Lee Hyun returns with “A(E)ND,” his first new single in four years and his first official album in 14 years and 7 months. This third mini album captures the moments where love and parting intersect, moving fluidly from ballads to R&B and trendy pop, and in doing so, affirms his ongoing musical journey. We asked him about the six tracks that showcase his artistic exploration, as well as the songs that have left a mark on his heart.

Lee Hyun – “Let You Go”
Lee Hyun: It’s a song that speaks of how I once believed we could overcome the sharp edges of the world as long as we were together, and how I trusted that just by being by your side, I could give you strength. But it also carries the realization that I can no longer be that source of strength, and with that, the resolve to hold on to a single brilliant memory of us and let go. I think the calm, subdued murmur at the end—about trying to live on anyway—will resonate deeply.

Lee Hyun – “Day & Dream”
Lee Hyun: The song really stands out with its sound, especially the interlude that carries a touch of jazz. Overall, it’s a style I haven’t shown much in my music before, but it was something I’d always wanted to try.

Lee Hyun – “What’s On Your Mind”
Lee Hyun: This song comes from a place of feeling sorry for all the clumsy and rough parts of myself, yet still hoping that our love will endure. It carries a nostalgic vibe of early 2000s R&B, but I hope it’s a track that people across generations can enjoy.

Lee Hyun – “Gravity (feat. SONG HA YOUNG of fromis_9)”
Lee Hyun: This song only came to completion thanks to HA YOUNG from fromis_9, who not only featured on it but also gave it its title. I was pleasantly surprised by how well our voices blended—our vocal chemistry turned out even better than I expected. I think the moment you start listening, it’ll instantly put you in a good mood.

Lee Hyun – “Tree of Life”
Lee Hyun: This song includes words like “soil” and “moolsum”—literally “water breath,” a term often used by haenyeo, the traditional female divers of Korea—which might feel unusual in a ballad. It’s an autobiographical piece, reflecting on a difficult time in my life. The flower I longed to hold on to eventually fell, but I knew it would bloom again from its buds. With that same hope, I wished for both myself and everyone listening to blossom once more, like a tree of life. The lonely sound of the guitar makes the song feel all the more bittersweet.

Lee Hyun – “To Come to See You pt.2”
Lee Hyun: This song is my way of giving back to the fans. While listening to “To Come to See You” from 8eight’s third album, I was inspired to shape it around the words I’d long wanted to say to those who believed in me and waited through the quiet years. I hope you’ll enjoy it as you follow along with the lyrics.

SONG HA YOUNG, LEE NA GYUNG (fromis_9) – “Come Closer Like Spring”
Lee Hyun: I can’t get over how the vocals can sound this lovely. It’s the kind of song that just makes your heart feel warm and fuzzy the moment you listen.

Jin – “Don't Say You Love Me”
Lee Hyun: I already knew Jin had an incredible upper range, but hearing this song, I was struck by how he could bring the kind of sound I love to life so beautifully. It was surprising in the best way. And honestly… if he’s going to be that good-looking, maybe he should stop getting better at singing. (laughs)

j-hope – “Killin’ It Girl”
Lee Hyun: I’ll never forget seeing this one live at the concert. j-hope has really grown into an artist who knows how to express his own style beyond just popularity. Watching him on stage makes you feel like you truly understand this song.

Lee Hyun’s recommendations
Mike Posner – “Cooler Than Me (feat. Big Sean)”
CORTIS – “What You Want”
Lee Chanhyuk – “Eve”
Justin Bieber – “YUKON”
Dua Lipa – “Houdini”
Sung Si Kyung – “You Are So…”