IVE Returns with ‘IVE Empathy’

IVE is back with its third EP, IVE Empathy—a significant step forward in the group’s musical identity. The overarching message of “self-love” permeated IVE’s early releases, connecting with its rapidly growing fan base and solidifying IVE’s image as a powerful K-pop act.

While building on the message of “self-love,” the latest offering emphasizes the idea of “empathy.” Band member Wonyoung discussed this change in detail at a press conference in Seoul, saying that although they had previously prioritized self-love, they now wished to go a step further “by talking about empathy so that we can connect with people across various generations, eras, and perspectives.” She adds, “I can feel the influence we have,” referring to IVE’s younger audience growing up listening to its songs. “That makes me more careful with my words and actions, as I want to exert only a good and positive influence,” she explains.

This conscious effort to broaden its thematic scope reflects IVE’s maturity and its desire to use its music to positively influence its listeners. IVE Empathy is made of six tracks that beautifully blend the group’s signature sound with the underlying message of empathy. The lead singles, a nostalgic “Attitude” and a poignant “Rebel Heart,” are prime examples of this evolution, with the former emphasizing how important it is to stay positive in the face of challenging situations, while the latter digs into the rebellious hearts yearning for solidarity.

The album’s other highlights are the catchy “Flu,” the cool “Thank U,” the rhythmic “TKO,” and the reflective acoustic “You Wanna Cry,” which all reflect what IVE aims to convey throughout the record.

According to the release’s official press statement, the production team, led by Starship Entertainment’s Seo Hyun-joo and the A&R team, collaborated with several songwriters through a “song camp” to curate a collection of songs that would best showcase the unique voices of the IVE members.

Notable is “Attitude,” drawing on Suzanne Vega’s renowned “Tom’s Diner.” It stresses optimism in all kinds of situations—an awesome song to listen to given its well-known melody, distinctive bass line, and energetic drumming, let alone the infectious chorus and synths making “Attitude” a standout moment on the EP.

Wonyoung worked on the song’s words alongside lyricist Seo Ji-eum, who’s previously worked with IVE on tracks such as “Eleven,” “Love Dive,” and “After Like.”

The other lead track, “Rebel Heart,” pre-released last month, has already gotten rave reviews. “We are so thankful to have ranked first on multiple music shows with ‘Rebel Heart,’” Yujin stated. The tune speaks to “solidarity among rebels.” Heavy on drum beats, it advocates self-care; its message, nonetheless, expands to encompass “us,” grounded in the idea of solidarity.

The album’s pop dance single “Flu” features a snappy chorus sound and stunning vocal harmonies, and “You Wanna Cry” is IVE’s version of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” with lyrics contributed by Starship Entertainment’s Exy (WJSN). IVE member Liz helped in writing the groovy “Thank U,” and with a vibrant 808 bass and dynamic hip-hop rhythm, “TKO” accentuates IVE’s sophisticated singing.

Since its inception in 2021, the band’s journey has been about blending its distinct identity with what it fundamentally looks forward to—maturity in music—and exploring relevant, universal subjects. From the self-love-themed hits “Eleven,” “Love Dive,” and “After Like” to a thematic examination of independence in its debut full-length album I’ve IVE and the diverse viewpoints offered in the maiden mini-album I’ve Mine, IVE’s discography reflects its proclivity to artistic growth and self-expression.

When IVE Switch, the second mini-album, was released, IVE took a new turn by presenting a different side through concepts of change and mythology. With IVE Empathy, IVE aspires to embark on the next phase of its career while holding onto its uniqueness and experimenting with more concepts and musical styles.