Why "Feel Good (Secret Code)" Became fromis_9 Members' Most Special Release

After an eternity in K-pop terms, fromis_9 members finally returned with "Feel Good (Secret Code)" following a 15-month hiatus. Released on September 16, 2020, this title track from their third mini-album "My Little Society" quickly became one of their most significant releases.

"Feel Good (Secret Code)" tells the story of experiencing the best mood possible with someone special by your side. The song earned an impressive 8.75/10 rating from critics, highlighting its quality and impact.

The comeback that changed everything

In the competitive K-pop landscape, a 15-month absence can feel like an eternity. For fromis_9 members, the lengthy gap between "FUN!" in June 2019 and "Feel Good (Secret Code)" in September 2020 represented a critical juncture in their career journey.

Why the 15-month hiatus mattered

The extended break posed significant challenges for fromis_9's career momentum. As noted by industry observers, "A long hiatus can be devastating for a group". This was particularly concerning because the group had been building solid momentum following their previous releases "Love Bomb" and "FUN!". Additionally, the situation became so frustrating that fans created dedicated hashtags on social media platforms with thousands of posts demanding Pledis to better manage the group.

The members themselves expressed dissatisfaction with their irregular comeback schedule. One member even went live to voice the group's collective frustrations about their infrequent releases. Subsequently, when they finally returned, fans noted that "The girls look so happy to be back doing what they love".

Impact of MNET controversies on fromis_9

Behind the scenes, fromis_9's hiatus coincided with significant industry turmoil. The group faced an "uncertain future" following investigations into MNET-led reality shows that revealed "heavy ethical and technical misconduct". Furthermore, the controversy directly impacted fromis_9 when the producer of "Idol School" admitted to manipulating votes to include three members who did not actually make the final ranking.

These revelations cast a shadow over the group's formation and likely contributed to their extended absence from the spotlight.

How 'Feel Good' marked a fresh start

Despite these challenges, "Feel Good" represented a turning point. The comeback was described as "a fantastic return to form" and allowed the group to embrace a more mature sound without abandoning their distinctive identity.

The release provided an opportunity for musical evolution, moving away from the "unrelentingly hyper" style of "FUN!" toward a more sophisticated approach. Consequently, the track marked an important milestone as the group entered their third year, proving they could successfully navigate both internal and external obstacles while staying true to their artistic vision.

A new sound: retro meets modern

"Feel Good (Secret Code)" marked a significant sonic evolution for fromis_9, embracing the retro revival trend that dominated K-pop in 2020. Unlike many groups that merely dabbled in throwback sounds, fromis_9 members fully committed to a fresh musical direction that showcased their growth as artists.

Funky instrumental and synth layers

The track's foundation rests on its distinctive rhythm guitar, which gives the song a "sprightly spirit" and "pure groove through and through". This guitar-driven approach provides an instantly recognizable sonic signature that sets the song apart from typical K-pop productions of the era.

Moreover, the production team skillfully incorporated retro synth elements that create a disco-charged atmosphere without falling into pure pastiche. The song opens with "a funky as hell instrumental, complimented by a filtered repetition of the tracks title", gradually building rather than immediately overwhelming listeners.

Departure from earlier styles like 'FUN'

"Feel Good" represents a deliberate pivot from the group's previous release "FUN!", which critics described as "an assaultive hook" and "almost overwhelming in its energy". In contrast, "Feel Good" embraces a more refined approach that allows individual vocal contributions to shine.

This evolution reflects the group's maturation, as they moved away from "classic bubbly pop to a more demure, but equally as bright, sound". The shift demonstrates that fromis_9 could evolve beyond the "cutesy and innocent concepts" that defined their earlier work.

How the production sets the tone

The production choices throughout "Feel Good" reveal sophisticated musical craftsmanship. Rather than following the typical K-pop structure with momentum-killing trap breakdowns, the song maintains its consistent groove. Notably, the song "continues to build and gain momentum instead of throwing it all away" during the second verse, where many contemporaries would insert a jarring style change.

This tightly constructed approach allows the song to remain "tautly constructed" throughout its runtime. The production balances lower tones in the verses with higher energy in the chorus, creating what one reviewer called "a subtle but appreciable amount of energy that doesn't overwhelm the listener".

Performance that brought the song to life

Beyond its catchy melody, the vocal performance of fromis_9 members elevated "Feel Good (Secret Code)" to something truly special. Their delivery showcased newfound confidence that perfectly complemented the song's sophisticated production.

Charisma in vocal delivery

The members delivered a remarkably balanced vocal performance throughout the track. They skillfully navigated between lower tones in the verses, which added a mature flair to the song, and higher registers in the chorus that injected energy without overwhelming listeners. Especially noteworthy was their use of vocal harmonies and overlays, making the choruses feel "very powerful and fulfilling".

The pre-chorus "Woo Hoo Hoo" sections were delivered with what critics described as "classy" precision, while the vocal melodies throughout created an instantly addictive quality. Park Jiwon's contributions, in particular, drew praise from reviewers who considered her "the best K-Pop girl group vocalist" of her generation.

Balancing maturity and energy

Throughout the song, fromis_9 members demonstrated their evolution by shifting "between mature and caffeinated vocal delivery with ease". This performance represented a conscious departure from their previous work, with the members adopting a more "subdued" approach compared to earlier releases.

Essentially, the group succeeded in presenting a more mature sound without sacrificing their signature brightness. Their performance felt less focused on aegyo (cuteness) and more on showcasing their vocal abilities, reflecting their growth as they entered their third year as a group.

Standout moments from individual members

The bridge section provided a particularly memorable highlight, with Song Hayoung and Jang Gyuri "absolutely smashing it" with smooth vocal delivery. Their performance blended perfectly with the groovy baseline, maintaining the soul of the song.

Alongside these standout moments, the track featured what fans appreciated as "mostly equal line distributions, giving the girls a chance to shine individually within the group". This approach allowed each member's unique vocal color to be appreciated, creating what one reviewer called "a mix of newfound maturity and the usual good-feeling music".

This performance approach proved successful—critics noted that "the members really do help cover up" any minor production flaws through their confident vocal delivery.

Lyrics that reflect a secret world

The lyrical universe of "Feel Good (Secret Code)" creates an intimate invitation into a personal sanctuary where fromis_9 members reveal a different side of themselves. Unlike their previous releases, this song constructs a metaphorical secret world where authenticity reigns supreme.

Themes of self-expression and freedom

At its core, the lyrics celebrate liberation from societal expectations. The opening line "Hello, come into my place" immediately establishes a personal invitation, followed by "My secret space" which sets up the central metaphor. The declaration "This is like my secret account" creates a digital-age metaphor for an authentic self hidden from public view. One of the most powerful lines, "You're free here, we all are," emphasizes how this secret space removes constraints, allowing both the fromis_9 members and their listeners to experience genuine freedom.

Symbolism in 'secret space' and 'rainbow in the sky'

Throughout the song, vivid imagery creates a dreamlike quality. The lyrics describe "My feeling is now a rainbow in the sky," using this colorful symbol to represent emotional liberation. Meanwhile, the "moon rising at noon" and "round door's shining light" create a surreal, almost magical atmosphere. The metaphor extends further with "I think it's a good emergency exit," suggesting this secret space serves as an escape from reality's pressures.

How the lyrics connect with fans emotionally

The lyrics forge a powerful emotional bond through affirmation. Lines like "You're beautiful here the way you are" create immediate connection by validating listeners' authentic selves. Furthermore, the repeated invitation to "Let me help you meet a little different me" establishes intimacy between fromis_9 members and their fans, offering mutual vulnerability. This creates what fans described as an emotional safe haven.

Use of repetition to build identity

The chorus anchors the song's identity through strategic repetition. The phrase "'Cause I feel so good" appears throughout, becoming the emotional centerpiece. Likewise, "Spin me around, spin me around" creates a hypnotic effect that reinforces the carefree atmosphere. These repetitive elements build a recognizable lyrical identity that reflects the group's evolution toward more sophisticated self-expression.