[SC Scene] "A long hiatus brought us down, but"... USPEER returns as a 'music hotspot' after Yeowon’s departure and agency move (full story)

[Sportschosun reporter Baek Ji-eun] USPEER is kicking off a cheeky challenge.

On the afternoon of the 17th, a showcase was held at MYUNGHWA LIVE HALL in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul to mark the release of USPEER’s first mini album, "Bite District."

USPEER debuted in June last year. The group drew attention as WM Entertainment’s first girl group in 10 years since Oh My Girl, but just six months after debut, it ended its exclusive contract with WM in December 2025 and moved to MW Entertainment, founded in January by Lee Won-min, the former head of WM. Then, after leader Yeowon decided to leave the team last month, USPEER reorganized into a six-member lineup consisting of SOEE, Sian, Seoyu, Daon, Chaena, and Roa.

SOEE said, "I’m happy that we can show a different side of ourselves." Chaena added, "We’re making a comeback after a year, but it feels more like a re-debut." Daon said, "We’re back stronger." Sian noted, "We prepared with all our hearts, united as one." Seoyu said, "We worked hard with our fans who waited for us in mind. We went through tough times, and I think that made our team even closer." Roa said, "We’ve been sharpening ourselves to show our best side."

Sian, who has taken over as the new leader, spoke about Yeowon’s departure, saying, "Unnie couldn’t stay with us because of personal reasons. At times like this, I thought we needed to work even harder, and that helped me get through it. We contacted each other around New Year’s and even talked about having a meal together. She also told us she hoped we would come back soon."

"Bite District" is an album that captures fresh, honest emotions that are still a little unripe, along with the natural warmth of relationships formed within them. If the debut single "SPEED ZONE" showed the team’s energy and starting point, "Bite District" follows the process of discovering one another, building relationships, and creating a space that is uniquely their own.

Sian said, "This has a different color from our previous work. I want to show a wide range of music and concepts." Daon added, "Our last release had a sporty feel, but this time it’s more bubbly and mischievous."

Seoyu said, "This album captures our relationship. We wanted to protect our united teamwork, so we had sincere conversations during our year-long break. We talked about working harder, making ourselves known to many people, and succeeding. We grew both mentally and in our skills." Chaena admitted, "The year-long hiatus was so long that I broke down at times, but I was able to hold on because the other members were going through the same worries."

The title track, "Wicked Game," tells the story of a rookie Cupid who uses up all her arrows in a clumsy attempt to win over the heart of the boy she likes, and of a girl who carries out an awkward but lovable plan.

The album also includes four tracks in total: the refreshing "So Fine," the bright and lively "Bestie," and "LOUD," which expresses USPEER’s confidence.

USPEER will release "Bite District" at 6 p.m. and officially begin promotions.

Sian said, "USPEER always gives sincere performances, no matter the time or place." SOEE added, "I think our bold energy and sincerity came through. I want people to say they feel energized when they watch our stage." Chaena said, "At our debut, we said we wanted to become the backbone of the group. This time, I want us to become the backbone of MW."

Reporter Baek Ji-eun silk781220@sportschosun.com