Seo Eunkwang makes comeback after 8 months with 'OUR YOUTH'

BTOB's Seo Eunkwang has returned with his new single 'OUR YOUTH,' breaking an approximately eight-month hiatus. Following promotions for his first solo full-length album 'UNFOLD' released last December, he has picked up the microphone again with a determination to dedicate his year 2026 to his music.

Through his agency BTOB Company, Seo revealed that this new release is a musical depiction of the emotions felt as the cold weather thaws and the anticipation of approaching summer. He expressed his hope that fans can feel, through this song, "This is what Eunkwang's summer is like."

The title track 'Feel Alive (Feat. Peniel Shin)' is a song that blends a dynamic modern worship sound with a gospel choir. Expressing the feeling of being alive amidst the lush greenery of summer, the track features BTOB member Peniel Shin. During the songwriting process, Seo kept thinking of Peniel's voice and requested his participation, which Peniel readily accepted.

"With his clear, refreshing, unique voice and warm heart, a true 'Feel Alive' was completed," Seo said, expressing his gratitude to Peniel. He cited the moments of singing and performing with fans on stage as the greatest moments when he feels truly alive.

The B-side track, 'Us in That Summer,' is a simple acoustic pop song. It captures the nostalgia of childhood triggered by watching leaves swaying outside a window. Accompanied by a children's choir, the song evokes the innocence of school days. Seo encouraged fans to take a nostalgic journey back to those times together.

A 10,000 Won Miracle at Seoul Children's Grand Park

Prior to his comeback, Seo held a solo outdoor busking concert titled 'REC : Feel Alive' at the Forest Stage in Seoul Children's Grand Park on July 26. This performance drew significant attention by setting the reserved seat ticket price at 10,000 won. Seo practiced positive influence by donating a portion of the ticket proceeds.

He recalled this busking as a "beautiful youth that I will never forget in my life." Seo stated, "I wanted to share the hot and blue happiness that the word 'youth' provides," adding, "I hope this warm heat reaches the youth who are not fully feeling those precious days."

A musical philosophy breaking the boundary between pop and musicals

Seo, who has also been active on musical stages, shared his philosophy regarding pop music and musicals. Having previously mentioned that he felt more comfortable singing musical numbers than pop songs, he now explained that the two genres no longer feel separate, but as one single form of music.

"The methods of expression are only slightly different, but the sincerity contained within is the same," Seo added. "The various methods of expression are creating good synergy and helping each other."

He also conveyed his sincerity to his fandom, Melody, who has stayed by his side for a long time. Seo said, "Thanks to Melody, who becomes my youth, I always live with a hot, blue, and beautiful heart. I truly hope that I, too, can become your youth for a lifetime and be happy together."