ILLIT’s comeback is already turning heads, and K-pop fans searching for ILLIT’s transformation will feel the impact the moment this single drops. From the first teaser, it’s clear the group is stepping far beyond the “cute” image everyone knew, and the shift feels exciting, confident, and refreshingly unpredictable.
This time, the members openly share how ready they are to break the mold. Early on the 24th, they said they’re thrilled to reveal a side of ILLIT fans “didn’t know existed,” and that this single reflects real growth. Their new release, “NOT CUTE ANYMORE,” out at 6 PM today, goes all-in on redefining who they are. Even the b-side, “Not Me,” reinforces that message: no label can contain them, and no one else gets to define what ILLIT should be.
Aroha explained that the title isn’t about rejecting cuteness it’s about revealing everything beyond it. Minju added she hopes listeners finally think they look “cool,” because this comeback is designed to make fans feel exactly that. Since the title track blends a steady beat with subtle rhythm, Minju focused heavily on raw, honest vocals and loved how the recording allowed her to “let go” and sing with her real voice.
Mocha said the song changed every time a new layer was added from the melody, to the lyrics, to the choreography yet the final version settles into a calm but undeniably cool performance. Wonhee admitted she worried about taking on a new genre, but she pushed herself to blend playful lyrics with a natural tone, making sure the new concept felt authentic. While she handled the chorus for the title track, Yoona, Minju, and Mocha took creative roles on the b-side, shaping the song’s personality.
Mocha shared that “Not Me” even includes name-related references the members brainstormed together, making the track feel personal and true to their identity. For Wonhee, recording the chorus alone for the first time was meaningful, especially after contributing to previous tracks like “Magnetic” and “Cherish.”
When asked what reactions they’re most excited for, Yoona compared “Not Cute Anymore” to Pyongyang Naengmyeon simple at first, then unexpectedly addictive the more you listen. Minju hopes for a music-show win as proof their evolution resonates with the public. Mocha wants people to admit, “Aren’t you cute?” because even with this concept, cuteness is just one part of who they are not the whole picture.
Reflecting on their busy year, Yoona said ILLIT grew tremendously and felt the love from new fans. Roha added that she hopes to meet Glit often next year and create even more memories together.
This comeback isn’t just a concept switch it’s the beginning of ILLIT defining their own identity, their own sound, and their own future.
Source: News1
