Hearts2Hearts Unveils a New Focus with Their First Mini Album

Hearts2Hearts returns with FOCUS, a bold first mini album.
Blending house, nu-disco, and R&B with cinematic visuals.
A trending release hailed as “rookie of the year.”

Eight months after establishing themselves as one of the most promising newcomers in the K-pop scene, Hearts2Hearts is back with a bold and ambitious step forward. The eight-member girl group has officially released their first mini album FOCUS, marking a major evolution in their artistic journey. While their debut single “The Chase” introduced the world to H2H’s fresh sound and potential, FOCUS arrives as a statement, sharper, more mature, and more purposeful in direction. This project is more than just a collection of songs; it is a reflection of growth, the synergy of eight members, and their determination to draw the industry’s spotlight toward them. With six tracks spanning diverse genres, a cinematic school-themed visual concept, and striking choreography, FOCUS solidifies Hearts2Hearts’ identity and ambition to become the next big force in K-pop.

Watch the “FOCUS” MV here

Musical Experimentation and Ambitious Visual Concepts in “FOCUS”

At the media showcase held at Blue Square SOL Travel Hall in Seoul, the eight members (Yeon, Stella, Yuha, Ian, Ana, Juun, Carmen, and Jiwoo) described FOCUS as a chapter that captures their artistic maturity and evolving identity since debut. Ana shared that the six tracks represent their growth, while Jiwoo explained that the title FOCUS embodies their determination to “draw everyone’s attention and keep it.”

The title track “FOCUS” was written and produced by renowned hitmaker KENZIE, who previously worked on “The Chase” and “STYLE.” Rooted in house music with vintage piano and crisp rhythmic bass, the song blends chic moods with captivating vocals, lyrically portraying the overwhelming sensation of being completely drawn to someone. Stella revealed that the producer emphasized “subtle control” over raw power to build a deeper connection with the music.

The mini album showcases a broad range of genres. “Apple Pie” brings nu-disco vibes with funk bass and analog drums, portraying a girls’ night sharing “little secrets” like a pajama party. “Flutter” leans into city pop with warm strings and horns, capturing the nervous excitement of first steps in love, while “Blue Moon” delivers a dreamy R&B-pop ballad with sweet guitar melodies. Pre-release track “Pretty Please,” released on September 24, 2025, offers a playful contrast, and their June single “STYLE” returns as the sixth track on the physical version.

Comeback rumors began circulating on September 10, 2025, before SM Entertainment confirmed the group’s return in October. A scheduler released on September 21 revealed that FOCUS would feature six tracks. The physical album comes in three Photo Book versions, a Rule Book version, a Heart Locket (NFC) edition, and eight SMini versions, one for each member. The Photo Book package includes an 88-page photobook, CD, random sticker, postcard, group photo card, folded poster, and random photocard.

The “FOCUS” music video translates the album’s central theme into a cinematic school-set story, balancing dreamy visuals with explosive action. Members performed wire stunts for the first time, including real fireworks scenes shot over multiple takes. The choreography was directed by Jo Nain, known for “Golden” from K-Pop Demon Hunters. Ian emphasized the importance of building energy throughout the performance, resulting in sharp movements that merge H2H’s signature style with a cool and sophisticated edge.

Identity Evolution, Eight-Member Synergy, and Public Reactions

Since their debut, H2H has experimented with both bright and moody concepts. FOCUS highlights a more mature and confident side of the group. Yeon shared that they now feel freer to express their individuality on stage, while Ana pointed out the advantage of an eight-member formation that allows for dynamic formations and tight synchronization. Jiwoo emphasized that the name Hearts2Hearts symbolizes their mission: to connect emotions from heart to heart through music.

Musically, the album spans dance, house, pop, city pop, R&B ballad, synth, new jack swing, and nu-disco. The digital version runs 15 minutes and 29 seconds, while the physical version lasts 18 minutes and 58 seconds. Released by SM Entertainment in collaboration with Kakao Entertainment on October 20, 2025, FOCUS is available both digitally and physically, with several exclusive pre-order packages across platforms.

The release immediately sparked massive buzz online. The “FOCUS” MV hit #1 on YouTube’s trending chart in Indonesia, surpassing 3.45 million views in just 17 hours, further cementing H2H’s status as one of the most talked-about rookie groups of the year. Fans flooded social media and comment sections with excitement:

“Trending #1 in Indonesia now.”

“SM is not following trends, SM is creating them. Before release, people thought it might sound similar to something else, but once it dropped, it was totally different. This is new and amazing!”

“This sound is so perfect for them, like a more mature version of The Chase. I hope they continue with this direction.”

“Rookie of the year 2025. I can’t focus, Hearts2Hearts is all I’m seeing!”

“I feel the girls evolving with every comeback. I never expected H2H on a house beat, but omg it’s incredible.”

“Almost 4 million views in 12 hours. Let’s push this MV to 50 million this month!”

“8 vocals, 8 dancers, 8 visuals, 8 princesses.”

“Rookie of the year! Song of the year!”

“This group is truly incredible. Everything about this song, MV, choreography, etc., is phenomenal. A K-pop masterclass.”

“No one expected such a beautiful music album with angelic vocals from a group known for their fun personalities. FOCUS is such a refreshing addition to the K-pop industry.”

With FOCUS, Hearts2Hearts boldly demonstrates their maturity and willingness to explore new artistic territory. The rich blend of genres, minimalist yet addictive hook, sharp production, powerful choreography, and cinematic visuals all reinforce the group’s evolving identity. Combined with collectible physical packaging and overwhelming fan anticipation, FOCUS is proof that Hearts2Hearts is ready to command the industry’s attention and lead the next wave of K-pop.

Source: Korea Times, Kpop Wiki, Star News, Xports News, Newsen, K-pop Planet, The Bias List