ARrC
A refreshing dose of hope.
The group ARrC (Andy, Choi Han, Doha, Hyunmin, Jibin, Kien, Rioto) returns today (July 16) at 6 p.m. (KST) with the release of its 3rd mini-album titled “HOPE,” available on major online music platforms.
The title track “Awesome” is a hype chant song based on Y2K sounds, inspired by Southern hip-hop and the crunk style. With humor, it portrays Gen Z’s attitude of turning even everyday misfortunes into “awesome” moments. The track stands out for ARrC’s signature free-spirited and unique energy.
In the “Awesome” music video, ARrC will portray five mythical beings inspired by traditional Asian spiritual beliefs such as Korean dokkaebi (goblins) and talismans. With this new album, the group reinterprets Korean and broader Asian symbols through a modern lens, offering a fresh aesthetic known as “Oriental Pop” within K-pop. The “HOPE” album features a total of five highly produced tracks: “Awesome,” “Dawns,” “Kick back,” “Vitamin I,” and “Night life.”
With members from Brazil, Vietnam, Japan, the United States, and South Korea, ARrC promises a “global emotional blend” through performances, lyrics, and music infused with each member’s cultural background. The group also signals a unique, independent approach, steering away from standard K-pop formulas, driven by the creative force of a small yet inventive agency.
“HOPE” marks ARrC’s comeback roughly five months after their previous mini-album, “nu kidz: out the box.” Through this new project, the group explores the idea of hope, a feeling that blooms even amid imperfect, repetitive youth, and grows stronger when shared. They express this concept with an apocalyptic visual world paired with upbeat rhythms, creating a distinctive emotional atmosphere where lightness and darkness coexist.
Prior to the album release, ARrC made a bold move by pre-releasing the track “SKIID,” which hints at their next chapter. The song reflects ARrC’s unique way of connecting with fans, sharing their emotions first through music. It acts as an emotional teaser for the next album, once again showcasing their innovative approach and increasing anticipation for what’s to come.
ARrC’s 3rd mini-album “HOPE” is available starting today (July 16) at 6 p.m. KST on all major streaming platforms.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: SNS ARrC
