Irene Makes Solo Debut with First Mini-Album 'Like A Flower'

On November 26, Irene releases her first mini-album Like A Flower, marking her solo debut. The artist shared her thoughts on this new chapter and insights into the album-making process through a Q&A.

This solo debut comes 10 years after her debut. Irene expressed, "This album is the result of deep reflection on the story I wanted to tell. I can't wait for it to finally reach the world."

The album includes a total of 8 tracks, showcasing a variety of genres such as pop dance, ballads, R&B, band music, and acoustic, all grounded in pop. The title track, Like A Flower, leads the album with its captivating energy.

"As this is my first solo album, I wanted to showcase a wide range of my musical colors," Irene said. "I hope listeners can discover a new side of me through this album."

Regarding the title track, Irene explained its key message: "It conveys the idea of blossoming beautifully by mustering the courage to grow, like a flower filled with vitality."

She emphasized the performance aspect, adding, "The performance is a major highlight. Please pay attention to the energy created by me and the dancers."

The year 2024 holds special meaning for Irene, marking Red Velvet's 10th anniversary and her solo debut. She described it as "a precious year for me as a team member, a solo artist, and as an individual."

In her closing message to fans, Irene said, "Thanks to the ReVeluvs, I found the courage to release this album. I'm deeply, deeply grateful to my source of strength—my fans."

Irene's debut solo album will be available on various music platforms starting at 6 PM, along with the release of the music video.

<Q&A with Irene on Her First Mini-Album>

Q. How does it feel to release your first solo album after 10 years since debut?
This album was created through deep reflection on the stories I wanted to tell, so I'm eager for it to finally be out in the world. While there's a bittersweet feeling, I gave it my all in preparing for this release.

Q. Could you introduce your first mini-album?
As my first solo album, it aims to showcase my diverse musical colors. I hope listeners can feel a new side of me with each track. Additionally, it's extra special for me and my fans, ReVeluvs, as it includes the long-awaited official release of "Ka-Ching" and "I Feel Pretty," which they've patiently waited to hear.

Q. Can you tell us about the title track? What's the key highlight?
The title track, Like A Flower, is a pop dance song with a message about blossoming beautifully by summoning courage, just like a vibrant flower. The key highlight is the performance—please focus on the energy created between me and the dancers.

Q. You explored various genres in this album. Do you have a favorite track?
My favorite is Summer Rain. The bittersweet emotion I felt when I first heard it remains unforgettable. I hope ReVeluvswill love it as much as I do.

Q. You tried new styles for the album jacket and music video. Any memorable moments?
I loved the outfit by the waterside the most. The moments I spent in the water were especially memorable. Since I had to handle everything on my own, it required a lot of courage, and I kept telling myself, "Let's do this!"

Q. What did you focus on most when preparing the album's performances?
I paid the most attention to syncing with the dancers. They enhance my performance and feel like part of a unified team, where we share the same emotions, energy, and thoughts to support one another.

Q. How did your Red Velvet members support you during your solo debut preparations?
Since most of the members have already gone solo, they empathized with my concerns and were incredibly understanding, which I'm so grateful for. It made me realize how amazing they were during their solo projects and filled me with pride for them.

Q. What are your plans for this album's promotions and your goals?
First and foremost, I want to complete my music show promotions successfully. Rather than setting a specific goal, I hope that something from this album will resonate with ReVeluvs—something they can revisit in their lives whenever they need it.

Q. Red Velvet celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, and you've debuted solo. What does 2024 mean to you?
2024 feels incredibly precious. It will be a year I'll cherish as a team member, a solo artist, and as an individual.

Q. Lastly, a message for fans worldwide who have been waiting for your solo debut?
To my ReVeluvs who have waited so long for my solo album, thank you so much. It's thanks to you that I found the courage to release this album. My dearest source of courage—thank you endlessly!