SEVENTEEN Celebrates 10 Years with Happy Burstday and Bold New Sound
SEVENTEEN is ready to ignite a thrilling new chapter in their illustrious career with the release of their fifth full-length album, HAPPY BURSTDAY, set to drop on May 26.
The album’s announcement holds even greater meaning as it coincides with celebrating the group’s monumental tenth anniversary and marking nearly three years since SEVENTEEN last released a full album, the critically acclaimed FACE THE SUN, released in May 2022.
A Dark New World
The official announcement video sets a haunting tone. Set in a dark, dingy subway station with eerie visuals, it teases the group’s upcoming projects: the new album, a new tour, a new unit single album, fresh SEVENTEEN content, and hints of more surprises for this new era.
The clip intensifies as the subway lights flicker, leading the viewer through a frantic chase that culminates with a birthday cake—its candles spelling out “Happy Burstday”—suddenly bursting into flames.
Teasing the Album’s Edgy Concept
Amplifying the anticipation, SEVENTEEN released a striking album teaser titled “DARE OR DEATH.” The aesthetic is edgy, dark, and cinematic, vastly different from the group’s traditionally bright and energetic image.
Scenes include members walking through traffic, confronting monster-like alter egos, and bursting into flames, all of which build a horror-inspired, angsty atmosphere. One powerful shot shows a member standing on a rooftop’s edge, seemingly contemplating a fateful decision, punctuated by the line, “Choose for yourself.”
Musically, the teaser suggests a sharp pivot from the group’s usual sound. The preview hints at a dark, gritty EDM and electronic influence, contrasting the group’s signature vibrant and charming vibe.
SEVENTEEN’s Signature Sound
Over the years, SEVENTEEN has built a dynamic and versatile discography. Their playful tracks, such as “Adore U,” “Very Nice,” and “Left & Right,” capture youthful energy and have cemented their reputation with high-energy performances and viral moments.
At the same time, their more mature and emotional songs like “Don’t Wanna Cry,” “Thanks,” and “Home” showcased their depth, winning critical acclaim and resonating deeply with fans.
SEVENTEEN pic.twitter.com/97rHHwgQxZ
— 쿱정원 (@wonubliss) April 27, 2025
With HAPPY BURSTDAY, the group is pushing themselves artistically. According to their label, Pledis Entertainment, the album’s title—blending “birthday” and “burst”—symbolizes “the explosive energy of SEVENTEEN’s rebirth” and the members’ desire to reinvent themselves after a decade together.
Notably, all thirteen members were directly involved in creating and recording the album, affirming their commitment to authenticity and innovation.
A Decade in the Making
After a decade of setting trends, building an empire of self-made artistry, and winning hearts worldwide, SEVENTEEN proves they are far from finished evolving. With all thirteen members actively participating in the album’s creation, HAPPY BURSTDAY represents a fearless reinvention: a rebirth of their sound, image, and ambitions.
HAPPY BURSTDAY: DARE OR DEATH pic.twitter.com/0b263qmATH
— 🙂 (@sounds_of_cheol) April 27, 2025
Pre-save and listen to SEVENTEEN’s fifth album, HAPPY BURSTDAY, on May 26.
