In October of 2023, the six-member K-pop boy band 82MAJOR hit the scene with their magnetic single album titled ON, quickly becoming a prevalent fifth-gen rookie concoction through intricate genre blending songs like the pre-release single “Sure Thing” and their title track “FIRST CLASS.” And between the two tracks, the group garnered nearly 7 million views and a committed following, leaving everyone invested in their next move.

Having utilized their debut era to show the world a brief glimmer of their capabilities as 82MAJOR, the six-piece band has now officially returned with their first comeback (a mini album titled BEAT by 82) — with a strong assortment of pop, R&B, and hip-hop infused tracks that depicts impressive growth in sound and concept.

Led by the title track “Choke,” 82MAJOR uses their sophomore platform to assert newfound confidence with a harder, irresistible sound, paired with a video that’s already surpassed their former release milestones by earning nearly 8 million views. On the other hand, each of the group’s new B-side tracks round-out their must-have return, teasing pure R&B brilliance on the sultry hit “Birthday,” or the enriching nostalgia of the ‘90s hip-hop-esque “82,” so you just know 82MAJOR is prepared to bring the heat with each and every song they touch.

When you were initially informed that you’d be developing your first mini album BEAT by 82, what was the primary thing that each of you hoped to accomplish with the project?

NAM SEOUNG MO: I hoped more people get to know us through this project, and I’d love to travel to different countries to meet our fans in person.

PARK SEOK JOON: I want to make a lot of memories with our fans and make this album that many people can enjoy.

HWANG SEONG BIN: Sharing the experience of winning first place with the members and acknowledging each other’s hard work.

YOON YE CHAN: Charting and touring.

KIM DO GYUN: I want our fans to see us as an essential presence, like a ‘tissue paper.’ Since we need tissues and can’t live without it, I want us, 82MAJOR, to be indispensable to our fans!

It’s extremely impressive that each member participated in the songwriting process for this album. How did this collective effort shape the overall sound and identity of BEAT by 82?

YOON YE CHAN: BEAT by 82 is all about showing our unique musical style. Despite being relatively new, we wanted to showcase our musical journey confidently.

NAM SEONG MO: The title track “Choke” emphasizes addictive choruses against the minimalistic background. For tracks like “82” and “Illegal,” we collaborated with the members to decide on everything from deciding on the parts, themes to lyrics.

The title track “Choke” is a fun stylistic switch-up that embodying 82MAJOR’s confident side. What were some of the aspects about the group that you hope to convey through this song?

CHO SEOUNG IL: It’s an impressive track with witty lyrics about basketball. We wanted to express 82MAJOR’s confidence and determination to win in any fight. With the minimalistic sound, the focus is on the members’ smooth rap and vocals. We aimed to express our confidence while keeping it light.

“Birthday” features collaboration with renowned composer Ryan Jhun. How was the experience working with him, and what new elements did he bring to the track?

HWANG SEONG BIN: He was very open to our ideas and praised DO GYUN’s vocals, which boosted our confidence. He often asked for our opinions and feelings during the collaboration. For instance, the countdown part ‘5, 4, 3, 2, 1’ reflects the vibe of celebrating with friends, which we suggested and he incorporated.

When you first teased “Illegal” last year, it earned attention for its distinctive beat and high-energy performance video. How does this revamped version of the track reflect the evolution of 82MAJOR’s musical style since your pre-debut days?

NAM SEOUNG MO: We aimed to showcase a more impressive musical and personal growth compared to the previous version. We paid more attention to the lyrics and planned on how to best represent each member’s style. Working with YE CHAN on it resulted in a more refined track.

CHO SEOUNG IL: We even created new choreography for added parts, which made the collaboration even more enjoyable.

Your B-side “82,” which has been highly requested by fans, made its way into this album. What significance does this song hold for the group and your supporters?

YOON YE CHAN: It’s an introduction to 82MAJOR and a display of our confidence.

HWANG SEONG BIN: It’s like a source of pride for our fans. “82” is a track where all members participated in rap-making and performing, so it truly represents our authenticity.

Now that you have several songs under your belt are growing even more confident as performers — what’s the biggest lesson you’ve each learned since your trainee days?

HWANG SEONG BIN: Above all, we learned how to work on song compositions and express our emotions musically and performatively.

YOON YE CHAN: The biggest learning was adapting to social life. It was challenging to adapt to Korean culture and navigate adult responsibilities. I learned that social life can be complex, but I’m continuously learning how to handle various issues wisely and grow as a person.

Lastly, what are some of the goals you’ve set for yourselves, or collectively, for 82MAJOR?

CHO SEOUNG IL: Releasing solo tracks for each member.

NAM SEOUNG MO: Being called the ‘best group’ by our fans.

HWANG SEONG BIN: Winning the ‘Korean Hip-hop awards’ as the first K-pop idol group.

PARK SEOK JOON: I hope the day comes when as many people as possible enjoy our music.

YOON YE CHAN: Establishing our own unique musical universe as 82MAJOR.