K-pop's Unique Duo Reflects on a Decade of Collaboration, Unveiling a New Era of Music

YG ENTERTAINMENT

In the realm of K-pop, the sibling duo AKMU has not only thrived creatively but has also navigated the intricacies of working together despite the challenges. The distinctive duo's harmony emerges not only in their music but in their dynamic as siblings. However, as the years passed, their individual artistic paths began to diverge, leading to moments of discord that they courageously addressed ahead of their latest release.

Lee Su-hyun, the sister in the duo, revealed, "The longer we persisted as AKMU, the harder it became for me to align my style with my brother's vision." Speaking to reporters on Monday, she disclosed that she set clear terms for their latest project, "Love Lee," and shared her desire to harken back to the musical essence that resonated a decade ago.

"Love Lee," the duo's fourth single and their first in two years since "Next Episode" (2021), ushers in a new phase for the pair. Known for their charismatic presence since their debut on SBS's "K-pop Star 2" (2012-3), the duo has rekindled the vivacious and whimsical vibe that endeared them to audiences.

As always, the title track and the B-side "Fry's Dream" were masterfully penned by Lee Chan-hyuk, the brother of the duo. Su-hyun's velvety vocals lend a distinctive touch, forming a harmonious blend that has become the hallmark of AKMU's music.

What sets AKMU apart is the seamless fusion of their talents—Chan-hyuk's gift for songwriting and Su-hyun's angelic voice—united in creating a lasting partnership that has endured over a decade. "Working with your sister means that the waiting room feels like home," Chan-hyuk expressed, highlighting the unique bond that extends beyond music.

Since their emergence on the K-pop scene after winning an audition program, the siblings have marked their presence with a string of hits. Songs like "Give Love" (2014), "RE-BYE" (2016), and "Last Goodbye" (2017) underscore their success, with most tracks being both written and produced by the duo.

Yet, a shift toward experimental sounds became evident with "Dinosaur" (2017), a trajectory led by Chan-hyuk. Following his solo album release last year, he gained clarity about his personal aspirations and discerned the need for a distinct path apart from AKMU.

This realization served as a turning point for both siblings. Su-hyun's frustration and contemplation of leaving the industry two years ago was assuaged by her brother's encouragement to persevere. "To be frank, I'm still recovering from the slump," Su-hyun admitted. "But my brother kept giving me advice and told me that he wanted me to find something that I can enjoy." Their partnership became the catalyst that reignited her passion for music.

"Love Lee" signifies a reinvigorated beginning for AKMU. The name itself is a wordplay encapsulating the siblings' names — Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Su-hyun — mirroring the lighthearted essence of their sound. Looking ahead, the duo plans to celebrate the milestone of their 10th debut anniversary in 2024 with a series of projects, including a concert, inviting fans to partake in their artistic journey.

As AKMU embarks on a new chapter, Chan-hyuk remarked, "We've grown more professional and mature, yet we've retained the essence that defined us 10 years ago." With "Love Lee," the duo reaffirms their commitment to their craft, rekindling the musical synergy that has endeared them to fans worldwide.

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