The group STAYC is putting away their successful formula known as 'Tin Fresh' and signaling the start of a new challenge for 2025.

STAYC (Sumin, Sieun, Aisa, Seeun, Yoon, and J) has achieved success with their unique bright energy and addictive music referred to as 'Tin Fresh.' Notable songs include 'ASAP,' 'Colored Glasses,' 'Teddy Bear,' and 'Bubble.' They attempted to expand their spectrum by varying it with songs like 'Beautiful Monster,' 'Cheeky Icy Thang,' and 'GPT,' but left behind disappointing results, leading to the equation 'Tin Fresh = Success.'

After 'Cheeky Icy Thang' and 'GPT' left them disappointed twice in a row, it was anticipated that STAYC would revert to their specialty, 'Tin Fresh,' for this comeback, but they chose 'change.'

"The PD said, 'You need to be bold this time,' and 'You need to do something different,' which scared me. I was worried about whether we could change now, but after hearing the song, I felt we could do it. It was fun preparing, and perhaps because it was a style we hadn't tried before, it was exciting. 'POPPY' gives a cheerful vibe, whereas 'BEBE' has a cool feel, so I think people will find it unique." (Sumin)

"Preparation for the album started in December of last year, and the first suggestion for change came from the company and the PD. They said they hoped we would make a change, but it felt abstract, so there was hesitation about whether we could do it. However, after listening to the song, I gained confidence that we could digest it well in the STAYC style, which led to our challenge. Now that all the members have become adults, we agreed that we wanted to challenge a new concept rather than the previous teenager and 'Tin Fresh' image." (Sieun)

STAYC's newly introduced 'BEBE' encapsulates the desire to break away from the facade of only showing what others want and to reveal the 'real me' hidden within. The group adds a sensual appeal by breaking free from the public's prejudices and stereotypes, showcasing their genuine selves.

"At the time we were recording the track, the PD played it for us. I was very curious about how the title track would turn out and what style it would be. It had a lot of rap parts that I’d never tried before, but it sounded great from the beginning, so I wanted to share it quickly." (Yoon)

"I was quite worried when I saw the concept, but since the people from the company were aware of our concerns, they explained it well. They assured us, 'We won’t deliver what you're worried about' and 'Trust us, we will definitely make you amazed,' so we followed along with faith. After seeing the output, it turned out even better than we expected, which was great." (Seeun)

Instead of the expected 'Tin Fresh,' the group goes for a stunning 'BEBE.' They did not follow the successful formula, and since they were showing a side that had not been displayed before, there was concern among the members about whether they could pull it off. However, the members solidified their bond through mutual trust and encouragement from the PD.

"Many changes have occurred, so we felt we needed to change as well. We considered aspects like vocal tone and style, and the PD mentioned pop singer Rihanna. So, I listened to a lot of Rihanna's music to refine my vocal tone and aimed for something that fell in between her sound and mine. Also, when the PD said, 'I am considering more about you than you think,' you could feel it during our meetings and discussions. They know a lot and have a clear desire to guide us in a particular direction. Therefore, I believe we should trust them more." (Aisa)

"Before hearing 'BEBE,' I was very worried about how much we could show our changed selves without feeling awkward. But after listening to the song, I thought 'this will work.' Because the song was good, the fear disappeared. While preparing, both the song, performance, and visuals improved in quality, making me think 'we can do this.' Also, during an appearance on a web entertainment show, someone told me I have a lot of mobility in my fortune this year. Since that's the case, I asked whether this album would do well, and they said it seems likely to do so. (laughs)" (Yoon)

"I don't know what the results of the album will be, but regardless of the outcome, we are just in the process and still have plenty of time. I'm not the type to worry much about failure." (Jaei)

"I remember being told that 'you can do more, and since you can do many things, believe in yourselves and grow.' That message stayed with me and felt like a testament to their trust in us. It created a good relationship where we could continue to work together as trust grew." (Sumin)

"I remember being told 'you are doing well.' I tend to worry a lot and doubt myself, but that comment made me realize the value of all these processes. It helped me acknowledge that it's not just about what is visible right in front of me." (Sieun)

The fifth single 'S,' featuring these changes encapsulated in 'BEBE,' serves as an album that reflects the new direction STAYC aims for, promising a spectacular S-class comeback as indicated by the album name. Through the title track 'BEBE,' STAYC aims to fully incorporate challenges and changes, delivering a powerful impact to their global fans.

Particularly, STAYC's comeback coincides with the debuts of notable rookie girl groups like Hearts2Hearts and Kiki. While they are seniors, there naturally comes a burden of competing with attention-grabbing rookies, raising the question of what unique weapon STAYC possesses to stand out in this competition.

"I think it's a chance for us to show even more of STAYC since we are changing our concept. There is so much we can learn from the rookies, and I contemplate what we want to incorporate next through them. Rather than a competition, there is a lot of good influence we receive from each other." (Aisa)

"Watching the stage and performances of recently debuted groups makes me think 'have we already become seniors?' as well as recalling many memories from when we debuted. One thing I feel among this is that while many idols emerge, even if they may seem similar, there cannot be a team with the same energy. I believe we are different in color and energy from the rookies, and that's why we are influenced and cheer for them." (Sieun)

Celebrating their fifth anniversary, STAYC seeks to start a new chapter by attempting changes. What they aspire to achieve with this album is 'first place in music programs' and 'successful transformation.'

"If we were caterpillars until now, I think this is the process of becoming butterflies. I am 100% satisfied with this album. I had so much fun working on it, and I am looking forward to the responses from those who will listen. I want to achieve first place on the music charts and hope that 'BEBE' lasts on the charts for a long time." (Sumin)

"I have a desire for people to recognize that STAYC has changed. Since we made a transformation, I would like to say that STAYC's second act has begun. Our satisfaction level is also high. It was fun and intuitive to express, making it easy." (Yoon)

STAYC's fifth single 'S' will be released on the 18th at 6 p.m. across various music streaming platforms.

[OSEN = Reporter Jang Woo-young]