TWS Unleashes Fierce Youth Energy With 'play hard': 4th Mini Album Marks Bold Evolution

Pledis Entertainment's rising boy group delivers passionate comeback with title track 'OVERDRIVE' and six explosive tracks celebrating limitless youth

K-pop sextet TWS proved why they're earning the title "stage geniuses" at their October 13, 2025 comeback showcase in Seoul, unveiling their fourth mini album 'play hard' with electrifying confidence. The Pledis Entertainment group-comprising Shinyu, Dohoon, Youngjae, Hanjin, Jihoon, and Kyungmin-returned with what they call "clear fighting spirit," their signature blend of bright energy and intense performance power.

Explosive Comeback Energy

"We prepared like crazy," Dohoon declared at the Yes24 Live Hall showcase. "This album explores passion and attitude toward what we love. Through this process, I rediscovered what truly drives me."

The group approached their comeback with fierce determination. Leader Shinyu promised fans-affectionately called 42, their official fandom-a reveal of "every charm we haven't shown before," while Youngjae emphasized their mission to "break through TWS's limits."

Inside 'play hard': Six Tracks of Pure Passion

Released October 13 at 6 PM KST, the mini album charts an emotional journey through six distinct tracks. Opening with pre-release single "Head Shoulders Knees Toes"-dropped September 22 with a hip-hop intensity that surprised fans-the album declares that limits don't exist when chasing your dreams.

Title track "OVERDRIVE" captures the album's heart: overwhelming emotions of falling in love. Built on addictive overdrive-toned guitar effects, heavy drums, and bouncing bass lines, the song uses everyday phrases like "my heart goes boom" and "I can't hold back anymore" to convey the confusion and intensity of first love.

The journey continues through "HOT BLUE SHOES" (passion burning like blue flames), "Caffeine Rush" (dreamy, hazy emotions), and "overthinking" (wavering uncertainty), before concluding with fan dedication track "내일이 되어 줄게" (Here For You).

Members Leave Their Mark

This comeback showcases significant artistic growth. Jihoon contributed to both "OVERDRIVE" choreography and lyrics-his first lyric-writing credit since debut. "I wanted members to be genuinely happy on stage," he explained. "The choreography lets us make eye contact and truly enjoy performing together."

Dohoon penned lyrics for "내일이 되어 줄게," drawing from experiences watching fans during their tour and fan meetings. "Seeing my name in the credits feels incredibly honored," he shared. "I hope to participate much more going forward."

The 'Clear Fighting Spirit' That Defines TWS

When asked about their unique strength, Youngjae offered thoughtful analysis: "We call it 'clear fighting spirit.' Fans tell us our music is bright and refreshing, but our choreography looks intense-like they'd struggle to perform it themselves. That contrast makes our stages compelling to watch."

This distinctive identity-combining refreshing "boyhood pop" with powerful, technically demanding choreography-has become TWS's trademark since their January 22, 2024 debut with 'Sparkling Blue.'

Growth Since Debut

The members reflected on their evolution over nearly two years. "Our physiques and voices have matured significantly," Hanjin noted. "Our music has evolved to match that growth. When we watch old performances, we look so young."

Visually, the transformation is striking. "Jihoon, Hanjin, and I dyed our hair," Kyungmin added. "We've moved from school uniforms to techwear styling."

Despite sonic evolution, Shinyu emphasized continuity in their message: "While sounds may differ, what TWS wants to convey remains similar. We've always approached everything passionately-this time we're just expressing it more intensely."

Breaking Through Boundaries

The album title reflects their preparation mindset. "While practicing choreography, I often hit physical limits," Jihoon recalled. "But our concerts this year helped me overcome them. We pushed ourselves-running and singing live simultaneously in practice-to break through barriers."

Youngjae added: "We've expanded our spectrum through tracks like 'Oh Mymy: 7s' and 'Double Take,' but 'Head Shoulders Knees Toes' represents our first proper powerful comeback track with backup dancers. We discussed extensively how to nail this concept and look cool doing it."

New Broadcasting Opportunities

TWS's growing prominence extends beyond music. Shinyu joined SBS's 'Inkigayo' as MC in October 2025, alongside fellow member Dohoon who already hosts MBC's 'Show! Music Core.' "It's truly an honor to wrap up each week," Shinyu said. "I'm excited to learn and deliver fulfilling weekends to audiences."

Looking Forward

The group's ambitions remain high. "Through this promotion, I want us to earn the title 'stage genius TWS,'" Jihoon stated. "We've thought deeply about performance for this album, and all six members prepare with one heart."

Kyungmin looked ahead: "Next year I turn twenty, joining all the members as adults. I want to show many different sides to fans and audiences."

Their message through 'play hard' resonates clearly: throw yourself completely into youth and passion. As rising stars who've already won the most Rookie of the Year awards among 2024 male debuts, TWS continues building their "boyhood pop" legacy-making ordinary moments extraordinary for fans who journey with them 24/7.

Quick Facts:

• Release Date: October 13, 2025, 6 PM KST
• Album Type: 4th Mini Album (6 tracks)
• Title Track: OVERDRIVE
• Pre-Release: Head Shoulders Knees Toes (September 22, 2025)
• Agency: Pledis Entertainment (HYBE Labels)
• Fandom Name: 42 (사이, pronounced "sai")
• Members: Shinyu (Leader), Dohoon, Youngjae, Hanjin, Jihoon, Kyungmin
• Genre: Boyhood Pop-depicting daily life and emotions of youth with universal, relatable themes