"Drop That NEWBEAT": Beat Interactive Rookies, NEWBEAT, are Ready to "Flip" the Industry!

Beat Interactive’s up-and-coming rookie group, NEWBEAT, made their highly anticipated debut on March 24th with the release of their first full album, RAW AND RAD!

Photo Credit: BEAT INTERACTIVE

K Fuse had the exciting opportunity to participate in a roundtable interview where the members talked about their upcoming debut. Find out more about NEWBEAT's reaction to performing for fans and their debut title track!

NEWBEAT features a diverse lineup of talents -- Park Minseok, Hong Minsung, Jeon Yeoyeojeong, Choi Seohyun, Kim Taeyang, Jo Yunhu, and Kim Riwoo -- that captivated fans long before their official debut! Previously called HinLOVE, they participated in music videos and live performances with labelmates A.C.E. Fans may remember them as dancers for A.C.E. during the 'REWIND' tour last summer, where they gained attention for their dynamic energy and captivating performances. NEWBEAT's own dance break during the tour kept fans engaged, leading to their pop-up busking and fan engagement tour, HIGH&LOW Donuts. This tour took them to KCON LA and other cities where they showcased their collaboration with various dance crews across the U.S. Anticipation for NEWBEAT’s debut has been building since early 2024, creating significant buzz in the K-Pop community.

Photo Credit: K Fuse IG

As NEWBEAT spoke of their time performing for fans, Taeyang mentioned, "I'm pretty shy, but I realized that singing and dancing in front of others makes me happy, which is why I decided to pursue this career. I think the same goes for all our seven NEWBEAT members, as performing for fans is so meaningful and rewarding to us."

In anticipation of their debut M/V, "Flip the Coin," NEWBEAT released teaser videos that introduce their universe and individual artist stories. The narrative features a girl and a unicorn searching for the unicorn's missing horn, symbolizing NEWBEAT's musical journey. “Please look forward to our upcoming full album, [RAW AND RAD],” said Choi Seohyun, expressing the group's desire to connect with fans. As part of their pre-debut strategy, they released “JeLLo (Sleepers),” a track that introduces their artistry. The Korean title, “힘숨찐 (him-soom-jjin),” represents hidden strengths, while “JeLLo” plays on “Hello,” depicting extraordinary abilities. The song delves into themes of love, salvation, and sacrifice. “‘JeLLo’ is the very first step of NEWBEAT, filled with our unique colors and energy,” said Park Minseok.

They soon released another pre-release single, “HICCUPS,” enriching their narrative before the official debut on March 24th. “‘HICCUPS’ feels like the moment when we finally break through the last barrier,” shared Jeon Yeoyeojeong. The track deepens NEWBEAT’s debut story, portraying their evolution and hinting at their true strengths. The members are eager to share their beginnings, inviting fans to connect with their journey. “We captured the undeniable excitement and anticipation in this song—just like how NEWBEAT is standing on the brink of a brand-new beginning,” remarked Choi Seohyun.

With the two energetic pre-release singles, NEWBEAT made their debut with an album that conveyed their hearts and deepest desires. "Flip the Coin" expresses everyone's individuality, and how it is okay to be different from those around you. This message is clearly defined by Minseok as he described the group's title track using the word "flip." The group's leader went on to say, "It doesn't merely mean to flip a coin; it also expresses our desire to flip and change the K-Pop industry and the whole world with our talents and performances."

With the release of their highly anticipated album, 'RAW AND RAD,' the rookies are finally able to tell their stories and begin to build connections they have worked diligently to foster with their audience, making this debut a momentous occasion for not only NEWBEAT as a group, but the members individually!