Bright Lights and Bolder Lyrics
On May 29, former IZ*ONE member turned solo powerhouse Choi Yena lit up the stage at Blue Square SOL Travel Hall in Hannam-dong, Seoul. The occasion? A media showcase to celebrate her fourth mini album, Blooming Wings.
But this wasn’t just another comeback. Yena introduced fans and press alike to her new title track, “I Hate Being Called Nice”—a bold name for a bold new era.
From Sweet to Savage
Known for her bright, bubbly image, Yena took a sharp turn with this release. The title song challenges the industry’s often one-dimensional view of female idols, pushing back against the ‘just be nice’ stereotype.
“I wanted to show a version of myself that’s been hidden,” Yena shared during the event. “There’s strength in honesty—even if it’s not always ‘nice.’”
Wings Expanded: A Visual & Sonic Upgrade
Visually, the showcase was a feast of color and retro flair, blending kicky choreography with high-fashion looks. The sound? A mix of edgy pop-rock riffs and candid lyrics—an evolution from Yena’s usually sugar-sweet tunes.
“This album is about growth. It’s about opening my wings—even if it means ruffling a few feathers,” Yena quipped with a grin.
Fans Are Loving the Switch-Up
Global fans are praising the transformation. Comments range from “This era is giving ✨ main character energy ✨” to “Finally, a concept that lets Yena shine without limits.”
It’s early days, but all signs point to Blooming Wings taking Yena’s solo career to new heights.
