Since their explosive debut in 2018, the South Korean K-pop group ATEEZ has experienced a dramatic rise, dominating global stages and earning recognition for their bold storytelling, dynamic performances, and unwavering authenticity. The eight-member ensemble is now embarking on a new phase with the release of ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3’, marking their 12th mini album and the concluding chapter of the trilogy that commenced in 2023.
The EP, featuring five new tracks—‘Lemon Drop’, ‘Masterpiece’, ‘Now This House Ain’t A Home’, ‘Castle’, and ‘Bridge: The Edge of Reality’—reinforces the group's essence: emotional, performative, and continuously evolving. Alongside a major world tour that starts in July in South Korea and includes stops in the U.S., Mexico, and Japan, this release represents a significant conceptual and creative turning point for ATEEZ.
“This is the most honest and expressive part of the trilogy,” summarizes leader HONGJOONG. “It reveals how we face complex emotions, the irresistible attraction to certain things, conflicting feelings, and a profound, persistent longing. This album feels more mature and genuine, both in its lyrics and sound.”
ATEEZ has always been a group that does not adhere to trends. Since their debut, they have forged a distinct path by fusing genres, narratives, and movements with genuine artistic intensity. In ‘…Part.3’, this authenticity reaches new levels as the members directly contribute to the creative process. HONGJOONG and MINGI were involved in writing four of the five tracks, making the album feel particularly personal.
“For this EP, we wanted to explore new sounds. I experimented a lot with my rap parts, mixing different styles, altering the flow, and trying out new vocal techniques,” shares MINGI. “One section I find particularly catchy is in ‘Lemon Drop,’ where I say ‘Focus on me.’”
‘Lemon Drop’ is also WOOYOUNG’s favorite song from this mini album. “It’s been a while since we created a seasonal track, and the fun blend of R&B and hip-hop gives it a cool and refreshing vibe; akin to a lemon drop cocktail, it has a sweetness with a slight kick. I remember having a blast while recording, especially during the part where I say ‘Cheers to this night, raise your glass.’ That line truly captures the energetic spirit of the song,” he tells Clash.
While the overall sound is brighter, ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3’ still carries emotional depth. SEONGHWA notes that achieving this balance was essential. “This time, we aimed to introduce more of a summer vibe, a seasonal song, which is something we haven’t done in a while. There’s a lot of enjoyable and spirited energy in this album, especially in tracks like ‘Lemon Drop,’ but we ensured it retained the ATEEZ style that fans recognize. So even if the vibe is more upbeat, the lyrics remain meaningful, and we aimed to represent a different facet of youth in a more playful manner.”
This lighter tone also serves a symbolic purpose. For YEOSANG, the aim was to present something that feels refreshing on the surface, yet emotionally impactful beneath. “We wanted listeners to experience the season, that refreshing summer breeze feeling, while also conveying something deeper. Although the sound is cooler and lighter, there’s significant emotion behind the tracks. Through this chapter, we sought to send a comforting message in true ATEEZ style, letting everyone listening know that, ‘It’s okay to feel lost sometimes.’ Above all, we hope it excites fans for the next steps in our journey.”
This moment of reconnection with themselves and their audience arrives during a period of evident artistic and global momentum. After performing at Coachella, breaking sales records, and topping the Billboard 200, ATEEZ enters 2025 stronger than ever.
“GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 feels like a new beginning for us in 2025,” reflects JONGHO. “Currently, I feel ATEEZ is in a phase of significant momentum, the kind that propels us forward. We’re still growing and challenging ourselves with new musical styles. Each album is our way of giving back the love we receive, and this one is no exception. It’s a chapter that showcases how far we’ve come, yet also highlights how much more we aspire to achieve.”
The next chapter initiates with the IN YOUR FANTASY world tour, starting on July 5th in Incheon. For SAN, this is more than just a stage upgrade—it’s about redefining the ATEEZ live experience. “With this tour, we wanted to demonstrate our evolution. The [IN YOUR FANTASY] stages are going to be more daring and mesmerizing, with new concepts and fresh performances that highlight each member’s unique essence. Fans will feel a
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Since their explosive debut in 2018, South Korean K-pop group ATEEZ has experienced an incredible surge in popularity — dominating international stages and establishing a reputation for