“I still want to perform at Wembley Stadium [in London], one of our dream venues, and appear on every famous Korean TV show,” said group member Inseong in an interview.
“The reason we still have such aspirations, even after a long time since our debut, is that we feel there are still many things we want to do and show but haven’t been able to yet.”
Boy group SF9 have captured the hearts of K-pop enthusiasts with hit songs such as “Fanfare”, “O Sole Mio” and “Good Guy”.
Despite losing a member in 2023 (Rowoon, who quit to focus on acting), the remaining members continue to promote SF9 in films, dramas and musicals. Chani’s performance in hit Korean drama Sky Castle (2018) remains one of the most powerful appearances by a K-pop idol in a series.
“We think of SF9 as a group like water, able to change shape flexibly according to the situation,” member Yoo Tae-yang said. “Wherever we are, whatever we’re doing and whoever we’re with, we know how to create the right synergy.
“That’s why, even though we’re working as a quintet to promote this new album, we see it as an opportunity to showcase the unique charms and strengths of the five of us.”
As Yoo noted, the octet are currently working as a five-member group to promote their 14th mini-album, Fantasy, which released on August 19. This line-up is made up of Youngbin, Inseong, Yoo, Hwiyoung and Chani.
“It would be a lie to say there is no pressure due to the absence of the members. But as a result, the five of us have taken more responsibility and tried to unite,” Hwiyoung said. “As each member worked more diligently in their roles, the pressure lessened, and the sense of responsibility increased, resulting in what I think is our best work yet.”
The new album’s lead single, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”, stands out with its refreshing and light feel.
Yoo emphasised that the song’s theme of separation is not limited to romantic relationships.
“I hope people see this song as one about parting with all the bad moments of the past, rather than focusing on a specific separation.”