On the June 5 episode of KBS2’s The Seasons – Sung Si Kyung’s Ear Candy, I.O.I appeared together to celebrate their 10th debut anniversary and first comeback in nine years.

Marking their special return, the group performed not only their title track “Suddenly” but also a sentimental song titled “Then, Now and Forever.” Member Kim So Hye shared that the track held deep emotional meaning for the members.

“Chungha wrote the song, and when we first heard it, almost all of us cried,” Kim So Hye explained. “We were touched by how beautiful the song was and practiced together because we felt we absolutely had to perform it this time.”

Chungha elaborated on the inspiration behind the song, saying, “After our final promotion track ‘Downpour’ ends, the sunlight appears brightly, doesn’t it? I wanted to imagine us meeting again in that sunlight.” Following her explanation, Yoo Yeon Jung emotionally remarked, “This is truly the final broadcast for this project.”

Adding to the emotional atmosphere, the show unveiled a video letter I.O.I had recorded for their future selves during an appearance on Yoo Hee Yeol’s Sketchbook 10 years ago. In the old footage, Choi Yoo Jung expressed hope for the group’s future after disbandment.

“It’s 2016,” she said in the clip. “I believe after January 31, 2017, each of us will be shining beautifully in our own places. You’ll become even more amazing artists. Even though the group may have disbanded, I hope you always remember that I.O.I will remain in a corner of your hearts, and that we’ll continue being good sisters forever.”

Watching the footage, members including Kim Se Jeong, Jeon Somi, Chungha, Choi Yoo Jung, and Jung Chae Yeon were seen bursting into tears.

Representing the group, Lim Na Young recorded a new message for I.O.I 10 years into the future. “My younger sisters, so much time has passed,” she said emotionally. “Yet you’re all still so beautiful. Even if life keeps us busy and we can’t stay in touch often, I hope our friendship never changes. If we ever watch this video again, I want us to remember how beautiful our youth together was. I was so happy to be with you all, and I love you so much.”

Sources: Nate