Breakout K-Pop Group RESCENE Tears Up: "Hard Work Pays Off"

K-pop girl group RESCENE made its first appearance on a major terrestrial evening newscast, reflecting on its belated chart success and the work that led up to it.

The five-member group joined anchor Lee Hyun-young on "SBS 8 News" on Oct. 11. Woni, Liv, Minami, May and Zena discussed their music, their gratitude to fans and preparations for their new album.

Asked whether she feels the group's growing popularity, Woni said, "We still feel shy about being called popular. Rather than really feeling it, we notice it a little when we go to events together and people sing along with us."

One change in their daily lives has been their dorm. "Even though our dorm has gotten bigger, we still sleep and hang out together," Woni said with a laugh. "We used to all share one bathroom, but now we can use separate ones."

The members suggested that the stories behind their music may have helped their songs find listeners long after release. "I think our story since debut is reflected in the music," Minami said, explaining that the messages in their songs and their efforts over time may have resonated with listeners. Liv added, "We're also really grateful that people see our funny side and then seek out our music."

They also discussed the contrast between their stage image and their playful personalities in online content. "That's who we really are, so I don't think we ever saw it as a surprising contrast," Minami said. Woni added, "Looking at the members, I always hoped someone would recognize these qualities. I feel proud that we're now getting to show them, even if only a little."

The group explained why scent is a recurring theme in its music. "Just as a pleasant scent makes you turn around when you walk past, we want to make songs that bring back people's own stories and memories," the members said. They also thanked their fans, saying, "The support of those who have always stayed closest to us and cheered us on has been a major driving force."

The members grew emotional when asked what they would say to people who are working hard but have yet to see results. "I've really come to believe that hard work pays off, so I wanted to tell them not to give up," Woni said. "We want to be a group that always gives hope to people pursuing their dreams."

Zena said, "I think we were able to get through the difficult times because the five of us were together. We want to give strength through our music to people going through hard times right now." May thanked those who related to the group's story, saying, "It makes me feel that all the time we spent pushing forward wasn't wasted." After the broadcast, Woni and anchor Lee were seen in tears.

RESCENE also discussed its fourth EP, "PULSE," set for release on Nov. 3. "I think you'll recognize RESCENE's sound as soon as you hear it," Minami said. May added, "I think it will stay true to the direction RESCENE has taken."

"'PULSE' means a heartbeat, and I think the song can touch the hearts of listeners and fans," Woni said. "Even now, I get choked up when I listen to it and think about the lyrics." The members explained that the lyrics connect with the group's story while also allowing listeners to relate them to their own experiences.

RESCENE is a five-member girl group under THE MUZE ENTERTAINMENT that debuted in March 2024. The members gained attention through YouTube content showcasing their playful personalities, while "LOVE ATTACK" climbed into the upper ranks of the music charts long after its release.