Ive and Wonyoung collaborated on the primary composition for their latest EP
In the world of K-pop, IVE continues to captivate audiences with their latest endeavour - the upcoming fourth EP, titled "Ive Secret." Set for release on August 25, 2025, this EP promises a narrative of empowered love and mystery, as suggested by its intriguing concept of "Evil Cupid."
The EP's lead track is titled "XOXZ"[2][4], and it's noteworthy that members Jang Won-young and Liz have played a significant role in the lyric-writing process. Jang Won-young co-wrote the title track "XOXZ" alongside lyricist Seo Ji Eum, while Liz penned the song "Midnight Kiss" included in the EP[4]. This involvement underscores the group's artistic growth and personal input in shaping their music and storytelling.
The narrative of "Ive Secret" carries themes of secrecy, style, and surprises, tapping into a playful yet mysterious aura suggested by their teaser visuals and cryptic hints. These visuals include symbolic items such as a paper crane, a porcelain pig with wings, and other objects, each with special symbolic meanings that hint at the deeper story behind the album[2]. The group's image for this release is described as "pretty but dangerous," with striking black-and-white concept photos and slogans that emphasize individuality and charisma[4].
The EP follows the group's successful "narcissistic" narrative, a theme that was evident in their last EP, "Ive Empathy," where Jang Wonyoung also co-authored the lyrics for the main track "Attitude"[3]. This continuation of narrative threads demonstrates the group's commitment to storytelling and consistency in their artistic expression.
The group's success extends beyond their home country, as their previous single, "Be Alright," topped Oricon's Weekly Combined Album Rankings in Japan[1]. The track also topped Oricon's Daily Album Rankings, and the group's last EP earned 15 first-place trophies on local music chart shows[5]. The group further solidified their success in Japan with the release of their third album in Japan, titled "Be Alright," on July 30[6].
With their upcoming EP, "Ive Secret," IVE continues to push boundaries and explore new dimensions of their artistry, promising an exciting journey for their global fanbase. Stay tuned for more updates on this empowering and mysterious release.
[1] "Be Alright" topped Oricon's Weekly Combined Album Rankings. [2] The narrative of the EP carries themes of secrecy, style, and surprises. [3] Jang Wonyoung also co-authored the lyrics for the main track "Attitude" in Ive's previous EP, "Ive Empathy." [4] IVE's upcoming fourth EP, "IVE SECRET," is centered around a bold, empowering concept described as "Evil Cupid." [5] The group's last EP sold over 1 million copies. [6] The release date for "Be Alright" in Japan was July 30.
- IVE's upcoming EP, titled "Ive Secret," not only promises a narrative of empowered love and mystery but also includes tracks where members Jang Won-young and Liz have played a significant role in the lyric-writing process, such as the lead track "XOXZ" and "Midnight Kiss," demonstrating their growth in music and storytelling.
- The EP, "Ive Secret," from K-pop group IVE, ensures an exciting journey for their global fanbase, continuing to push boundaries and explore new dimensions of their artistry in the realm of entertainment and music, as suggested by their innovative themes and captivating concepts.