ATEEZ Embarks on First Activity Post-Contract Renewal with 'GOLDEN HOUR: Part.4'

"This is our first activity after renewing our contract. We've always poured our earnestness into each album, and with the renewal, we've prepared even more passionately with the members. As we renewed our contract this year, I often envision our future after military enlistment. Regardless of the timing, I aim to return diligently after fulfilling my duties."

K-pop group ATEEZ is diving into their first activity following their contract renewal. With the enlistment period approaching for members Seonghwa and Hongjoong, both born in 1998, ATEEZ is channeling even more enthusiasm into their activities.

On the afternoon of the 5th, ATEEZ held a press conference at the Fairmont Ambassador Seoul in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, to commemorate the release of their 13th mini-album 'GOLDEN HOUR: Part.4'.

Hongjoong expressed his thoughts on the album release, saying, "This is our first album release of the year and our first activity after renewing our contract. I'm nervous but also very excited. I believe we can show a different side of ATEEZ this time." Seonghwa added, "We prepared with the mindset we had seven years ago when we debuted. We've always put a lot of earnestness into each album, and with the contract renewal, we prepared even more collaboratively with the members." Jongho chimed in, "We prepared with the hope that this year will shine like gold. We've worked really hard, so please look forward to it."

San highlighted a memorable moment from the music video, saying, "Yeosang's scene with 24 dancers performing a group dance was impressive." Seonghwa mentioned, "There's a scene where the members appear consecutively in one take, shot in slow motion. It was challenging because we had to shoot with the music sped up, but the result looks like a cool noir film." Yeosang added, "There's a scene where I'm hanging onto a car. It was my first time using wires, and it was fascinating. I was curious about the result, and it turned out to be fun."

Hongjoong praised San for his overall participation in the choreography, to which San explained, "Since the song title is 'Adrenaline', I wanted to express the rush of blood flow intuitively. We focused on gestures like touching the neck or showing blood flowing through the wrist."

Yunho spoke about the contract renewal with their agency last July, saying, "The topic of contract renewal didn't feel heavy for us. We only thought about showing many sides and performances to ATINY. We believe every moment is our 'golden hour', and we want to continuously show our growth."

Hongjoong explained the continuation of the 'GOLDEN HOUR' series, saying, "We haven't often extended a series to 'Part 4'. Fans were curious about it. Through the past three series, we've made many musical attempts and learned a lot. Each character has undergone significant changes. We planned the fourth series to continue shining in this moment with ATINY after our contract renewal."

Regarding his enlistment, Seonghwa stated, "I see it as a natural duty as a citizen of Korea. I plan to enlist when the time comes. Having renewed our contract this year, I often envision our future after enlistment. I aim to return diligently after fulfilling my duties." Seonghwa and Hongjoong, both born in 1998, are expected to be the first among the members to enlist.

Hongjoong discussed the fan song 'Choose', saying, "November 17 is a precious day for us as it's our debut anniversary. It's also the day ATINY got their name. We decided to include it in this album but pre-released it on November 17 to match the date. The song expresses gratitude for being able to 'choose' each other."

ATEEZ's new mini-album 'GOLDEN HOUR: Part.4' embodies the group's determination to hold onto their beliefs and move forward even in the eye of the storm. The album includes five tracks, featuring the title track 'Adrenaline', which showcases ATEEZ's explosive energy with its intense EDM sound.

Meanwhile, ATEEZ's 13th mini-album 'GOLDEN HOUR: Part.4' will be released on various online music platforms at 2 PM on the 6th.

Min-Kyung Lee, Ten Asia Reporter 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr