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SF9 to return with new album 'FANTASY'

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By Lee Gyu-lee
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SF9 will release a new mini-album, 'FANTASY,' on Aug. 19. Courtesy of FNC Entertainment

SF9 will release a new mini-album, "FANTASY," on Aug. 19. Courtesy of FNC Entertainment

K-pop boy group SF9 is gearing up to release a new album, "FANTASY," on Aug. 19.

A promotional content release schedule for SF9's upcoming album / Courtesy of FNC Entertainment

A promotional content release schedule for SF9's upcoming album / Courtesy of FNC Entertainment

The group's agency, FNC Entertainment, shared a poster Saturday with the dates for the upcoming album's pre-release promotional content. Starting with the tracklist poster and album pre-order on Monday, the agency will drop a teaser for a music video and concept photos leading up to its launch.

The new album comes about seven months after the group's 13th mini album, "Sequence."

"Titled after the group's fan club name, 'FANTASY,' its 14th mini-album will deliver special love for fans. SF9 plans to win fans' hearts with a strong summer vibe concept and its unique performance," the agency said in a press release.

"(The album) captures the members' sincere love for their fan(s). Through the title track 'Don't Worry, Be Happy,' you will see the upgraded visuals and refreshing appeal of SF9."

The agency unveiled a teaser for the music video of the upcoming album's title track, "Don't Worry, Be Happy," on Thursday and its poster on Friday.

The group — consisting of Youngbin, Inseong, Jaeyoon, Dawon, Yoo Tae-yang, Hwiyoung and Chani — is currently active as a five-member unit as Dawon and Jaeyoon are completing their mandatory service.

Former member Zuho recently signed with a different agency and did not participate in making this album.

The album and the music video for its title song are set to drop at 6 p.m. on Aug. 19.

Debuting in 2016 with the song "Fanfare," the group was originally a nine-piece act, including Rowoon, who left the group last year to focus on his acting career. At the time, he said, "I've grown more used to exploring different activities, embracing new challenges and maintaining self-discipline."

Since its debut, it has released numerous tracks, including "O Sole Mio" (2017), "Enough" (2019) and "Good Guy" (2020).