Within the K-pop industry, and with numerous groups debuting, one group in particular is longing to make an impression and be heard. The eight-member group 8Turn, consisting of Jaehyun, Minho, Kyungmin, Yungu, and Seungcheon, is making noise with their third mini album, Stunning. Debuting in 2023, they saw acclaim with their first release 8TurnRise, which drew popularity thanks to the catchy lead track TIC TAC.  Later that year, they released the Hip-hop-inspired second mini album, Uncharted Drift.

What’s different about 8Turn is that, as their new release makes it clear, they are not afraid to play around with their style and sound. Their sunny personalities, enthusiasm, and drive brought them new fans and also allowed the group to perform overseas, such as at KCON LA and KCON Thailand. 

8Turn describes Stunning as a mixture of “coolness and confidence,” which aims to reflect their artistic growth. This time, the members had an active role in the writing process, with Yungyu, alongside Seungheon, contributing to the lyrics of the lead single RU-PUM PUM.

The Game, an opening song of the mini-album, invites their fans to party with the boys. In reference to the title, it appears that they view the music industry as a “game”, a “playground” for them to establish their potential. “Stand strong win the game now / 8Turn, touch down on the world / Shout out higher, turn up / It’s our turn, be the greatest of all time we up / Like you can see win the game now / 8Turn never gonna back down / Hit the fire, light it up / Keep goin’, be the greatest of all time / We up, burn it up.” For a relatively new group, it’s a strong statement but a bold one nonetheless. 

The title track, RU-PUM-PUM, is an eclectic mix of Hip-hop blended with the musical trend called ‘noise music.’ Whilst not in relation to the traditional noise music genre, K-pop has created its own version. It refers to the use of  EDM sounds put together with heavy bass lines, and is normally accompanied by repetitive chant-like choruses. It is a tried-and-tested K-pop recipe that is currently popular amongst fans, myself included. Groups such as Ateez, Stray Kids, and recently xikers have all seen success with this formula. With a memorable pre-chorus, it eases into a boisterous chorus that is full of confidence and self-assurance: “Ru-pu-pum, pum, ru-pu-pu-pu-pum, pum. / Yeah, we know we’re dope, do-do-do-do-do-dope / Sugar taste, dumb / 우린 so peachy, yum.”  While the lyrics aren’t overcomplicated, it’s effective, and without knowing it, becomes an earworm, resulting in going back for more. 

Stunning is an interesting mini album that navigates the group’s hope for success, and excitement for the future. However, what makes it a great listen is hearing their confidence in their growing abilities as portrayed in the first part of the release. The second half takes a break from chasing the aforementioned dreams and instead focuses on the essence of youth. They’re choosing to concentrate on the here and now with a gentle reminder to stay present, which is evident in We’re Here. The song itself is a comforting and uplifting number with beautiful harmonious vocals. “If you don’t know who you are / Look to the stars / doesn’t matter where you’re from / ‘Cause we’re here now / Nobody here knows who you are / Let your guard down, come in.” 

Concluding the album is the B-side release Glow, in which five members of 8Turn partook in the writing process. It follows a similar vibe to We’re Here, yet the chorus appears to be dedicated to their fandom, called Turning, stating throughout, “You’re my turning point, you and me, gonna make you glow.” It’s a sweet and sentimental way to end Stunning.

Compared to their earlier comebacks, 8Turnrise and Unchartered Drift, Stunning feels grown-up and adamant, with a clear and structured message throughout. What’s noticeable is the styling; the music video for RU-PUM-PUM depicts them as a unified group instead of individuals, complete with matching boiler suits and freshly bleached blonde hair. The choreography is tight and in sync, with them looking ready to fight in boxing attire, taking place on a fiery race course. 

While the dark ‘badboy’ concepts such as these might not be new, Stunning goes beyond just visuals. The clear theme throughout the mini album is how they wish to steer the game within the music industry. Could it serve as a commentary on how they can still stand out amongst the other rookie boy groups within K-pop? Maybe not, but either way, they’re doing a great job climbing up the rankings and gaining the recognition they deserve.

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Written by Kirsty Bright

Featured image © MNH Entertainment

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