Third Studio Album Released on August 11
Key Theme: "Horror"
"I never expected 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' to come out on Netflix. I had even filmed the music video for my new song 'Hunter,' so when the movie suddenly appeared, it was really fun."
Key of SHINee (real name Kim Kibum) is making his return with his third studio album, 'Hunter.' At a press conference held at a hotel in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul on August 11, he shared his thoughts on releasing a full-length album for the first time in three years.
The album, which will be released at 6 p.m. on the same day, contains a total of 10 tracks, including the title track 'Hunter,' as well as 'Trap,' 'Strange,' 'Want Another,' 'No Way!,' 'Infatuation,' 'GLAM,' 'Picture Frame,' 'Perfect Error,' and 'Lavender Love.'
The album's key theme is 'horror,' with messages centered on 'self' and 'identity' expressed through the concept of urban legends. Key explained, "I selected the tracks with concerts in mind."
The title track 'Hunter' is a dance song featuring a grand bass, heavy kick, rhythmic guitar riffs, and synth pads. It dramatically portrays the 'me' who is obsessed with the other person and the 'ecstasy within pain' felt in the relationship. Kenzie, Moonshine, and Adrian McKinnon, who previously collaborated on 'BAD LOVE,' 'Gasoline,' and 'Good & Great,' have once again contributed to the album.
Key said, "When I heard the demo in the studio, I thought, 'I have to do this.' Recently, I've been releasing a lot of upbeat songs, but this time, I wanted to return to the kind of music I truly want to make."
The music video depicts a confrontation between 'Hunter' and the 'real Key' in the style of a thriller film. He explained, "I didn't intend to play a specific character like a zombie or ghost. I separated 'Hunter' from myself to express a battle with a divided self."
The performance, which was pre-released on August 9 and 10 at the 'SMTOWN LIVE 2025' stage at Tokyo Dome in Japan, received a positive response for its conceptual choreography and intense energy.
After experiencing a hiatus due to military service and the COVID-19 pandemic, Key said, "There was a time when I couldn't be very active, so now I do my best whenever I can. I'm grateful to have so many opportunities. I'm not tired because I'm finally doing what I've wanted to do since my debut." Regarding his variety show appearances, he added, "I've realized that it's best to show my true self just as I am."
He also shared his thoughts on the changing global status of K-pop. Key said, "In the past, K-pop was mostly consumed by a niche fanbase, but now the whole world listens to it, regardless of genre. When I go through U.S. immigration and say my job is 'singer,' they ask what kind of show I'm doing and tell me to have a great performance." He continued, "I can feel that perceptions have changed. I'm proud of the positive image."
Starting with performances at the Ticketlink Live Arena in Olympic Park, Seoul from September 26 to 28, Key will embark on his first North American tour, with additional concerts in Taipei in October and Tokyo in November. He said, "Since I haven't been able to meet overseas fans for a long time, I want to do not only concerts but also local activities like radio appearances."
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