K-pop rookie STAYC returns with first mini-album 'Stereotype'

연합뉴스 / 2021-09-07 11:42:25

▲ This photo, provided by Highup Entertainment, shows rookie K-pop girl group STAYC. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Sept. 7 (Yonhap) -- K-pop rookie girl group STAYC, which succeeded in creating a hit song titled "ASAP" in less than a year since its debut, is planning to speed up its popularity with a new album.

STAYC released its first mini-album "STEREOTYPE" on Monday, making the group's first comeback in five months since the release of "ASAP" in April.

"We were so excited and proud to have received so much more love than expected," the group said at an online showcase. "We worked harder to show everyone a better performance."

Debuting last November, STAYC, a six-member girl group started off its idol career with song "SO BAD." The group attracted much attention since its debut for working with a song produced by Black Eyed Pilseung, a production and songwriting duo that made a number of hits for girl groups such as Apink's "Dumhdurum," and TWICE's "Fancy" and "Likey."

"ASAP," which was released in April, has risen to the top of major music charts, making STAYC one of the representative K-pop fourth-generation girl groups. "ASAP" has remained at the top of the charts for several months since its release, ranking 22nd on Melon's monthly chart last month.

Member Si-eun said, "I am grateful our group has earned the special title of 'K-pop's fourth generation girl group.' It's burdensome but exciting at the same time. I want to make more efforts to live up to the audience's expectations and grow as a singer."

The title track of the mini album, "Stereotype," maintains a similar refreshing and energetic sound to "ASAP" as well as a hint of elegant atmosphere.

"Stereotype" was also the first song STAYC received when the group's debut was confirmed. The song was saved and is now officially released to the public for the first time in nearly two years.

STAYC, who is drawing attention as the next-generation girl group, has recently been selected as an advertising model for various cosmetics, headphones, and contact lenses brands. The group picked games, beverages, and ramen brands as the next advertisements they wanted to try.

"When the pandemic gets better, I want to meet with our global fans as soon as possible," Si-eun said, expressing her desire to fulfill overseas activities.

Yoon added, "I usually dream of winning first place on music shows or charts, but my goal is to become a role model for someone and an artist who is recognized by everyone."