The phrase “ILLIT Core” refers to the unique sensibility and aesthetics of the group ILLIT. Dressed in balloon skirts, ribbons, and lace, they played bright and bouncy sounds reminiscent of “magical girls,” becoming highly popular among their global 10s and 20s fanbase.
However, ILLIT chose to boldly embark on something new instead of following successful formulas. Through their recent single “NOT CUTE ANYMORE,” they declared they are “not just cute anymore.” Rejecting the way others view them or the world’s stereotypes and expectations, they sing about individuality and growth beyond the “cute girl” image.
The music’s vibe has also changed significantly. Unlike previous works filled with synth sounds and repetitive trap beats, the new title track is based on a relaxed reggae rhythm. Yet, the catchiness remains. The mellow melody suits winter, while the pure vocals and delicate expressions from the five members fill the spaces.
Performance-wise, ILLIT presented a different side. The simple choreography of lightly shaking their heads and shoulders, along with restrained expressions, delivers the cool and chic message of the song intensely. Despite their “departure from cuteness,” their unique charm remains, doubling the paradoxical appeal of the five members.
ILLIT has consistently portrayed narratives faithful to their emotions, blending whimsical imaginations traversing reality and dreams into their music. They used diverse themes to resonate with their peers, such as a magnet representing attraction to a crush (“Magnetic”), expressing growing pains (“Cherish (My Love)”), and the awkwardness of new relationships depicted as a borrowed cat (“Do the Dance”).
“NOT CUTE ANYMORE” emphasizes a focus on their emotions and tastes. Lyrics like “Linda Linda Lullaby” and “Suede on my vinyl,” influenced by growing up listening to rock band LPs like storybooks, illustrate this. The wish to be a cool jellyfish living unconcerned with others’ views (“I prefer a loose jellyfish to a cute puppy”) highlights the theme of the song.
This is the so-called “expansion of ILLIT Core.” Global fans responded positively. “NOT CUTE ANYMORE” soared to number one on Billboard Japan’s “Hot Shot Songs” chart on November 30, and topped the weekly Korean chart of China’s largest music streaming platform, QQ Music, during the period from November 28 to December 4. On Melon’s “Top 100,” it debuted at 100 upon its release and climbed steadily, reaching rank 34 by 9 AM on December 10.
Through “NOT CUTE ANYMORE,” ILLIT proved themselves to be a team with a broad musical spectrum, capable of freely expanding their diverse colors. Their group name, combining “I will” and “It,” reflects their journey. As a group with significant potential to become anything, ILLIT’s next steps are eagerly anticipated.
Image source: Belift Lab
