Seventeen's Jeonghan X Joshua invites fans into dreamlike world with first EP 'Dreamscape'

Seventeen's subunit, Jeonghan X Joshua, is inviting listeners on a journey where fantasy and reality intertwine with their first subunit EP, "Dreamscape."

"The album tells a story about the dreams we have while sleeping and the dreams we hope to achieve in real life, so there are elements throughout that blur the line between fantasy and reality," Joshua said in a Q. and A. released to the press.

The seven-track EP is set for release at 6 p.m. Monday and features lead track "12 o'clock."

As their first project as a duo, Jeonghan and Joshua hope to show fans a different side of themselves from what they have shown as members of Seventeen.

"I'm really excited to show fans a different side of myself from what they've seen during our group activities," Joshua said. "Working on this album has given me new dreams and a renewed sense of passion. It's been an inspiring experience that has pushed me to grow."

The EP also marks Jeonghan's first project since completing his mandatory alternative military service as a social service worker. He finished his service in June this year. 

"I'm a little nervous since this is my first album project since returning from my military service, but more than anything, I can't wait to see our fans again," Jeonghan said.

The lead track, "12 o'clock," is a dance-rock song that follows Jeonghan and Joshua as they chase their dreams between noon and midnight, according to the agency. The song combines a modern take on 1970s and '80s disco and funk with the duo's vocals.

Joshua encouraged fans to watch the lead track's performance, saying the song is even better when seen.

"We've prepared choreography that really brings out our visuals and chemistry," Joshua said.

The seven tracks were arranged to tell a continuous story, Jeonghan explained, encouraging listeners to explore the meanings and metaphors woven throughout the album.

"We put the album together hoping that all seven tracks would feel like one continuous story," Jeonghan said. "I think you'll enjoy it even more if you interpret what each song means in your own way and uncover the hidden metaphors along the way."

Both members also expressed excitement about sharing their new music with fans.

"It's been a while since my last comeback, and I'm just as excited as Carats are," Jeonghan said, referring to Seventeen's official fan club. "We've put a lot of time and effort into preparing something special for you, so I hope you'll enjoy what we have in store for this project."

"We worked really hard on this album to show a new side of ourselves, so I'm curious to hear what Carats think of it," Joshua said. "Thank you for always supporting us. We also have a concert coming up, so stay tuned. Love you all!"

The duo is also set to hold concerts in six cities in Korea and overseas, beginning Oct. 30.

Jeonghan and Joshua debuted as members of Seventeen in 2015 under Pledis Entertainment, now a label under HYBE. The 13-member group consists of S.Coups, Jeonghan, Joshua, Jun, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Woozi, DK, Mingyu, The8, Seungkwan, Vernon and Dino.

Seventeen is best known for songs such as "Adore U" (2015), "Don't Wanna Cry" (2017) and "Left & Right" (2020).

BY KIM JI-YE [[email protected]]