Kep1er opens a bold new chapter, confronting their hidden instincts and redefining their artistic identity with the release of their eighth mini album 'CRACK CODE.'
On March 31, KLAP Entertainment released a full Q&A interview marking the launch of Kep1er’s latest album. Serving as a continuation of the transformation first hinted at in 'BUBBLE GUM' last August, the new record explores themes of self-awakening and breaking through inner limits, further solidifying the group’s evolving musical identity.
The title track 'KILLA (Face the other me)' is an electronic hip-hop track built on powerful lead synths and trap-based drum sounds. It signals a shift toward a more mature, wild, and intense sonic direction while maintaining Kep1er’s signature energy.
The members shared their thoughts on the comeback, stating, "As this is our eighth album, we’re excited to show a more mature and different side of ourselves. From choreography lessons to vocal training, as well as hair styling and facial expressions, every member put deep thought into both performance and visuals."
They also pointed to their strengths as a globally recognized team, highlighting their long-standing teamwork, passion for the stage, and unity as a multinational group. Through this comeback, Kep1er aims to prove that their passion remains as powerful as ever.
Having broken through their inner limits and returned with a stronger sense of self, anticipation is rising for the impact Kep1er’s 'CRACK CODE' will deliver on the global K-pop scene.
The album drops at 6 PM on major music platforms, with the group set to begin full-scale promotions for 'KILLA.'
(Full Q&A for Kep1er’s 8th mini album 'CRACK CODE' follows)
How do you feel about releasing your 8th mini album 'CRACK CODE'?
▲ Choi Yujin: Since this is our eighth album, I’m really excited to show a more mature and diverse side of us. I hope to create happy memories with Kep1ian during this promotion.
▲ Xiaoting: I think we’ll be able to show an even more powerful and impressive performance. Please look forward to it.
▲ Kim Chaehyun: I’m excited to greet Kep1ian with an album filled with the intensity they’ve been waiting for. I hope you’ll enjoy it.
▲ Kim Dayeon: I’m so happy to be back on stage in front of our fans after a while. I hope we can create more happy memories together this time as well.
▲ Hikaru: I’m excited to show how much we’ve grown. Through this album, I want more people to discover our charm.
▲ Huening Bahiyyih: We included a variety of genres this time. I was excited to show new sides of us while preparing the album, and I think listeners will really enjoy it.
How did you incorporate Kep1er’s unique color into this album?
▲ Choi Yujin: I practiced facial expressions a lot to match the intense concept. I constantly monitored myself during choreography, music video shoots, and jacket filming to find the best expressions.
▲ Kim Dayeon: I took individual choreography lessons. Our instructor helped refine each detail, which led to a high-quality group performance.
▲ Huening Bahiyyih: While keeping Kep1er’s energetic identity, we focused on presenting a more mature and solid image. There were many new performance elements, making it a meaningful growth process.
What kind of transformation can we expect from the electronic hip-hop title track 'KILLA'? Any recommended B-sides?
▲ Xiaoting: Through the title track, we want to show Kep1er’s unique hip-hop style and wild energy. I recommend 'I am Kep1,' which also captures our identity and energy well.
▲ Kim Chaehyun: You’ll be able to see a more mature and refined side of us through the title track. I also recommend 'I am Kep1,' which reflects our confidence and bold spirit.
▲ Hikaru: I think this title track shows an even stronger side of us than before. Among the B-sides, 'Addicted 2 Ya' stands out with its dramatic and pop-driven vibe.
What are your personal “killing point” visuals this time?
▲ Choi Yujin: I experimented with various hairstyles, and you’ll see a wide range of looks during this promotion.
▲ Xiaoting: I dyed my hair in a color I had never tried before. I was worried at first, but fans really loved it, so I think that’s my highlight.
▲ Kim Chaehyun: I focused a lot on self-care. I know some fans already miss my fuller cheeks, but I hope you’ll enjoy this sharper image as well.
▲ Kim Dayeon: I practiced intense acting, including screaming scenes for the concept film, inspired by the movie 'The Substance.' I also worked hard on creating cool yet powerful expressions.
▲ Hikaru: I’m promoting with long hair for the first time in a while, dyed in a color I’ve always wanted to try.
▲ Huening Bahiyyih: My bangs in the Locked version are a key point. I tried a similar style four years ago during 'Up!,' and compared to then, I think you can really see how much I’ve grown.
What efforts did you put into preparing for this album?
▲ Choi Yujin: When I first heard the title track, I was concerned because it required a different vocal style. So I focused on vocal lessons and worked closely during recording to bring out my own tone.
▲ Xiaoting: Since the concept is very intense, I took personal lessons and did a lot of research to match the mood in both dance and vocals.
▲ Kim Chaehyun: I paid close attention to details during recording and styling, constantly thinking about how fans would respond.
▲ Kim Dayeon: For a perfect performance, we experimented with different choreography approaches for each section and chose the best together.
▲ Hikaru: I made many attempts to bring out each part better, exchanging feedback with both members and our choreographer.
▲ Huening Bahiyyih: I actively shared ideas on styling and visuals, suggesting looks and concepts to achieve the best outcome.
What should fans focus on during this comeback?
▲ Choi Yujin: Please pay attention to our expressions and performance in the chorus. As a performance-driven group, we prepared something truly impactful.
▲ Huening Bahiyyih: The performance structure and facial expressions are key. Especially in the chorus, the contrasting expressions between Dayeon and Hikaru are a major highlight.
What are Kep1er’s strengths?
▲ Choi Yujin: We’ve trained together for a long time, so our teamwork is very strong. Our shared passion and energy on stage are what fans appreciate most.
▲ Kim Dayeon: We receive a lot of love from international fans and continue to perform overseas to give back.
▲ Huening Bahiyyih: Being a multinational group is a major strength. The unity created by members from different backgrounds resonates with fans.
What are your goals for this comeback, and a message to fans?
▲ Choi Yujin: I want Kep1er’s name to be heard more globally. Kep1ian, we’ll show you many activities starting with this album.
▲ Xiaoting: I hope more people recognize how much we’ve grown. Thank you sincerely for always waiting for us.
▲ Kim Chaehyun: I hope this song captures both your ears and your hearts. We’ll make sure your wait was worth it.
▲ Kim Dayeon: Our goal is to win first place on music shows and enter the charts. We’ll work even harder to repay your support.
▲ Hikaru: I want more people to discover our charm. Kep1ian, thank you for waiting, and I hope you enjoy this promotion.
▲ Huening Bahiyyih: We want to show a stronger, more solid version of ourselves through music. Let’s create unforgettable memories together.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
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