SHINee's Key has returned to his main job as a 'singer'. He is determined to reaffirm his position as a K-pop artist with an album that expresses everything he wanted to do.
On the afternoon of the 11th, a press conference was held to commemorate the release of Key's third full-length album 'HUNTER' at the Pullman Ambassador Seoul Eastpole located in Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. The venue was filled with reporters eager to see Key.
This album is Key's new full-length album released three years after his second full-length album 'GASOLINE', which was announced in August 2022. It contains various stories about 'self' and 'identity'.
On this day, Key emphasized the importance of his comeback after returning directly from the 'SM Town Live 2025' stage held at Tokyo Dome in Japan on the 9th and 10th. He first unveiled the title track 'HUNTER' from his new album during the 'SM Town' concert. He briefly expressed his satisfaction, saying, “I think there was some reaction.”
Through this album, Key has further solidified his position as a 'concept master key' by organically unfolding the process of meeting 'another me' with a 'urban legend' concept.
The title track 'HUNTER' is a dance song that combines majestic bass, heavy kick sounds, rhythmic guitar riffs, and various synth pads. The lyrics capture the 'joy in pain' felt in the complex relationship between 'self' and others, and Key's diverse vocals enhance the song's dramatic appeal. This track was produced by Kenji and Moonshine, who also worked on Key's hit songs 'Bad Love', 'GASOLINE', and 'Good & Great', raising expectations.
Key mentioned the Netflix original animation 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' (hereafter 'KDEH') when discussing the title track 'HUNTER'. He clarified, “The word hunter was not created with 'KDEH' in mind. I really didn’t know.”
He added, “I wanted to try the punk rock genre for a long time and worked without lowering my vocal range. However, I was surprised that 'KDEH's 'Golden' is trending as a high-pitched challenge. I thought it was a good coincidence that my 'HUNTER' also has high-pitched parts.”
He also mentioned that SHINee became the model for the group 'Lion Boys' in 'KDEH'. Previously, animator Min Hong, who worked as a designer for 'KDEH', stated in an interview, “I watched videos of domestic idol groups like Monsta X and SHINee to create natural movements.”
In response, Key said, “When we did something bright musically, it seems like they referenced the iconic SHINee look. The colorful clothes and dances seemed effective. I felt proud to be a reference point, and it was an honor that our team was seen as the most K-pop-like.”
Regarding K-pop's global popularity, he expressed, “I’m glad that fans around the world are listening to music for music's sake. The entry procedures are different now. They are very friendly and accommodating. I think the perception has changed compared to the past.”
This album, consisting of a total of 10 tracks including the title track 'HUNTER', will have all songs released on various music sites at 6 PM on the same day. The music video for the title track will be released simultaneously on the SMTOWN YouTube channel.
The 'HUNTER' music video connects with the previously released trailer, depicting Key facing 'HUNTER', who is 'another me'. It captures the bizarre and unpredictable story of Key trying to protect himself against 'HUNTER', who seeks to replace his existence, in a thrilling movie-like manner. Key appeared directly, drawing attention with somewhat provocative and intense visuals. In particular, his lively expressions enhanced the immersion of the video.
After the music video release, Key expressed, “I really worked hard on it. The director seemed to want to capture me acting. The result was very satisfying. The quality was amazing.”
Key stated, “Currently, the distinction between mini and full albums doesn’t matter much. What fans like is that there are more songs to show during performances. At the same time, I need to show that the scale of the album is this big with one title track. In fact, there’s almost no reason to release a full album other than for the fans.”
He continued, “When I see other artists, I feel energetic and inspired. In that context, I wanted to try a unique concept mixed with my own genre. I had a rebellious feeling like a green frog, which led me to attempt this unique concept.”
Key, who expressed that he unfolded everything he wanted to do, hopes that this album will become “music that can be seen, heard, and desired.”
Key is currently actively participating in various entertainment activities, including fixed appearances on 'I Live Alone' (MBC) and 'Amazing Saturday' (tvN).
In this regard, Key said, “I’ve been quite active since my military discharge. I’m doing my best and enjoying it. In fact, I wanted to work like this since my debut. It has always been my goal, so I don’t get tired. It’s my driving force.”
Finally, Key stated, “I can’t always be bright. I want to give good energy to the public as much as possible and fill many people's hearts by allowing them to consume me,” and he resolved to “stay healthy while working.”
To commemorate the release of his third full-length album, Key will hold a solo concert '2025 Keyland: Uncanny Valley' at the Ticketlink Live Arena (formerly the Olympic Park Handball Stadium) in Seoul from September 26 to 28, and will also tour in Taipei, Tokyo, and other locations.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
