With the release of K-pop boy group TUNEXX‘s debut EP ‘SET BY US ONLY,’ the new group hops onto the scene with confidence and style.
K-pop has its newest rookie group to look out for with TUNEXX, a seven-member boy group that just debuted last March. The group, formed by IST Entertainment (Apink, The Boyz) consists of members Donggyu, Inhu, Taira, Sungjun, Zeon, Sihwan and Arctic.
Photo Credit: IST Entertainment
It’s likely you’ve heard some of those names on season two of MNET’s popular survival show, “Boys II Planet.” There, Donggyu, Inhu, Sihwan and Arctic all competed on the show, with members Taira, Sungjun and Zeon rounding out the group.
With the release of their debut EP, “SET BY US ONLY,” the band leaves a strong impression with genre versatility and unmatched swagger. Title track “I’m Alive” blends electronic and hip-hop styles as the members sing about defying societal expectations, perfected by high-energy dance breaks and choreography throughout.
On the rest of the EP, TUNEXX seamlessly navigates several music styles. “Obsessed” leans towards a smooth R&B groove, while closing track “Twenty Something” dives into a punching punk-rock beat. There’s no telling where the group will go next, with member Inhu explaining the group doesn’t “want to be tied to one genre.”
A month following their bold debut, TUNEXX spoke with The Knockturnal to discuss their evolving creative process and reflections across their debut journey.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
I’d love to start with talking about your debut mini album, “SET BY US ONLY.” I think the title feels super intentional to the group. It showcases your distinct style and originality. So, I wanted to know, what does this phrase mean to TUNEXX as a group?
Donggyu: Our first mini album, “SET BY US ONLY,” is about setting aside the standards defined by the world and moving forward on our own path.
I totally see that within the diversity of the sound you guys discover, which is one of my favorite parts of the album. Each song truly feels like its own genre. Was this something you planned from the start or did it come together naturally?
Inhu: We didn’t want to be tied to one genre from the start. With each member’s ideas and preferences coming together, I think the album turned out very diverse.
Looking ahead to the future, is there a certain genre or style you would like to experiment with?
Sungjun: Personally, I’d love to explore new jack swing, R&B ballad and R&B hip-hop.
Diving into the title track, “I’m Alive,” you can really see how the vibes and genre switch
so effortlessly. The choreo is dynamic and the music video is so fun to watch. Most importantly, it’s a song all about having confidence and being your most authentic self. What are some moments that make you feel the most confident, either as a performer or in your personal lives?
Zeon: Since we’ve trained together for so long, I think our confidence really shows on stage.
When we get to show what we’ve prepared, our confidence is straight-up legendary!
Definitely, I’d agree with that. I know many of you trained on “Boys II Planet” before forming TUNEXX, and many people waited for your debut. To those who experienced that, what was the biggest lesson you took away to help you prepare for TUNEXX?
Arctic: I learned a lot through “Boys II Planet.” One of the most helpful things was learning how to work with the camera and control my gaze.
Just from watching your performances, I think you guys have all done a great job with that.
TUNEXX: Thank you!
I know some of you members helped to write and choreograph some of the songs on “SET BY US ONLY.” How did it feel to see those ideas come to life on a stage or in a song?
Sihwan: For me, I participated in writing the lyrics for “100%.” I contributed a lot, writing about confidence and self-esteem. Performing those lyrics on stage makes me feel more confident.
With TUNEXX just starting out as a group, you have so much more to do and accomplish. What impact do you hope to make on the K-pop community with your music and group identity?
Zeon: Our ultimate goal is to grow into a team that consistently puts out great music. By staying active and delivering strong performances, we want to leave a distinct mark on the K-pop scene with TUNEXX’s unique color.
Do you have any specific goals or milestones for TUNEXX to accomplish in the future?
Donggyu: In the short term, our goal is to win Rookie of the Year, and we’re working really hard toward that. And in the long run, we hope to keep sharing our message with fans for a long time as TUNEXX.
Finally, you’ve had so many fans around the world who’ve been supporting you. Some from “Boys II Planet” but so many just from the music you’ve released in March. What message would you like to share to the fans who have been supporting you throughout this time?
Inhu: To all our fans in the world, thank you so much. Your love and support are what help us grow step by step. We’ll continue to work hard to return the love. Thank you!
