On July 29, EXO’s Sehun released a new Chinese-language single, titled “Fade,” only three days after the song was announced.

“Fade” is an emotional blend of the R&B and pop genres, with a rhythmic, electric guitar-led instrumental that highlights Sehun’s signature singing rap. Its lyrics depict a world without gravity, as the result of the distancing of a lover. NCT WISH member Sion’s vocals are much lighter and sweeter, providing contrast. This contrasting element defines the collaboration, showcasing two different generations of SM Entertainment artists.

The single was released as part of a multi-artist project by Warner Music China, who reportedly contacted Sehun due to his popularity in China. The project aims to showcase “music-related content” despite a decade-long, unofficial cultural ban on Hallyu in the country.

Involving multiple K-pop artists onto an official, China-led project reflects that some element of cultural exchange is still being pursued. From 2025 onwards, there have been several collaborative U.S and South Korean films imported into China, such as Number 17 and Past Life, suggesting that restrictions may be shifting. However, at this stage, it is still rare to find K-pop events in mainland China; they are hosted instead in Hong Kong and Macau, which operate under separate administrative systems.

The release of “Fade” also marks Sehun’s first solo project since “On Me” in 2020, which was included in 1 Billion Views - the first album from Sehun and Chanyeol’s EXO sub-unit, EXO-SC. Additionally, “Fade will receive a physical album, his first as a solo artist.

EXO has recently concluded their sixth concert tour, EXO PLANET #6 - EXhOrizon, which sold out 27 shows across 14 regions of Asia including Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Singapore. The tour was their first in seven years, hosted in celebration of the release of eighth studio album REVERXE in January 2026.

As the ending of the tour aligns with the release of new music from Sehun, it’s possible that more solo projects will follow as well as further releases from EXO.