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| yna@yna.co.kr 2026-06-22 15:57:21
SEOUL, June 22 (Yonhap) -- "We want Hearts2Hearts' summer song to take over everyone's playlist this summer," said Ian of K-pop girl group Hearts2Hearts during a showcase for the group's second mini album, "Lemon Tang," held Monday at Blue Square in Seoul.
The group returned with its first seasonal release and expressed hopes that its new song would become a staple summer track for listeners.
Hearts2Hearts' members said the new album presents the band's first summer song, hoping to earn the title of "everyone's summer song."
The album, to be released at 6 p.m. Monday, contains six tracks, including the title song "Lemon Tang" and the pre-release single "RUDE!," which came out in February.
The title "Lemon Tang" combines "lemon" with "tang," referring to a sharp and refreshing taste and aroma. The song tells the story of someone who may be sharp and tangy like a lemon when alone but reveals sweet and refreshing charms when together with others.
Jiwoo said lyricist Kenzie likened the idea of shining brighter together to "Lemon Tang."
"She beautifully incorporated the message of 'us,' which Hearts2Hearts considers important," Jiwoo explained.
Yuha said all the members immediately loved the song when they first heard it.
"We could instantly feel summer in the song," she said. "We thought it was the perfect title track because it conveys our bright energy so well."
Jueun emphasized that the group had worked tirelessly to showcase a performance unique to Hearts2Hearts.
The choreography for "Lemon Tang," unveiled for the first time during the showcase, featured a signature move resembling the squeezing of a lemon. Symmetrical formations dividing the eight members into two groups of four also stood out.
Throughout the event, the members repeatedly highlighted that "Lemon Tang" represents a Hearts2Hearts-style summer song.
Aina described the track as "a summer song that delivers refreshing and uplifting energy."
The group also expressed hopes of continuing SM Entertainment girl groups' tradition of summer hits, following f(x)'s "Hot Summer" and Red Velvet's "Red Flavor."
"I often listen to songs by our SM seniors, so I would be delighted if 'Lemon Tang' could carry on that legacy," Jiwoo said. "I hope listeners can beat the summer heat with Hearts2Hearts through this refreshing and upbeat song."
The group plans to continue the momentum built by "RUDE!," which peaked at No. 2 on Melon's Top 100 chart and remains a long-running hit near the top of the rankings.
Stella said the group had enjoyed a busy and joyful first half of the year thanks to the love received by "RUDE!"
"We achieved the goals we set last year, including winning first place on music shows and receiving rookie awards," she said. "It feels like our fans' love has grown even stronger, which motivated us to prepare hard for this comeback."
Yeon said she was still amazed and grateful that the group's songs remained near the top of music charts.
"I think the relatable messages and positive energy in our music make listeners feel good," she said.
Carmen expressed confidence that the group could make 2026 "the year of Hearts2Hearts."
"We received tremendous attention with 'RUDE!' in the first half of the year," she said. "In the second half, we want to be loved through 'Lemon Tang' and make it truly Hearts2Hearts' year."
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