IVE To Release Fifth EP ‘Looks Can Kill’ in October

by Isabel Miller


Starship Entertainment has announced that its girl group IVE is set to release their fifth EP, Looks Can Kill, on October 26.

A teaser video was uploaded to the group’s official social media channels on September 28, accompanying the announcement, which depicts a new IVE logo created by spotlights cast on the side of a skyscraper in Seoul. Its typography and irregular star also feature in the album cover shared shortly afterwards.

Prior to the album’s full release, a pre-release single (referred to as an “IVE SPIN-OFF RELEASE”) is set to come out on October 19. Currently its title has not been shared, with more information expected soon. IVE frequently unveil pre-release singles to build excitement ahead of their album drops; “BANG BANG,” “REBEL HEART” and “Kitsch” have all been released early in this format and proved successful, driving anticipation.

Looks Can Kill will mark the group’s first Korean EP in approximately eight months. In February 2026 the sestet released their second studio album, [REVIVE+], consisting of 12 songs and a narrative of rebirth. Looks Can Kill, therefore, may look to build on this concept of rebirth and show a new side to IVE, who are known both for their Y2K “kitsch teen” origins and an electronic, dance-pop shift.

“BANG BANG,” [REVIVE+]’s pre-release single, ended up leading the album rather than its dedicated title track; the song sat atop all major music charts in Korea (including charts on Hanteo, MelOn, Bugs, and Genie) as IVE’s sixth song to do so. The height of the achievement is reflected in the industry term “PAK,” meaning “Perfect All-Kill,” which IVE has now been granted six times. “BANG BANG” also won eight first-place trophies on various music shows domestically, and appeared on international charts such as the Billboard 200. With this history, the group’s next release is expected to garner attention.

At this stage, the intended concept for Looks Can Kill is unclear. However, the unveiling of some elements offer hints. The album title itself and its vibrant cover suggests that IVE will embrace their consistent message of self-confidence once again, with sharp, bright imagery and the ability to “kill” with appearances or expressions. Album versions “GIRL HERO” and “HERO COMICS” also indicate that there will be a strong, heroic aspect to the framing, which may explain the high-rise cityscape and cinematic logo projection.

This comeback follows the conclusion of IVE’s second world tour, <SHOW WHAT I AM>, which took place across Asia, Oceania, and North America. Looks Can Kill sees a return to new music and promotions following the touring period.

Looks Can Kill is available to pre-order from various international retailers now.

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