 |
| ▲ ONF poses at the showcase for the release of their second full-length album "Part.1 ONF: MY IDENTITY" at Blue Square in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on February 18, 2025. (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- "We want this album to clearly show who we are, even to those unfamiliar with us." (Hyojin)
At the showcase for their second full-length album "Part 1, ONF: MY IDENTITY, ONF" shared their determination as they kicked off their new promotions.
The members emphasized, "We all enlisted in the military together and were discharged together. Just like that, we will continue to carve our own path and consistently bring our music to fans."
They added, "We're so happy to finally release a full-length album after so long, and we'll keep working hard with an unwavering mindset."
This marks ONF's first full-length album in four years since "ONF: MY NAME" in February 2021.
 |
| ▲ ONF poses at the showcase for the release of their second full-length album "Part.1 ONF: MY IDENTITY" at Blue Square in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on February 18, 2025. (Yonhap) |
For this comeback, ONF embraces the concept of "dream-chasing travelers," delivering a message of hope.
Wyatt explained, "We wanted to create a completely different style from our last album. ONF has always pursued change since our debut, striving to craft diverse images rather than being confined to one."
The album includes six tracks, including the title song "The Stranger," "Night Tale," which sharply portrays feelings of wandering, the R&B track "Nothing but a Stranger" by vocal unit ON Team, and "Collab" by performance unit OFF Team.
"The Stranger" is a pop track with a prominent funky rhythm, carrying a determined message about forging one's own path. The song highlights the members' impressive vocal range and distinctive tones, with MK contributing to the composition and Wyatt writing the lyrics.
"You might think it's just a bright, upbeat song when you listen to it, but when you see the performance, you'll notice our growth and maturity," said U.
Wyatt added, "This song is for those chasing their dreams in unfamiliar places. As dream-chasers ourselves, we also find strength and hope through it."
Debuting in 2017, ONF made headlines in December 2021 when all five Korean members enlisted in the military at the same time, leaving out only Japanese member U.
Unlike the usual practice in K-pop, where members continue solo or unit activities during military service, ONF became the first group to attempt a simultaneous enlistment, allowing them to return as a full group more quickly.
Known for their strong bond and positive energy, the group emphasized "dreams" through the lyrics and concept of this album.
When asked about their own dreams, Seungjun replied, "A world tour."
He explained, "We haven't had many opportunities for concerts or overseas activities. Our dream is to keep working hard, releasing great music, and meeting more international fans."
Seungjun also jokingly added, "We'll keep going until our joints give out."
Minkyun chimed in, "Another dream of mine is to stay healthy and perform for a long time. I admire and respect (K-pop group) g.o.d. They recently held a concert, and if we can continue making music like them for years to come, I don't think I could ask for anything more."
(C) Yonhap News Agency. All Rights Reserved
