[OSENWORLD] Opening with the phrase “Love you, good night, see you in my dreams,” girl group IVE has coined a new expression — “XOXZ” — and made their long-awaited comeback.
On August 25 at 6 p.m. KST, IVE released their fourth mini album IVE SECRET through major streaming platforms, according to agency Starship Entertainment. The project focuses on the emotions hidden behind glamorous appearances, highlighting both confidence and a twist in attitude to reveal a new side of the group.
The title track XOXZ embodies the meaning “love you, good night, and see you in my dreams,” expressed through IVE’s own coined term. Driven by heavy 808 bass, brass, and solid drums, the song carries a tense undercurrent, while low-toned rap and minimalist vocals add a dreamlike atmosphere. Notably, Jang Wonyoung participated in writing the lyrics alongside acclaimed songwriter Seo Ji-eum, following their previous collaboration on ATTITUDE.
The album features six songs in total: XOXZ, Wild Bird, Dear, My Feelings, GOTCHA (Baddest Eros), 삐빅 (♥beats), and Midnight Kiss. All are connected by the keyword “secret,” weaving together different moods and identities into a cohesive concept.
Released simultaneously with the album, the XOXZ music video visualizes a mysterious dream world through IVE’s unique lens. Before the release, the group teased fans with snippets of the choreography on social media, sparking a dance challenge that raised performance anticipation.
A highlight medley video — unveiled on August 24 — offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the recording process, snippets of each track, and unreleased parts of XOXZ, further heightening excitement among fans.
IVE’s teaser images and motion posters featured symbolic objects — winged toys, origami cranes, and angelic animal figures — amplifying the theme of secrets while building a surreal, immersive atmosphere.
With consecutive hits like REBEL HEART and ATTITUDE, the question now is whether IVE can once again dominate global playlists with IVE SECRET.
/k_inside@osen.co.kr
