K-pop rookie Billlie arrives on music scene with 'Ring X Ring'

K-pop girl group Billlie performs during an online media event Wednesday. Courtesy of Mystic Story

By Dong Sun-hwa

K-pop rookie Billlie was at the center of attention even before its official debut Nov. 10, largely because it was the first girl group formed by Mystic Story, a record label packed with acclaimed musicians including Yoon Jong-shin and Jungin.

Mystic Story apparently spared no efforts to showcase quality music through Billlie, with some of the most well-known figures in the K-pop world, participating in the creative process for the group's debut EP, “The Billage of Perception: Chapter One.” Composer Lee Min-su, lyricist Kim Ea-na and music video director Hwang Su-ah ― who are collectively called “Team IU” as they have been working with K-pop superstar IU for multiple years ― joined hands again this time to give birth to “Ring X Ring,” the lead single off the EP.

“Since we got a chance to work with great creators, we strived to do our best while gearing up for our EP,” member Siyoon said during an online press conference Wednesday, which took place a few hours ahead of the release of “The Billage of Perception: Chapter One.”

During the event, the members ― Haram, Moon Sua, Suhyeon, Tsuki, Haruna and Siyoon ― answered all the questions brought up by reporters with confidence and passion while appearing nervous.

“When we felt nervous before recording our tracks, composer Lee Min-su advised us to build self-confidence, and also tried to put us at ease through conversations,” Siyoon said.

She added that Yoon Jong-shin, founder of the label, gave a piece of advice to the members, too.

“He told us not to forget the mindset and passion we have right now,” she said. “He also advised us to keep trying for the best and enjoy every performance.”

The lead single “Ring X Ring,” which blends the sounds of an electric guitar and a synthesizer, is a song about a “mysterious event” that takes place in a village. Siyoon and Moon Sua ― the younger sister of Moonbin, a member of K-pop boy band ASTRO ― took part in making its rap portion.

“The tune begins with the sound of a siren, which can be thought of as our wake-up call for the others,” Moon said.

Suhyeon elaborated, “Our album also carries five other pieces highlighting our versatility such as The Eleventh Day and The Rumor.”

Asked what makes Billlie stand out from other emerging K-pop groups, Haram picked its teamwork as its competitive edge.

“All of us have different characters, but can still have great teamwork,” she explained.

Suhyeon chose Billlie's performance as another of the group's strengths.

“Prior to our debut, we unveiled several videos featuring our performances,” she said. “Please look forward to the performances that we will show in the future.”

Hinting that the six-piece act's next album will act as a sequel to its debut EP, the members wrapped up the session by talking about their ambitions.

“We want to receive Rookie of the Year awards,” Japanese member Haruna said.

Siyoon added, “We hope more people get familiar with us and our music.”