For the K-pop phenomenon that is TWS, it all boils down to the exuberance of youth! Riding high on the wave of this vibrant energy, the six-member boy band has established a distinctive sound that radiates vitality, capturing the exhilarating highs and chaotic thrills that define adolescence. This resonates especially well with members Shinyu, Dohoon, Youngjae, Hanjin, Jihoon, and Kyungmin, who range from 18 to 21 years old. Their latest EP, titled Play Hard, continues to embrace this youthful spirit.
Youngjae shared insights with The Hollywood Reporter during a Zoom interview, holding court in the late evening hours from Hybe’s headquarters in Seoul. Despite the late hour, the anticipation surrounding their new music keeps the group energized and lively. "For this album, two key phrases stand out—‘you drive me crazy’ and ‘youth drive me crazy,’" he explains.
As TWS approaches their second anniversary in January 2026, they proudly represent Hybe’s sub-label, Pledis Entertainment—also known for the popular group Seventeen, which similarly dives into the trials of youth in their music. However, TWS, pronounced as “two us,” is carving out its individual identity within the K-pop landscape.
The boy group has achieved significant local acclaim in the competitive and ever-evolving music scene; it's no small feat! Their debut EP, Sparkling Blue, released in January 2024, featured “Plot Twist” as its lead single—which is remarkable as it continues to chart on the Korean Melon music platform almost two years later, currently sitting at No. 58.
In their fourth EP, Play Hard, TWS boldly explores new aural dimensions with tracks like their pre-release single, “Heads Shoulders Knees Toes.” This bright song, inspired by a beloved children’s nursery rhyme, carries a surprisingly intense vibe for TWS, enabling them to showcase a more daring side as they step into young adulthood.
The album’s lead track, “Overdrive,” is a dynamic pop anthem infused with guitar riffs, encapsulating the essence of youthful romance. The lyrics embody the excitement of young love, as TWS sings in the chorus: "Is this how it’s supposed to feel? / You’re makin’ my heart go boom boom / Can’t resist you / Oh, my / You make me overdrive."
During their conversation with THR, the members delved into their contributions to Play Hard, reflecting on personal growth and the messages they wish to convey to their dedicated U.S. fans.
How do you all feel about this album?
JIHOON: "We view this album as a significant and pivotal step forward. We have the opportunity to express ourselves on a deeper level and explore different styles of music. A great deal of discussion preceded the preparation for this album, making Play Hard especially meaningful to us."
In what ways did some of you get involved creatively in this album, such as in writing lyrics or choreography? What was that experience like?
JIHOON: "Along with Dohoon, I wrote some lyrics, and I also contributed a bit to the choreography. This experience taught me a lot. I gained a deeper appreciation for our team and realized just how much I love being a part of it. Truly, those moments were among the most precious in my life; it felt like a significant honor."
DOHOON: "This is the first time I've had the chance to contribute creatively, and it felt incredibly special. If the opportunity arises again, I would love for all of us to pitch our ideas, whether through lyrics or composing music together."
What makes “Overdrive” a standout track for your group? What elements make it a quintessential TWS song?
KYUNGMIN: "This song embodies the refreshing spirit of TWS while also capturing our passion for the things we cherish. Overall, I believe it leaves a powerful impression."
So, what’s everyone’s personal favorite track from Play Hard?
HANJIN: "My favorite is definitely “Overdrive.” It excellently expresses the fervor one feels towards something they truly love. As a team, we are very ambitious; we pour our heart and soul into everything we undertake. I believe this song reflects who we are remarkably well."
KYUNGMIN: "Personally, I love “Here for You” as it expresses my feelings for our fans, whom I adore deeply. This song holds a special place in my heart."
JIHOON: "I’m really fond of “Caffeine Rush” because it’s one of the more acoustic pieces on the album. I have a slight preference for instrumental sounds—things like piano and guitar drums appeal to me."
SHINYU: "“Hot Blue Shoes” is my pick! It showcases the passion of TWS through our vocals, capturing the essence of how we recorded it."
DOHOON: "I would go for “Heads Shoulders Knees Toes”; the performance aspect is incredible. It reveals a completely new dimension of us."
YOUNGJAE: "I’m drawn to “Overthinking.” The moment I heard it, I felt an instant connection. It incorporates numerous pop elements, and the chorus features a romantic hook that goes, ‘Because I’m overthinking you.’"
As you approach your two-year milestone as a group, what valuable lessons have you all learned about yourselves, either as performers or simply as individuals?
SHINYU: "Over the past two years, we’ve had numerous opportunities to connect with our fans, affectionately known as 42, through various tours and concerts. These experiences have fostered my growth, and I’m eager to meet even more 42s to share our music and energy."
Have you learned something from one another? Have your teammates helped you to improve in certain areas?
JIHOON: "All six of us are fiercely dedicated to our craft; everyone puts in so much hard work and shows genuine passion. For instance, Hanjin often studies Korean late into the night, while Youngjae practices vocals after our schedules conclude. Each member exemplifies strong work ethic, and through witnessing this dedication in each other, I’ve come to define what it means to be passionate. That’s my biggest takeaway from my teammates."
KYUNGMIN: "We’ve discovered that our personalities differ quite a bit! We regularly hold gatherings—called modakbul, which translates to bonfire—where we come together around a fireplace for sincere conversations."
I often ask this of artists because public perception can be beyond their control. What do you hope the public’s ideal perception of TWS will be? Have you considered this?
HANJIN: "Music can be a source of solace during challenging times. I hope that when people listen to our music, they feel uplifted and re-energized. Since our songs celebrate youth, I want listeners to reminisce about their own youthful experiences that may be overshadowed in the hustle of everyday life."
Do you have any parting words for your U.S. supporters?
JIHOON: "We are committed to putting forth our best efforts until our music and messages truly reach the U.S. fanbase. We hope to earn your interest and affection for our music. We aspire to be a group that supports and cheers on our fans."
YOUNGJAE: "Last year, we had the wonderful opportunity to visit the U.S. and perform in several venues, from KCON L.A. to iHeartRadio, the MAMA Awards, the Grammy Museum, and VEVO Studios. The energy we felt from the audiences was phenomenal! When we return, we promise to be in even better form, bringing stronger energy to our performances."
