Hyolyn says new album brought more excitement than worry

Hyolyn said her new physical album took longer to make because she did not want to treat it carelessly after releasing only singles. The singer said it is her first physical album in 4 years.

At a cafe in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, Hyolyn said running a one-person agency left her with many responsibilities and less time for song work. She said, 'My mindset is that if I do anything, I should do it properly. Normally, I would have had a lot of worry and fear before a comeback, but this album brings much more excitement.'

Her fourth mini album, 'OriginaLyn,' is scheduled for release at 6 p.m. on the 22nd. The title combines 'Original' and 'Lyn' from Hyolyn's name, and refers to Hyolyn's music and identity as something no one else can replace. Hyolyn produced every track on the album.

The 7-track album includes the title song 'ChecK,' along with 'OFFLINE' and 'Enjoy Your Meal.' 'ChecK' carries a message about confidently showing one's own appeal instead of waiting for another person's feelings.

Hyolyn said she is strict with herself and tends to notice only what is lacking, but found comfort after meeting 'ChecK.' She said, 'I wondered if it might be all right to praise myself and say I am doing well. While singing this song, I felt filled with confidence and self-esteem.'

Hyolyn said she had often skipped meals before important stages in the past because of pressure to do well, and had felt unwell during performances. For this album, she said she tried to reduce stress and prepare with a joyful mindset rather than worrying in advance.

On the album title, Hyolyn said she could not ignore public expectations of her, including the image of a 'confident older sister,' but wanted this album to show the side that is most like Hyolyn. She said she felt happiest when hearing the descriptor 'original,' such as 'original summer queen,' and wanted to become that kind of icon as a solo artist.

Hyolyn said the album-making process reminded her of the time when she loved music deeply. She said she liked pop from the era of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, and reflected that in a Y2K concept, around 2000.

Hyolyn also discussed the group with which she debuted in 2010 as part of a 4-member lineup before becoming a solo singer after its 2017 disbandment. Although she released a 2024 unit single with Bora, it did not lead to a full-group album. She said there has been no discussion yet about a reunion, and added that she still gets along well with the members.

As both a singer and the head of ReH Entertainment, Hyolyn said she has to work harder to generate profit and may maintain the company even by using her own money. She said she sometimes thinks about giving up because it is difficult, but is enduring with the mindset that she should do well until the end because she has already started. Hyolyn also said she would like to train idol singers later if circumstances allow, and added that one junior idol group had especially drawn her attention.