IVE Drops 'XOXZ' Music Video and 'IVE SECRET' Album - August 2025 Comeback
K-pop girl group IVE released their highly anticipated fourth mini album 'IVE SECRET' today, featuring the cryptic title track "XOXZ" that transforms familiar expressions into coded messages about love and dreams.
New Album Showcases Hidden Emotions
The six-track release arrives seven months after February's 'IVE EMPATHY' and marks a creative shift for the group. "XOXZ" stands for "I love you, good night. See you in my dreams," combining 808 bass, brass rhythms, and minimalist vocals with low-pitched rap to create what the group calls a sensory interpretation of complex emotions.
Member Jang Wonyoung co-wrote lyrics for "XOXZ" alongside lyricist Seo Ji Eum, while Liz contributed to "Midnight Kiss." The album explores emotions concealed behind confidence, moving beyond IVE's established themes of self-assurance.
Record-Breaking Year Continues
IVE EMPATHY became their fifth consecutive million-seller, with "REBEL HEART" and "ATTITUDE" earning 15 total music show wins. The group dominated charts earlier this year, achieving Perfect All-Kill status with "REBEL HEART" and sparking viral moments with "ATTITUDE's" guinea pig choreography.
Historic Festival Performances
IVE made history this summer as the first K-pop girl group to perform at Lollapalooza Berlin and Paris, creating memorable moments as tens of thousands sang along in Korean despite the rain. Rolling Stone praised their "live arrangements that shook the stage," while Billboard included them in the festival's 'Top 10 Performances.'
The group teased "XOXZ" at SBS Gayo Daejeon Summer, generating massive buzz before today's full release. IVE is scheduled to perform at Rock in Japan Festival 2025 in September, continuing their global expansion.
With 'IVE SECRET,' the group demonstrates artistic maturity while maintaining their signature appeal, positioning themselves as leaders of K-pop's fourth generation through both commercial success and creative evolution.
