SECRET's reunion sparks mixed fan reaction as group returns without full lineup after 12 years
by K-Soul · allkpopSECRET is officially returning to the music scene after a lengthy hiatus. The group’s comeback marks its first activities in nearly 12 years since the release of the mini album SECRET Summer in 2014. However, fans are showing mixed reactions after learning the reunion will not feature the complete original lineup.
According to RBW on June 4, SECRET will promote as a three-member group consisting of original members Jun Hyo Seong and Jung Ha Na, alongside a newly added member.
Former member Han Sun Hwa, who left the group in 2016 to pursue acting, will not be participating in the reunion. Song Ji Eun is also absent from the comeback lineup as she has recently been focusing on her married life.
In particular, the absence of Song Ji Eun, widely recognized as the group’s main vocalist, has left many longtime fans disappointed.
Following the announcement, online reactions quickly became divided. Some fans expressed frustration, commenting, “They should’ve just formed a unit instead. This doesn’t really feel like a reunion,” “Why add a new member instead of convincing Song Ji Eun to return?” and “How is it a reunion if there’s a new member?”
Others, however, welcomed the group’s return despite the lineup changes. Supportive fans commented, “It’s unfortunate Song Ji Eun isn’t joining, but I’ll still support them,” “It’s probably better to continue somehow rather than not promote at all,” and “Groups like Jewelry had multiple generations too, so this seems like an interesting attempt.”
SECRET is considered one of the iconic second-generation K-pop girl groups, known for hit songs such as "Magic," "Madonna," and "Starlight Moonlight." As the group prepares for its long-awaited return, fans are curious to see what kind of musical transformation the new lineup will bring and what kind of chemistry Jun Hyo Seong and Jung Ha Na will showcase with the new member.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments below!
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