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Sunmi to release new digital single 'BLUE!' after yearlong hiatus
The official poster for singer Sunmi's latest digital single release, "BLUE!" / Courtesy of ABYSS Company
By Pyo Kyung-min
Sunmi, one of K-pop's most distinctive solo artists, will release her new digital single "BLUE!" Tuesday at 6 p.m., her first music in more than a year since the release of "Balloon in Love" in June 2024.
Sunmi's comeback was initially announced on Aug. 7 through the teaser video "SUNMI Comeback Trailer: Bass(ad)" on her official YouTube channel. The clip features a bass line performed by Sunmi herself, hinting at a new direction in sound.
The teaser also introduced a striking visual shift. Sunmi appeared with short blonde hair and black nails for a punk-inspired concept, drawing attention for its contrast with her previous work.
Anticipation grew on Monday with the teaser for "BLUE!" The clip opened with the question, "What would you do if your boyfriend became a cockroach?" before cutting to Sunmi in a red outfit, her sharp styling amplifying the moody rock star vibes.
Since embarking on her solo career, Sunmi, 33, has solidified her place as one of K-pop's leading individual artists by self-producing a string of hit songs.
The singer debuted in 2007 as a member of the now-iconic second generation girl group Wonder Girls under JYP Entertainment before launching her solo career with "24 Hours" in 2013.
After parting ways with JYP, she moved to ABYSS Company, where she came into her own as a performer and producer, carving out a reputation for bold concepts and addictive melodies.
Tracks such as "Gashina," "Heroine," "Noir," "LALALAY," "pporappippam," "Tail," "Heart Burn" and "STRANGER" have showcased her ability to blend striking visuals with distinctive sounds, cementing her place as one of K-pop's most innovative solo acts.