IVE returns with its fourth mini-album, "IVE Secret".
According to Starship Entertainment, the group will release the set across digital platforms today (Aug. 25) at 6 p.m. KST.
"IVE Secret" zooms in on the emotions hiding behind a glamorous facade. While keeping the group’s trademark confidence, the project peels back layers to reveal unexpected edges and a fresh, reimagined image.
The six-track album features title track "XOXZ" alongside "Wild Bird," "Dear, My Feelings," "GOTCHA (Baddest Eros)," "♥beats" and 'Midnight Kiss."
After teasing a “Secret” concept through a steady drip of images and videos, the members carry that theme through all six tracks, each channeling a distinct mood and identity while keeping the album’s message cohesive.
"XOXZ" riffs on an IVE-coined phrase that fuses “love you, good night―see you in my dreams.” Weighty 808s, bold brass and tight drums keep the tension taut, while low-register rap and minimalist vocals add a hazy allure. The lyrics were co-written by JANGWONYOUNG and hit lyricist Seo Ji-eum, the pair behind the group’s previous single "ATTITUDE," once again turning tangled feelings into sleek, coded storytelling that sharpens IVE’s cool, secretive persona.
The music video, dropping with the single, invites “myself” into a dream world designed “my way,” unfolding a layered, kaleidoscopic universe. After previewing a dance challenge snippet on social media, IVE hints at crisp, instantly catchy point choreography that makes "XOXZ" pop on screen as much as it does in your headphones.
With playlist staples from "REBEL HEART" to "ATTITUDE," anticipation for the comeback is high. On Aug. 24, the group amped up excitement by sharing a highlight medley on its official YouTube channel.
The clip weaves behind-the-scenes footage with hooks from every track, previewing a spectrum of vibes―and even revealing a previously unheard section of "XOXZ" to spike curiosity about the full song.
IVE’s fourth mini-album, "IVE Secret", and its title track, "XOXZ," arrive today (Aug. 25) at 6 p.m. KST on streaming platforms.
Photo: Starship Entertainment
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)