Exclusive Interview: A.C.E Discusses PINATA, Pushing Boundaries, and A Message for CHOICE

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In this exclusive interview, A.C.E reveals the artistry behind [PINATA] and how they’re redefining the industry.

A.C.E has long been the ace of K-Pop, setting trends and pushing boundaries with every release. Renowned for their versatility and relentless drive, the group continues to evolve while staying true to their roots. With the release of their highly anticipated third single album, [PINATA], on November 20, 2024, Park Junhee, Lee Donghun, Wow, Kim Byeongkwan, and Kang Yuchan have made a triumphant return to their sultry side. This album captures the essence of their distinct sound—an unmistakable blend of boldness and artistry that only A.C.E can deliver.

2024 has been a monumental year for A.C.E, packed with milestones that showcase their unstoppable momentum. From a multi-leg tour that spanned stops in the U.S., Latin America, and an electrifying European leg, the group has proven their global reach. Their unforgettable performance at KCON LA, followed by an exclusive fan event that drew fans away from the main stage, reinforced their unmatched presence. The buzz surrounding [PINATA] —alongside earlier 2024 releases like My Girl: “My Choice,” “Just Better,” and “Supernatural,” and its remix series—solidifies their status as trailblazers in K-pop, consistently mesmerizing their CHOICE, peers, and critics alike with every daring move and creative evolution.

The anticipation for [PINATA] has been electric, with nearly six weeks of teasers keeping CHOICE on edge. Once again, A.C.E has proven their unmatched creativity, delivering an album that is both sultry and groundbreaking. In an exclusive interview with Hellokpop, A.C.E shares their excitement for [PINATA], reveals memorable moments from touring, and shares the deep connection they share with CHOICE. Read on for an inside look at A.C.E’s thrilling new chapter and the artistry that keeps them at the forefront of the industry.

Hellokpop: Hi, A.C.E! To start off, can you share something surprising you’ve learned about yourselves during the preparation for this comeback?

Junhee: Honestly, I never thought we’d encounter a performance even more challenging than “Undercover” or “Goblin.” However, while working on [PINATA] and the trailer performance for the intro “Recuerda, Recuerda,” I found myself thinking, “Wow, this performance truly has no end… absolutely no end.”

HKP: Your new album ‘Pinata’ embodies themes of positivity and self-reflection. Can you explain how these themes are woven into the overall sound of the album?

Yuchan: We used numerous reverse sound samples to best explain the sound, turning existing musical elements backward. In a sense, liberation and healing can feel like returning to something—a kind of reset. We aimed to convey that idea, and through [PINATA], we portrayed the process of breaking free from emotions that had been trapped inside, ultimately finding freedom from those feelings.

JUNHEE

HKP: If you could describe the song “Pinata” in three words, what would they be and why?

Wow: Desire, thirst, freedom. I believe these three emotions are perfectly reflected in both the song and the performance.

HKP: What makes this album special to you?

Byeongkwan: This single album may have only a few tracks, but it features a style I absolutely love—powerful and dynamic. I find myself listening to it often, even outside of practice. Please look forward to the powerful performances!

HKP: How do you hope this album will impact CHOICE and inspire them in their own lives?

Donghun: I hope we can be like deeply rooted trees in each other’s lives—steady and enduring. While we may sway in the shallow winds, we’ll always stand firm in our place. I want us to be a constant presence, a reminder that they are never alone.

DONGHUN

HKP: Can you share a memorable moment or challenge you faced while filming the music video for this album?

Yuchan: This album showcases an impressive performance right from the intro. As for the title track, “Pinata,” I believe it features some of the most challenging and stunning choreography A.C.E has ever attempted. On top of that, working with 49 dancers to create such a high-level performance wasn’t easy. It was deeply meaningful to see 54 people (A.C.E + dancers) coming together with the same mindset and dedication to make it happen.

HKP: As you explored themes of self-reflection, what personal growth have you experienced as individuals and as a group during this process?

Junhee: We’ve always strived for better vocals, dance performances, and higher quality in everything we do—and we have no plans to stop. Each of us has experienced growth in every aspect, both individually and as a group, and we’re determined to keep growing. Please look forward to what’s ahead!

HKP: How would you describe the evolution of A.C.E’s sound and concept?

Donghun: A.C.E’s sound has improved as our vocal skills have leveled up—it’s something all five of us continue to work hard on. As for our performance and concept, I think it reflects our determination to keep moving forward without giving up. Each new concept we take on is a challenge, and I hope it inspires many people. As we grow older, I feel like we’ve gained more depth in how we express ourselves artistically. I’m curious to know how our fans feel about this evolution.

WOW

HKP: Throughout 2024, we saw you perform all over the world, including Europe, Latin America, Mexico, the U.S., and more. How did the experiences from these concerts influence your approach to the album’s concept?

Byeongkwan: Our fans patiently waited for us during our military service, and we couldn’t wait to meet them again. Performing worldwide has allowed us to fulfill our dream of connecting with fans more closely. I feel we’ve grown more confident and mature on stage compared to before. To express our gratitude to our fans, we made sure to include the powerful performances they love most from A.C.E in this new album.

HKP: What was the most memorable reaction from fans during your tour that made you feel the impact of the album’s message?

Wow: We’ve released many albums, but the most recent one, “Just Better,” was particularly special because we prepared it with the hope of enjoying it together with CHOICE during the tour. When fans sang along with us, it gave me chills. Beyond that, seeing CHOICE cry, laugh, and cheer passionately while watching our performances truly made the message of our music feel real and impactful.

HKP: What makes you feel the happiest and most content?

Donghun: Something I was reminded of during this tour is that I feel the happiest when I’m on stage, singing and seeing CHOICE in front of me.

Wow: These days, I feel the most happiness and satisfaction during the process of preparing an album and seeing the final product come out well.

BYEONGKWAN

HKP: With such busy schedules, how do you maintain your energy to keep pushing forward?

Byeongkwan: No matter how busy we get, spending time with our fans always gives us strength. It can be tiring at times for non-public schedules, but I think we try to find small moments of happiness together as a group.

HKP: If A.C.E had to swap roles for a day—like the rapper becoming the main vocalist or the maknae becoming the leader—who would handle the change best, and who would struggle the most?

Yuchan: I think most of us could manage pretty well (pauses), but imagining the vocal members—Junhee, Donghun, and myself—taking on the rap parts usually done by Wow and Byeongkwan is a scenario that’s hard to picture (laughs).

YUCHAN

HKP: What are your hopes for A.C.E as you embark on this new chapter with ‘Pinata,’ and what can fans look forward to in the future?

Junhee: Our mindset has always been the same, both in the past and now: “Let’s be better than yesterday.” That consistency has brought us to where we are today and will guide us toward an even more perfect version of A.C.E in the future. Our fans are part of this journey—they watch over us, cheer for us, believe in us, and love us. We’ll do everything we can to ensure that their support leads to joy and happiness, not regret or disappointment.

HKP: Lastly, please leave a message for CHOICE reading this.

Yuchan: CHOICE! A.C.E is finally back with a full group album after such a long time!

HKP: Just as you’ve waited so patiently, we’ve poured our hearts into preparing this album. Like the meaning behind [PINATA], I hope that from the moment you listen to and enjoy it, your world becomes filled with vibrant and beautiful colors.