ITZY 'Motto' (2026)

What is ITZY Motto?

Motto is the 12th mini album by South Korean girl group ITZY, released on May 18, 2026 at 6 p.m. KST. The album features a title track of the same name, serving as both the album's lead single and thematic centerpiece. The title track "Motto" runs for 3:13 and represents an upbeat pop composition that tackles concepts of devotion and complete immersion.

Musically, the track demonstrates a shift toward shimmering synthpop, characterized by atmospheric production that builds into an energetic chorus. The song functions as an empowering pop track centered on self-belief, confidence, and gratitude toward the group's fanbase, known as MIDZY. At the same time, the lyrics revolve around the core message of "I choose myself," encouraging listeners to trust their own choices and march forward confidently.

The track serves dual purposes as both a motivational anthem about self-trust and a heartfelt expression directed at fans. Leader Yeji described MIDZY as a "lighthouse" that guided the group through difficult moments, making the title "Motto" symbolize the values and support system that sustain ITZY's motivation. Furthermore, the song delivers themes of self-empowerment through lyrics about trusting one's path and choosing oneself over fear or doubt, aligning with ITZY's established artistic direction of independence and self-love. The composition balances energetic melodies with emotional sincerity, combining confidence with warmth to create what music critics have described as one of the strongest choruses of 2026.

When was ITZY Motto released?

Official release date announcement

Initially, on March 30, 2026, JoyNews24 reported that ITZY was in the final stages of preparations for a May comeback. JYP Entertainment confirmed the reports hours later. The comeback announcement arrived at midnight KST on April 22, 2026, when ITZY released a trailer for Motto, set for release on May 18. The official announcement included specific timing details, confirming the album would drop on May 18 at 6 p.m. KST.

Pre-release preparations

Following the initial announcement, JYP Entertainment outlined a promotional schedule featuring concept photos, music video teasers, and additional teaser content starting the week prior to release. The group released the first music video teaser on May 13, followed by a second teaser at midnight on May 15. The members scheduled a countdown live broadcast for 5 p.m. KST on May 18, one hour ahead of the album release.

Music video release timing

On May 18 at 6 p.m. KST, Motto became available on streaming platforms. The physical album received a US release on May 22, accompanied by remixed versions of the title track dropping at 1 p.m. KST that same day.

What does the ITZY Motto album include?

Physical album versions

The physical release comprises 15 distinct versions: three Photobook versions (A, B, C), five Members versions, five individual Cake Clicker Keyring (QR) editions, and two Platform Album_Poca Album versions (A and B). The Photobook version includes a 64-page photobook measuring 158 x 198 mm, alongside folding posters, photocards, stickers, message memo books, CD-R, and PVC bookmarks. The Members version features personalized packaging for each of the five members, containing a 28-page photobook, sticker sets, random photocards, and folding posters.

Track list

The album contains eight tracks totaling approximately 23 minutes. The group tracks include "Motto" (3:13), "Glitch" (3:16), and "You And I" (3:07). Five solo tracks follow: "Pocket" by Yeji (2:23), "Asylum" by Lia (3:35), "Look" by Ryujin (2:06), "Undefined" by Chaeryeong (2:40), and "Tangerine" by Yuna (3:18).

Solo performances

The five solo tracks were first showcased during ITZY's third world tour Tunnel Vision on February 13, 2026. Production credits feature a collaborative lineup of domestic and international talent, including Shim Eun-ji, Lee Woo-min 'collapsedone', KASS, and Justin Reinstein.

What is the ITZY Motto song about?

The lyrics portray a journey through darkness guided by a familiar voice, falling like destiny to shift one's calling. The music video visualizes this process of "meeting oneself" and "choosing oneself" through surrealist imagery, featuring scenes of members looking at each other, smiling, and dancing. The titular track delivers its message about trusting the people who provide guidance and support while simultaneously believing in personal choices.

According to member Lia, the song provides courage to move forward fearlessly, depicting the experience of overcoming nights filled with hesitation and finally encountering clear light without fearing the ending. The refreshing and emotional atmosphere makes the track particularly suited for early summer listening. Chaeryeong emphasized that the group focused on delivering positive and bright energy to fans who consistently support them, which motivated the selection of "Motto" as the title track.

Yuna reflected on seven years with the group, recognizing how MIDZY became the lighthouse guiding her toward correct choices, enabling continuous growth without fearing challenges. Similarly, Lia acknowledged gaining confidence through both MIDZY and fellow members, reinforcing the message of moving forward while trusting oneself and personal mottos. The track features a refreshingly energetic melody layered with deep reverb and atmospheric synth pads to create a mysterious and multidimensional sound.

FAQs

What does ITZY mean? The group addressed this question during a WIRED Autocomplete Interview, answering commonly searched queries about themselves.

How did the members feel about returning with this album? Yeji expressed excitement to share the music with fans following preparations described as fun and energizing. Lia noted the positive atmosphere created by starting a new world tour and Yuna's solo debut earlier in the year. Yuna specifically mentioned the March solo debut and Tunnel Vision concerts as experiences that deepened connections with MIDZY, which influenced the emotional sincerity expressed through this release.

Did "That's a No No" create pressure for this comeback? Ryujin stated that rather than feeling burdened by expectations following the song's tour popularity, she felt passionate about exceeding those expectations. Chaeryeong expressed gratitude for the positive reception and viewed it as motivation for the group to continue enjoying themselves on stage.

What is the Motto game? Fans engage with an interactive word puzzle associated with the album, unscrambling letters to form words and phrases like "self loving" and member names such as "RyeoWoo". The game distributes different photo cards to participants.