Onew Drops Second Japanese Mini-Album ‘SAKU’
SHINee’s honey-voiced member Onew is back—this time with his second Japanese solo mini-album ‘SAKU’, which dropped today (July 1). Alongside the release, fans were treated to the music video of the title track ‘Like a Flower’, now streaming on his official YouTube channel.
‘SAKU’: A Floral Concept with Soft Storytelling
It’s been nearly three years since Onew’s last solo Japanese release, and ‘SAKU’ is worth the wait. Named after the Japanese word for “to bloom,” the five-track EP is a bouquet of gentle, flower-inspired tracks. Each song unfolds like a mini-drama, weaving in emotional tales tied to different types of blossoms.
Think of it as a musical flower arrangement—carefully curated, heartfelt, and soothing to the soul. The entire album feels like a warm letter (or maybe a scented postcard) from Onew to his fans.
‘Like a Flower’: Hauntingly Beautiful and Deeply Nostalgic
The title track ‘Like a Flower’ reflects on the unforgettable memories tied to a once-special connection. With lyrics like “Do you still see the flowers we once saw together blooming in your heart?”, it’s a wistful ballad that’s as touching as it is tender.
The newly released music video mirrors that sentiment. It follows Onew through quiet moments of struggle and joy as he nurtures a single flower—a metaphor for love, growth, and memory. Visually cinematic, dreamlike, and filled with symbolism, the MV feels like a short indie film. Prepare tissues.
WORLD TOUR Incoming: Budokan Awaits
Onew isn’t stopping with the album. He’s gearing up for a major solo world tour. First stop? The iconic Nippon Budokan in Tokyo. The ‘2025 ONEW WORLD TOUR [ONEW THE LIVE: PERCENT (％)]’ kicks off soon, with a 3-night concert at the historic venue, marking his return to Budokan after three years.
SHINee fans—better known as SHAWOLs—are already buzzing over what’s shaping up to be an emotional and unforgettable comeback moment.
A Blooming Era for Onew
From the delicate melodies of ‘SAKU’ to the artistic visuals of ‘Like a Flower’, Onew is reminding us why he’s one of K-pop’s most soulful voices. And with his Japan tour right around the corner, it seems he’s just getting started.
Will this be Onew’s most intimate era yet? We’ll be watching—and listening—closely.
