Quickly becoming a K-pop staple, Hearts2Hearts discuss their debut mini album FOCUS, a whirlwind 2025, and what’s on the bucket list.

A new undeniable force in the K-pop sphere, they may have only joined the movement in Feburary but rising octet Hearts2Hearts are becoming one of the hottest acts in the scene. Signed to SM Entertainment, they’ve just shared their debut mini album, FOCUS, which sees the eight members – Jiwoo, Carmen, Yuha, Stella, Juun, A-na, Ian and Ye-On – flaunt their individual skillset, whilst amalgamating a collective spirit and creative drive that sets them apart from the busy market. 

So, allow Wonderland to introduce you to the stars-in-waiting. Below, they chat about FOCUS, adjusting to life in the industry, becoming role models, and what’s to come in the new year.

Read the exclusive interview…

Tell us about your debut mini album, FOCUS. Where did the inspiration for the album come from, and what story did you hope to tell through it?

Jiwoo: Our first mini album FOCUS is like a snapshot of who Hearts2Hearts really are — colorful, bold, and a little bit unpredictable. Each track feels like a new filter on our personality. We wanted people to feel that moment when the world clicks its camera on us and goes, “Oh, that’s H2H.”

Ye-on: Our title track “FOCUS” captures the idea of the whole world turning its gaze toward Hearts2Hearts, literally and emotionally! It’s our first time diving into this sound, and I think fans will feel the spark of something new — the coolness, but also the charm and energy that make us us.

You’re signed under SM Entertainment, the powerhouse behind groups like aespa and NCT DREAM. What has it been like working with such a big label so early in your career?

Yuha: It still feels wild and surreal everytime I see SM senior artists who I grew up watching and listening to at the company. Sometimes I have to pretend to stay calm, but inside I’m like, “That’s really them!” It’s such an honor to even get to talk to them, hear their advice, and learn from how they carry themselves on and off stage. And working with SM’s amazing producers has been a dream too — they really bring out sides of us we didn’t even know we had.

A-na: Debuting under the same label as the legendary senior artists we respect so much feels incredibly special. Watching how much passion and energy they pour into every detail makes us want to level up and motivates us to keep working hard and to become artists who can inspire others in the same way. 

You’re just eight months into your debut, how are you adjusting to the idol lifestyle so far? 

Stella: It’s been a whirlwind, and everything still feels so new, but I’ve already learned so much. Sometimes I even forget that I’m an idol — it still feels so surreal. We’ve grown a lot over these past months, both as a team and as individuals. Seeing our fans’ support gives me so much energy and always reminds me why I wanted to do this in the first place.

Juun: It feels like we’ve been sprinting nonstop for the past eight months. In the beginning, everything was so new and unfamiliar that every day was filled with nerves and excitement. But over time, I’ve found my rhythm and started to feel more at ease — now, I can truly enjoy being on stage. Going forward, I want to keep growing both as a singer and an artist, and deliver performances that reflect how much I’ve evolved.

Do you ever get shy on camera or interviews, or does it feel natural?

Carmen: Of course I have! At first, I was really shy in front of the camera — I didn’t know what to do or how to react since I had no experience. But as time went on, I started getting used to it, and now it feels much more natural.

Ian: Sometimes my heart still races right before the red light turns on. But our members are always there to help. We’ve grown a lot by supporting and relying on one another. 

As idols, you’re seen as role models by fans all over the world. How do you handle that kind of responsibility, especially at this early stage in your career?

Jiwoo: It’s kind of magical — realizing that our songs or words can lift someone’s day. Even though we’re still at the very beginning of our journey and learning something new every day, I already feel a deep sense of responsibility. Knowing that our performances — or even just a few words — can bring someone strength or comfort makes me want to be an artist who always shares positivity and genuine warmth with others.

Yuha: For me, it feels less like pressure and more like gratitude. It’s such a gift to know that doing what I love can have a positive influence on someone else’s life. That thought always stays with me, and I hope to express that gratitude by giving my all on stage and continuing to grow through each performance.

When did you realise that music was something you truly loved? Was there a particular moment or age where it all clicked?

Carmen: My parents are musicians, so I grew up surrounded by music from a very young age. I realized early on that music makes me genuinely happy. Whenever I feel tired, I listen to music, sing, or play the piano — it always lifts my spirits. I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember, and for me, it’s truly become a part of my life.

Stella: Ever since I was little, I loved to sing and dance. I was in my school’s choir and band and loved anything music related! Over the years my passion for music grew and I knew I wanted to become an idol.

Individually, how do you balance your personal growth with the demands of being in a group? Has being a part of Hearts2Hearts changed you in any ways?

A-na: Whenever I feel there’s something I could improve in my vocals or performance, I naturally find myself practicing more — even without anyone saying a word. We all share that quiet determination. For me personally, being part of Hearts2Hearts has made me much more detail-oriented. I’ve learned how even the smallest things can make a performance shine, and that focus on detail has become a big part of who I am as an artist.

Ian: We’re always talking with each other, sharing thoughts, exchanging feedback, and really listening. I think Hearts2Hearts has grown into the group it is today because every member takes that feedback with genuine gratitude and turns it into motivation to improve. Seeing that kind of dedication in one another constantly inspires me to do better too.

Your recent music video for “Pretty Please” has already hit nearly 8 million views in just three weeks! How did it feel to see such an overwhelming fan reaction so quickly? 

Juun: More than anything, I’m incredibly grateful for all the love our music has received. We’ll keep working hard to create music and performances that truly live up to our fans’ expectations.

Ye-on: I’m so thankful for all the love and support so many people have shown us. The response to “Pretty Please” has been amazing, and it makes me want to give back even more through powerful performances and music that our fans can feel proud of.

Is there a particular genre or style of music that you’re curious to explore in your future projects? Anything outside your current sound that excites you?

Jiwoo: I’m obsessed with SMP — that bold, punchy SM sound. And I’d love to show our take on the SMP genre more. Just like how “FOCUS”, our cool and chic house track, revealed a different side of us from “The Chase” and “STYLE”, I want to present a new, more powerful image of Hearts2Hearts through the bold and energetic sound of SMP.

A-na: Hearts2Hearts’ music is all about capturing different emotions through various genres, and I think that’s what makes our sound truly unique. We’re constantly exploring new ways to express ourselves, so I hope everyone looks forward to the music we’ll share next.

You recently performed in London for SMTOWN, your first time on stage in the UK! What was that experience like, and how did it feel to connect with international fans live?

Juun: Sharing a stage with our SM seniors, whom we deeply respect, was a total “pinch me” moment. Watching how they connected with the audience through their music and created a sense of togetherness was truly inspiring. It made me want Hearts2Hearts to grow into a team that not only enjoys every moment on stage but also moves people through sincere and powerful performances.

Ian: The SMTOWN stage in London is something I’ll never forget! The energy from the fans, their cheers and singalongs were incredible. The weather was beautiful that day too, which somehow made the whole experience even more special and memorable.

What does a typical day in the life of Hearts2Hearts look like, from training and schedules to downtime?

Yuha: When we have free time, I love going on walks with the members. We listen to music, talk about everything and nothing, and just enjoy those quiet moments together — it’s how I de-stress and recharge. On days without official schedules, we usually spend our time practicing and focusing on our teamwork, making sure we stay perfectly in sync as a group.

Stella: Our days are always full! On some days we will have vocal or dance practice, and others involve recording, rehearsals, or content shoots. When we have breaks, we like to eat together, chat, and go on walks, almost like a family. Being with my members definitely makes me excited and ready every day.

Looking ahead, what are you most looking forward to in the next 12 months?

Carmen: In the next twelve months, I really hope Hearts2Hearts can go on our first concert tour. More than anything, I want our music to reach more people and to become something that can inspire someone out there.

Ye-on: Our biggest goal this year is to win the Rookie of the Year award. It’s such a special milestone, since you can only receive it once in your career. We’ve been pouring our hearts into every practice and performance, doing our best to turn that dream into reality.

What advice would you give to young people who dream of becoming singers or idols one day?

Jiwoo: The path may not always be easy, but I truly believe that hard work always finds its way back to you. There will be moments when you feel like giving up, but when that happens, try to remember how you felt when you first started — that spark, that excitement. That feeling will always guide you forward.

Yuha: I’m still learning and growing myself, but if there’s one thing I’d like to tell anyone chasing their dream, it’s to trust yourself and keep going. Everyone blooms differently, so trust your pace and don’t rush your season. If you love what you’re doing and keep at it, one day, you’ll be standing on the stage you’ve always dreamed of.