Summer isn't over quite yet. With dozens of groups making their comeback in the summer, competing to be the summer hit of 2022, let's take note that this is not an ordinary summer season—it’s a "Hot Girl Summer." As women look to empower each other with hits that contain strong independence, fearless energy, and do not require anybody to make them whole this hot season, we look to the fierce ladies in K-Pop to unite the single women! For this week's Ladies Corner, let's channel our energy into six new hits that empower us to become our best selves! 

"WHAT I WANT" by ITZY 

With no need for explanation, ITZY uses their chorus to repeat lines like, "I know what I want / Gonna get, get what I want," emphasizing their desire for whatever their hearts are set on. It's empowering for anyone who’s been struggling to manifest confident energy synonymous to "WHAT I WANT." Look no further than this song to guide your future manifestations and affirmations for your summer. 

"Loca Loca" by Kang Soyeon 

Previously a member of WE, Kang Soyeon returns with "Loca Loca" as a gift to fans that grew interested in her personality and charms from the Netflix series Single's Inferno and prior idol career. Fans discovered she was previously in a girl group when they found the video for WE's "Party," leaving many impressed with her skills and praising her for her versatility. “Loca Loca” is somber, with lyrics that express the uncertainty of dating, especially with a line like, "What’s so good about you that you just wanna play me / What’s so good about you that you can’t say you love me." Despite its mellow note, this should stand as a reminder that there's no need to rush into things if dating becomes difficult. It's time we stand with our heads held high and enjoy being solo! 

"MASCARA" by XG 

After their debut single “Tippy Toes" was well-received internationally, Japanese girl group XG dropped their latest English single “MASCARA," promoting it globally and making a large impact in South Korea — the septet was even able to perform their song on their own stage on music shows like Mnet’s M!COUNTDOWN and KBS’s Music Bank. The hip-hop, trap, and dance-pop enfused single is a strong anthem that will remind you of your self-worth. With lyrics like, "Baby girl, don't you ever be wasting your good energy (Ha) / He ain’t even worth it, no, he don't deserve it," and, "I'll never let another boy ruin my mascara," it encourages listeners to avoid toxic relationships that destroy you. XG wants us all to have confidence this summer, so if it means leaving that unhealthy relationship or friendship, it's time to follow suit! 

"NO THANKS" by Hyolyn 

Soloist Hyolyn recently had her comeback with her all-new album iCE. However, the song "NO THANKS" allows us to follow in her footsteps with independence. Pushing away any admirers that try to get her attention, Hyolyn uses her icy personality to sing, “You have no idea who I am, how dare you take a shot at me?” It's a reminder that if anyone tries to sway you, don't let them take away your independence. In the hottest season of the year, don't let anyone stand in the way of who you are and what you desire. 

"Undo" by HEIZE 

With a melancholic tune, HEIZE unravels her somber emotions post-breakup. Instead of sulking in these negative feelings, she reminds herself she has worth and value outside of this ex-relationship as she sings, "From this day forth, I’m gonna throw out / This unnecessary inconvenience called love / Let’s forget the girl who existed only for you." HEIZE doesn't care to be attached to this relationship anymore. As she sings, "From this day forth, my tears are for myself only," it encourages us to be in control rather than cry over someone insignificant; instead, let's reclaim our self-worth and promise ourselves to focus on self-love. 

"Girls" by aespa 

Bringing a robust girl crush energy among the bouncy summer anthems, "Girls" by aespa exudes fierce and bold confidence. An empowering anthem that'll prepare you for a thrilling rendezvous, the single invites listeners to face their fears when they overcome obstacles as they sing, "Blooming in chaos (We them girls) / And confronting fear, that courage (Ah yeah) / Whenever we are together / We them girls." It is also an empowering anthem to bring women together to take on whatever life throws at us. Join aespa in their battle to be courageous and resilient. 

Edited by Omani