Following their sweet “VANILLA” debut and zesty “VIVACE” comeback, CUBE Entertainment’s LIGHTSUM is back with new music! On May 24 at 6 PM KST, Sangah, Chowon, Nayoung, Hina, Juhyeon, Yujeong, Huiyeon, and Jian returned with their first mini-album, Into The Light, and the lead single “ALIVE.” The comeback marks the octet’s first 2022 release since October 2021.

You Make Me Feel ALIVE

“ALIVE” is LIGHTSUM’s first title track by GALACTIKA, a Korean producer group known for their EDM and synth-heavy tracks. They have written songs for numerous K-pop groups, including MONSTA X’s “Beautiful,” TWICE’s “Heart Shaker,” and ITZY’s “WANNABE.” Similar to their previous works, “ALIVE” is laden with bright synth sounds, brass elements, and energetic beats. Lyrically, it recounts the singer, a confident and spunky girl, who falls in love with someone who colors her life. “There’s something special about him,” the girls sing. “Hard to explain, he’s got that feeling that overflow.”

The “ALIVE” music video—released at the same time as the EP—reflects its energy and the unique LIGHTSUM flair. Set in a school, the girls prepare themselves for an after-school party. Just before the last chorus, they resume to a stunning dance break, followed by an ensemble dance in the neon-lit gym hall. Fitting to the lyrics, the music video is filled with fun motion graphics and popping colors.

Going Into the Light

Complementing “ALIVE” in Into The Light are four B-side tracks. “i,” the second track of the mini-album, is another GALACTIKA-produced track. The electronic dance-pop song shows a darker—yet equally lively—side of LIGHTSUM. Next is “GOOD NEWS,” a mid-tempo track with music box-like sounds and a dreamy vibe. Following “GOOD NEWS” is “Q,” another upbeat song, which is produced by WWWAVE. Lastly, to wrap up the mini-album, the girls bid a tearful farewell with “Bye Bye Love.” The song’s tender verses beautifully erupt into an EDM beat drop, making it a solid finale.

In a showcase right before their comeback, LIGHTSUM revealed their thoughts about “ALIVE” and Into The Light. “The moves were harder than our previous two singles, and it also included a dance break,” member Juhyeon admitted. However, the newfound challenge never dimmed their light. In fact, after two comebacks, the girls have discovered their own flair. “Our competitiveness is definitely [in] our performances,” said eldest member Sangah.

SUMITs’ Excitement

After more than six months since their last comeback, LIGHTSUM fans are more excited than ever. SUMIT took to social media to express their support for “ALIVE” and Into The Light.

LIGHTSUM will promote “ALIVE” in various shows and events. Follow them on TikTok and subscribe to their YouTube channel to stay on top of their activities!


Missed out on the latest K-pop news? Check out our coverage of aespa’s WINTER and NINGNING soundtrack debut here.

, ,