In theory, sub-units exist to carve out new spaces, spotlight different strengths, test creative boundaries, or reframe an already-familiar group through a different lens. But for OX:N, the newly formed unit from OMEGA X, this debut feels less like a spin-off and more like a reset. Formed by Jaehan, Xen, Jehyun, and Yechan, OX:N steps forward as the first official sub-unit from the group — and their first release of 2025 — bringing with it a quieter, more introspective mood.

Their debut release, N, is a stylistic shift from the high-energy intensity that defined OMEGA X’s earlier work. Here, the focus tilts toward emotional texture and musical restraint: Y2K-inspired pop grooves, soft ballads, mythic metaphors, and flashes of romantic euphoria. It’s a project that trades adrenaline for atmosphere, built to reflect the members’ more mature, reflective side. The name “OX:N” itself layers meaning: the Roman numeral IV alludes to the four-member line-up, and the algebraic n points to infinite creative possibilities. Symbolically and sonically, N functions as a way to explore what’s next, both individually and together.

There’s an impressive sense of care throughout the rollout, too. The lyrics sit close to the skin, whether tracing heartbreak on “LET ME IN” or writing directly to fans in the rock-tinged closer “CAUSE OF YOU.” The title track “YOU” leans into funky retro-pop, while “ORPHEUS” reaches for something more mythic and melancholic. Even the album’s ultra-engaging 360° VR highlight medley feels like a literal invitation to see the unit from all angles. While this project is meant to stand on its own, it’s also built to strengthen the group as a whole.

In this exclusive interview with KPOPWORLD, OX:N reflect on the making of N, the emotional freedom they found as a four-piece, and why this debut is a way to begin again, without leaving anything behind.

What kind of vision did you have going into the creation of this sub-unit and the N mini-album? Did that vision evolve over time?

Jaehan As OX:N, we really want to continue releasing albums steadily. That’s why this first release felt especially important. We had a lot of deep conversations throughout the process, and I think we’re at a point where we need to keep pushing forward to keep building our discography.

Xen We’re working hard with the vision of performing on bigger stages and connecting with more people through our music.

Jehyun While working on this album, I imagined showing a more mature and grown-up version of ourselves. As time went on, I found myself feeling more relaxed and learning to enjoy the process even more.

Yechan While making our album, N, we tried to reflect each member’s individuality and everything we’ve learned through our experiences so far. Now that the album’s out, our focus has shifted to meeting more fans and performing on stage.

“N” represents infinite possibilities — how did that idea shape your approach to the music on this album?

Jaehan I think the concept allowed various interpretations. Since everyone experiences things differently, leaving it open-ended, like an unknown variable, gave the project more room for personal connection and creative expression.

Jehyun Through the symbol of an unknown number, ‘n,’ we were able to express our thoughts more freely and explore different ideas without being limited.

Yechan While N represents an unknown variable, it also stands for present, or ‘now.’ Coming back with OX:N and starting this new challenge gave me more passion than ever before.

The 360° highlight medley was such a unique touch. How did that idea come about, and what was it like to film in that format?

Jaehan The idea actually came from one of our staff members. Since we were all brainstorming together, I think that process naturally led to great ideas that worked for everyone. We were really happy to see that our fans enjoyed it, too.

Jehyun It was a fresh idea from a staff member who is in charge of the MZ Generation, or the younger generation, at our company. And seeing the positive reaction from fans made it even more rewarding.

Yechan The members and our company collectively believe that content should evolve with the times. Even though the schedule was tight, we were able to come up with something new thanks to our team and members who are always keeping up with trends.

This mini-album shows a more mature and relaxed side of OMEGA X. What did you want to express through OX:N that felt different from your full-group work?

Jaehan Our main focus was, “How can we show a more mature side that’s unique to OX:N?” So hearing that people see us that way now is really encouraging! It means a lot, and we’re very happy with the result.

Xen One of the first things we discussed for this album was what would suit the four of us best. That led us to choose a more refined image with suits, and music that matched that mature vibe.

Jehyun What we wanted most was to show different sides of ourselves with things we hadn’t had the chance to try as part of OMEGA X.

Yechan While OMEGA X’s music captures the vibe with more explosive energy and passion, with OX:N, we wanted to keep that same energy and passion but express them in a more intentional, polished way that simply feels good to listen to.

Was there a specific moment or lyric from this album that still sticks with you now, even after promoting it?

Jaehan The line from “CAUSE OF YOU” that goes, ‘The reason I smile is because you’re by my side,’ resonates with me the most. It still does to this day.

Xen Right now, the line ‘The reason I smile is because you’re by my side,’ from “CAUSE OF YOU,” really hits home. But honestly, lyrics that stick with me tend to change from time to time.

Jehyun I also resonate the most with that same line from “CAUSE OF YOU” that Jaehan and Xen mentioned. I always find myself smiling when we’re with our fans, so it feels especially realistic.

Yechan There’s a line in “YOU” that goes, ‘Wish I was strong enough to walk away,’ and it really stood out to me. It captures that emotional mix of confusion and happiness that comes from a love that shakes up everything you thought you knew. During this album promotion, I’ve felt a kind of unexplainable energy and excitement every time we meet our fans.

Which song on the album challenged you the most creatively, and why?

Jaehan “YOU” was the most difficult for me. It’s a little different from the style we usually did as OMEGA X, so it took some time to figure out the right sound and feeling.

Xen Recording “SUIT&TIE” was the hardest for me, especially the pronunciation. It made me realize I need to pay more attention to my English pronunciation next time.

Jehyun For me, choreographing “LET ME IN” was the most challenging. Since we have an even number of members, there were some limits to what we could do in terms of formations and staging. ?

Yechan Singing “SUIT&TIE” was pretty challenging for me. I spent a while trying to figure out where the nuance and vibe in the demo from my American friends were coming from.

How did you divide roles in the studio? Were there any unexpected dynamics between the four of you during the recording process?

Jaehan When we are in a recording studio, we usually direct each other. The four of us give feedback back and forth and build each song together, step by step.

Xen While listening to each member record, I realized how well our voices blend. The fact that we can instantly picture each other’s parts just by hearing the song really shows our chemistry as a unit.

Jehyun I think the recording made me realize how well our four voices actually work together.

Yechan I helped organize the files and monitor the English pronunciation for “YOU” and “SUIT&TIE.” When all four of us are recording, Jaehan tends to focus on delicate vocal details, Xen picks up on emotional nuances, and Jeh­yun brings that calm, chill vibe to the table.

What did it feel like to stand on set or in the studio together as a four-member unit for the first time?

Jaehan There was definitely some pressure, but I was also really excited about the chance to show more sides of ourselves. The fact that our fans have been enjoying the results makes it all the more rewarding.

Xen I think I felt a strong sense of responsibility. We really wanted to make sure the four of us were filling the stage, without looking empty compared to performing as an 11-member group.

Jehyun Without more than half of the group, things felt really calm and peaceful. (laughs)

Yechan Since we’ve lived together for a long time, it didn’t feel awkward at all. If anything, everything felt even more natural.

After a difficult chapter for the group, did this project feel like a kind of healing or fresh start for you?

Jaehan A new beginning always comes with excitement and a bit of nervous energy. I’m looking forward to what’s ahead and hope we can continue sharing new music with everyone.

Xen I see this unit as an extension of OMEGA X. Like I mentioned earlier, the biggest goal is to step onto bigger stages and connect with more people.

Jehyun It’s definitely a fresh start and a new challenge. But even as a unit, we’re still OMEGA X, so I think it’s okay to see us as the same group, just showing a different side!

Yechan Sometimes, I think of this as both a new beginning and possibly our final challenge as a unit. That’s why I’ve been more involved in every part of the process, and I’ve started to notice things I hadn’t paid attention to before. Those moments have taught me a lot.

Now that you’ve released this unit album, how do you hope listeners will see OX:N in relation to OMEGA X as a whole?

Jaehan I’d say OMEGA X and OX:N are different, yet ultimately the same. We’ll keep working hard and doing our best for the fans who always support and believe in us. Thank you always, FOR X! ❤️

Xen We want to keep showing growth, step by step. Your support gives us so much strength in that journey, so please keep cheering us on. We’re always grateful to you.

Jehyun We’re never giving up, and we’re doing everything we can in every way possible to meet you more often. I hope you’ll keep looking forward to what we do and continue to send us your love. Thank you!

Yechan For those who are going through tough times with school, work, or other things to consider for the future, I truly hope our music and performances can be a source of comfort for you.