The Boyz to return with new album ‘a;effect’ after Ju Haknyeon’s departure
The Boyz gears up for its comeback as a 10-member group. Pictured are the members during previous activities as an 11-member act, including Ju Haknyeon. Courtesy of One Hundred
K-pop boy group The Boyz is ramping up preparations for a comeback with its 10th mini album, “a;effect,” set to drop at 6 p.m. on July 28.
According to agency One Hundred, the group unveiled a schedule image via its official social media channels, detailing the promotional rollout for the upcoming release.
Starting Wednesday, fans can expect a trailer, track list, concept films and photos, packaging previews and two music video teasers leading up to the album release.
The wave-like design of the schedule hints at an emotional narrative and aesthetic for the new album, raising curiosity about the concept.
The mini album “a;effect” marks The Boyz’s first release since their third full-length album, “Unexpected,” in March, and their first as a 10-member group following Ju Haknyeon’s departure.
The singer left the team in June after reports surfaced alleging he met with Japanese adult film actress Asuka Kirara. Although Ju denied any illegal conduct and opposed the termination of his exclusive contract, his agency confirmed his exit.
With this return, The Boyz are expected to show a more mature and bold musical direction, building on the warm, youthful vibe previewed in their earlier “coming soon” teaser.
The Boyz are set to unveil a trailer, concept photos and more ahead of their July 28 comeback / Courtesy of One Hundred.
The group’s previous album surpassed 740,000 first-week sales, becoming their fourth half-million seller and cementing their identity as a powerhouse group.
In addition to the July comeback, The Boyz will launch their new world tour, “THE BLAZE,” in the second half of the year, signaling a packed schedule with no downtime ahead.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.