When a comeback is announced, you know Stray Kids are about to shower the internet with content, and nothing quite compares to the emotion and excitement of getting that trailer notification, clicking on the video, and discovering for the first time the concept to announce the music that is about to change your life. Stray Kids have absolutely mastered the art, giving us some of the most beautiful, iconic, fun, and unforgettable comeback trailers. We’re here to look back at the ones that live rent-free in our minds.
NOEASY
The experience of the NOEASY trailer is unlike any other. To this day, we’re confident in saying it’s one of the best pieces of content Stray Kids has ever put out. After 11 months without a comeback, NOEASY was one of the most anticipated comebacks of the year, and this was the perfect trailer. Coming off their win in Kingdom and their iconic Deadpool-inspired performance, the trailer for NOEASY has the same funny, action-packed Marvel-like atmosphere, where Stray Kids have to fight the sound monster. It’s full of Easter eggs and witty jokes, and it genuinely feels like the trailer for a superhero movie. While ‘Thunderous‘ as a song may not have followed the storyline, Stray Kids made sure to bring it back for the music video of ‘Christmas EveL‘ and even their 2021 MAMA performance. It simply rewired our brains.
ODDINARY
We all remember where we were when Stray Kids dropped the trailer for ODDINARY – probably because most of us were watching the end of the fan meeting live stream in 2022. This trailer gave us Hyunjin with red hair, and that alone puts it in the hall of fame. But even that aside, there are so many elements about this trailer that make it so unforgettable, from the styling to the storyline and cinematography. This trailer gave every member their own special styling, character, and unique imagery. Mixing Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, The Matrix, and Death Note together yielded an obscure, strange, unsettling trailer that would set the perfect atmosphere for the ODDINARYmini-album.
MAXIDENT
In contrast to ODDINARY‘s darkness, MAXIDENT was bright and youthful. The trailer is something they had never done before and never did again. Shot in the streets of New York, Stray Kids gave us the ultimate coming-of-age aesthetic, with a gorgeous color palette and a showcase of their chemistry not as a group but as friends. MAXIDENT had a twist at the end, and it introduced, in the most surprising way, one of the most iconic characters in the Stray Kids universe—Heart Tung. MAXIDENT trailer, you will always be famous.
5-STAR
There are no words to capture just how iconic the 5-STAR trailer was. It shook the world, and it’s no surprise this is their most-watched trailer. Giving every member their own setting and spotlight, 5-STAR presented all Stray Kids in all their glory—from the fun atmosphere to impressive looks—reflecting their individuality, boldness, and unique personalities. With a trailer like this, the world should’ve known Stray Kids were about to shake everything with their album.
DO IT
Similarly to ODDINARY, Stray Kids revealed the trailer for DO IT at the end of a concert—this time, it was the grand finale of their biggest tour yet, the dominATE World Tour. But DO IT has a trailer like no other. Stray Kids fully embrace symbolism and breathtaking artistic choices. With a black-and-white palette, the DO IT trailer gives off horror excellence. It is an aesthetic that Stray Kids had never tried and yet, unsurprisingly, it fits them like a glove. Every frame of the DO IT trailer makes it a simple masterpiece. It took seconds for us to add it at the top of the list of Stray Kids‘ best trailers. We’re counting down the days for the comeback on November 21st to see how this gorgeous, horrific aesthetic translates to the music. One thing we know is that it’ll change our lives.
Which Stray Kids trailer is your favorite? Which song out of DO IT are you the most excited to listen to? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
Stray Kids‘ Han has written so many songs on his own or with 3RACHA that there’s a song for everyone, and more specifically for every sign in the zodiac. Han‘s way with words, emotions, and music is genius and mindblowing every time; his songs always hit the hardest – whether it’s the very emotional ones or the confident, hard-hitting tracks. To celebrate the versatility and variety in his music, we’re here to match a Hanpop song to every single sign in the zodiac!
Aries – ‘Bounce Back’ (HOP, 2024)
Aries are many things, but they’re never going to stay quiet. They’re bold, ambitious, strong, resilient, and always speak up for themselves to stand their ground. As the first fire sign in the zodiac, of course, Aries had to be represented by something loud, unapologetic, and confident. ‘Bounce Back’ is all about Stray Kids‘ never-ending resilience and their confidence as they go against the odds and become stronger with every hit. Aries vibes all over this witty, unforgettable track.
Taurus – ’19’ (Clé 1: MIROH, 2019)
If you’ve tuned in before, you would know Taurus already has an assigned Han song in our “Which Stray Kids Song Are You Based on Your Zodiac Sign” article. While ‘Sunshine’ remains very much a Taurus song, so is ’19.’ Tauruses are reliable, dependable, and always ready to lend a helping hand to those around them. They bring stability, serenity, support, and comfort to everyone they love. But when their own stability is shaken, it can be a difficult time and a frightening situation. In ’19,’ Han portrays the struggle of change and growing up perfectly, and it resonates with a sign like Taurus. But it’s also a good reminder that change can be good.
Gemini – ‘CHILL’ (MAXIDENT, 2022)
Yes, we know, ‘CHILL’ is in the unholy trinity of what Stray Kids call the bad guys song. But we also know Geminis don’t have the best reputations. That is not the only reason why these two match perfectly. Geminis are often misinterpreted as two-faced, when in reality they simply are complex signs that juggle various passions and interests with their wit. Just like Geminis, ‘CHILL‘ is a song that is difficult to place in just one box. It’s complex in both its melodies and its message, but just like Geminis, it’s a straightforward song that says things the way they need to be said and heard, even when it’s hard.
Cancer – ‘Maybe’ (2024)
‘Maybe’ is one of our absolute favorite Hanpop songs and one of the most special when it comes to sound. It’s soft, cozy, yet full of emotions, and carries a beautiful message. Han explores in this song the idea of finding comfort in sharing struggles with people who have been through similar experiences. The road can be challenging, but mirroring your emotions with the people who have been there before can be a great way out. There is no sign more empathic than Cancer, and sometimes they can get lost in all the emotions, but ‘Maybe’ shows how empathy can help you navigate the darkest places.
Leo – ‘GET LIT’ (5-STAR, 2023)
It’s an understatement to say Leos are passionate. They’re intense in the best way possible, and you will never meet anyone who is more free-spirited than they are. ‘GET LIT‘ fits their immense power and electric personalities perfectly. ‘GET LIT’ is all about enjoying life to the fullest while being your most confident self. The Korean title translates literally to “let’s die,” an expression used to cheer. If one sign is going to go that hard with the way they experience life, it’s Leos. Also, the English title refers to fire; of course, there’s no one but Leos who could do this explosive song justice.
Virgo – ‘Hold My Hand’ (HOP, 2024)
Just like Taurus, we have already associated Virgos with ‘Slump,’ but of course, they match theHanpop song. With Han being a Virgo himself, you can find Virgo energy in all of his music. But, of course, ‘Hold My Hand‘ fits Han the most as much as it fits Virgos the most. There’s a side of Virgos that is hardworking and diligent, but Virgos are also incredibly supportive friends. They’re always ready to help and translate that hard work into supporting the people around them. ‘Hold My Hand‘ is a song about self-discovery and being gentler with oneself, but it’s also a massive hug for anyone who hears it. It’s a perfect reflection of Virgos and their outlook on life.
Libra – ‘Another Day’ (GO LIVE, 2020)
Libras seek balance and harmony in everything they do, which also makes them the most sophisticated sign in the zodiac. A song like ‘Another Day,’ which is subtle, quiet, and has beautiful imagery, fits them perfectly. The correlation can also be observed in the song’s meaning. ‘Another Day’ is a beautifully written song about feeling lonely in your daily routine and pretending to be okay. In many ways, it embodies how Libras strive to please everyone around them and often end up feeling lonely; however, it’s essential to take care of yourself and know you’re not alone.
Scorpio – ‘VOLCANO’ (2023)
Matching Scorpios with ‘VOLCANO’ is more than evident. Just like Scorpios, ‘VOLCANO‘ is intense, full of fire, but also full of care and love – because yes, Scorpios are water signs after all. Truth is that no one will love you and stick with you through the darkest of times quite like a Scorpio. Once a Scorpio picks you, they will do anything for you. They’re calculative, and nothing is ever an accident with Scorpios; their unconditional love is always on purpose. ‘VOLCANO’ embodies this in both its lyrics, explosive vocals, and addictive melodies.
Sagittarius – ‘RUN’ (SKZ-REPLAY, 2022)
Sagittarius is often represented as being afraid of commitment and ready to run, but the truth behind that is that they’re curious at their core. They want to see the world, they want to learn about everything there is to learn. ‘RUN‘ is a vulnerable song about running away from suffering, but it’s also a song full of hope where other options are always in front of you. While their non-commitment is usually seen as a problem, Sagittariuses know when to walk away and choose what’s better for them.
Capricorn – ‘I SEE’ (3DAYS, 2017)
‘I SEE’ is a major throughback, but a necessary one. Capricorns are the embodiment of ambition and determination. They would do anything to reach their goals and their dreams. ‘I SEE‘ is an early Han solo song released in 3RACHA‘s second mixtape, 3DAYS. It’s a song where you can feel the youthful burning passion in his voice and lyrics, as well as the well-thought-out ideas and his vision for the future, and compassion for the people surrounding and supporting him. This is a Capricorn song through and through.
Aquarius – ‘I GOT IT’ (2020)
The last air sign is the most free-spirited and unique one. Aquarius doesn’t succumb to rules or standards. They’re not only breaking every expectation and innovating every idea, but Aquariuses are also ready to break the system and are probably the most likely to start a rebellion. What better song to fit that side to Aquarius than ‘I GOT IT?’ This roast song is bold and does not hold back. Han put it all out on the table, didn’t meet a single boundary he didn’t break, and left everyone speechless.
Pisces – ‘HaPpY’ (2021)
Like Cancer, Pisces are very empathetic people. They feel everything around them, and they sometimes sacrifice their own well-being for the sake of those around them. ‘HaPpY‘ is exactly about that. The song is full of yearning and can be summarized in its main lyrics: “Please be happy out there.” Just like Pisces, ‘HaPpY’ is about leaving your own happiness aside and wishing for those you love well, even if it’s away from you and even if you still wish for them to come back.
What are your big three in Hanpop songs? What song written by Han do you relate to the most? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
It’s been over a year since Stray Kids’ last proper comeback with ATE in July 2024. Since then, it’s been non-stop between going on their biggest tour yet with the dominATE World Tour, releasing a special album with HOP at the end of last year, their unit songs in Mixtape: dominATE, having two Japanese comebacks, including their second full-length Japanese album with GIANT, and their masterpiece of a mini-album with Hollow, and all that while breaking records left and right. 2025 has been a busy year for Stray Kids, but it hasn’t been a quiet one. Yet, we knew what it would all eventually lead to, and after months of spoilers at concerts that left us looking like idiots, one of the most anticipated releases of the year is finally here: KARMA.
They already had us screaming the word ‘karma’ at the top of our lungs at every stop of their tour when they performed ‘TOPLINE,’ but now the word truly has earned its own meaning and special spot in Stray Kids history. And here’s how.
Image source: JYP Entertainment
‘CEREMONY’
Stray Kids have a lot to celebrate after over seven years as a group: music show wins, awards, record-breaking achievements, a perfect discography, a contract renewal, and a team that is ready to continue taking over the world. And this is precisely what ‘CEREMONY’ is about.
While ‘CEREMONY’ screams Stray Kids and has the sound that makes them so unique, it also feels fresh and new, especially with its production, which blends trap beats with EDM, and the melodies they deliver. With less than three minutes, there are still so many details in the track to unpack, from the “no one, nobody can stop me” detail at the end of Changbin‘s verse, or Han giving us one of his most special raps in a title track. It also wouldn’t be a Stray Kids song without witty word plays, and here the most significant one is between ‘karma’ and ‘calmer.’ And the reference to a ‘ratio’ is one of the most iconic things 3RACHA has ever written.
Tied together by a sports concept, ‘CEREMONY’ possesses a unique energy that celebrates achievements, hard work, and passion. ‘CEREMONY’ is infectious with how positive it is – listening to this alone will make you feel like good things are coming your way. There’s nothing to worry about when you put good things into the universe, and moving past their struggles, Stray Kids found the other side brighter than anyone else.
KARMA includes two additional versions of ‘CEREMONY’: the English version, but most importantly, the Festival version. We could never forget the impact of the Festival version of ‘Chk Chk Boom,’ but this new remix is out of this world. Stray Kids makes it feel like we’re already at a rave. It’s a version that isn’t afraid to fully embrace EDM and electronic elements, serving a song that stands on its own outside of the original. Versachoi really outdid himself and proved, again, how remixes can really blow your mind.
KARMA
KARMA is not just a simple comeback; it’s also Stray Kids’ fourth full-length album, following some of their most iconic and groundbreaking releases: GO LIVE, NOEASY, and 5-STAR. It’s no problem to follow up such monumental releases because Stray Kids know how to deliver an album that is both cohesive and explores different styles, themes, and influences to create something unique that only they could do. KARMA celebrates their path, and it’s deeply influenced by everything that has happened in their career and carries messages of hope, heartbreak, and power. And as expected: it’s incredible.
Image source: Spotify
‘BLEEP’
Stray Kids start off KARMA with an absolute banger – or rather a slap, if you will. One thing about Stray Kids is that they consistently know how to open an album, and ‘BLEEP’ does the job extremely well, being one of the biggest highlights of the album. ‘BLEEP’ is the older sister of ‘CHEESE,’ incorporating more hip-hop elements to make a track that feels darker, bolder, and even more confident. With one single track, Stray Kids have already established their confidence, their never-ending passion, and their unique identity. The build-up to the last chorus is an experience that cannot be described and is already one of the best moments in the entire album – the production is intense. They didn’t hold back in any aspect with ‘BLEEP,’ whether it’s rap, production, or lyrics: this is Stray Kids.
‘BLEEP’ is a track that shuts down and dismisses all the mindless hatred thrown at them, making it the perfect track to embody KARMA and transition into celebrating everything they’ve become by being better people.
‘CREED’
If you’re still listening to 3RACHA‘s discography as much as we are, ‘CREED’ will probably be your favorite. Stray Kids have always been heavily influenced by hip-hop, and they established themselves as one of the groups with the strongest rap lines in the industry even before their debut. But with ‘CREED,’ they fully went for it with the hip-hop sound, giving us a dark track full of personality, and verses that will leave you absolutely speechless (especially the second verse). Stray Kids‘ raps are just too good. ‘CREED’ is about Stray Kids’ convictions, their journey, and how they’ve always stuck to their guts, and that’s why they’re here now.
‘MESS’
From ‘Another Day,’ to ‘Secret Secret,’ to ‘Collision’ and ‘GET LIT,’ it’s a staple that a good Stray Kids full-length album will always give us an incredible hanpop song. And it makes sense that this song dates back to 2021, the same year that we got songs like ‘Wish You Back‘ and ‘HaPpY‘ from him, because ‘Mess’ has that exact same vibe. And needless to say, those are some of our favorite songs from Han. The lyrics are heartbreaking yet create a beautiful and irreplicable atmosphere while giving us catchy melodies that will have you feel every note in the depths of your soul. ‘Mess’ feels desperate, heartbreaking, and has everything you need in a good sad song.
‘In My Head’
Stray Kids know exactly what they’re good at, and over the years, they’ve perfected their signature sound; however, that has never stopped them from exploring outside of their comfort zone. While Stray Kids are no strangers to dipping their toes in rock, and it’s a genre that has had a huge influence on their music since day one, we’ve never heard something quite like ‘In My Head’ from them yet. Giving us that late 2000s, early 2010s pop-punk sound, ‘In My Head’ sees Stray Kids bringing us back to our teens. It has the same energy as some of our favorite anthems from that time, down to the lyrics of self-doubt and exploration of mental health, which also brings us back to the themes from their early discography.
A song like ‘In My Head’ was a matter of time for Stray Kids, and we’re so happy it’s finally here. One thing about this one is that, for once, it will never leave your head, and two, you will find yourself constantly reaching for it.
‘Half Time’
Following the sports concept explored in the title track, ‘Half Time’ is a fun, dynamic, explosive track about Stray Kids’ journey and ambitions. Stray Kids have been on their biggest tour yet, selling out stadiums all over the world, for the past year, and it’s in songs like ‘Half Time’ where you can see so clearly the influence of such an experience. ‘Half Time’ has the perfect energy and melodies for big crowds, loud cheers, and captures the electric energy from Stray Kids’ live performances in their music. To put it simply: it’s a brighter, more confident version of their 2023 b-side, ‘Blind Spot.’
‘Phoenix’
We got Stray Kids going full-on pop-punk, we got Stray Kids bringing the most hip-hop track they’ve ever made as a full group, and we also got Stray Kids doing EDM again – and it’s never been this beautiful. Stray Kids themselves described ‘Phoenix’ as a middle point between ‘MIROH‘ and their self-titled song ‘Stray Kids,’ and that’s literally it – meaning also, yes, perfect for an encore. It is impossible to put into words all the emotions this song awakens in the listener and the absolute genius of the production. The influence of legends in EDM music, such as Avicii, is palpable: ‘Phoenix’ is melodic, nostalgic, but full of hope. This is the B-side in KARMA if you ask us. Give us ‘Phoenix’ and ‘CEREMONY (Festival version)’ and we’re ready for the rave.
‘Ghost’
Even before the release of ‘Ghost,’ everyone was going feral over its melodies spoiled in Stray Kids’ signature mashup teaser. And it did not let us down (though we wouldn’t say no to a full version of that remix…). ‘Ghost’ has some of the most addictive melodies in the album. Its pop sound feels incredibly satisfying, accompanied perfectly by a track that leans more towards hip-hop, showcasing Stray Kids‘ genius in blending and mixing genres. But despite the brightness of the track, ‘Ghost’ is one of the darkest tracks in KARMA. It explores feelings of loss and numbness, yet still holds a hint of hope. It’s so Stray Kids.
‘0801’
‘0801’ is the last new track in KARMA – followed by the festival version and the english version of ‘CEREMONY.’ It’s been seven years since the release of ‘0325’ in I am YOU, where Stray Kids celebrated their beginning, naming a song after their debut date. It’s a full-circle experience to have a song named after the anniversary of the fandom. After Bang Chan gave us ‘Youtiful‘ in 5-STAR, ‘0801‘ writes itself in the list of Stray Kids’ fan songs, and it might be one of our favorites. With immaculate, infectious pop melodies, ‘0801’ feels warm and special, serving as a beautiful showcase of the bond between the group and STAYs. That callback to one of their most important songs, ‘Grow Up,’ will never fail to get us close to tears. ‘0801’ is sweet yet vulnerable, and the cherry on top of a masterpiece of an album.
The concept of hard work and that good things eventually come around has never been lost on Stray Kids. Even before their debut, the group has been releasing incredible music into the world and has given us one of the most perfect and iconic discographies in all of K-pop. All the hard work and passion have paid off, with them already being one of the biggest K-pop groups ever. And clearly, KARMA shows that they’re not ready to stop any time soon.
If you’re like us and still can’t get enough of Stray Kids, even after listening to KARMA, Stray Kids not only brought KARMA to life in several cities by teaming up with Spotify, but they also created a playlist featuring their entire discography. And if you’re wondering what kind of Stray Kids champion you are, you can take the quiz here!
What’s your favorite version of ‘CEREMONY?’ What’s your favorite b-side out of KARMA? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
