IVE’s Japanese Comeback: ‘Be Alright’ is Here
K-pop powerhouse IVE—featuring Ahn Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo—is turning up the volume in Japan with the release of their third Japanese album, ‘Be Alright’. Dropped on June 30 across major streaming platforms, it marks their first Japanese release since ‘Alive’ in August last year.
What’s Inside the New Album?
‘Be Alright’ includes two original Japanese tracks: the pre-released title track of the same name and ‘DARE ME’, the OST for Japanese drama ‘Dame Mane!’. Also featured are Japanese versions of fan-favorite b-sides from their Korean album ‘IVE SWITCH’, including ‘Accendio’, ‘Blue Heart’, and ‘WOW’.
The title track delivers a bold message about embracing change and moving forward. Powered by an energetic beat and the group’s signature harmonies, it serves as an anthem of hope and growth. It’s all about that ‘keep going, you’ve got this’ energy—IVE style.
IVE’s Meteoric Rise in Japan
IVE officially debuted in Japan in October 2022 with ‘Eleven’, which snagged a Gold Disc nod from the Recording Industry Association of Japan. Just one month later, they graced the legendary NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, a year-end music program usually reserved for the most elite artists. Talk about fast-tracking success.
By 2023, IVE had already conquered Tokyo Dome—often dubbed the “dream stage” in J-pop lore—during their ‘SHOW WHAT I HAVE’ world tour, drawing an astounding 95,000 fans over two nights. And they didn’t stop there.
Japan Tour, Viral Moments, and Upcoming Fest
This year, they continued their Japanese domination with the ‘IVE SCOUT IN JAPAN’ arena fan concerts, touring four cities and drawing nearly 100,000 fans. On YouTube, their appearance on the popular channel THE FIRST TAKE with a live rendition of ‘After LIKE’ exploded in views, becoming the No. 1 trending music video in Japan the very next day. They’ve also appeared on NHK’s ‘Venue 101’, further cementing their mainstream appeal in Japan.
Next Stop: ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2025
IVE is slated to make their first-ever appearance at the ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2025 on September 15. After dazzling crowds at SUMMER SONIC 2024, where fans sang along in unison, expectations are sky-high. With their latest release and ever-expanding local fanbase, IVE isn’t just riding the Hallyu wave in Japan—they’re becoming a tidal force.
Can They Take It Even Higher?
With momentum this strong, all signs point to a blockbuster year for IVE in Japan. Whether it’s topping the charts or selling out domes, one thing’s for sure—everything really might just be alright for TEAM IVE.
