6-member-group drops 3rd EP 'Ive Empathy'

K-pop girl group Ive returned Monday with another message of self-love, full of confidence and positivity.
The six-member group held a press conference on Monday for the release of its 3rd mini album, “Ive Empathy.”
The group's new album is its first release since the EP "Ive Switch," released in April last year. Known for conveying messages of self-love and confidence, and emphasizing that true love starts with loving oneself, the group has expanded this theme to sing about empathy.
One of the double title tracks, “Attitude,” is a song about the importance of accepting even difficult and unchangeable situations with a positive attitude. Member Jang Won-young participated in writing its lyrics.
Just as “After Like” in 2022 sampled Gloria Gaynor’s 1978 hit “I Will Survive," “Attitude” samples Suzanne Vega’s “Tom’s Diner,” giving it a retro charm. Leader An Yujin explained, “Sampling is one of the many musical and conceptual attempts we make,” and added that although they sampled a song, they tried to interpret it in a way that would represent Ive's unique style.
The other main song and prerelease “Rebel Heart” is about the camaraderie of rebels who move forward together, supporting each other.
In addition, the album features “Flu,” with an impressive guitar sound; “You Wanna Cry,” a reimagining of Whitney Houston's “I Wanna Dance with Somebody”; “Thank U,” blending horns and electric guitar; and “TKO,” a rhythmic hip-hop track. The six tracks together showcase IVE's broad musical spectrum.
The prerelease track “Rebel Heart” has received positive reactions, boding well for the new album. “This album is meant to talk not only about ourselves but also about broader empathy, so I’m really proud that people are understanding that point,” said An Yujin.
Before the album release, Ive wrapped up its first world tour "Show What I Have," which spanned 27 performances across 19 countries from 2023 to 2024. The group also performed at Lollapalooza in Chicago and Japan’s Summer Sonic Festival in 2024.
“The experience and attitude we gained while preparing for large stages seem to have influenced our current activities,” said member Gaeul.
Ive is popular among younger K-pop fans and the members expressed their desire to repay their fans' love. “Since there are many fans who grow up watching us and our music, I find myself being more careful with my words and behavior. I want to continue to have a positive and good influence,” said Won-young.
When asked about future goals, Yujin said, “I want to show more relaxed performances through more stage experiences, and I want to meet more fans. Specifically, I’d like to perform in Nagoya, Japan, which is the hometown of our member Rei.”