H1-KEY defines its color with new song 'Seoul'

The Korea Times

The Korea Times

Entertainment & Arts

Tue, November 28, 2023 | 22:48

K-pop

H1-KEY defines its color with new song 'Seoul'

Posted : 2023-08-31 15:08

Updated : 2023-09-04 10:43

K-pop girl group H1-KEY poses during a press event at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall, Seoul, Wednesday. Courtesy of GLG Entertainment

By Pyo Kyung-min

The album cover of H1-KEY's second mini album, "Seoul Dreaming" / Courtesy of GLG Entertainment

Following the success of their hit track "Rose Blossom," K-pop girl group H1-KEY is once again poised for greatness with their latest release, "Seoul."

Comprising four talented members ― Seoi, Riina, Hwiseo and Yel ― the group aims to resonate with youth who seek their dreams in Seoul with their second mini album, "Seoul Dreaming." Previously having climbed the music charts with their previous hit, "Rose Blossom," the group is set to continue their string of success with their return in seven months.

"This album is dedicated to all the dreamers out there," H1-KEY's leader Seoi said during a press event at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall, Seoul, Wednesday. "The title track of this album is 'Seoul,' but it delivers a hopeful message for those who dream anywhere in the world," she added.

Member Riina said, "I sensed that our fans truly connected with the emotions we aimed to convey, so we're eager to deliver heartfelt messages once more. While 'Rose Blossom' had a theme of strong resilience and pushing through challenges, 'Seoul' delivers a narrative of hope of turning the dream of this beautiful city into a reality, so I believe it will carry yet another meaning."

While the rest of the members are from Seoul, Yel, the group's youngest member, comes from Changwon, South Gyeongsang Province. Yel shared, "When I first heard this song, it brought back memories of moving to Seoul to chase my dream. I instantly felt that this title track was meant for me." She added, "I had tears rolling down my face as I listened to this song at night," expressing the deep emotional bond she has with the song.

Amid the continuing popularity of the song "Rose Blossom," the members conveyed their enthusiasm, noting that they feel "more excited than burdened." Seoi said, "Rather than viewing the success of 'Rose Blossom' as pressure, we're thrilled to showcase a different aspect of ourselves. Our aim was to present diverse facets to our fans, and we've put in lots of effort to achieve just that."

From left, H1-KEY members Yel, Hwiseo, Riina, and Seoi / Courtesy of GLG Entertainment

Despite the unforeseen success of "Rose Blossom," the group remained committed to continuous growth. Members Hwiseo and Riina's appearances on Mnet's reality show "Queendom Puzzle" drew significant attention. Hwiseo further solidified her prowess by winning the final competition.

I've personally seen a lot of growth," Riina shared. "While getting ready for the show's performances, I've noticed a big improvement in how I prepare and carry out the stages. I tried to bring in a lot of what I've learned from that experience into our practices. Things like paying close attention to my performance details and delivering the lyrics more effectively," she explained.

Wrapping up the press event, H1-KEY members shared their aspirations for their return.

Seoi said, "Our primary focus is on showcasing and solidifying our musical colors through 'Seoul Dreaming'" and Whiseo joined in, stating, "My honest aim is to clinch the top spot on music shows and broaden our horizons to include fan meetings, concerts and global tours."

pzzang@koreatimes.co.kr