Red Velvet celebrates decade-long journey in vibrant K-pop scene
K-pop girl group Red Velvet / Courtesy of SM Entertainment
Acclaimed K-pop group Red Velvet celebrates its 10th anniversary, Thursday, marking a proud decade since the group's debut on Aug. 1, 2014.
Red Velvet initially debuted with "Happiness" as a four-piece act consisting of Irene, Seulgi, Wendy and Joy. The group later expanded to include Yeri, forming the current five-member lineup.
Known for its unique concepts and distinctive music style, the SM Entertainment supergroup has brought a fresh breeze to K-pop, producing numerous hit songs, such as "Ice Cream Cake," "Red Flavor," "Peek-A-Boo," "Psycho," "Feel My Rhythm" and "Chill Kill."
The group has been active not only as a whole, but also through various sub-units and solo activities.
Following the release of "Cosmic" in June, the group additionally unveiled the fan song, "Sweet Dreams," Thursday, in celebration of its debut anniversary. The quintet is also looking forward to a fan concert tour across five Asian cities.
Celebrating the cherished decade, the Red Velvet members shared their thoughts on the journey, memorable moments and the driving force behind their sustained success.
A teaser imager for K-pop girl group Red Velvet's new EP "Cosmic" released on June 24 / Courtesy of SM Entertainment
Q. How do you feel about celebrating your 10th anniversary?
Irene: It feels like time has flown by because we were so immersed and busy. I'm really grateful to the Reveluvs (Red Velvet's official fandom) who have supported us and stayed by our side throughout this time.
Seulgi: It's hard to believe that 10 years have passed, but seeing all our albums made me realize how hard we've worked. I want to thank the staff, Red Velvet members and Reveluvs for helping us release good albums over these 10 years. I hope we can continue to be artists that everyone looks forward to with each album. We'll keep working hard to make that happen!
Wendy: I can't believe it's been 1o years. I'm happy to celebrate this milestone with Reveluvs and the members.
Joy: Although 10 years is not a short time, it feels like it came quickly. Recently, I've been reminiscing about our past activities. We've experienced many emotions and moments and I plan to enjoy our future activities with all my might!
Yeri: I'm just so thankful. It's a joy to have spent so much time with our fans.
K-pop girl group Red Velvet / Courtesy of SM Entertainment
Q. What is the most memorable activity or moment for you?
Joy: There have been so many moments, but the one that comes to mind right now is the thrilling moment on our debut day when we received cheers. I vividly remember the gratitude I felt for the support given to my nineteen-year-old self and the start of Red Velvet, which made me dance and sing with all my heart.
Q. What has been the driving force behind Red Velvet's continued active performance?
Yeri: The trust and strong friendship we've built over the years, along with the memories we've made with our fans, have kept us going.
Q. Why do you think Red Velvet has been loved for so long?
Joy: Each of us genuinely loves Red Velvet, are sincere about our music and we often talk and take responsibility to show our best sides. I cautiously believe that our sincerity has reached our fans, even a little bit.
Q. What do you want to show or achieve with Red Velvet's activities for the 10th anniversary, from the release of the "Cosmic" album to the fan song and fan con tour?
Seulgi: I want to continue showcasing a deeper Red Velvet in terms of music and appearance, and I hope to communicate with many fans worldwide. I hope the relationship between Red Velvet and our fans becomes even stronger, like friends who have been together for 10 years. Personally, I also want to develop my skills and show versatile activities.
Released album covers of K-pop girl group Red Velvet / Courtesy of SM Entertainment
Q. What kind of team do you envision Red Velvet to be in the future?
Irene: I think we'll always be a fun team that's full of life whenever we meet.
Q. How would you describe Red Velvet in one word or sentence?
Irene: My everything.
Seulgi: A precious diary where each of the most brilliant moments of my life is carefully recorded.
Wendy: Family, friends and members who are always with me.
Joy: My family.
Yeri: Proud moments that I will remember for the rest of my life.
Q. Please share a message for the fans who have been with you for the past 10 years.
Irene: Thanks to the Reveluvs who have always supported Red Velvet, we've been able to stay active for 10 years. I'm always grateful and I'm really happy because of you!
Seulgi: Warm words from Reveluvs have made me cry and laugh over the years. Thanks to your support, I've been able to stay healthy and active for 10 years. Thank you for making me feel happy. I love you so much, Reveluvs.
Wendy: Thank you so much for always believing in, waiting for, supporting and loving us! I'll continue to be a hard-working Red Velvet and Wendy. Let's create good memories together.
Joy: Thank you for being with Red Velvet for the past 10 years. I'll always strive to be an amazing singer who repays your love with good music. I love you.
Yeri: Thank you for always being by my side. You are always so dependable and I love you!