Kep1er is stepping into summer with a look and sound that feels different. The group’s new mini-album, BUBBLE GUM, is their seventh release, but this one carries a more daring energy. The members — Choi Yu-jin, Xiaoting, Kim Chae-hyun, Kim Da-yeon, Hikaru, and Huening Bahiyyih — are leaning into a playful yet rebellious vibe. It’s a shift that is hard to ignore.
Over two days, Kep1er released character films for each member. These short videos revealed bold visual changes and a freer performance style. The tone is playful but not childish. The members look like they are enjoying themselves while keeping the polish of an experienced idol group. The Kep1er Bubble Gum comeback isn’t just about a catchy track. It’s also about showing personality in a way that feels less scripted than before.
The clips are full of quick, sharp images. Choi Yu-jin stands in front of a broken-down car, her expression half-frustrated, half-glamorous. Xiaoting sits in a tunnel stuck in traffic, yet she looks unbothered, almost amused. Kim Chae-hyun locks eyes with the camera, her confidence almost daring the viewer to look away. Kim Da-yeon jokes around with a cake and a giant fan. Hikaru rises from the trunk of a car with curious eyes. Huening Bahie, with ice cream in hand, keeps her expression light and mischievous.
The scenes are simple but effective. They don’t feel overloaded with effects or props. Instead, they let each member’s own charm take the lead. It makes sense — if the goal is to highlight character, you don’t want too much distraction. The music and stage will bring the rest.
Performance Video and Sound
Alongside the character films, Kep1er also dropped a performance video for BUBBLE GUM. The setup is straightforward — bright pink bubblegum visuals clashing with deep black backgrounds. Outfits range from all-black with metallic touches to brighter styles that match the song’s upbeat tone. The contrast feels intentional. It’s sweet and soft on the surface, but there’s a sharp edge underneath.
The choreography matches the mood. Movements are tight, almost aggressive in parts, then suddenly loose and playful. It’s a mix that keeps the performance from feeling flat. The highlight dance section in particular feels like it was made for fan covers. In a year where many girl groups are leaning toward dreamy or elegant styles, Kep1er is taking a cheekier route.
Musically, BUBBLE GUM is a house-based EDM pop dance track. The beat is steady, with enough bounce to keep it light. The vocals are clean but carry a slight grit in some lines, which stops the track from sounding too polished. The hook is simple, but it sticks. The song doesn’t try to be overly complex — which could be a good move if they want mass appeal.
Kep1er’s journey hasn’t been smooth. They’ve been through a lineup change and had to reintroduce themselves as a seven-member group. Their sixth mini-album TIPI-TAP reached the Billboard 200 chart last year, but their promotions since then have been quiet. That’s why the Kep1er Bubble Gum comeback feels like a calculated re-entry into the spotlight.
The group is also pushing offline promotions. From August 19 to 24, they will run a pop-up store tied to the comeback. Merchandise and special events will be available for fans. This is a smart move — it creates a physical space for interaction, something that can’t be replicated online. It also shows they are not relying only on streaming numbers to measure success.
Takeaway
Still, the timing is interesting. Summer is a crowded season in K-pop. Many big names aim for the “summer queen” title. Whether Kep1er can claim that spot depends on how well BUBBLE GUM connects beyond their existing fanbase. The visuals and concept are strong, but the competition is fierce.
In a way, this comeback is less about chasing perfection and more about loosening up. The character films suggest a group willing to laugh at themselves and take risks. The music video, performance clips, and styling all follow that same idea. If it works, it could give them a fresher image in an industry that often rewards safe choices.
Kep1er’s BUBBLE GUM will officially be released on August 19 at 6 PM KST. Whether it becomes one of their most defining eras or just a fun seasonal release will depend on how listeners respond in the coming weeks. For now, it’s clear that the group is aiming for more than just another chart entry. They’re aiming to make people remember them differently.
Kep1er 7th Mini Album Release
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Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.
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