Global sensation Stray Kids is closing out the year with a packed schedule and groundbreaking musical endeavors. The group will release their new album, SKZ-HiP Tape: 合 (HOP), on December 13 at 2 PM KST, along with the title track, Walkin’ On Water.

JYP Entertainment shared a detailed promotional schedule for the album on December 12 via official social media channels. The schedule outlines a series of exciting events, including Stray Kids' anticipated appearance at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards, where they have been nominated for the second consecutive year and are set to perform.

Following the album's release, Stray Kids will engage with fans through a live countdown event and open a pop-up store running from December 14 to 22. Additionally, their massive world tour continues, with upcoming performances titled Dominate in Bangkok on December 14 and Jakarta on December 21. Fans can also look forward to exclusive content such as music video reactions and behind-the-scenes footage of the album-making process.

The new album’s title cleverly combines “SKZ,” the group’s abbreviation, with the essence of hip-hop, representing their creation of an entirely new, undefined genre. This aligns with the group’s reputation for pushing musical boundaries and crafting their unique sound.

The album features 12 tracks, including Walkin’ On Water (Hip Version), Bounce Back, U, and solo stages by all eight members. The project highlights the diverse artistry within the group, offering fans a comprehensive listening experience.

As with previous releases, Stray Kids’ in-house producing team 3RACHA—consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han—led the creative process, with all members contributing to the songwriting and production. This collaborative effort ensures the album remains true to Stray Kids’ signature style while showcasing their growth as artists.

In addition to their musical achievements, the group’s relentless energy and innovative approach continue to solidify their global influence. Stray Kids' combination of performance, creativity, and connection with fans sets them apart as leaders in the K-pop industry.

With SKZ-HiP Tape: 合 (HOP), Stray Kids not only concludes 2024 on a high note but also pushes the boundaries of what a K-pop group can achieve, making their mark as pioneers of a new sound.

Sayart / Sharon Jung, guhuijeong784@gmail.com