IVE has officially returned with their highly anticipated fourth mini-album IVE SECRET, released on August 25, marking their first comeback in seven months since IVE EMPATHY. The new project reflects the group’s growing artistic depth, offering fans a multidimensional exploration of emotions hidden behind elegance and confidence.
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| Photo Credit - Starship Entertainment |
The six-track record includes “Wild Bird,” “Dear, My Feelings,” “GOTCHA,” “삐빅,” “Midnight Kiss,” and the title track “XOXZ.” A centerpiece of the album, “XOXZ” is built on heavy 808 bass, brassy layers, and sharp drum beats, blending low-toned rap with restrained vocals to create an ethereal and suspenseful soundscape. The track introduces IVE’s self-coined term “XOXZ,” which means “I love you, good night, and meet me in your dreams.” Member Jang Wonyoung participated in writing the lyrics alongside acclaimed lyricist Seo Ji-eum, giving the song a personal touch.
The music video continues this theme of mystery and allure, inviting fans into a secret, dreamlike world constructed entirely “in my own way.” The result is a surreal visual experience filled with colorful, otherworldly imagery that mirrors the song’s hypnotic energy.
To celebrate the release, IVE hosted a special live event on fan platform Berriz, just an hour before the album dropped. The group shared stories from the album’s creation, introduced their favorite tracks, and even held a playful segment where they offered advice to fans in both “good” and “evil” versions. They also decorated Polaroids as gifts for fans, creating a more intimate connection. The livestream drew over 20,000 viewers and amassed more than 1.3 million hearts, underscoring IVE’s powerful global presence.
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| Photo Credit - Kakao Entertainment |
Speaking on the comeback, An Yu-jin expressed, “We prepared for a long time, and I think you’ll be able to feel IVE’s color in a more three-dimensional way.” Liz added, “Each song carries its own sincerity and charm.”
With IVE SECRET, IVE once again cements their status as one of the definitive icons of K-pop’s 4th generation girl groups, pushing boundaries with elegance, confidence, and innovation.