The First Glimpse of ‘IVE SECRET’
K-pop powerhouse IVE (An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, Leeseo) have dropped the first mood sampler for their upcoming fourth mini album IVE SECRET, set to release on August 25, 2025, at 6 PM KST.
Released via the group’s official YouTube channel, the teaser video presents IVE like never before — not as traditional idols, but as enigmatic secret agents hiding unexpected layers of charm.
From Mystery to Revelation
The video opens with the cryptic phrase “WHAT IS YOUR [*] IVE?” before revealing each member in distinctive styling and bold visuals. Blue and yellow eyeshadow, curly hair, and expressive fashion choices amplify the group’s individuality.
The mood remains hushed and mysterious at first, with a soft ambient soundtrack creating suspense. Then comes a shift in tone: a halo emoji morphs into devil horns, signaling the transition from innocence to rebellion.
IVE’s members switch into playful yet defiant expressions, striking confident poses while flashing mischievous smiles and gestures that suggest hidden duality.
Scenes Packed with Clues
Sharp editing and cinematic cues heighten curiosity. Standout moments include:
- Gaeul pasting Rei’s “Wanted” poster on a wall
- Magnifying glasses and evidence props that hint at investigation themes
- Unlocking padlocks and discovering hidden signs
The sampler ends with the mysterious [*] text transforming into the word “SECRET”, leaving fans eager to decode the deeper meaning.
The Music: 6 Tracks with Member Contributions
IVE SECRET will feature six tracks, led by title song “XOXZ”, with Jang Wonyoung credited for lyrics. Another track, Midnight Kiss, includes Liz as a lyricist, further proving IVE’s expanding artistry.
This aligns with IVE’s growing reputation as not only performers but also storytellers and creative contributors shaping their music.
‘Evil Cupid’: IVE’s Bold New Narrative
IVE have been teasing the ‘Evil Cupid’ concept through moving posters, visuals, and trailers. Instead of portraying Cupid as a traditional symbol of connection, IVE reimagine the myth as self-directed agents of fate who aim arrows at themselves rather than others.
This inversion of narrative reflects the group’s signature theme: self-empowerment, autonomy, and redefinition of expectations. By breaking stereotypes, IVE reinforce their role as MZ generation icons who thrive on flipping convention.
Kolumverse Verdict
The first mood sampler for IVE SECRET cements IVE’s ability to blend artistry, storytelling, and visual impact. By embodying secret agents with a touch of rebellion, the group sets the stage for a comeback that’s as cinematic as it is empowering.
With XOXZ as the centerpiece, and members actively contributing to lyrics, fans can expect an album that feels personal, layered, and innovative.
On August 25, 2025, all eyes will be on IVE as they officially unveil IVE SECRET and redefine their trajectory once again.
Article Source
Kim Sun-woo, “아이브가 하면 달라…신보 첫 무드 샘플러 공개,” JTBC News, August 16, 2025.
Alt Text
IVE on their way to Music Bank on October 13, 2023.
Caption
IVE on the way to Music Bank (October 13, 2023) — image licensed under CC BY 4.0, included for illustrative purposes.
Image Source
Photo by Kinocine, CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
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