The group IVE (IVE: An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, Lee Seo) has stepped out of the predictable category. They are moving toward a new chapter without following the successful formula, making IVE even more appealing.
IVE released the full audio of their fourth mini-album 'IVE SECRET' and the music video for the title track 'XOXZ' on various music sites on the 25th.
IVE's comeback is about seven months after the release of their third mini-album 'IVE EMPATHY' in February. With this album, IVE achieved five consecutive million-seller titles, demonstrating their powerful music capabilities. The pre-released track 'REBEL HEART' and the title track 'ATTITUDE' recorded a total of 15 wins in music broadcasts, showcasing their strong presence ('REBEL HEART' 11 wins, 'ATTITUDE' 4 wins).
Previously, IVE generated anticipation by sneak-previewing part of 'XOXZ' at the '2025 SBS Gayo Daejeon Summer'. They performed at 'Lollapalooza Berlin' and 'Lollapalooza Paris', becoming the first K-pop girl group to grace the stages of 'Lollapalooza' for two consecutive years across three cities. Additionally, they elevated expectations by winning four awards, including the 'Best Artist in the institutional sector' award in the female group category at the '2025 K-WORLD DREAM AWARDS'.
IVE continued their upward momentum by breaking various records leading up to their comeback. 'IVE SECRET' is an album that focuses on the flow of hidden emotions behind a glamorous facade. While maintaining their familiar confidence, IVE revealed the nuances and reversal of attitudes that were previously concealed. This demonstrates that all contrasting emotions, such as appearance and essence, good and evil, aloofness, and mischievousness, can coexist within one team.
'IVE SECRET' focuses on the flow of hidden emotions behind a glamorous expression. The emotional lines that do not flow neatly and the identity that is revealed through attitude rather than words illustrate how IVE has evolved into a more three-dimensional team by creating their own rules and not following the narratives provided. Since their debut, IVE has proven themselves as a 'complete girl group' with hits in every album, breaking away from the successful formula and predictable narratives to bring hidden attitudes and complex identities to the forefront, redesigning their image.
The title track 'XOXZ' is a song that expresses the IVE-created new term, which means 'I love you, good night. And see you in my dreams.' With a heavy 808 bass, brass, and solid drums leading the tension throughout the song, the deep rap and minimal vocals add a dreamy charm that captivates listeners' ears. Adding to this, member Jang Wonyoung and lyricist Seo Ji-eum wrote the lyrics, enhancing its completeness. The two, who collaborated on the previous title track 'ATTITUDE', sensibly unveiled complex emotions as a single cipher through 'XOXZ', clearly revealing IVE's aloof yet mysterious identity without explicitly stating it.
The music video for 'XOXZ', which was released simultaneously, invites 'myself' into a secret dream created in 'my own way', where there are no rules or realities, and it portrays a world expressed in a three-dimensional and diverse manner. The eye-catching point choreography that intuitively expresses 'XOXZ' draws attention, while the speedy development and addictive melody line captivate listeners.
IVE, who has been revealing various images and video content themed around 'secret' that connects to the album title, will consistently convey the message of their fourth mini-album through six tracks, each representing different emotions, moods, and identities. 'GOTCHA (Baddest Eros)' is a song where provocative sound and playful attitude coexist, twisting rules to create a new order. 'Wild Bird' is a declaration of freedom as one spreads their wings beyond control, with suppressed emotions exploding within the rhythm. 'Dear, My Feelings' is a moment of facing emotions, gently confronting the inner self and building a calm yet strong self. 'Beep (♥beats)' joyfully captures moments that wobble within digital emotions. 'Midnight Kiss' gently encapsulates the waves of calm emotions at the end of the day.
From the title track 'XOXZ' to all the included songs, they are expressed as the multi-dimensional face of the team IVE. With a structure where different moods and identities coexist without clashing, this is a story that IVE, who has steadily built their narrative since debut, can confidently unfold.
IVE does not lose focus in music, style, performance, or messaging. The album 'IVE SECRET', which embodies their will to move into a new chapter beyond the always complete image, is available on various music sites.
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