As ITZY marks a significant milestone in their career, the group is stepping into a defining chapter—not only musically, but also personally and professionally.
On June 9, ITZY held a press conference at the Sofitel Ambassador Seoul in celebration of their seventh mini album, Girls Will Be Girls.
While the spotlight was naturally on their powerful new release, the members also addressed a question that has been quietly building in the background: contract renewal with JYP Entertainment.
Now approaching their 7th year since debut, the standard period for K-pop contracts, ITZY is entering a pivotal moment that will shape their future. Member Chaeryeong candidly acknowledged the weight of the situation, saying,
“It still feels surreal that we’re even talking about contract renewal, but we’re currently coordinating things with the company. We’ll do our best to bring you good news.”
The members’ calm and optimistic tone reflects a desire to stay grounded while navigating important decisions, with an emphasis on mutual respect and the collective bond they’ve formed.
Their mini album Girls Will Be Girls underscores this very message. With five tracks—“Girls Will Be Girls,” “Kiss & Tell,” “Locked N Loaded,” “Promise,” and “Walk”—the album captures ITZY’s signature mix of confidence, energy, and emotional insight. The title track, a fierce and rhythm-driven anthem, carries a message of unity and trust, with lyrics like,
“If we can be together, that alone is enough. We’ll gladly hold your hand and move forward together.”
The concept of solidarity is central to both the album and ITZY’s current mindset. Directed by commercial film talent Yoo Kwang Goong and featuring a cameo from JYP’s own J.Y. Park, the album trailer sparked early buzz.
Ryujin explained that the group wanted to explore the emotional shift that comes with growing up—the fading of youthful spark, and how support from one another can reignite it. Yeji added,
“We thought this could be a great way to show the strong teamwork we’ve built, and we hoped people would appreciate the friendship we share.”
Indeed, their bond was evident throughout the press conference. Yeji reflected on the contrast between solo and group work, saying,
“I realized how much more precious it is to work as a group than alone.”
Yuna described the group as “moving as one body,” and emphasized how that unity propels them forward with shared strength.
Even amid talks of contract renewal, the members made it clear that they are determined to continue giving their best—both as a team and in their individual pursuits.
Ryujin mentioned their admiration for senior idols who have maintained their synergy over time, stating,
“We’ve always told ourselves to stay grounded and keep going until the end.”
When asked about their artistic direction, Yeji pointed to the natural evolution of their sound:
“Just like our debut captured our ‘teen crush’ concept naturally, our music continues to reflect our evolving selves. Going forward, when powerful songs come, we’ll show our powerful side, and if we get fresh tracks, we’ll show our bright and refreshing side.”
ITZY enters the highly competitive June comeback season alongside groups like aespa, KISS OF LIFE, ILLIT, and HEART2HEARTS. Rather than seeing it as rivalry, Yeji expressed positivity, saying,
“We’re looking forward to the activities of all our fellow girl groups, and we also want to present the best version of ourselves.”
Confident in the experience they’ve gained, she promised a “more charismatic, girl-crush image” from the group this time around.
With Girls Will Be Girls, ITZY is not just releasing music—they are reaffirming their identity. As they approach the critical decision of whether to renew their contracts, the group’s message is clear: they are stronger together, grateful for their fans, and eager to keep growing—whatever the future may bring.
