A.C.E embarks on a bold new chapter with 'PINATA': shirtless teasers and wax visuals steal the spotlight

The group A.C.E has returned as a complete team for the first time in three years, exuding determination and passion.

On November 20th at 3 p.m., A.C.E held a showcase for their third single album, 'PINATA', at Ilji Art Hall in Gangnam, Seoul. This release marks their long-awaited comeback following their military service hiatus.

Member Kang Yuchan expressed his emotions, saying, "After completing our military service and finally coming back as a complete team, it’s moving. It feels special to be at a press showcase again, and we’ve poured everything into this album." Lee Donghun added, "Our goal post-military was to live busily, and we’ve done just that. It feels great to cap off this year with 'PINATA'."

Leader Park Junhee reflected, "Being a group for seven years and releasing another album as five members is truly fortunate. I’m grateful and happy for this opportunity."

Kim Byeongkwan shared his excitement, saying, "Since 2020, we haven’t released a powerful track like this. Having Yuchan back allows us to showcase strong performances, and I’m thrilled for these activities." Member Wow expressed similar enthusiasm, saying, "I’m thankful and excited to present something bold and cool."

'PINATA' draws inspiration from piñatas, used in celebrations in the U.S. and Latin America, symbolizing the release of human emotions like sadness and pain. The title track, inspired by Christopher Nolan’s film 'Tenet', delivers a cinematic experience akin to a blockbuster movie, complete with A.C.E’s signature conceptual allure and upgraded visuals.

The group took on various challenges, including a mega-crew performance for the intro and music video. Kang Yuchan explained, "This album represents a new beginning for us, and we incorporated large-scale performances to reflect that." The music video also features underwater scenes, which Park Junhee described as "challenging but rewarding, despite some mishaps during the shoot."

Prior to the release, A.C.E captured attention with daring teaser images featuring corsets, shirtless poses, and wax visuals. Kang Yuchan explained, "We tried a lot of new things this time. We trained hard and incorporated concepts like wax and partial undressing to fit the theme. It’s been rewarding to show how much we’ve grown."

Kim Byeongkwan also noted a shift in their approach, saying, "During our debut days, we went through extreme diets. Now, we focus on balanced nutrition and fitness."

Reflecting on their seven-year journey, Park Junhee acknowledged the challenges of balancing re-contracting and team dynamics. He said, "There’s still a thirst to achieve more. While we’re discussing plans with our company, we’re focusing on immediate goals, believing our efforts will lead to great results."

The group also addressed their nickname 'Jjan-i.C.E,' which reflects the struggles they’ve faced. Park Junhee shared, "The pandemic and military service came at a crucial time for us, but we’re determined to prove ourselves starting today." Kang Yuchan added, "Every time we thought things were improving, setbacks came, but we endured thanks to our fans and each other."

Kim Byeongkwan echoed the sentiment, saying, "Our perseverance came from mutual trust and confidence in our abilities. We were certain that our efforts would eventually shine through."