Multinational K-pop boy group ARrC, under MYSTIC STORY, are kicking off the second half of the year with the release of their third mini-album, “HOPE". Arriving just five months after “nu kidz: out the box”, their latest project builds on the group’s core message, Always Remember the real Connection, and sends a heartfelt reminder to listeners navigating uncertainty, change, and growth: you’re not alone.
With “HOPE”, ARrC deliver their most personal work yet, both lyrically and visually. The title track 'awesome' is a playful reinterpretation of early 2000s hip-hop with a vibrant, modern twist. It turns a series of unlucky everyday mishaps into something joyful, encouraging fans to shout “awesome” anyway, as a way of rewriting the narrative.
Check out the 'awesome' music video here:
The music video brings that story to life with a colorful blend of visual references from Korea, Japan, Indonesia, and Portugal. Using backdrops that pay homage to 1980s Japanese school films, think kendo halls, deserted playgrounds, and moody apartments. the members traverse dreamlike spaces, joined by dokkaebi (Korean goblins) that symbolize their inner worlds. Rather than fearful monsters, these mask-wearing spirits—styled after Indonesia’s Barong, Portugal’s Careto, and Korea’s Hahoetal—stand for the power of perspective: how young people turn bad luck into creative resilience.
The album features five tracks: 'awesome' (title), 'dawns', 'kick back', 'vitamin I', 'night life'.
Each song paints a different emotional hue of youth. 'dawns', a genre-blending track of nu jazz, soul, and funk, expresses the slow-burning comfort of finding connection in the middle of an endless scroll. 'kick back' delivers unity and perseverance, while 'vitamin I' explodes with electro-punk energy and a self-empowerment message: you are your most vital source of strength. The closer, 'night life', slows things down with G-funk grooves and lo-fi textures, echoing the quiet determination of youth chasing dreams long after the city falls asleep.
Several members contributed as lyricists for the first time, marking a creative turning point for the group as they grow more involved in their storytelling.
"This album means a lot to me personally because I got to participate as a lyricist for the first time... We hope to send positive energy and solace to many people through our music."
— Hyun Min, ARrC member
ARrC also continue to deepen their connection with fans through “SKIID,” a teaser track for their next album, dropped ahead of time as part of their signature storytelling style. It’s a way of giving ARrCers a seat at the creative table.
Beyond music, ARrC have launched a cross-media collaboration with global character brand Karafuru, centered around the same theme of “HOPE.” The project spans fan events, exhibitions, pop-ups, digital releases, and even collaborative artwork, an exciting extension of the group’s message into visual and experiential art.
"We had so many conversations about how to express our thoughts through music... We hope everyone who listens can feel the sincerity and find comfort in it."
— Do Ha, ARrC member
From immersive visuals to sincere songwriting, ARrC’s “HOPE” is more than just an album; it’s a reminder that optimism is an act of courage, and connection is the key to getting through it all.
What did you think of "HOPE"? Let us know in the comments!
