Members of K-pop act ITZY pose during a press event at a hotel in Yeouido, southwestern Seoul, Monday. From left are Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong and Yuna. Courtesy of JYP Entertainment

By Pyo Kyung-min

To demonstrate that they are “Born To Be” stars, K-pop girl group ITZY has returned with a new music offering pushing their artistic boundaries.

What makes their album “Born To Be” unique is that all five members — Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong and Yuna — have included their solo tracks for the first time. The titles of their songs are: “Crown On My Head” (Yeji), “Blossom” (Lia), “Run Away” (Ryujin), “Mine” (Chaeryeong) and “Yet but” (Yuna).

“In our new release, we ventured into diverse genres and styles, making fresh attempts to surpass our limits,” leather-clad Yeji said during a press event at a hotel in southwestern Seoul’s Yeouido, Monday. “Engaging in the composition process and writing the lyrics for our solo tracks further challenged our boundaries, and that’s why this album holds a special place in our hearts.”

Fronted by the lead single, “Untouchable,” the JYP Entertainment group’s new album conveys a resolute message of consistently forging one’s path, even in a world that presents obstacles. This aligns with ITZY’s continuous exploration of self-love and respect, a journey initiated since the group’s debut in 2019 with the album “Dalla Dalla.”

However, Lia could not join the promotional activities for the group’s new album as she is currently on a break due to extreme tension and anxiety.

Four members of the K-pop act ITZY pose during a press event held to mark the release of “Born To Be” at a hotel in Yeouido, southwestern Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of JYP Entertainment

As 2024 marks ITZY’s fifth anniversary, its members took a moment to reflect, sharing heartfelt expressions of gratitude.

Red-haired Yuna said, “I find utmost happiness when people gaze at me with twinkling eyes and smiling faces. Being a K-pop singer is truly fulfilling when I sense that people enjoy my presence and performance.”

Chaeryeong echoed this sentiment, saying, “Receiving thunderous cheers on a grand stage makes me feel that I was destined for this profession. Experiencing genuine enjoyment in every moment and feeling thrilled is incredibly gratifying.”

Following the release of their album, ITZY members are poised to stage two days of solo concerts at Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium in southeastern Seoul on Feb. 24 and 25, marking the commencement of their second world tour, “ITZY 2ND WORLD TOUR.”

Chaeryeong conveyed that the upcoming show is designed to satisfy the public’s craving for ITZY’s distinctive performances.

“We have fully immersed ourselves in preparation to fill Lia’s void,” she said.

Teasing the audience that the concerts will feature large-scale performances, Ryujin said, “We look forward to your strong support.”