After seven months of hiatus, SF9 has finally returned to the K-Pop scene with a new mini-album titled “LOVE RACE.” This marks their first release since their last comeback with “FANTASY” in August 2024.
Over the years, SF9 has been known for their evolving sound and captivating performances. With a long gap since their last release, what might have changed since “FANTASY”? How has SF9 grown musically and conceptually during this time? Have they taken on a new style?
With “LOVE RACE,” SF9 is ready to showcase their latest evolution—but what sets this comeback apart? Let’s dive into the group’s journey and uncover the changes shaping their newest release.
About K-Pop Boy Group SF9
SF9 (Sensational Feeling 9) is a South Korean boy group under FNC Entertainment that debuted on Oct. 5, 2016. They are known for their diverse concepts, sleek performances, and genre-blending music.
The group initially comprised nine members, namely YoungBin, InSeong, JaeYoon, DaWon, ZuHo, RoWoon, Yoo TaeYang, HwiYoung, and Chani. However, RoWoon left the band in September 2023, although he renewed his contract with the company.
Meanwhile, Zuho is no longer under FNC Entertainment but remains a member of SF9. He departed from the agency in January 2024 and signed an exclusive contract with Haewadal Entertainment. He is pursuing acting but will continue participating in SF9 activities whenever his schedule allows.
2024 and 2025 Comeback of SF9
On Aug. 20, 2024, SF9 launched their 14th mini-album titled “FANTASY,” marking the beginning of a new trilogy series called “YOUR FANTASY.” The album serves as a tribute to their dedicated fandom, also named FANTASY. YoungBin said in a press release that the album contains everything their fans wanted.
SF9 Official Facebook
This comeback was a five-person system, with only YoungBin, InSeong, Yoo TaeYang, HwiYoung, and Chani involved. Zuho was unable to participate due to schedule conflicts. Meanwhile, JaeYoon and DaWon were absent due to mandatory military service.
On March 11, 2025, SF9 made their return to the music scene with a new mini-album called “LOVE RACE.” This new collection acts as the second installment in their trilogy series.
SF9 Official Facebook
JaeYoon took part in this comeback, along with the same five members who participated in the “FANTASY” promotions. This marks his first group activity since his military discharge on Sept. 20, 2024. Also, it is the group’s first album in three years to include JaeYoon.
How Has SF9 Evolved Since “FANTASY”? Exploring Their Growth in “LOVE RACE”
SF9 is always evolving, trying out new sounds and styles with each release. With “LOVE RACE,” they bring a fresh vibe that sets them apart from their “FANTASY” era. So, what’s different this time? Let’s dive into how they’ve grown.
Concepts and Visuals of “FANTASY” vs “LOVE RACE” by SF9
The concepts of “FANTASY” and “LOVE RACE” may both showcase SF9’s signature style, but they each bring a distinct vibe and visual theme.
SF9’s “FANTASY” Album Concepts
SF9 embraced a refreshing summer vibe for “FANTASY,” so the album exudes a lively and youthful energy. The group released SUN version concept photos featuring the members washing a car under the sun. They reveal the boys’ bright, fresh, and playful visuals.
Music video teasers and the official MV further showcased the members enjoying carefree moments and their natural visuals out in the daylight.
SF9 Official Facebook
Chani said in a press release that he came up with a refreshing concept because it was summer. He added that it was their way to show fans a different side of themselves. In his case, he dyed his hair.
Yoo TaeYang also commented on their comeback, saying that he paid a lot of attention to cool outfits and visuals. He even shared that the members made a section in the choreography that can be used for a social media dance challenge.
In addition to displaying a refreshing and playful vibe, “FANTASY” by SF9 showcases a more intense and charismatic side of the group through the BURN version. The members showed a bold and mature vibe, with their outfits and expressions giving off a serious and confident look. This version contrasted the playful nature of the SUN concept, offering fans a glimpse into the group’s versatility.
SF9’s “LOVE RACE” Album Concepts
Meanwhile, SF9’s latest album “LOVE RACE” also has two conceptual versions: LOVE and RACE. The LOVE version photos have a classy and romantic feel. The members are dressed in stylish outfits, giving off a calm and mature vibe that highlights themes of love and emotion.
The RACE version takes on a bolder, edgier look, and the photos are all about energy and excitement. With props like motorcycles, goggles, and leather jackets, SF9 gives off a bold and adventurous look, symbolizing the thrill of chasing love.
SF9 Official Facebook
The music video teaser and official MV for ‘LOVE RACE’ further emphasize the RACE theme. The video is packed with action, featuring the members showing a few parts of the song’s choreography and transforming into racers.
InSeong said, “The upbeat energy really stands out, and each part contains the unique personalities of the members.” He continued, “It seems to be the most difficult and physically demanding dance among all our performances, but you will be able to feel SF9’s energy and fighting spirit.”
Chani also commented, “I think the addictive melody and unique raps are the listening points. Every part seems to be the point of interest, so I hope you don’t miss anything.”
JaeYoon noted, “The performance is a bit more intense than what we’ve done before, so I hope you’ll notice our strength.”
In short, while SF9 had a fresh and lively vibe in the past, this time they went for a tougher, more masculine look, showing a different side of themselves.
Musical Style and Sound of “FANTASY” vs “LOVE RACE” by SF9
SF9’s music keeps changing with every release, and looking at FANTASY and LOVE RACE shows just how much their sound has grown.
SF9’s “FANTASY” Album Songs
SF9’s “FANTASY” album highlights the group’s musical versatility across its five tracks. The group filled it with easy-listening yet emotionally rich songs that highlight their smooth vocals and signature sound. While some songs carry a touch of energy, the overall mood feels calm, introspective, and full of emotions rather than intense or upbeat.
First, its title track ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’ is a pop dance song featuring lively rhythms and catchy melodies. The lyrics, co-written by members YoungBin and HwiYoung, talk about wishing your ex happiness while learning to let go of your feelings for them.
The second song, ‘Cruel Love,’ is another pop dance track. But it’s infused with funk elements, offering groovy basslines and an energetic tempo. Next, ‘Just’ is an R&B song that blends vintage sound with trap elements, highlighting the members’ vocal harmonies over mellow instruments.
‘My Fantasia’ is a punk-genre song combining soothing instrumentals with emotive vocals, while ‘Melodrama’ is an alternative R&B track with disco elements featuring sincere lyrics and the group’s expressive singing abilities.
SF9’s “LOVE RACE” Album Songs
Regarding the new album by SF9, “LOVE RACE,” it contains six new songs. It is similar to “FANTASY” wherein the tracks convey unique messages. It also features various genres, allowing listeners to appreciate SF9’s evolving sound.
But unlike their last album—whose songs are relaxing but full of emotions—their latest release is filled with energy and dynamic beats. While a few tracks are soft and calming, the overall vibe leans more toward being vibrant and energetic.
For instance, the title track ‘LOVE RACE’ is a pop dance song with hip-hop elements. It expresses the group’s passion as they are ready to race toward the person they love. Members HwiYoung and YoungBin participated in writing the lyrics.
“We felt unfamiliar with the hip-hop genre, but that actually made us pay extra attention to details here and there,” InSeong said in a press release. “We planned everything to the last detail and really tried to fill the album with the SF9 color.”
‘Suited,’ one of the B-side tracks in the “LOVE RACE” album by SF9, is an R&B-genre song. It emphasizes the group’s vocal strengths, delivering a smooth and soulful sound.
‘Side by Side’ is a pop song characterized by a fresh and lively vibe, offering a refreshing and upbeat melody. ‘WARURU’ is another pop track that narrates a story of overcoming the pain and betrayal of love.
‘No No No’ an electronic pop song in which CNBLUE’s Jung YongHwa participated in composing. Lastly, ‘Love Puzzle’ is a ballad that delves into the intricacies of hidden love, showcasing heartfelt lyrics and melodies.
Overall Album Theme of “FANTASY” vs “LOVE RACE” by SF9
The “FANTASY” album by SF9 dives into themes of love, appreciation, and deep emotions. It leans toward relaxing and heartfelt sounds, with tracks that feel introspective and comforting. It invites listeners to reflect on the deeper emotions of love.
SF9 Official Facebook
On the other hand, the group’s new album “LOVE RACE” takes a more energetic approach, highlighting passion and the thrill of chasing love. It features songs with a lively, dynamic vibe that excite listeners about the thrill of pursuing love.
Both albums show SF9’s versatility in exploring different sides of love and relationships. Other than that, this trilogy marks a fresh chapter for SF9 and their fans, highlighting the strong bond they’ve built over time.
What Does “LOVE RACE” by SF9 Say About the Group’s Musical Direction?
SF9’s “LOVE RACE” album shows that the group is ready to explore new styles and push their limits. The members shared in a press release that this album expands what SF9 can do, and they’re excited for fans to see more sides of them in the future.
SF9 Official Facebook
Chani also mentioned that “LOVE RACE” really shows SF9’s unique style and what they wanted to express to their fans, FANTASY. JaeYoon added that this is a time for SF9 to break away from the idea that they can only show a limited number of styles.
With this album, SF9 is proving they’re willing to try new things and keep surprising listeners with fresh ideas. In short, FANTASY can expect fresh concepts, diverse music styles, and an exciting new side of SF9 in the future.
Final Thoughts
With “LOVE RACE,” SF9 continues to push boundaries and expand their musical identity. While their previous album “FANTASY” focused on heartfelt emotions and introspective themes, their latest release introduces a vibrant, energetic sound that highlights the excitement of chasing love. The group’s bold shift in concept, style, and sound proves their dedication to growing as artists. Exploring the hip-hop genre for their new song ‘LOVE RACE’ is just one example of how they’re challenging themselves.
By embracing new ideas and exploring fresh genres, SF9 shows they’re not afraid to break away from expectations. This comeback solidifies their place as a versatile and dynamic group in the K-Pop scene. As the trilogy series approaches its final chapter, fans can look forward to even more surprises, as the group suggested.
