Stray Kids, the K-pop powerhouse known for their dynamic performances and self-produced music, has made a highly anticipated return with their tenth mini-album, “THIS & THAT.” Dropping on Friday, this eight-track EP showcases the group’s unparalleled ability to seamlessly navigate diverse genres while staying true to their unique identity. The comeback follows their monumental mixtape “DO IT” last year, which saw Stray Kids become the first act to debut eight consecutive releases at No. 1 on the prestigious Billboard 200.
Members of K-pop boy band Stray Kids, from left, Lee Know, Han, I.N, Felix, Bang Chan, Hyunjin, Seungmin and Changbin pose during a press conference for its tenth mini album “THIS & THAT” at the Conrad Seoul hotel in Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap
A day before the album’s official release, the eight members — Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N — gathered in coordinated suits at the Conrad Seoul hotel for a press conference. They delved into the creative process behind “THIS & THAT” and shared intriguing behind-the-scenes stories with eager reporters. “It’s been so long since our last comeback that every part of the schedule feels exciting,” Changbin shared, bubbling with enthusiasm. “We held concerts in Seoul last month, and I hope we can carry that energy into this album.”
K-pop boy band Stray Kids / Courtesy of JYP Entertainment
Embracing a Fresh, Relaxed Sound
The title track, also named “This & That,” marks a noticeable evolution in Stray Kids’ sound. The members described it as a deliberate departure from their signature intense singles, leaning into a more relaxed and approachable vibe. “This time we went in a different direction — a little more chill and relaxed,” Changbin explained, detailing the shift. “Like the title, we wanted to express the confidence of being good at this and that.” He further elaborated on the conscious decision to refine their sound: “We took out some of the more unfamiliar, rougher sounds and tried to make the song easier to approach. The hook came together quickly, and we kept humming it while preparing the choreography. The members all responded well, so we’re confident about it.” This fresh direction promises a new side of Stray Kids for fans to explore.
Members of K-pop boy band Stray Kids, from left, Lee Know, Han, I.N, Felix, Bang Chan, Hyunjin, Seungmin and Changbin poses during a press conference for its tenth mini album “THIS & THAT” at the Conrad Seoul hotel in Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap
3RACHA’s Creative Vision and Global Stages
True to their reputation as self-producing idols, all eight tracks on “THIS & THAT” were meticulously written and produced by 3RACHA, the group’s powerhouse in-house production unit comprising Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han. Han emphasized their commitment to innovation, stating, “There’s always the safe option of carrying over what worked before. But we choose a new path every time because that’s what keeps the process fun. It’s difficult and there are always variables, but we learn a lot. If everything stayed the same, we’d lose interest ourselves.” This dedication to artistic growth ensures every Stray Kids release is a unique journey.
The comeback also aligns with Stray Kids’ expansive new world tour, “Stray Kids World Tour ‘RUN IT,'” which recently kicked off with five electrifying concerts at the KSPO Dome in Seoul across late July and early August. “It was a stage we’d been looking forward to for a long time,” Hyunjin expressed, reflecting on the experience. “It had been about a year since our last concert, so we were excited ourselves. Performing music we’ve created gives us a huge sense of happiness and accomplishment. We’ve prepared hard for this tour, and we’re ready.”
K-pop boy band Stray Kids performs during its world tour “Stray Kids World Tour ‘RUN IT'” at KSPO Dome in Seoul. Courtesy of JYP Entertainment
STRAYCITY: Expanding Their Global Reach
Further solidifying their global presence, Stray Kids is set to headline “STRAYCITY” in September, an innovative festival built entirely around the boy band, spanning across Latin America. They will top the bill at every stop: Bogota, Colombia (Sept. 9); Buenos Aires, Argentina (Sept. 14); and Mexico City (Sept. 25). Joining them on stage will be JYP’s rookie boy group NEXZ, along with a diverse lineup of local artists such as Andres Obregon, RENEE, BAD MILK, Kei Linch, K4OS, and Cocho, with other artists varying by city.
“Honestly, we’re still hungry,” Seungmin confessed, highlighting their relentless ambition. “We want to meet up with fans around the world who haven’t had the chance to see us yet. This festival lets us perform for different audiences on different stages, not just at our own concerts. It feels like a great opportunity to show another side of ourselves.” Hyunjin echoed the sentiment, recalling their first South American tour as one of his most memorable experiences and expressing hopes to expand the festival to more regions in the future.
When asked about their aspirations for the new release, Seungmin thoughtfully concluded, “When we prepare a new project, we don’t work toward a specific achievement. We focus on showing our fans that we’ve given it everything. I hope these songs reach as many fans and listeners as possible.” This heartfelt sentiment underscores Stray Kids’ genuine connection with their ever-growing global fanbase.
