After a scandal involving an adult massage parlor, a public breakup and another very public relationship, singer Se7en has returned after nearly five years with a new, self-produced album.

Titled “I Am Se7en,” the retro-funk album reflects who he is now, the 31-year-old singer told reporters at a press interview at his entertainment agency, Eleven 9, Thursday.

“I’m particularly fond of this album because I participated in making the melodies, writing the lyrics and the production of every song,” he said. “I’m happy to be back on stage and singing and communicating with my fans. I realize how dear it is to me.”

The singer, who debuted in 2003 with the hit song “Come Back to Me,” was mired in a prostitution scandal in 2013 when he and rapper Sangchu were caught visiting an adult massage parlor while serving their mandatory military duty. He subsequently broke up with his longtime girlfriend, actress Park Han-byul. Last month, it was announced he was in a relationship with actress Lee Da-hae. 


“I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on my wrongdoings,” said the singer, though he explained he wanted to clarify some points. Last month, he posted on his social media handle that he had not originally intended to visit an adult parlor, and only went after seeing that traditional Chinese and Thai massage parlors were closed. “But I know what I did was wrong, and it took me a long time to speak out.”

Se7en said he’s aware of the ill sentiment toward him and the negative comments online.

“I know that some people won’t be happy to see that I’ve returned. I know I can’t win people back with just one album, but I hope that if I continue to give good performances I can change that.”

Last year, Se7en went on a Japanese tour and performed in the musical “Elizabeth.”

His new lead track “Give it to Me,” a catchy brass dance tune, was produced by the musician team Stereotypes, known for working with stars such as Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber.

His new album and music video were set to be released Thursday at midnight.

By Rumy Doo (doo@heraldcorp.com)