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| ▲ K-pop boy group Riize is seen in this photo provided by SM Entertainment. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, Jan. 8 (Yonhap) -- RIIZE's remake of TVXQ's iconic debut track Hug will be released on Wednesday at 6 p.m., SM Entertainment announced.
This version of Hug serves as a pre-release for SM Entertainment's 30th-anniversary commemorative album. The remake adds Y2K-inspired aesthetics and trendy sounds to the 2004 original, creating a nostalgic yet fresh "newtro" vibe. The track opens with a smooth a cappella intro by RIIZE, setting a distinctive tone.
Accompanying the audio release, a stage video will be unveiled on SM Entertainment's official YouTube channel. Producer Park Moon-chi took charge of the arrangement, infusing the track with modern flair.
RIIZE shared their thoughts on the project: "It was hard to imagine how we’d interpret this iconic song when we first heard the news. As it's a beloved masterpiece from our respected seniors, TVXQ, we were determined to give it our best effort."
The group encouraged fans to look forward to their unique take on the classic, saying, "We think you'll enjoy RIIZE's charming, youthful twist. The highlight is definitely the 'One, two, three, four' part—please watch out for it!"
Additional tracks from SM's 30th-anniversary album will be revealed during the SMTOWN LIVE 2025 concert at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on January 11–12. The performances will also be livestreamed globally via platforms like Beyond LIVE and Weverse.
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