JYP ENTERTAINMENT
On November 11, Stray Kids, the global K-pop sensation, is set to make a resounding return with their latest EP, "樂-STAR" (also stylized as 'Rock-Star'), as announced by their agency, JYP Entertainment, on Friday. This eagerly awaited EP marks the group's first Korean album in five months, succeeding the monumental success of their third full-length album, "★★★★★(5-STAR)," released in June. With the shared "STAR" title, the upcoming EP is anticipated to maintain a thematic connection with its predecessor, enhancing the band's musical narrative.
The prologue video, unveiled on Friday, offers a glimpse into the storyline of a youthful performer poised to take the stage. As this young talent emerges into the spotlight, a symphony of rock-inspired heavy guitar tunes and pulsating drum beats beckon, alluding to the fresh musical direction Stray Kids intends to unveil in their forthcoming EP.
Stray Kids has undeniably crafted a 'five-star' trajectory throughout 2023, achieving multiple records and milestones. Their earlier "5-STAR" album, introduced on June 2, achieved a groundbreaking feat by selling a staggering 4.61 million copies within its inaugural week, solidifying its status as the highest-selling album in Korea during its debut week. Notably, the album continues to maintain its influential position well into November.
In an exceptional year for the group, Stray Kids made history by headlining Lollapalooza Paris in June, marking a significant achievement as the first K-pop act to do so. Further elevating their global presence, they clinched the Best K-Pop trophy at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards in September, adding to their list of triumphs. Currently, the group is enchanting audiences with their "5-STAR Dome Tour 2023," gracing dome stadiums across Japan and Korea. The tour, which commenced with riveting performances at the Fukuoka PayPay Dome on August 16 and 17, has already mesmerized audiences in Nagoya and Osaka, with upcoming shows scheduled at the Tokyo Dome and Seoul's KSPO Dome later this month.
Adding to their accolades, Stray Kids was recently honored as one of the Next Generation Leaders by the esteemed American news magazine TIME, further cementing their position as trailblazers in the global music landscape.
Excitement for "樂-STAR" is building, with preorders for the EP set to commence on Friday, as fans eagerly anticipate Stray Kids' innovative musical evolution and the impact it's poised to make in the world of K-pop.
Sayart.net
Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com
