XIN has officially announced their return with the upcoming release of their third mini album, ‘Defend Myself,’ set to drop in May. This comeback marks the group’s first in approximately 15 months, following their previous mini album ‘The REAL’ released in February 2024.
XIN reveals dual-concept mood photos for ‘Defend Myself’
In the lead-up to their comeback, XIN—consisting of members Esha, Nizz, Nova, Hannah, and Aria—unveiled a series of mood photos that reflect two contrasting visual themes.
The first concept, styled in white tones, captures a dreamlike and contemplative mood. The visual portrays the members with a sense of introspection, seemingly confronting internal emotions and the pressure of external expectations. The atmosphere, enhanced by soft lighting and shadow contrasts, echoes the album’s message of self-defense and emotional resilience.
Courtesy: BeBy Entertainment
The second concept takes a bolder turn with black-toned outfits, styled against a vivid orange backdrop. Accented with metallic accessories such as chain embellishments, this look conveys a strong, assertive energy.
‘Defend Myself’ will be XIN’s first project since ‘The REAL’. It is expected to showcase the group’s artistic growth both musically and visually. The new album will include upgraded performances and more mature soundscapes, reflecting the group’s evolution since their last release.
UAU, the first official unit of Dreamcatcher featuring members JiU, SuA, and Yoohyeon, is set to make its debut in May 2025. The trio has officially begun preparations for their unit activities, marking a major milestone eight years after Dreamcatcher’s debut.
UAU: A new chapter for Dreamcatcher members
According to Dreamcatcher Company, UAU, short for “You Are You,” symbolizes a message of self-acceptance and individuality.
The announcement was first teased when the unit’s official logo was unveiled on Dreamcatcher’s social media platforms. The name “UAU” also cleverly reflects the initials of its members—JiU, SuA, and Yoohyeon—hinting at the synergy expected from their collaboration.
Courtesy: Happyface Entertainment
Building on a rock-infused legacy
Known for their powerful rock-metal sound and dark conceptual themes, Dreamcatcher has cultivated a strong global following. JiU, SuA, and Yoohyeon have each contributed to this signature style.
While details about the album’s concept and tracklist remain under wraps, anticipation continues to grow as fans await further teasers and announcements.
UAU marks Dreamcatcher’s first sub-unit since the group’s debut in 2017. With this project, the trio will not only highlight their individual talents but also demonstrate their chemistry as a smaller ensemble. Dreamcatcher confirmed that promotional activities will roll out sequentially in the lead-up to the official release.
Doyoung of NCT is set to return as a solo artist with the release of his second full-length album on June 9, 2025. The new album marks his first solo comeback in over a year, following the success of his debut album ‘YOUTH’ in April 2024.
Doyoung’s second album to reflect deeper emotions
According to SM Entertainment, Doyoung has put considerable effort into crafting music that captures his emotions and offers solace to fans. While the album’s official title and tracklist remain undisclosed.
‘2025 DOYOUNG CONCERT [Doors]’ set for June 14–15
In conjunction with the album release, Doyoung will hold his solo concert titled ‘Doors’ at Jamsil Indoor Stadium in Seoul on June 14 and 15. This event marks his first domestic solo concert in seven months, following the Seoul encore performance of his first tour last November.
Courtesy: SMTOWN
The concert title, ‘Doors,’ is symbolic of the emotional journey that begins when opening the “Door of Memory.”
Previous tour success and anticipation for new chapter
Doyoung’s first solo concert tour, held in 2024, spanned 18 performances in 9 Asian regions. Given the success of his initial solo efforts, anticipation is high for what Doyoung will bring to the stage and studio in this next chapter of his career.
Tickets for the ‘Doors’ will be available via Melon Ticket, with fan club pre-sales opening on April 24, followed by general sales starting on April 25. NCT’s official social media channels provide additional updates and information.”
Jin of BTS is officially making his solo comeback with his second mini album, ‘Echo,’ set for global release on May 16. This marks Jin’s first new release in about six months, following his debut solo album, ‘Happy,’ which was released in November last year.
‘Echo’ captures life’s reflections with band-driven sound
Described as an album that captures life’s many moments “echoing” in different forms, ‘Echo’ tells stories and emotions that resonate with universal human experiences. Jin delivers his perspective in a ‘simple yet witty’ tone across seven new tracks.
Don’t Say You Love Me – The title track explores the emotional tension between love and separation.
Nothing Without Your Love – A heartfelt ballad emphasizing dependence on a partner’s affection.
Loser (feat. YENA) – Featuring soloist YENA, this track depicts a sweet-yet-bickering couple dynamic.
Rope It – A vibrant and motivational track about making bold decisions to achieve goals.
Traveling with the Clouds – A whimsical journey with a symbolic friend named “Cloud.”
Background – A melancholic piece about lingering love after becoming someone’s past.
To Me Today – A song dedicated to being present and appreciating today’s self.
Jin personally participated in writing the lyrics for several songs, including “Nothing Without Your Love,” “Loser,” “Rope It,” and “Traveling with the Clouds.”
Creative promotions and scheduler generate buzz
Promotions for ‘Echo’ began with a unique teaser video shown at K-POP SQUARE MEDIA in COEX, Seoul, where Jin revealed the album’s release date using a placard inside a crane game machine. His striking visuals filled the massive LED screen.
Jin unveiled the official promotional scheduler on April 16, featuring musical symbols on a background resembling sheet music. The schedule outlined key release dates, including:
April 17: Tracklist reveal
April 22–24: Concept photos (three versions)
May 12: Highlight medley
May 13–14: Title song music video poster and teaser
May 15: D-1 title track poster
May 16: Full album and MV release
Of particular note are the cryptic events on April 28 (featuring a music note with eyes) and April 30 (showing a camera-shaped emoticon).
Courtesy: BIGHIT MUSIC
Global fan concert tour: #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR starts in June
Following his comeback, Jin will embark on his first solo fan concert tour, titled #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR, beginning June 28–29 at the Goyang Sports Complex Auxiliary Stadium in Goyang, South Korea. The tour will then head overseas with a total of 18 performances in 9 cities, including:
Japan: Chiba, Osaka
United States: Anaheim, Dallas, Tampa, Newark
United Kingdom: London
Netherlands: Amsterdam
Announced on April 18, the tour’s name is a spin-off of Jin’s YouTube content ‘Run Seok Jin,’ and signifies his journey to meet fans across the globe.
Fans attending the concert can expect to experience a full setlist of songs from both ‘Echo’ and ‘Happy.’
Courtesy: BIGHIT MUSIC
Meanwhile, Jin’s ‘Echo’ will be released worldwide on May 16, available on all major streaming platforms.
