HATS TO HATS Shines with 'FOCUS' Comeback: Fierce Synchronized Dancing and Chic Charms Unveiled

HATS TO HATS, the 'youngest daughter' of SM Entertainment, has announced their comeback with a sharper, more intense synchronized dance performance.

A media showcase for HATS TO HATS' first mini-album ‘FOCUS’ was held on the 20th at the Blue Square SOL Ttavel Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. The group unveiled their enhanced musicality and captivating stage presence.

The mini-album ‘FOCUS’ features a total of six diverse tracks, including their June single ‘STYLE’. The title track, ‘FOCUS’, is a house genre-based song highlighted by a vintage piano riff, combining an addictive melody with chic vocals to showcase a new facet of HATS TO HATS.

"We will work hard to show a new side of HATS TO HATS," the members stated regarding their comeback. "We hope you look forward to our first mini-album ‘FOCUS’ very much." They explained that while ‘THE CHASE’ raised curiosity and ‘STYLE’ brought them closer to the public, ‘FOCUS’ aims to capture attention and reveal the group's fresh image.

Discussions also touched upon the B-side tracks. STELLA described ‘Apple Pie’ as having lovely lyrics, and IAN explained ‘Flutter’ as a romantic confession song, noting that despite many members having colds during recording, they achieved a beautiful harmony. YEON introduced ‘Blue Moon’ as a song that connects with fans' hearts through music, aligning with the group's name meaning, while CARMEN mentioned her dedicated efforts in conveying delicate emotions during its recording.

Regarding the title track ‘FOCUS’, the members shared, "It's a house genre we're trying for the first time, but you'll be able to feel HATS TO HATS' cool and chic charm. It's easy to follow along and sing to its addictive melody." They added, "When we first heard ‘FOCUS’, it felt like being under a spell. We researched extensively to show a new side and are confident in showcasing our charismatic charm."

Notably, the choreography for ‘FOCUS’ was directed by Jonain, known for his work on the OST ‘Golden’ for ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’. IAN elaborated, "In ‘FOCUS’, we will show HATS TO HATS' more refined synchronized dance. As a large group, we plan to present diverse unit choreography, so please look forward to it." During the showcase, the eight members captivated the audience with their flawlessly synchronized moves, a testament to their hard work.

YEON credited JU EUN for leading the synchronization, mentioning advice from Director Kangta of SM Entertainment: 'Keep your promises on stage.' JU EUN added, "We encouraged each other, which helped us build our synergy." IAN further explained, "We are serious about our performances, so we frequently give and receive feedback, which is why we believe our synchronized dancing is well-received."

Regarding their training intensity, JIWOO shared, "We attend classes 4 to 5 times a week for 4 to 5 hours each session. We're working so hard that dancing to ‘FOCUS’ makes you lose weight automatically," a statement the other members enthusiastically agreed with.

HATS TO HATS is leading the 5th generation of K-pop alongside groups like ILLIT, BABYMONSTER, and MIA. EINA highlighted their strength as "the energy and diverse formations we can show as a large group," while CARMEN emphasized, "Our teamwork and mutual trust, built since our trainee days, create great synergy."

Eight months after their debut with ‘THE CHASE’, the members reflected on their growth. STELLA noted, "Although we are still rookies, we used to be busy looking at the camera during our debut. Now, we know how to interact with the audience and enjoy the stage more." JIWOO added, "We've become more comfortable than at our debut, and even within the synchronized choreography, our individual charms are starting to show."

Many fans compare HATS TO HATS' synchronized dancing to senior group Girls' Generation. IAN recalled, "When we debuted, we were happy to hear compliments like 'Even though it's a large group, each member's individuality stands out.' It felt like our dedication to the stage was recognized." He also shared his happiness about the 'IAN Challenge' using the ‘STYLE’ choreography becoming popular on short-form content platforms, saying, "It's a result of 고민ing about how to present my parts in a way the public would enjoy. For this ‘FOCUS’ song, I hope you pay special attention to the choreography within the synchronized moves."

Finally, the members expressed their aspirations: "We want to win first place on music shows with ‘FOCUS’, and ideally, also top the digital music charts." They concluded, "We hope you recognize the sincerity and hard work that went into preparing this album."

HATS TO HATS' first mini-album ‘FOCUS’ is set to be released today, the 20th, at 6 PM KST.

Netizens are buzzing with excitement, commenting, 'As expected from SM's youngest daughter,' 'Certified synchronized dance masters,' 'Really looking forward to the FOCUS stage,' and 'This album concept is totally my style.' Many also sent supportive messages like, 'They might change the 5th gen girl group game,' and 'Let's win first place this comeback.'