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BOYNEXTDOOR returns with coming-of-age album '19.99'

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BOYNEXTDOOR members, from left, Taesan, Sungho, Jaehyun, Leehan, Riwoo and Woonhak, pose during a press event at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Courtesy of KOZ Entertainment

BOYNEXTDOOR members, from left, Taesan, Sungho, Jaehyun, Leehan, Riwoo and Woonhak, pose during a press event at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Courtesy of KOZ Entertainment

By Pyo Kyung-min

HYBE Label's rising boy band BOYNEXTDOOR is back with its latest album, "19.99," aiming to connect with anyone who has faced the complexities of approaching the symbolic age of 20.

Since their debut back in May 2023, the six members of BOYNEXTDOOR — Jaehyun, Sungho, Riwoo, Taesan, Leehan and Woonhak — have been actively delivering quality K-pop tracks under the guidance of rapper Zico, the head of their agency, KOZ Entertainment.

Drawing from their members' personal experiences for each musical release, the group's new album, "19.99," continues this trend. The title represents the fleeting moments before turning 20 — a period characterized by emotional growth, uncertainty, and self-discovery.

During a media showcase at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday, the young members of BOYNEXTDOOR took the stage to discuss the intimate experiences that shaped "19.99," sharing their stories of transitioning into adulthood.

K-pop boy band BOYNEXTDOOR performs 'Nice Guy,' the lead single for the group's latest album, '19.99,' at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

K-pop boy band BOYNEXTDOOR performs "Nice Guy," the lead single for the group's latest album, "19.99," at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

Woonhak, the youngest member currently looking forward to turning 20 next year, shared his personal connection with the album.

"This album is filled with stories that can only be told at this age. Participating in the creative process was the first time I've seriously thought about turning 20, and the pressure to mature quickly has been both scary and overwhelming," Woonhak honestly revealed.

"By talking with the members and our producers, I worked hard to include not just my story, but those of anyone who has gone through this stage. I think this album reflects the struggles of being 20 and will resonate with listeners."

Jaehyun, the group's leader, recalled his own experience approaching 20, which shaped much of his contribution to the album.

"This album is really about the emotions of turning 20. I could say that it captures the growing pains of a 19-year-old," he said. "I wanted to approach it sincerely, so I visited my old school and playgrounds to reflect on my past and the thoughts I had during that time."

K-pop boy band BOYNEXTDOOR performs 'Dangerous,' a pre-released track of the group's latest album, '19.99,' at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

K-pop boy band BOYNEXTDOOR performs "Dangerous," a pre-released track of the group's latest album, "19.99," at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

Capturing the inevitable transition into adulthood, the new album's lead single, "Nice Guy," stands out with its upbeat energy and lyrics that express the bold optimism of approaching 20.

"The song has different standout moments every time you listen to it. I think that will keep people replaying it, discovering something new each time," Jaehyun noted.

Describing "Nice Guy" as an "irresistible" track, Riwoo added, "Even people who don't know us will want to add this song to their playlist ... It's a song that's going to captivate both visually and sonically."

The choreography for the new song showcases each member's individuality with flirtatious dance moves, complete with playful winks and even surprising twerking moves, enhancing the song's lively spirit.

"This song allows us to fully express who we are. Each member's unique character and gestures on stage will shine through in the performance," Sungho said.

BOYNEXTDOOR members, from left, Taesan, Sungho, Jaehyun, Leehan, Riwoo and Woonhak, pose during a press event at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Courtesy of KOZ Entertainment

BOYNEXTDOOR members, from left, Taesan, Sungho, Jaehyun, Leehan, Riwoo and Woonhak, pose during a press event at Bluesquare Mastercard Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Courtesy of KOZ Entertainment

Since its debut, BOYNEXTDOOR has cultivated a strong fanbase, offering music that resonates with listeners of all ages.

Leehan expressed his gratitude to fans during the showcase, saying, "I think people love us because we show our natural, playful side, which brings smiles. That charm comes through in our music, too, and more people seem to be connecting with us."

Woonhak concluded the showcase with a promise for the future.

"We want to keep growing musically and show our fans that growth ... Our goal is to continue striving toward becoming a 'national idol' and we'll keep working hard to get there."

Pyo Kyung-min pzzang@ktimes.com


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