(JYP Entertainment)

Rising super rookie group Stray Kids returned with the fierce single “Miroh,” and show no sign of slowing down.

“If our previous albums were about figuring out life and self-identity, our new album projects more confident, ambitious and energetic sides of us,” said Changbin during the act’s showcase for its new album, “Cle 1: Miroh,” in Seoul on Monday.

The date also marked one year since the release of the group’s debut single, “District 9.”

Stray Kids’ first release of the year since its third EP, “I am YOU,” in October last year, “Miroh” overflows with rebellious spirit, as the band sings and raps about the struggle to survive in the “rough jungle” of society. The act also shared that the song’s powerful choreography was inspired by haka, the ceremonial dance of New Zealand’s Maori people, traditionally used on the battlefield or for sports.




Group leader Bang Chan, who is part of the group’s internal production trio known as “3racha” and who took part in crafting “Miroh,” stated, “We want the song to mark our new start. Our goal for this album is to receive positive feedback from the public, making them think, ‘Wow, Stray Kids surely are growing up.’”

“We have a lot of stories to tell through our new songs, so if we delivered those messages clearly, it will be the best evaluation for us,” he added.

Since entering the K-pop scene in March with their first official EP “I Am Not,” featuring single “District 9,” Stray Kids have made a name for themselves as a hip-hop-laden group under JYP Entertainment, home to the likes of Twice and GOT7.

With their composition and songwriting skills, Stray Kids have gained immense popularity for the powerful choreographies and songs that represent their generation. The act also became a fixture on Billboard’s world albums chart with hits like “My Pace” and “I Am You.” In addition, they gained a strong international following after performing at KCON 2018 NY in June.




Already proven as a force to be reckoned with, Stray Kids went on to express gratitude for receiving eight rookie awards last year.

“It’s been a great honor. It wouldn’t have been possible if it were not for Stay (Stray Kids’ fan group),” Woojin said.

Seungmin added, “For the last one year, so many things happened, and we will never forget all the love we received. It’s very meaningful to us that we released the new album on our anniversary.”

Having kicked off an overseas showcase tour series titled “Unveil Tour ‘I am ...’” in January, visiting Bangkok and Jakarta, Stray Kids are set to bring the tour to the US in May. The band will kick off its American tour in Newark, New Jersey, on May 15 and visit Los Angeles and Houston on May 17 and 19, respectively.

“It will be our first time visiting the US since we visited KCON last year. We’re very excited to see how Stays in the US will greet us. We can’t wait to meet them again,” Seungmin said.

By Hong Dam-young (lotus@heraldcorp.com)