.1, at 1 p.m. on the 22nd. Based on the strong bond among the five members, the album conveys a message of growth and change as they face their fears yet continue moving forward. The title track 'BOOMPALA' (Boom-pa-la) is a song that says, "Fear may be nothing more than an illusion depending on one's perspective and attitude." Notably, it samples the globally popular 'Macarena,' delivering bright and cheerful energy that everyone can enjoy. However, unfavorable news was also shared. Just before the comeback, the group temporarily suspended activities. On the 19th, their agency, Source Music, stated, "Kim Chaewon recently received medical treatment for pain in her neck area and was advised by medical professionals to rest for a period and monitor her recovery progress." It further added, "Prioritizing the artist's health and safety, and comprehensively considering the medical professionals' advice and the artist's condition, we determined that it is necessary for the artist to focus on sufficient recovery to continue activities in a more stable condition." Consequently, Kim Chaewon was unable to participate in university festivals, Spotify PURE FLOWERS LIVE, and music broadcasts. Previously, ahead of the release of their second full album, LE SSERAFIM pre-released 'CELEBRATION' on the 24th of last month. While this should have been a welcome gift for fans, following the stage reveal, some expressed concern over the intense performance that included vigorous headbanging and requested choreography modifications from the agency. Furthermore, scenes appeared in a recent live broadcast where members seemed to complain of neck pain, further amplifying the controversy. As a result, Kim Chaewon's activity suspension due to a neck injury has further angered fans.

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