ITZY Strengthens Unity Ahead of Comeback Amid JYP Contract Renewal Discussions
On June 9, ITZY held a press conference at the Sofitel Ambassador Seoul Hotel in Songpa-gu, Seoul to celebrate the release of their new mini-album, Girls Will Be Girls.
Yeji shared her thoughts on their comeback, “As we celebrate our 6th debut anniversary this year, we thought about what new image and message to show. We wanted to emphasize ‘us’—our bond as a team. I felt our teamwork would resonate with fans, and I thought people would like seeing the strong friendship and solidarity we’ve built.”
This release marks ITZY’s first comeback in eight months since their October 2024 release GOLD and is also their first release of 2025. Girls Will Be Girls reflects the group’s journey and the powerful narrative they’ve built over the past six years, focusing on the strength they gain when they’re together.
“If we’re together, that’s enough. I will gladly take your hand and move forward with you.”
The album trailer gained attention for the surprise appearance of JYP Entertainment founder J.Y. Park. In the video, he not only played a humorous role in the beginning but also appeared with a cassette radio in front of Ryujin, who had transformed with a short bob hairstyle, adding a fun twist.
Regarding this, Ryujin shared, “The director of the trailer video suggested the idea and asked if Producer Park could make an appearance. He readily agreed, and his presence on set really lifted the mood—I’m grateful for that memory.” She continued, “We wanted to convey the album’s theme of solidarity. As we grow older, there are fewer things that make our hearts race, so we wanted to portray the process of helping and supporting one another through those moments.”
When asked about any advice he received from J.Y. Park, Ryujin replied, “He gave us lots of feedback on the songs, choreography, and overall album. He also told us, ‘The song is amazing. I hope you show your unique energy,’ so we focused on that a lot during practice and preparation.”
As this album centers around unity, the members shared personal reflections about their relationship as a team.
Yeji emphasized the importance of the group, “After doing a solo album, I realized how valuable our group is—more so than ever. Spending time together, I felt I could always rely on them. They mean everything to me.” She continued, “I know it’s cliché to say ‘we’re like family,’ but our team is ‘my one team, my home.’ There’s a kind of affection beyond words.”
Yuna described their cohesion, “We move like a single ball. During tough times, we lean on each other. When we have a goal, we unite and push forward together.”
Ryujin noted how the group helps maintain her childlike innocence, “Now in our 7th year with juniors following us, I feel I need to be more mature. But when I’m with these members, it’s like a safe haven where I can return to childlike joy.”
ITZY’s debut in February 2019 marked their 6th anniversary this year as they entered their 7th year. Naturally, discussions of contract renewal have surfaced. Chaeryeong commented, “It’s hard to believe we’re in year 7 already. We’re currently in negotiations with the company and hope to share good news soon.”
Lastly, Lia was asked what legacy they hope to leave, “I can’t express it in numbers, but we hope our hard work is recognized by the public—this album reflects a lot of effort.”
On new goals, Lia said, “I personally feel we show a kind of charisma we didn’t show before. ‘Charismatic ITZY’ feels right.”
ITZY’s new mini-album Girls Will Be Girls was released on June 9 at 6 PM (KST) on major music platforms.
