Every debut marks the beginning of something new, but for AEN, it’s the start of a journey built on connection, sincerity and the promise to always be there for the people listening. The seven-member boy group officially steps into the spotlight with A NEW ERA OF NOW, an EP that introduces not only their music, but the message and identity they hope to share with fans around the world.
While A NEW ERA OF NOW marks the beginning of AEN’s journey, it also reflects everything that led them here. From months of preparation to discovering their identity as a team, the members have poured their passion, sincerity and determination into a debut that represents who they are today and where they hope to go next.
We had the opportunity to catch up with AEN to talk about the meaning behind their debut, what this moment means to each of them and the memories they’ve made while preparing for A NEW ERA OF NOW. Read our full interview with AEN below.
Sweety High: Congratulations on your upcoming debut! For readers who are just getting to know AEN, how would you introduce yourselves, and what do you hope fans understand about your group?
KYUHYUN: Hello, we are AEN! AEN is a seven-member boy group with the catchphrase “Always Beside You.” Our name reflects our promise to always be by your side, no matter where you are. As you can see from the lyrics of our songs, AEN is always here for you, and we hope our music brings you comfort and encouragement whenever you need it.
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
SH: A NEW ERA OF NOW is a title that feels like a statement rather than just an album name. When you look at the phrase “a new era of now,” what does “now” represent for AEN at this exact moment?
JIYONG: AEN stands for “A New Era of Now,” representing a new generation that is redefining and creating what “now” means. For us, “now” isn’t just a single moment in time—it encompasses every moment we spend on stage and every interaction we share with our fans. Together, those moments are what define AEN’s “new era of now.”
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
SH: A debut is often described as a beginning, but it also carries everything that happened before it. What parts of your journey do you think listeners can feel when they experience this EP?
BOMIN: Since this is our debut EP, it’s an album that reflects our aspirations as a group. We believe fans will be able to feel the sincerity, passion, and commitment we’ve poured into this release.
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
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SH: Every debut EP tells a story. What story did you want A NEW ERA OF NOW to tell about AEN from beginning to end?
HARU: The album conveys a message of unwavering belief and unbreakable bonds, even in the face of uncertainty and the unknown. It’s about the determination to overcome any boundary to always be with the people we cherish.
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
SH: Looking back on the recording process, what’s one memory from making A NEW ERA OF NOW that you’ll always carry with you?
HARUTO: During the recording session, we recorded the songs in both Korean and Japanese. We spent a lot of time thinking about how to make sure the message and emotions we wanted to convey came through naturally across both languages. Finding the right balance so that each version carried the same meaning was something we paid close attention to.
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
SH: The word “era” can mean growth, change and transformation. What personal changes have each of you experienced while preparing to become AEN?
KAIRA: For me, the biggest change has been my mindset! As we prepared for our debut and each of us took on our roles within the group, I started to feel a greater sense of responsibility. That motivated me to work even harder and give my best every day.
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
SH: What’s something you’ve learned from one another that you think you’ll carry with you throughout your career?
JUNSEO: As an artist, I’ve learned a lot not just about music, but about life as well. I believe that no matter which path you choose or what decisions you make, there isn’t always a single “right” or “wrong” answer. That’s why I try to live by one simple belief: trust yourself. No matter the situation, I remind myself to trust myself and keep moving forward with confidence.
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
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SH: What’s something you’ve learned from another member that has changed the way you think or approach things?
BOMIN: Among the members, JIYONG is someone who’s always bright and naturally well-mannered. Spending time with him has taught me a lot, and I’ve found myself learning from the way he carries himself. Whenever I work, I try to bring the same positive energy and thoughtful attitude that JIYONG shows every day.
SH: If the members had to describe each other using only one word, which member do you think would get the most surprising answer?
KAIRA: I think it would be HARUTO and the word would be 天然 (てんねん / ten nen) or naturally quirky. At first, I thought Haruto was a quiet person. But after spending more time together, I realized he’s actually very playful and has a great sense of humor. Seeing that side of him was the biggest surprise for me, especially because his personality has changed so much since our trainee days.
SH: When you have a completely free day, are you someone who likes to stay active, explore new places, or relax at home? What does that perfect day look like?
HARU: I would try to relax and rest. I think that getting enough rest and taking good care of our health during our time off allows us to give our best performances on stage.
SH: What’s something you’re hoping fans will come to know about AEN that can’t be seen from a performance alone?
KYUHYUN: We plan and edit our own short-form content. So when you watch our videos, you’ll be able to see that all of the members are genuinely having fun and enjoying the moment. I think this sincerity and playful energy are part of AEN’s unique charm.
SH: When fans look back on AEN’s debut years from now, what do you hope they’ll remember most about this era?
HARUTO: We hope that our fans will remember AEN’s unique color and identity. We want to leave a lasting impression with our own distinct style and charm.
SH: Looking back on everything it took to reach this moment, what advice would you give to someone who’s chasing a dream of their own?
JIYONG: I believe it’s important to create moments to pause and recharge, even briefly, while working toward your dreams. Don’t rush yourself and move forward at your own pace. I’ll always be cheering you on as you pursue your dreams.
SH: Finally, as AEN turns the page to this exciting new chapter, what’s one message you’d like to leave with your fans who are about to experience A NEW ERA OF NOW for the very first time?
JUNSEO: Our first album is finally here! We’re so excited to meet our fans through A NEW ERA OF NOW. We’ve put so much effort and passion into preparing this album, so we hope you’ll give it lots of love and support. This is only the beginning, and there are still so many more sides of AEN that we want to show you. Please look forward to everything we have in store!
(Photo credit: Starship Entertainment)
For even more from the artists we adore, click HERE to read our latest interview with AtHeart ahead of their iHeartKPOP performance.
