The 'MZ Wannabe Icon' IVE (Ahn Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, Lee Seo) has once again proven its presence in the global music market.
On the 21st (local time), the American music media Billboard announced its list of 'The 25 Best K-Pop Songs of 2025 (So Far): Critic’s Picks,' where IVE's 'REBEL HEART' was featured.
'REBEL HEART' is a pre-release track from IVE's third mini album 'IVE EMPATHY,' released in February, depicting the march of rebellious youth with various narratives. It is characterized by a rich sound featuring diverse vocal harmonies, an uplifting chorus, sweet strings, and up-tempo drums.
Billboard stated, "The English chorus stands out, and the rebellious shout makes the song attractive," adding, "Through this song, IVE shows that they are expanding their sound spectrum beyond Korea and establishing themselves as an increasingly influential presence in the K-pop scene."
'REBEL HEART' has become a mega hit representing 2025, receiving enthusiastic responses from music fans both domestically and internationally upon its release. It achieved 'Perfect All-Kill' on major domestic music charts and won 11 music show trophies, while also entering the Billboard 'Global (excluding the U.S.)' chart for 10 consecutive weeks, creating a global sensation.
Additionally, 'REBEL HEART' recently drew enthusiastic sing-alongs from local audiences at the 'Lollapalooza Berlin' and 'Lollapalooza Paris' stages, breaking down barriers with global fans and establishing itself as IVE's new representative song. It has recorded over 57 million cumulative streams on Spotify to date, continuing its worldwide popularity, and expectations are high for IVE's global activities as a 'representative of K-pop.'
Meanwhile, IVE is set to participate in the '2025 Coupang Play Series' first match between Team K League and Newcastle United on the 30th, where they will perform the ceremonial kick and halftime stage.
[Lee Da-kyum, Star Today Reporter]
