South Korean singer Sunmi will release her long-awaited digital single "BLUE!" on August 26 at 6 PM (KST), her agency Abyss Company announced on Friday, marking her return 14 months after her last release "Balloon in Love" in June 2024.
The new track comes with a bold visual overhaul, emphasizing a daring rock-inspired style that has fans buzzing.
Concept photos released between August 18 and August 22 reveal Sunmi's striking new image. She sports a platinum blonde bob, smoky eye makeup, nude-toned lips, and black nail art, exuding a "dark and decadent" vibe that stands in contrast to her previous looks. In the title poster unveiled on August 11, Sunmi poses with a bass guitar, reinforcing her reputation as a "concept master" and hinting at the song's energetic, instrument-driven sound.
Promotion for "BLUE!" began with a cinematic comeback trailer on August 7, featuring Sunmi performing a powerful bass riff and showcasing her transformed persona. The teaser underscored her musical versatility and set a confident tone for the single's storyline. Following the initial trailer, the official promotions schedule was confirmed: concept photos, a music video teaser on August 25, and the full music video premiere coinciding with the single's release on August 26.
Sunmi first debuted in 2007 as a member of the girl group Wonder Girls under JYP Entertainment. After departing the group in 2010 to pursue her studies, she embarked on a solo career in 2013 with the single "24 Hours." Since then, she has become known for her distinctive brand of "Sunmi-pop," delivering chart-topping hits such as "Gashina" (2017), "Heroine" (2018), "Tail" (2021), and "Heart Burn" (2022).
Throughout her career, Sunmi has consistently redefined her artistic identity. Critics and fans alike have praised her for blending inventive choreography with memorable melodies, solidifying her status as one of K-pop's most dynamic solo performers. The upcoming release of "BLUE!" is highly anticipated, as listeners are eager to see how her new visual concept and sound will expand on her established legacy.
"BLUE!" was written by Heo Ji-Hyeong and will be available across all major streaming platforms and digital music services on August 26 at 6 PM (KST). Pre-saves and pre-adds are open now, inviting fans to secure early access to Sunmi's latest musical chapter.
