#AfterSchool, “We Want to Have a Concert in...

#AfterSchool, “We Want to Have a Concert in Korea”

Last July, After School made their debut in Japan and they released their debut single in August,Bang! and ranked in the top 10 for the Japan Oricon Charts.

This past April, they also had their first solo concert in Japan in Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and others.

They became a new Hallyu star after their first tour concert, PLAYGIRLZ, which sold out immediately.

After their successful activities in Japan, After School has come back to Korea with their new maxi single, Flashback.

Their title song, “Flashback” shows off their sexy yet charismatic styles. This song is reminiscent of their debut days along with an electronic sound.

On July 4, the members commented, “After spending a year in Japan, we really miss the stage back home. We want to show our fans that have been waiting for us a great and powerful performance.”

Raina and U-ie commented, “The song, ‘Flashback’ is very strong and sexy. There is a dance break in the middle of song so that each member can show off their personalities.”

Unlike their usual marching band and tap dance performances, they wanted to upgrade their performance by showing off their “cane” dance in their song, “Rip Off.”

U-ie stated, “When we used to dance with canes in Japan, the audience’s reaction was great. We decided to use that back at home too in hopes that the fans will like it too.“

Other songs in their album, “Rip Off,” was written by Jungah and “Timeless” was written by Raina.

Raina commented, “For the song ‘Timeless,’ I wrote the lyrics and sang it with Jungah which made the song even more meaningful for me.”

She continued, “I also want to recommend the song, ‘Eyeline’ because Nana sings this song with a different voice tone that is really great.“

Girl group After School has a unique system of “enrollment” and “graduation.”

For this album, former leader Kahi ”graduated” from the group for her solo activities. New memberKaeun then became “enrolled” as the new member.

When asked about the changing of members, U-ie stated, “When a new member comes in, it is a bit confusing because we have to relearn the dance moves, but I think we gain more from new members. We become more motivated to make a better performance.”

Lizzy added, “Each member has their own style so when a new member comes in, we become more diverse. Also, with each new member, we as a group receive some spotlight, which is always good.“

Jungah commented, “After our leader Kahi left, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to fill the leader position as good as she did. However, I kept a steady heart and took it one day at a time. I hope that our group and Kahi will be able to show our best in our performances.”

New member Kaeun commented, “It still feels like a dream that I am here with these girls. I will work hard in order to become as great as the other girls.“

After their “Flashback” activities are over, they plan to go back and forth between Korea and Japan and perform. Raina, Nana and Lizzy’s unit group, Orange Caramel, will be releasing a new album soon.

New leader Jungah commented, “Although last year we were in Japan, we hope that this year we will be able to hold a concert here in Korea.”

“We learned a lot through this Japan tour. Singing 20 songs for one concert allowed us to improve in our skills. Above all, we learned to have confidence on stage. Now we are able to create our own stage.“