IU has drawn concern after repeatedly apologizing to fans while announcing the postponement of her upcoming concert and sixth full length album due to her worsening ear condition.
On July 20, IU shared a lengthy message through the fan platform Berriz explaining that the symptoms of her long term patulous Eustachian tube dysfunction had recently become more difficult to manage.
As a result, the singer said she could no longer proceed with her Goyang Stadium concert scheduled for September.
“Recently, the symptoms of my long term patulous Eustachian tube dysfunction have been getting worse,” IU explained. “Medical experts advised that holding a concert involving a lot of movement and sweating would be difficult for me for the time being.”
IU revealed that the Goyang performance was originally expected to begin a nationwide tour. Because her sixth full length album was also planned around the tour, its release will be delayed by several months.
“I am truly sorry because I feel like my ear condition has ruined the second half of 2026, which could have been a happy time for all of us,” she wrote.
Throughout her message, IU reportedly apologized 12 times to UAENA, her official fandom. Although the schedule changes were caused by a health issue outside her control, she repeatedly expressed regret over disappointing fans who had waited for her return.
At the same time, IU tried to reassure everyone that her condition was not seriously affecting her daily life.
“The condition I have is not painful, and it does not make daily life impossible,” she said. “However, because I am a singer, I decided that I am not currently in the right condition to give audiences a happy performance while at my best. You do not need to worry that IU is seriously ill.”
IU promised to focus on treatment and take every available step to improve her condition.
“I will do everything I can so that we can at least begin 2027 together,” she said. “I will do my best. I will work like crazy.”
Despite the delay, IU expressed confidence in her upcoming album. She shared that several songs had already reached the mixing stage and said the project includes new genres, stories, collaborators, and performances.
“The album is truly good,” IU said. “None of it is disappearing. It is only being delayed by a few months.”
She added that the extra time would allow her team to improve the album and its related activities before her return.
“I will recover quickly and show you myself singing happily again,” she told fans. “Please wait for me just a little longer.”
IU ended the message by promising to return with brighter updates and telling UAENA, “I am truly sorry, and I love you very much.”
