Virtual Girl Group OWIS Unveils Debut Mini Album 'MUSEUM'

OWIS, the virtual girl group directed by 'Produce 101' alum Lee Hae-in, is finally making its debut. Lee Hae-in has been recognized for her directing skills, having been involved in the preparation stages of KISS OF LIFE's debut in 2023 and their comeback in early 2024.

The virtual girl group OWIS (comprising Serin, Haru, Summer, Soy, and Uni) is set to release their first mini album 'MUSEUM' today (23rd) at 6 PM on various online music platforms.

The new album captures the journey of rediscovering cherished dreams. It includes a total of 8 tracks, with members actively participating in the songwriting process, showcasing OWIS's unique musical color.

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Exclusive Q&A with OWIS

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Q. How do you feel about debuting?

The debut feels like a dream, especially with our team name being OWIS. It was a world known only to the five of us, but now we are excited and thrilled to share OWIS's story with more people. We hope to repay our fans with great music and performances.

Q. What were your first impressions of each other?

[Serin→Haru] She's a natural beauty! I admire Haru's purity. She's always smiling and brightens up the surroundings with her energy. Seeing Haru during tough times always gives me strength.

[Haru→Summer] She's a precious little sister. Though she's shy and makes me want to take care of her, she becomes lively and playful when excited, making me want to keep her laughing.

[Summer→Soy] She's the only friend my age in the team. Initially, everyone seemed so different, but as we spent time together and talked, we naturally came to understand each other. Meeting her always brings noise and brightness, like true friends.

[Soy→Uni] At first, she was so quiet and reserved that even greeting her felt awkward, but I was completely wrong. She's a loud and warm friend.

[Uni→Serin] She's the member whose first impression differs the most from now. As we practiced and spent time together, I discovered her bright and playful side. I'm always grateful for her leadership.

Q. The team name 'Only When I Sleep' suggests meeting only in dreams. What does 'dream' mean to OWIS?

It's another world I live in. Dreams have two meanings: 'Dream' and 'Wish.' OWIS started with that meaning. Each small dream comes together to form a world, and through music, we aim to find the dreams in everyone's hearts.

Q. Can you introduce your debut album 'MUSEUM'?

It's a journey of awakening dormant emotions and memories, unfolding various emotions and stories within the 'Museum of Memories.' Each track connects like an exhibition, allowing listeners to revisit their own emotions and dreams. It's also the beginning of the Arkel universe, marking the first step in showcasing OWIS's world and direction.

Q. The title track 'MUSEUM' has a unique setting of a 'Museum of Memories.' What do you think is the highlight of this song?

'MUSEUM' is themed around a dream museum displaying lost memories. We hope listeners focus on the opening intro narration and the chorus part where all members convey overwhelming emotions together.

Q. Serin, Summer, and Soy participated in writing and composing for this album. What was the background and message you wanted to convey?

[Serin] ('forNEVER' lyrics) It's a stylish song different from our previous ones, focusing on naturally incorporating the team's universe into the lyrics. It's like a preview of the next album. Please look forward to it.

[Summer] ('MUSEUM' lyrics / 'juicy' lyrics & composition / 'forNEVER' lyrics) 'MUSEUM' was inspired by the memory orbs in the movie 'Inside Out,' aiming to capture the moment of revisiting various memories. I hope this song becomes a key for listeners to open their own 'museum.'

[Soy] ('airplane:143' lyrics) I wanted to tell a quirky yet honest love story unique to OWIS. Heart-shaped clouds float outside the window, and the in-flight meal is my love's full course. Despite the turbulence and nausea from excitement, I never want to land as long as I'm with you. It's a quirky yet sweet expression of love, OWIS style.

Q. Among the 8 tracks, do you have a favorite?

All the songs are precious, but if I had to choose one, it would be the title track 'MUSEUM.' It contains the most of OWIS's story, and having spent a long time recording and practicing choreography, I have a special affection for it. It's a song with a charm that doesn't get old even after repeated listens.

Q. Any special episodes during the preparation of the debut album or your impressions when you first heard the songs members worked on?

[Serin] Recording 'forNEVER' was challenging due to its unfamiliar style. I remember trying various things, like recording with the lights off.

[Soy] I was strongly drawn to 'juicy' when I first heard it, and knowing Summer worked on it made me feel reassured about the team.

[Uni] 'forNEVER' was a song I recorded multiple times to grasp the feel, but I have a strong attachment to it. Also, when I first heard 'juicy,' I thought it was good enough to be the title track.

Q. How do you want global fans to remember OWIS?

We want to be remembered as artists with great musicality and as a team that feels like a reliable friend accompanying fans on their journey towards their dreams.

Q. Share your aspirations as OWIS begins its first stage with this album.

Through this activity, we want to leave a strong first impression of 'This is OWIS.' Our goal is to be a team that keeps coming to mind and makes you curious about what's next. We will show various aspects of growth in music and performances, so please look forward to and support us.

Sojung Lee, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr