[Sports Seoul | Reporter Lee Seung-rok] QWER returns with a more confident, fully realized sound.
QWER (Chodan, Magenta, Hina, Siyeon) released their fourth mini-album, Ceremony, on the 27th, marking their comeback 10 months after the previous EP, I’m On Your Side, Even If the Whole World Is Out of Tune. At a release-day showcase at YES24 Wonder Rock Hall in Seoul’s Seodaemun district, the members thanked waiting fans and vowed, “After closing Chapter One, we’re opening Chapter Two — we’ll show a new QWER.”
Ceremony signals a new chapter. The album closes the narrative that began with their debut single, “Harmony from Discord,” and pushes the band forward. Label Three Y Corporation described the title as evoking a “rite” — a pledge to move toward the future by exploring both the group’s identity and each member’s individual self.
The title track, “Ceremony,” is a celebratory anthem about shedding societal expectations and living authentically. Guitarist Hina said, “If Chapter One revealed each member’s story, Chapter Two is about celebrating the growth and maturity we’ve achieved and moving ahead with confidence.”
Since their October 2023 debut, QWER’s two-and-a-half-year run has been defined by steady growth. Early skepticism about their musicianship and commercial potential gave way as they released follow-up hits such as “Obsessed with Worry,” “My Name Is Clear,” and “Holding Back Tears.” They proved themselves as a live band, winning over audiences with musical sincerity — a credibility that helped fuel a successful first world tour across 16 cities in Asia and the Americas.
Those experiences have reshaped how the members approach their craft. Drummer Chodan said the world tour taught him to enjoy performing and helped him grow both technically and as a stage presence. Bassist Magenta said touring tightened the group’s chemistry and that members were more proactive with input during this album’s production.
Ceremony’s five tracks signal the start of Chapter Two. Alongside the title song are “Bad Habit,” a confident declaration that ignores outside judgment; “Bunny Bunny,” a tender track about longing for someone even in dreams; “Our Voyage,” a hopeful look toward tomorrow; and “PIONEER,” a figurative pledge of resolve that expands QWER’s musical palette.
Vocalist Siyeon described the new phase as a “sworn brotherhood.” He said, “If Chapter One brought struggles and growth, this chapter will show how we’ve formed a bond that goes beyond being a team — we’re family.”
Magenta’s reflection captures QWER’s journey: “Preparing this album made me think deeply about what it means to live true to yourself. Not worrying about other people’s opinions and focusing on what you love — asking ‘Who am I?’ is the essence of living authentically.” He added, “We’ll keep taking on new challenges and continue to live as QWER.” roku@sportsseoul.com
