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n.SSign returns with 'Happy &' album as 8-member group
K-pop boy band n.SSign poses during a press event held to mark the group's new album release at SBS Prism Tower, Mapo District, Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of n.CH Entertainment
By Pyo Kyung-min
Emerging from Channel A's 2022 survival show "Stars Awakening," n.SSign has returned to the music scene with the release of its second mini-album, "Happy &," Thursday.
Reconfigured as an eight-member ensemble, n.SSign comprises members Kazuta, Eddie, Sungyun, Junhyeok, Robin, Hanjun, Laurence and Huiwon, with Hyun and Doha temporarily withdrawing from activities due to health concerns, according to their agency, n.CH Entertainment.
Ahead of its return, the group provided updates on Hyun and Doha's recovery during a press event held at SBS Prism Tower, Mapo District, Seoul, Thursday.
"Their determination to return to the stage is firm," Huiwon said. "However, according to medical professionals, it's a little too early for them to do so. So they are still concentrating on recovery. Knowing their earnest hearts, we also want them to return to the stage as soon as possible."
Despite the setbacks, the remaining members have left no stone unturned in their preparation for the group's comeback. Sungyun, in particular, has stepped up to fill in for main vocalist Doha.
"Whenever other members were practicing dance, I quickly memorized the moves, then dedicated myself to vocal practice in a small room," he said.
The group's new album, "Happy &," is a musical celebration of life's moments of joy, with its eponymous title track encapsulating the anticipation that follows every goodbye.
"There are many moments of separation in life, such as graduation or quitting a job," explained Hanjun. "While it could be thought of as an 'end,' it could also bring about anticipation of what's to come. That's the idea behind the song's title, 'Happy &.'"
The album offers a diverse range of tracks, including triple title tracks like "Happy &," "FUNK JAM" and "Love, Love, Love Love Love!," as well as other songs like "Black Down" and "Memories of Us," showcasing the group's versatility across different musical genres.
Since debuting in August 2023, n.SSign has already garnered a burgeoning fan base in Japan, with its debut single in Japan, "New Star," securing third on the Oricon weekly chart and first on the iTunes Japan chart. The group has also successfully concluded a five-city tour in Japan and a concert at Tokyo's Ariake Arena.
Drawing from its experience on the Japanese stage, n.SSign is determined to achieve success in its domestic activities, setting its sights on "reaching the top spot in Korean music shows."