Korean rapper Zico is breaking from his usual hip-hop sounds for an upcoming ballad and has called on one of Japan's stars for help.

Former AKB48 member Mariko Shinoda was featured in a new teaser clip for Zico's upcoming music video for "It Was Love."

The video was uploaded to YouTube on Tuesday by Zico's record label Seven Seasons.

The 46-second teaser features a cascade of orchestral strings as the Japanese pop star is shown in a variety of scenes seemingly depicting life post-break up.

Shinoda was the captain of AKB48's A Team from 2012 until her departure from the group last year.

Zico is the leader of K-pop act Block B. He has also achieved success as a solo rapper with tracks like "Tough Cookie" and "Eureka." With the upcoming ballad single album, the hip-hop star hopes to establish himself additionally as a singer-songwriter.

"It Was Love" is scheduled for release on Jan. 25.

Watch the teaser video below: