Review
In March 2026, the beloved girl group I.O.I announced their long-awaited 10th anniversary comeback with members CHOI YOOJUNGJEON SOMI, KIM SEJEONG, CHUNG HA, KIM SOHYE, JUNG CHAE YEON, KIM DOYEON, YOO YEON JUNG, and IM NAYOUNG, while members KANG MINA and ZHOU JIEQUIONG unable to take part. The anniversary album is their third mini album I.O.I: LOOP and is described as a reflection of their growth during their time apart, showcasing how each of them expanded artistically while incorporating a variety of styles and sounds.
Blending genres such as dance-pop, house, afrobeats, synth-pop, rock, and ballad, the album delivers a cohesive listening experience for devoted fans. JEON SOMI participated in the production of “IOI (Where My Girls At)” and title track “갑자기 (Suddenly),” CHUNG HA assisted in the production of “Then, Now, and Forever" (그떄 우리 지금), and YOO YEON JUNG is credited in the production of “IF I,” fostering an authentic experience for fans all over the world.
TThe title track “갑자기 (Suddenly)” utilizes youthful funk and synth-pop textures, accompanied by steady drums and guitar instrumentals throughout the track. The sound evokes a warm sense of nostalgia, capturing the group’s intended emotional theme.
[ENG]
I lay down to sleep, but suddenly
I’m completely lost in thoughts of you
In the midnight
Emotions pour out like stars
Oh, suddenly
I’m overwhelmed, longing for you
‘Til the morning
The use of imagery such as “stars” and “midnight” in the lyrics create a soft, nostalgic atmosphere while expressing the ache that comes with missing a past love. The phrase “pour out” also evokes nostalgia for longtime fans in its similarity to the working of I.O.I’s past track “소나기 (Downpour).”
[ENG]
No matter how hard I try, no matter how much I pretend I’m okay
Just when I think I’m about to forget, memories cast their shadow again
Our memories
Keep flickering before my eyes
The accompanying music video for “갑자기 (Suddenly)” features a retro, grunge-inspired aesthetic, balancing pastel tones with natural colors. The visuals create a playful warmth that mirrors the nostalgic and comforting atmosphere of the track.
Scenes featuring the nine reunited members range from dancing alone on beds to completing domestic chores and spending time together late at night, with each sequence highlighting the members’ distinct personalities. Group scenes especially create a sense of warmth, as viewers witness the members together again after nine years through playful activities such as peeking behind curtains, dancing together in cramped rooms, and being drenched in water. The video ultimately reminds fans of the group’s enduring chemistry.
The opening track for the mini album, “IOI (Where My Girls At),” delivers lively energy through bright dance-pop textures and club-inspired beats reminiscent of early 2000s pop trends. The track immediately creates excitement and anticipation for the rest of the album. JEON SOMI participated in the production process, with many fans noting how her distinct musical style remains prominent throughout the song while expressing praise for the track’s energetic sound.
[ENG]
Even the pain we couldn’t expect
Shake it all off, we make it better
Shake it all off, we make it better
Where my girls at
The lyrics emphasize the value of spending time with close friends and the freedom and celebration that often come from being surrounded by the right people. “IOI (Where My Girls At)” reminds listeners of the importance of living in the moment rather than becoming consumed by everyday worries.
[ENG]
Whenever you feel low
Even a small voice
Doesn’t matter
You just need to be yourself
The upbeat club production contrasts with the song’s gentler message, with lyrics such as “stay as you are” serving as a beacon of comfort for listeners. Even during difficult moments, the support of trusted friends, whether loud or quiet, can help lift someone back up again. The track ultimately stresses the importance of remaining true to oneself through hardship.
In contrast, the ending track “웃으며 안녕 (Goodbye With A Smile) [Recorded in 2016]” is a slow ballad featuring delicate orchestral arrangements and soft piano instrumentals, giving the song a lullaby-like atmosphere. Its lyrics reflect on physical distance within a relationship that is gradually reaching its end.
[ENG]
Even if we’re far apart, I’m with you
I’ll settle in your heart, I’m with you
I’m with you, baby, I’m with you
So I won’t disappear from your memories, I’m with you
The song evokes a deep sense of longing as the inevitable separation becomes reality, while still promising emotional connection through shared memories. It reflects on the lasting emotional weight of cherished moments long after they have passed.
[ENG]
Smiling goodbye
Smiling goodbye
Because it will hurt as much as we loved
Because it will hurt a lot
Let’s smile and say goodbye to each othеr
The bittersweet farewell mirrors the emotional warmth the group expressed in 2017 when their disbandment was first announced. The phrase “smiling goodbye” suggests that even a farewell can remain a happy memory despite the sadness and longing attached to it.
The track was originally recorded in 2016 and later rearranged and produced by Jinyoung, member of 2nd generation boy group B1A4. The song also features the voices of absent members, Jieqiong and Mina, giving the track an especially nostalgic and sentimental weight, almost acting as a time capsule of the group’s earlier years.
After a ten year hiatus, I.O.I ’s new mini album I.O.I: LOOP serves as a heartfelt reunion to their international fanbase, reflecting on the group’s overall growth and values while acting as a lasting reminder of their unswerving connection with their fandom. While the group may have only been active for short period of time, this comeback proves that I.O.I has truly left their mark in the K-pop industry.