RIIZE are exploring a more delicate sound with “Insomnia,” their new single released October 26 through SM Entertainment and RCA Records. Marking the K-pop group’s first venture into acoustic pop, the track shifts away from their usual high-energy performances to spotlight the distinct vocals of all six members.
Built around gentle acoustic guitar melodies and understated production, “Insomnia” creates a wistful, dreamlike atmosphere shaped by the emotions that surface during sleepless nights. Its lyrics explore longing and lingering memories, capturing how feelings connected to someone or something once cherished can become more vivid as the night progresses. The release offers another interpretation of RIIZE’s self-described “Emotional Pop” identity, placing intimacy and vocal expression at the center.
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The song brings together Grammy-winning production team The Stereotypes, known for their work on Bruno Mars’ “That’s What I Like” and “Finesse,” and songwriter-producer August Rigo, who previously collaborated with RIIZE on “9 Days.” Korean lyricist Eana Kim wrote the lyrics.
Accompanying the release, the “Insomnia” music video translates the song’s melancholy into cinematic imagery that blurs the boundaries between dreams, reality and imagination. Through atmospheric scenes exploring loss, longing and the lingering presence of past experiences, the members portray the heightened emotions associated with a sleepless night. The visual direction reinforces the track’s restrained mood, offering a contrast to the choreography-driven energy often associated with the group.
RIIZE also built anticipation through an interactive campaign ahead of the release. The group launched the “INSOMNIA SHEEP GAME” on its official website, using playful pixel-art graphics to create a digital experience connected to the single. Approximately 70,000 players took part within the game’s first hour, reflecting the interest surrounding the new music.
The release is also being celebrated with “RIIZE into INSOMNIA,” a four-day fan event taking place at SPACE S50 in Seoul’s Seongsu district from October 26 to 29. Opening-day activities include live performances and talk sessions, while subsequent programming features exhibitions and interactive experiences inspired by the song.
“Insomnia” follows RIIZE’s second mini album, II, released June 15, 2026. The six-track project became the group’s fourth million-selling album and introduced the title track “Do your dance,” which carried their energetic sound into the summer.
Photo: SM Entertainment
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