Ryu Sujeong 'NEW CAR': A Fresh Musical Direction That Surprised Everyone

Ryu Sujeong's "NEW CAR" marked a significant turning point in the South Korean singer-songwriter's career when it was released on July 25, 2025. The third mini album in her discography represented more than just new music—it symbolized a fresh beginning.

Notably, this extended play was Ryu Su-jeong's first release after departing from her previous management company, Artist Rider. The album, distributed by Dreamus under her new label House Of Dreams, consists of five tracks including the title track "New Car". Furthermore, the collection showcases a surprising musical direction that captivated fans, with "NEW CAR" lyrics reflecting her artistic evolution.

The story behind 'NEW CAR'

The journey of "NEW CAR" began with a significant career shift for Ryu Sujeong. Her artistic evolution took a dramatic turn in mid-2025, setting the stage for what would become one of her most personal releases to date.

Departure from Artist Rider

On June 30, 2025, Artist Rider officially announced that their management contract with Ryu Sujeong's independent label House of Dreams had concluded the previous day. This separation came after extensive discussions based on mutual trust built throughout their partnership. According to the company's statement, both parties decided to "support each other's future paths". Artist Rider had previously provided comprehensive services including production, management, and intellectual property business for Ryu's label.

Founding of House of Dreams

Prior to this transition, Ryu Sujeong had established House of Dreams in 2022 as her personal one-woman agency. This bold move followed her departure from Woollim Entertainment in November 2021, after Lovelyz went on indefinite hiatus when the members' contracts expired. The independent label was created specifically to "turn her diverse musical dreams into a reality" and to establish "a space where everyone could dream". Under this banner, she explored various musical styles ranging from alternative rock to dark pop, building her unique identity as a solo artist.

Announcement and teaser timeline

Following her departure from Artist Rider, Ryu wasted no time in moving forward with new music. On July 7, House of Dreams officially announced that Ryu Sujeong would release her third mini album "NEW CAR" on July 25. The promotional campaign included a highlight medley and music video teaser leading up to the release. This announcement generated considerable excitement among fans, as it represented Ryu's first completely independent project since establishing full control of her label.

Creative direction and production

Behind the artistic reinvention of "NEW CAR" stands Ryu Sujeong herself, taking complete ownership of her musical identity through hands-on involvement in every aspect of production.

Ryu Sujeong's role as producer

For "NEW CAR," Ryu stepped fully into the role of Executive Producer, controlling the album's creative direction from start to finish. This level of involvement represented a significant evolution in her artistic journey. As confirmed in an interview with HallyuTones, she was "closely involved in the production and visual direction for the EP". Moreover, her name appears prominently in the production credits, where she contributed as both songwriter and composer across all five tracks.

Visual and musical concept

The visual aesthetic of "NEW CAR" reflected Ryu's personal vision, with album art designed by herself alongside Ryu Suyeon. Additionally, the photography credited to Kim Kyungmin, Ryu Suyeon, and Ryu Sujeong herself demonstrates her comprehensive involvement in crafting the album's visual identity. Musically, the project embraces retro elements with "pitch-perfect 80's synth" and a "sprightly pace" that critics described as "disarmingly old-school in the best way".

Collaboration with Dolly and Jade

Two key collaborators helped bring Ryu's vision to life. Dolly (황현성) contributed significantly as composer and arranger, particularly on the title track "NEW CAR" and the opener "Bad Bye". Meanwhile, JADE handled arrangement duties on "비바람" alongside sound design elements. Both artists supported Ryu's vision while allowing her artistic voice to remain at the forefront of the project.

Track-by-track breakdown

Ryu Sujeong's mini-album unfolds like a musical journey through five distinct tracks, each showcasing different facets of her artistic vision and emotional range.

1. Bad Bye – Emotional closure

Opening the album, "Bad Bye" (3:04) delivers a cathartic breakup anthem that refuses the notion of an amicable split. Instead of wishing for "good memories only," the track boldly declares this is a "Really Bad Bye!" With lyrics that oscillate between wit and sharp commentary, Sujeong creates a satisfying musical response to relationship trauma. The song culminates in a guitar solo that embodies the emotional release of finally speaking one's truth to someone who caused pain.

2. New Car – Title track and theme

The title track "NEW CAR" (3:20) serves as the album's thematic centerpiece with its retro 80's synth soundscape and energetic rhythm. Essentially functioning as a musical road trip, the song encourages listeners to forget their worries and drive toward what makes them happy. Critics praised its "sprightly pace" and "fully fleshed out" structure that feels "disarmingly old-school in the best way."

3. Bibaram – Atmospheric storytelling

"Bibaram" (2:51), meaning "rain and wind" in Korean, tells the story of an unexpectedly ruined perfect day. The track defies genre categorization by blending jazz foundations with shoegaze and alternative elements. Its unconventional structure allows Sujeong to showcase her quirky yet lovable artistic persona while creating an atmospheric musical experience.

4. Venus & a Bowl Soup – Experimental tones

Perhaps the most experimental offering, "Venus & a Bowl Soup" (3:20) explores an impossible relationship between two fundamentally different people. Inspired by dialogue from "Gilmore Girls," the juxtaposition in the title cleverly represents incompatible lovers. Restrained drum patterns evoke a rapidly beating heart during serious reflection, while the lyrics acknowledge the inevitable end of a relationship that began with attraction to differences.

5. Beautiful – A soft landing

Concluding the EP, "Beautiful" (3:01) offers gentle reassurance to listeners feeling anxious or overwhelmed. With the comforting message "It's okay, you're doing well," the song affirms that falling down doesn't prevent getting back up. Despite its simple lyrics, melody, and instrumentation, the track delivers Sujeong's sincere belief that all existence is precious and beautiful—a fitting conclusion to her musical journey.

Reception and performance

Upon release, "NEW CAR" made modest commercial impact while garnering positive critical reception, establishing Ryu Sujeong's new artistic direction in the K-pop landscape.

Chart rankings and sales

The mini-album debuted at #42 on the South Korean Albums Chart (Circle), continuing Ryu's consistent presence in the Korean music market. In terms of physical sales, "NEW CAR" moved 2,524 copies in South Korea, with first-day Hanteo sales of 191 copies and first-week sales reaching 2,755 copies. Although these figures represent a slight decline from her debut mini-album "Tiger Eyes" (which sold 12,208 copies), they demonstrate a loyal fanbase following her artistic evolution.

Fan reactions and reviews

Critics praised the album's retro sound, with music blog TheBiasList highlighting how the title track's "pitch-perfect 80's synth" offered "an exciting riff that gets the song off on a sprightly pace". Reviewers particularly appreciated Sujeong's "gorgeous vocals" that "wrap around this beat with plenty of character". Online reactions echoed this sentiment, with fans expressing particular appreciation for her vocal performance and the album's production quality.

Live promotions and concert tie-ins

Following the release, Ryu supported the album with several promotional appearances, most notably her "NEW CAR TOKYO DRIVE" fan meeting held in Tokyo on September 23, 2025. This event marked her second solo fan meeting abroad, further expanding her international reach. Domestically, she performed at various venues throughout 2025, including university festivals and military consolation events.