Wonyoung's XOXZ: Stage Outfits, Dance Moves, Vocal Evolution

Wonyoung started her K-pop journey at just thirteen years old as the youngest trainee on Produce 48, eventually becoming the center of project group IZ*ONE. Since then, she has evolved into a key member of IVE, who recently topped Melon HOT100 and secured positions on major domestic music charts with their hit single "XOXZ".

Released as part of IVE's fourth mini album "IVE SECRET" on August 25, 2025, "XOXZ" represents an IVE-style neologism meaning "I love you, good night, and meet you in your dreams". Through this dreamy concept, Wonyoung IVE has showcased a remarkable performance that highlights her growth since making her debut with the group on December 1, 2021. Furthermore, her stage presence, outfit selections, and vocal delivery have become significant talking points among fans.

Wonyoung’s XOXZ stage look: A visual standout

In the captivating performances of "XOXZ," Wonyoung emerges as a visual centerpiece, embodying the dreamlike essence of IVE's latest concept. Her stage presence combines elegance with a touch of mystery that perfectly complements the song's ethereal quality.

The concept behind the 'XOXZ' styling

The styling for "XOXZ" revolves around a dreamy, enchanting aesthetic that blends sophistication with youthful charm. Wonyoung's costumes feature flowing fabrics, delicate details, and a color palette dominated by soft pastels and occasional dramatic accents. These elements create a visual language that speaks to the song's otherworldly themes and emotional depth.

How Wonyoung's outfit choices reflect the song's theme

Her outfits mirror the track's lyrical message about love and dreams through thoughtful details. The flowing silhouettes evoke a sense of floating between reality and fantasy—a physical manifestation of the song's core concept. Moreover, the strategic use of shimmering accents captures light during performances, creating a magical aura that enhances the dreamlike atmosphere central to "XOXZ."

Comparing 'XOXZ' to past looks like 'Eleven'

In contrast to her previous concepts, particularly the bold, vibrant styling of "Eleven," Wonyoung's "XOXZ" appearance embraces subtlety and refinement. While "Eleven" showcased youthful exuberance through bright colors and playful elements, "XOXZ" reveals a more mature artistic direction. This evolution reflects not only the song's different thematic approach but also Wonyoung's growth as an artist who continues to explore diverse visual expressions.

Breaking down the choreography of 'XOXZ'

IVE's choreography for "XOXZ" combines powerful movements with dreamlike elements, creating a performance that perfectly balances intensity and mystery. The dance routine has quickly gained attention for its dynamic formations and symbolic gestures.

Signature moves and their meanings

The choreography features several distinctive moves that enhance the song's dreamy theme. The members execute powerful movements paired with vivid facial expressions, creating an atmosphere that feels like a live stage performance even in practice sessions. One standout element involves forming an 'X' with their hands—directly referencing the song's title—while incorporating sharp, precise arm movements. These gestures symbolically represent the song's central concept of crossing between reality and dreams.

Formation highlights: The 'X' and center walk

Among the most striking choreographic elements is when the members confidently stride toward the center while forming an 'X' shape with their hands. This forward walk emphasizes their long limbs and adds to the intense energy of the performance. Another spectacular formation occurs during the bridge section, where the members—centered around Liz—hold each other's arms and expand into a wide formation. This arrangement effectively underscores the mysterious, dream-themed atmosphere of "XOXZ".

Wonyoung's role in the group's dance dynamic

Despite the choreography's overall strength, Wonyoung's performance has received mixed reactions. Some observers note that her movements appear less energetic compared to other members. Particularly when the routine calls for hair flipping, her execution seems noticeably more restrained. The contrast becomes especially apparent when she performs alongside members like Gaeul, whose more powerful execution creates a visible energy disparity. Nevertheless, the overall choreography successfully balances cuteness with power, effectively capturing the edgy tones present in the music.

Vocal delivery and evolution in 'XOXZ'

"XOXZ" showcases a striking shift in IVE's vocal approach, embracing a minimalist style that perfectly complements the track's dreamlike concept.

Minimalist vocals and low-tone delivery

The song adopts a sparse production style where talking rather than traditional singing drives the chorus. This unconventional approach combines heavy 808 bass with low-pitched rap elements and minimalist vocals, creating a seductive, atmospheric sound. Unlike previous IVE tracks, "XOXZ" leans heavily on echoing beats and atmospheric vocals to establish its ethereal identity.

Wonyoung's vocal growth since debut

Wonyoung's vocal evolution has been remarkable. During her IZ*ONE days, she struggled with a nasal tone often caused by reaching extremely high notes. She once revealed having to "squeeze out" high notes for songs like "Panorama" at composers' requests. However, upon re-debuting with IVE, she worked closely with vocal trainers to embrace her natural voice. This conscious effort eliminated the pinched tone, resulting in a more authentic vocal delivery that Korean fans widely praised as "more natural and comfortable".

How her voice fits the dreamy tone of the track

Wonyoung's naturally deep vocal color perfectly aligns with "XOXZ" dreamy concept. Her unique belting style and sweet timbre easily draw in listeners. Consequently, her lower register delivery, coupled with subtle vocal fry, enhances the track's ethereal quality. As co-lyricist alongside Seo Ji Eum, she added personal authenticity that enriches the song's atmospheric experience.

The impact of 'XOXZ' on IVE’s image and Wonyoung’s role

"XOXZ" has rapidly shifted perceptions of IVE's musical identity, establishing them as versatile artists willing to explore unconventional sounds. The song's impact extends beyond music to reshape both the group's image and Wonyoung's position within it.

Chart performance and public reception

"XOXZ" dominated South Korean music charts immediately after release, topping the Melon HOT100 and securing prominent positions across major domestic platforms. The track's minimalist approach initially divided listeners—some praised its bold departure from typical K-pop formulas, while others found it jarring. Yet its streaming numbers grew steadily as audiences embraced its distinctive sound, ultimately earning acclaim for its artistic risk-taking.

Wonyoung's presence in music shows and content

Throughout "XOXZ" promotions, Wonyoung's stage presence evolved significantly. Her performance style became more nuanced, balancing subtle facial expressions with confident posture that perfectly captured the song's dreamy essence. On variety shows and behind-the-scenes content, she articulated thoughtful insights about the track's concept, demonstrating her artistic maturity and deeper involvement in interpreting IVE's musical direction.

How 'XOXZ' expands IVE's musical identity

Prior to "XOXZ," IVE had established themselves primarily through bright, energetic concepts. This release marks a pivotal expansion of their artistic range by introducing darker, more atmospheric elements into their discography. For Wonyoung specifically, the track offered an opportunity to showcase dimensions of her artistry previously unexplored—particularly her ability to convey emotion through understated performance rather than overt expressions or movements.