Hearts2Hearts Returns with 'FOCUS': A Bold New Chapter
SM Entertainment's rookie girl group Hearts2Hearts has officially made their highly-anticipated comeback with their first mini album FOCUS, dropping on October 20, 2025, at 6 PM KST. After building momentum throughout 2025 with their debut single "The Chase" and follow-up track "STYLE," the eight-member group is ready to show a more mature and refined side of their artistry.
The Title Track: A House Music Evolution
"FOCUS" is a house genre-based song featuring a vintage piano riff, combining catchy melodies with chic vocals to bring fresh charm to Hearts2Hearts. Produced by K-pop hitmaker KENZIE (who also crafted their previous singles) the track showcases the group's growing versatility through a looping piano riff and sleek, rhythmic bass line that highlights their maturity.
The lyrics explore the intoxicating feeling of being completely drawn to someone, sensually capturing the state of being focused on another person. As member Yuha explained during their showcase, the song expresses that moment when someone completely captures your attention, and the group hopes listeners will feel that same magnetic pull toward them.
A Cinematic Visual Journey
The music video for "FOCUS" takes the concept to stunning new heights. Set in a school environment, the MV captures subtle, emotionally charged moments between the members, visually conveying intense mutual focus in a sleek, cinematic style. The production value is impressive, with dreamy visuals meeting bursts of action, creating a surreal contrast between innocence and intensity.
The members pushed themselves physically for this comeback. Member A-na revealed they performed wire stunts for some scenes, a first-time experience that left her nervous but ultimately satisfied with the results. Member Ye-on shared that one of the most challenging moments involved real fireworks on set (not CGI) adding authentic drama to the visual storytelling.
Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers praised the synchronized dancing and the quality of the music video production, with many expressing excitement about the song, though some debated whether it would become as addictive as their previous releases.
Musical Identity and Evolution
While "STYLE" showcased Hearts2Hearts' playful and bubbly side, "FOCUS" leans into a sharper, more alluring mood. The choreography emphasizes building energy throughout the performance, with member Stella noting that the producer emphasized subtle control over raw power, encouraging more deliberate expressions connected to the music.
The song incorporates a modern aloofness with a driving house beat, though the chorus features a more monotone, "catwalk runway ready" execution that marks a stylistic departure. While some critics feel the chorus could have been more melodically memorable, the production's fluidity and dramatic spikes have earned widespread praise.
The Full Album Experience
Beyond the title track, FOCUS offers diverse sonic experiences:
- "Apple Pie": A nu disco-style track with glossy synth layered over funky bass lines and analog drums, with lyrics comparing a girls' night of sharing secrets to a pajama party over apple pie
- "Pretty Please" (Pre-release): A New Jack Swing style dance song featuring moog synth bass and tight rhythm, capturing the excitement of simply being together during a shared journey
The album is available in 13 versions, including three Photo Book editions, a Rule Book version, a Heart Locket (NFC) version, and eight member-specific SMini versions, giving collectors plenty of options.
The Verdict
FOCUS represents a significant step forward for Hearts2Hearts. While some fans may miss the immediate catchiness of their earlier releases, the group is clearly establishing a more sophisticated musical identity. The album balances house music energy with emotional depth, all wrapped in stunning visual presentation that proves SM Entertainment's commitment to their newest girl group.
Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Hearts2Hearts, FOCUS demands your attention and that's exactly the point.