K-pop boy band SF9 releases its new mini-album "FANTASY," Monday. Courtesy of FNC Entertainment Restructured as quintet, boy group eyes Wembley Stadium By Pyo Kyung-min After nine years in the competitive K-pop industry, one might expect a group to be so seasoned that releasing new albums and performing on stage might become somewhat routine. However, SF9, which debuted in 2016, remains a refreshing exception.
Despite the members' extensive experience, they continue setting ambitious goals and bring fresh energy to their performances, proving that their journey is far from over. "I still want to perform at Wembley Stadium, one of our dream venues, and appear on every famous Korean TV show, including 'Radio Star,' 'Running Man' and so many more," said Inseong, brimming with anticipation during an interview with The Korea Times at the group's agency, FNC Entertainment headquarters in Seoul's Gangnam District, Tuesday. "The reason we still have such aspirations, even after a long time since our debut, is that we feel there are still many things we want to do and show but haven't been able to yet.
" Quite contrary to Inseong's modest words, SF9 has captured the hearts of numerous K-pop enthusiasts with hit releases like "Fanfare," "O Sole Mio" and "Good Guy." The band also made a significant mark in 2021 by appearing on Mnet's boy band reality show "Kingdom: Legendary War." SF9 members Hwiyoung, left, and Inseong / Courtesy of FNC Entertainment Despite losing a member from the originally nine-member roster last year, the remaining members continue to promote SF9 individually in various fields such as movies, dramas and musicals.
Chani's performance in JTBC's hit drama "Sky Castle" (2018) remains one of the most impactful appearances by a K-pop idol in the realm of drama shows. "We think of SF9 as a group like water, able to change shape flexibly according to the situation. Wherever we are, whatever we're doing and whoever we're with, we know how to create the right synergy," Yoo Tae-yang said.
"That's why, even though we're working as a quintet to promote this new album, we see it as an opportunity to showcase the unique charms and strengths of the five of us." As Yoo noted, the octet will return as a five-member group with its new 14th mini-album "FANTASY," set for release on Monday. This lineup includes Youngbin, Inseong, Yoo, Hwiyoung and Chani.
Members Dawon and Jaeyoon were unable to participate due to currently serving in the military, and Zuho, who has transferred to another agency, has decided to step out this time. From left are SF9 members Yoo Tae-yang, Youngbin and Chani. Courtesy of FNC Entertainment Despite experiencing a drastic member reorganization, the group's passion for making good music for its fans remains steadfast.
"It would be a lie to say there is no pressure due to the absence of the members. But as a result, the five of us have taken more responsibility and tried to unite. As each member worked more diligently in their roles, the pressure lessened, and the sense of responsibility increased, resulting in what I think is our best work yet," Hwiyoung shared.
The new album's lead single "Don't Worry, Be Happy" reflects the mindset of positively overcoming the pain of separation. Unlike the group's previous conceptual, intense songs, this one stands out with its refreshing and light feel, suitable for everyday listening. Yoo emphasized that the song's theme of separation is not limited to romantic relationships.
"While it may be understood as separation related to love because of its straightforward expression, separation in life is not exclusive to couples. You can part with cherished items, bad habits, or moments of regret," Yoo noted. "I hope people see this song as one that sings about parting with all the bad moments of the past, rather than focusing on a specific separation.
" SF9 will release the new mini-album "FANTASY," Monday. Courtesy of FNC Entertainment In particular, members Youngbin and Hwiyoung contributed sincerely to the lyrics of this lead single. "I tried to write lyrics that are easy for listeners to understand.
The beat and melody of the song have an overall cheerful feeling, so I made a lot of effort to keep the mood while ensuring the lyrics are enjoyable to listen to," Hwiyoung explained. When asked about their goal with this song, the members unanimously expressed their hope for it to become a timeless piece. "I hope people keep coming back to this content.
For me, I always return to good literature and good movies, and I hope the result of our efforts, which contains everything we've prepared, is something people keep revisiting," Inseong said. "I haven't yet defined what good music is, but I think creating lasting content might be part of it. I hope people enjoy it for a long time.
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