Group’s 2nd EP ‘Poppop’ conveys diverse emotions of first love
Six-member K-pop boy group NCT Wish has returned with a refreshing sound perfect for spring.
NCT Wish's second mini album “Poppop” captures the emotions of first love through six tracks, including the title track “Poppop.”
“It’s so exciting to be back as a full group, and I really love both the title track and the B-sides. I just can’t wait to unveil our new album,” said leader Sion during a group interview held at Yongsan-gu, Seoul on Thursday.
“I was hoping our title song this time would be something upbeat and rhythmic that fits with dancing, and I’m really happy that it turned out to be a song that just makes you want to move,” Sion added.
Jaehee emphasized the charm of the lyrics. “There’s a line that says, ‘You and I are the main characters in an anime.’ It’s a song that captures that feeling where everything seems beautiful as you fall in love. It starts off bubbly but then shifts in mood during the bridge, which makes it a really fun track.”
NCT Wish, which debuted in February 2024 as the final sub-unit of NCT, has sold nearly 2 million copies of its debut physical single “Wish,” second physical single “Songbird” and first EP “Steady.” The new album “Poppop” surpassed 1 million preorders before its official release.
Jaehee shared that he put effort into improving his vocals for this album. “After we finished promoting ‘Steady,’ I spent a lot of time reflecting on my singing. I took vocal lessons and worked on finding my voice, and I finally felt like I was able to express myself in my own way.”
Main rapper Sakuya said he focused on matching the cool vibe of the title track. “There’s a big mood shift when the rap comes in after the hook, and I wanted to bring that out as much as possible, so I tried to sound as cool and charismatic as I could.”
Now just past its first anniversary, NCT Wish still seems a bit shy and awkward, but the members said they have grown a lot through their rookie promotions. The members also shared that the Asia tour “Log in,” which began last November and included 12 sold-out shows across six cities in Japan, as well as sold-out concerts in Seoul and Macao, was a meaningful experience.
Yushi noted that he learned how to communicate with the audience while Jaehee praised Sion, saying, “Sion’s gotten so good at interacting with the crowd with ad-libs in the middle of the performance. I feel like we’re learning how to create real synergy with the audience.”
The members also said that performing alongside many senior artists at SM’s 30th anniversary concert “SM Town Live 2025,” held in January, helped them grow as performers.
Sion, who took the stage with SM’s iconic artist BoA for her signature song “Only One,” said it was a huge honor. He was selected as her partner — a role reserved for the top male dancers among SM’s idols.
“I found out I was chosen for the role when BoA texted me saying I should start practicing the one-kick signature dance for 'Only One.' I worked really hard for that stage,” Sion recalled.
Ryo looks forward to the rest of 2025. “We’re preparing for a solo concert sometime this year,” he said, expressing his excitement. Jaehee added, “I hope people hear our songs — especially all the B-side tracks that I really love — just playing them as they walk down a street."
jy@heraldcorp.com
