Hybe's new girl group Tuide debuts with EP 'Tune & Play'

On August 24, K-pop giant Hybe unveiled their new girl group Tuide with their debut EP, Tune & Play. This marks the first girl group presented by ABD, a fresh label under Hybe's umbrella, and their first release since the U.S. group Katseye two years ago. Tuide comprises seven talented members -- Seohee, Seoyeon, Elena, Jia, Saki, Seah, and Yi Hani.

Notably, Seoyeon is the younger sister of TWICE's JIhyo. During a press event in Seoul, group leader Seohee explained that the name Tuide stems from the phrase Tune the tide, symbolizing their goal to blend the diverse rhythms of the world into their own joyful flow. Seoyeon also introduced the group's unique musical style, Soultronic, a fusion of soul music's warm sensibilities and electronic music's sleek sophistication.

The seven members, born between 2006 and 2011, hail from diverse backgrounds including South Korea, the United States, Britain, and Japan. When asked about what sets Tuide apart from other groups, Jia highlighted their Soultronic style, noting that despite the varying genres of their five debut tracks, they all share a bright, energetic yet laid-back vibe.

Their debut album, Tune & Play, includes five tracks -- ABD, Sun Kiss, Echo, Flip-flop Girl, and Grls. The lead single, Sun Kiss, is described as showcasing the group's distinct color and individual charms, filled with the free and pleasant energy of being under the sun. The song's lyrics encourage listeners to trust and express their own voices and sensibilities.

Seoyeon emphasized that the group's choreography was designed to project lively energy, with each member putting intense thought into every movement, expression, and breath. Looking ahead, the rookie group aspires to make Tuide a recognizable name and win a Rookie of the Year award.