K-Pop
By | August 24, 2026
A cinematic, unsettling new concept and a heavily member‑crafted tracklist set the tone for MONSTA X’s upcoming EP The Phase, arriving September 4 at 1:00 PM KST.
MONSTA X is stepping into a bold new chapter with The Phase, a six‑track EP set for release on September 4, 2026, at 1:00 PM KST. Led by the title track “MAGIC,” the project marks one of the group’s most member‑driven releases to date — something fans have been celebrating across social media as anticipation builds.
A Tracklist Powered by Member Creativity
Across all six songs, MONSTA X’s members take an unusually active role in shaping the EP’s sound. Joohoney and Hyungwon, in particular, leave a strong creative imprint, contributing to writing, composition, and arrangement throughout the album.
- MAGIC (Title Track) — Co-written by Joohoney, the song is expected to anchor the EP with MONSTA X’s signature intensity and emotional lift.
- Type X — A sharp, attitude-heavy track co-written by Joohoney and rapper BLACK NINE.
- SURVIVOR — Fully written, composed, and arranged by Joohoney, Ye-Yo!, and Laser, making it one of the EP’s most hands-on tracks.
- Electric Heart — Another Joohoney-led creation, with deep involvement across lyrics, composition, and arrangement.
- That’s My Girl — Featuring international production, including contributions from Calle Lehmann, known for sleek, global pop sensibilities.
- Sweet Night, Sweet Morning — A standout for Hyungwon, who played a major role in writing, composing, and arranging the track.
Fans have been especially vocal about how much of the album comes directly from the members themselves. A detail that’s fueling excitement and raising expectations for a more personal, narrative-driven sound.
A Concept Straight Out of a Korean Thriller
The newly released concept images introduce a vibe that feels eerily cinematic, drawing comparisons to the unsettling domestic tension of Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite.
The photos show the members in crisp, formal or semi-formal outfits inside pristine modern interiors — but the scenes are staged with a strange, almost theatrical discomfort. The symmetry is too perfect. The poses too controlled. The atmosphere too quiet.
It’s a concept that blends elegance with unease — domestic, uncanny, and visually loaded.
A New Phase Begins
With The Phase, MONSTA X appear ready to redefine themselves once again, leaning into member-led production, bold storytelling, and visuals that blur the line between luxury and unease. If the concept photos are any indication, this EP won’t just be a musical release, it’ll be an experience.
Image and Video Credits: Starship Entertainment