2024 is shaping out to be a great year for IU as she has returned with a new mini-album after almost three years. It’s safe to say that we all know that an IU return means a big grand return and that's exactly what she did. Titled The Winning, this marks IU’s sixth mini-album and one of her most ambitious releases. With four music videos accompanying this album and the announcement of her biggest world tour to date, IU is coming for 2024 and making it a year to remember, going even as far as officially having Tweety Bird as this comeback’s mascot. 

Tracklist: 

1. “Shopper”

2. “Holssi”

3. “Shh…” (Feat. HYEIN, WONSUN JOE & Special Narr. Patti Kim) 

4. “Love wins all”

5. “I stan U”

If there is one thing to know about IU, it is that every single time she comes back, she’s going to bring you into her world of fantasy and imagination—especially within her music videos. IU embraces the weird, complex, and the odd yet beautiful. It’s so evident whenever you sit down to watch her in her element. Taking the helm as lead track off the album is “Shopper,” which is all about going after the things that you want even if it makes you greedy. Is there something wrong in wanting to go after the things you want? In making your dreams and goals come true? IU encourages us to “shop around,” alluding to the fact that we shouldn’t have to close ourselves off and limit ourselves when it comes to the things that we want, and that we shouldn’t be ashamed of it. IU even takes it a step further, mentioning that if others get jealous, let them, because at the end of the day, you are who you are and what you want is what you want. Don’t stop just because others say so. 

What makes “Shopper” even more delightful (and we’re not just talking about the amazing colors and visuals) is that this particular music video was shot and directed by the talented DPR Ian, who also stars in the music video alongside IU as her other half. He joins her on the journey of achieving her dreams by any means necessary. Together, they make the perfect buddies to make it happen no matter what and in turn also help others get what they want. Whether she may be a goddess, fairy, or a downright thief, IU does what she needs so those around her can also experience the magic of happiness. “Shopper” is quirky and fun and maybe there is more that we don’t know yet but nonetheless, it’s very refreshing to see such a fantasy come alive. 

There are not enough words to describe the other music videos that have come as a pre-release; however, these as well transport you into a different fantasy and take you on a journey. Whether you want to be a dandelion and fly away with her and Tweety in “Holssi,” or follow the tragically beautiful last moments of the dystopian “alien” takeover in “Love wins all” (which also stars BTS’s V as her counterpart), IU will move you in different ways you can’t help but fall more and more into this world she has built. 

We also can’t forget to highlight the other two songs off the album, one titled “Shh…” that features four generations of Korean female singers that is very, very reminiscent of her previous album, Modern Times, when it comes to collaborating with star singers. Featuring Hyein of NewJeans, Wonsun Joe, and the legendary Patti Kim, the track does not disappoint as a ballad that will send shivers running up and down your spine. Last but certainly not least, “I stan U” is the uplifting track that is the ode to her fans as well as reminding those listening that IU believes in you and finds you stunning just the way you are. It’s so comforting to know that there is someone that believes in each of us, through the message of her song as she lets you know she is rooting for you and supporting you.