IVE (An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, Lee Seo) is targeting local fans with their new release in Japan.
On the 30th, IVE released their third album 'Be Alright' through various music streaming sites in Japan. This is their first new release in about 11 months since the release of their second album 'Alive' in August of last year.
The album includes the pre-released title track 'Be Alright', the original Japanese song 'DARE ME' from the NTV Sunday drama 'Dame Manne! - Unpopular Talent, Management!' and Japanese versions of songs from their second album 'IVE SWITCH' including 'Accendio', 'Blue Heart', and 'WOW'.
The title track 'Be Alright' conveys a message of not fearing change and moving forward. The lively and powerful sound combined with the members' strong and diverse vocals delivers courage to the listeners.
IVE officially debuted in Japan in October 2022 with their debut single album 'ELEVEN', which was recognized by the Japan Record Association as a 'Gold Disc'. They made an exceptional appearance as newcomers by performing at the NHK year-end music festival 'Kohaku Uta Gassen' just a month after their debut, and last year, they entered the 'dream stage' Tokyo Dome during their first world tour 'SHOW WHAT I HAVE', gathering 95,000 spectators over two days and showcasing their overwhelming presence.
This year, IVE proved their hot popularity in Japan once again by attracting a total of 100,000 spectators during their arena fan concert 'IVE SCOUT IN JAPAN', which toured four cities in Japan. Additionally, their live video of 'After LIKE' featured on the popular Japanese YouTube channel 'THE FIRST TAKE' ranked first in the trending music videos on Japanese YouTube the day after its release, and they also appeared on the popular NHK music program 'Venue 101', further expanding their connection with local fans.
IVE is set to make their first appearance at the representative Japanese music festival 'ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2025' on September 15. After proving their strong local popularity by leading the audience in sing-alongs at last year's 'SUMMER SONIC 2024', all eyes are on IVE as they aim for the Japanese market once again with their new release 'Be Alright'.
Meanwhile, IVE is scheduled to perform the ceremonial kick-off and halftime show at the first game of the '2025 Coupang Play Series' held at Suwon World Cup Stadium today (30th) at 8 PM.
[Son Jin-a, MK Sports Reporter]
