Stray Kids Celebrate Global Success with New Album 'KARMA'

"The members are, in a way, crazy. Their passion is insane. Stray Kids are crazy about Stray Kids. We know what we need to do to excel, and we're working on songs and performances that drive us wild." (Changbin)

After completing a massive world tour, Stray Kids are celebrating with a 'ceremony' of their own. The group has released a new album to commemorate their rising global popularity.

On the 22nd, Stray Kids held a press conference at Conrad Seoul in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their fourth studio album, 'KARMA'. This is their first full-length album in nearly two years. The group's producing team, 3RACHA, consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, participated in the creation of all 11 tracks, including the title track.

The title track, 'CEREMONY', is a powerful blend of trap EDM, baile funk rhythms, strong plucks, and a powerful beat with an addictive hook. It celebrates the success achieved through perseverance and effort, overcoming numerous challenges along the way.

Despite a hectic schedule from their recent world tour, Stray Kids have returned with a full album of 11 tracks. Changbin expressed, "During the long world tour, we received immense love. To reciprocate, we wanted to satisfy STAY (our fandom) with an album that matches that love. A full album requires the most effort and thought, making it the best way to do so." He added, "Even when busy, the members can't resist having fun. We keep trying new genres and creating new colors, which is reflected in this album."

Stray Kids chose to take on challenges despite their busy schedule. Bang Chan shared, "Even while touring, we gathered in hotel rooms to record, bringing all our equipment. Everyone was dedicated to this album, and it felt like our hearts were on fire." He continued, "There were many genres we hadn't tried. We discussed a lot with 3RACHA and the members about trying new styles and incorporating saved ideas. 'CEREMONY' is a genre we've never done before."

Hyunjin also expressed confidence, saying, "This album is like a celebratory ceremony after finishing our world tour. I'm really confident. As soon as I heard 'CEREMONY', I thought, 'This is a hit.' The performance is packed to match the mood of the song, and I believe many will love it."

The members likened themselves to sports teams. Seungmin said, "Baseball games are popular these days. Like sports players, each member has a position, and we put a lot of time and effort into preparing for the album, aiming for victory." He added, "It's like a relay race or a high jump, constantly pushing forward."

Lee Know compared their teamwork to an F1 race, saying, "Even if you run like crazy, it's hard to achieve results alone. It requires teamwork, just like us working with STAY and our company." Bang Chan mentioned eSports, saying, "Just as there are various games, our music is diverse."

The music video for 'CEREMONY' features a surprise appearance by famous eSports player Faker. Felix shared, "While we were on tour, Faker filmed his part in a fun and cool way. We didn't meet him in person, but it was amazing." He added, "Thank you, Faker. It's an honor. If there's another opportunity, we'd love to meet him." When asked if they wanted to invite him to a concert or play games together, the members unanimously said, "Both."

Reflecting on their largest world tour to date, Changbin shared, "Even though I don't usually take photos or videos, I couldn't resist at Tottenham Stadium, where Son Heung-min plays. It was an unforgettable dream come true with the members, filled with STAY."

For Seungmin, who dreamed of being a baseball player as a child, performing at the San Francisco Giants stadium was special. He said, "Performing where Lee Jung-hoo played was thrilling. I bought his jersey from the MD shop and wore it on stage. It felt meaningful to connect cultures through music." Hyunjin added, "The look in STAY's eyes will stay with me forever."

Despite achieving remarkable records, the group doesn't dwell on them. Hyunjin said, "We are aware of Billboard and record-breaking, but we focus more on what makes us passionate. While records are important, we want to continue enjoying our music and living as Stray Kids."

Bang Chan added, "Our goal is to share the music and performances Stray Kids want to do for a long time. If 'CEREMONY' achieves great results, it would be an honor, but our aim is to showcase our musicality and new colors to the world."

The members openly expressed their affection for each other. Han said, "Despite many ups and downs over the past eight years, no one has fallen. We've become strong roots from branches, and I want us to remain cool and healthy together. I love you all," forming a heart with his hands. Hyunjin humorously replied, "I decline."

"In the early days, we had many concerns about our music. I remember seeing negative comments. We lacked confidence, but the members and STAY believed in us. That belief gave us confidence and persistence, which became good karma." (Changbin)

Stray Kids' fourth studio album 'KARMA' was released at 1 PM today.

Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr