Why Hearts2Hearts "Style" Is Breaking K-pop Music Standards

K-pop sensation Hearts2Hearts surprised fans with their bright and poppy single "Style," released on June 18, 2025, marking a dramatic departure from their previous work. While their debut wrapped the group in a moody haze, "Style" bursts with sunshine and energy, creating perhaps the biggest contrast imaginable in their discography.

This unexpected shift raises interesting questions about the future direction of the k-pop group and their artistic evolution. "Style" arrives at a particularly opportune moment, as 2025 has seen very few summer-themed k-pop songs thus far. Though critics note the track's somewhat generic qualities, it successfully fills a void in the current k-pop landscape, earning automatic goodwill from listeners. Lyrically, the song explores the curiosity and ambiguous feelings one experiences toward someone with an unwavering style, adding depth to what has quickly become a fan favorite among k-pop enthusiasts.

From 'The Chase' to 'Style': A Bold Shift in Sound

February marked Hearts2Hearts' entrance into the k-pop scene with "The Chase," a debut single wrapped in atmospheric mystery. However, their June comeback "Style" represents a complete musical pivot that showcases the group's versatility and strategic positioning in the crowded k-pop market.

How 'Style' contrasts with Hearts2Hearts' debut

"The Chase" introduced the eight-member group with a cinematic experience featuring high-energy dance-pop, sharp choreography, and synchronized performances. The track maintained a dreamy, mysterious atmosphere that established Hearts2Hearts' initial identity as a group with chic sophistication.

In contrast to their debut, "Style" emerges as a completely different musical direction. The new single trades mystery for sunshine, featuring an upbeat dance track built around a bouncy rhythm and groovy bass line. Indeed, Yuha, one of the members, noted that "Style" specifically "highlights a bright and quirky side of the group" as opposed to "the mysterious and chic side" presented in their debut.

Furthermore, the production choices reflect this tonal shift. Where "The Chase" embraced atmospheric synths and dramatic elements, "Style" emphasizes the "youthful and refreshing vocal tone" of the members. Even their visual concept underwent transformation – moving from the mysterious aesthetic of their debut to classic school uniforms that amplify their "lovable and wholesome image".

Why this change matters in the K-pop landscape

This bold sonic pivot arrives just four months after Hearts2Hearts' February 24 debut, demonstrating SM Entertainment's confidence in showcasing the group's range early in their career. Moreover, as SM's first new girl group in five years since aespa, Hearts2Hearts faces significant pressure to carve out their unique identity.

Subsequently, "Style" positions the group strategically within the k-pop ecosystem. By demonstrating versatility between just their first and second releases, Hearts2Hearts follows the tradition of legendary SM girl groups like Girls' Generation and Red Velvet, from whom they draw influence.

Notably, this shift addresses some criticisms of their debut. "The Chase" was described by some critics as "underwhelming" for a debut track, with complaints about its "empty" quality. "Style" addresses these concerns by delivering a more defined sound and concept that could potentially cement their place among fifth-generation k-pop groups.

The Musical DNA of 'Style'

Musically, "Style" emerges as a carefully crafted summer anthem built around clean production and infectious energy. The song establishes Hearts2Hearts' versatility through distinct sonic elements that set it apart in the crowded k-pop landscape.

Upbeat tempo and groovy bassline

At its foundation, "Style" rides on slick disco-pop grooves and a bassline that compels physical movement. Unlike the atmospheric production of their debut, this track maintains a crisp, danceable beat throughout without losing its momentum. The percolating dance rhythm bears resemblance to RIIZE's "Impossible," although with its own distinct character. Essentially, the song's straightforward execution carries an undeniable charm that propels it forward.

The upbeat tempo creates what member Yuha described as a "perfect fit for the summer season," delivering a refreshing energy appropriate for warm weather playlists. Additionally, the rhythmic structure establishes a natural ease, "like a conversation that starts without a script," creating an effortless listening experience despite its high-energy approach.

Vocal layering and harmonies

What distinguishes "Style" vocally is how Hearts2Hearts resists the saccharine affectations often associated with similar k-pop tracks. Their performances add natural sweetness while maintaining vocal authenticity. The song features strategic vocal layering where no member competes for the spotlight—instead, they pass energy between verses and choruses with remarkable cohesion.

Some listeners have noted subtle influences of PinkPantheress in the vocal delivery, particularly in how the harmonies stack during chorus sections. The arrangement also demonstrates SM Entertainment's trademark approach to vocal production, with carefully placed harmonies and countermelodies that create dimension without overcrowding the mix.

Production choices that stand out

"Style" was crafted by an impressive production team including GRAMMY-nominated songwriter Mike Daley alongside Mitchell Owens, Adrian McKinnon, and Sara Forsberg. Their collective experience spanning both k-pop giants like SHINee and Girls' Generation as well as Western artists like Lady Gaga contributes to the song's polished sound.

What separates this production from other k-pop releases is its intentional simplicity. Rather than overwhelming listeners with complex arrangements, "Style" keeps things clean but not sterile. The catchy "du-du-du" post-chorus exemplifies this approach—simple yet immediately memorable. Furthermore, the production balances modern pop sensibilities with subtle nods to early 2000s Disney-esque pop sounds, creating nostalgic familiarity within a contemporary framework.

Breaking the Mold: What Makes 'Style' Different

In a saturated k-pop market, Hearts2Hearts' "Style" stands out by breaking industry conventions in several key ways. The group's comeback challenges the typical formulas that dominate today's scene, where "every group fulfills every possible theme, genre and concept".

Rejecting overproduction for simplicity

Unlike many contemporary k-pop songs that layer production elements to the point of saturation, "Style" takes a refreshingly minimalist approach. The track features a straightforward dance beat with "cheerful rhythm and lively vocals" that doesn't overwhelm listeners with unnecessary complexity. This intentional simplicity stands in stark contrast to the industry trend of overproduction that often characterizes rookie groups trying to make an immediate impact.

Hearts2Hearts demonstrates that impact can come from clarity rather than complexity. Their approach challenges the notion that k-pop must be "manufactured" or "autotuned to death" to succeed. Instead, "Style" proves that distinct vocal tones and natural performances can create a memorable listening experience without excessive production tricks.

A fresh take on the 'cute concept'

"Style" reinterprets the traditional cute concept prevalent among k-pop girl groups. Where groups like Twice, Red Velvet, and GFRIEND established the cute aesthetic with "bright, playful visuals, cheerful music, and youthful themes", Hearts2Hearts adds depth by embedding a message of self-expression within their bright sound.

The song carries the meaningful message that "Just as I like your style as it is, you will love Hearts2Hearts' own style". This emphasis on authenticity transforms what could be a generic cute concept into "an anthem for self-expression", giving the track emotional substance beyond its upbeat surface.

Subtle nods to early 2000s pop

"Style" cleverly incorporates Y2K musical influences that have recently regained popularity in k-pop. The track follows a trend where "old-school sounds are making a comeback", featuring elements reminiscent of early 2000s pop music. Nevertheless, unlike groups that heavily lean on nostalgia, Hearts2Hearts integrates these influences subtly while maintaining a contemporary sound.

This approach positions the group alongside peers like NewJeans and XG who have successfully incorporated Y2K aesthetics while creating something fresh. For Hearts2Hearts, these nostalgic elements serve as accent points rather than the core of their identity, allowing them to acknowledge musical history while forging their own path forward.

Cultural Impact and Fan Reception

The release of "Style" has generated diverse reactions across the k-pop community, reflecting the song's bold departure from Hearts2Hearts' debut sound.

How fans are responding to the new sound

Fan reception to "Style" has been notably mixed compared to their debut. While some listeners appreciate the refreshing summer vibe, others have expressed that it lacks the immediate impact expected from an SM Entertainment group. On social media platforms, fans have been divided—some praising the track's "enjoyable harmonies" and "coherent style," while others describe it as merely "fine but not unforgettable". First impressions suggest that the group's pivot toward a brighter concept has caught some followers by surprise, especially those who connected with the mystique of "The Chase."

Comparisons to other K-pop groups and songs

Meanwhile, industry observers frequently position Hearts2Hearts against KiiiKiii, another emerging girl group in the fifth-generation k-pop landscape. According to music critic Ha Jae-geun, "Following aespa and IVE, the success of Hearts2Hearts and KiiiKiii is a battle tied to their agencies' brand value". Hearts2Hearts' "Style" draws comparisons to NewJeans' approachable aesthetic, yet with SM's characteristic polished execution. In fact, this pattern of evolution mirrors what culture critics identify as the "hallyu" phenomenon—where k-pop groups continuously reinvent themselves to maintain global relevance.

What this means for Hearts2Hearts' future

Given these points, "Style" represents a critical juncture for the group's identity formation. Commercially, Hearts2Hearts has demonstrated potential—their debut sold 231,648 copies on the first day, achieving the second-highest debut sales for a k-pop girl group after NewJeans. At the same time, their ability to execute different concepts so early suggests versatility that could become their signature strength. As member Jiwoo noted, rather than feeling competitive pressure, they aim to "share a positive influence" within the industry. Altogether, how fans ultimately embrace "Style" will likely determine whether Hearts2Hearts continues exploring bright concepts or returns to their mysterious origins for their next comeback.