BABYMONSTER, the rising K-pop girl group under YG Entertainment, will release their new single “HOT SAUCE” on July 1, 2025, marking their first foray into late-1980s-inspired hip-hop.
The track will serve as the first of two pre-releases leading up to their four-track mini-album, scheduled for October 1, 2025.
During a recent announcement, YG founder Yang Hyun-suk shared insights into the creative direction of the song and the group’s upcoming activities.
HOT SAUCE: 1980s Hip-Hop + K-Pop
“HOT SAUCE” is described as a simple, upbeat, and addictive track meant to bring joy during the summer season.
Yang Hyun-suk emphasized that the song is a “gift” for fans, combining youthful energy with retro influences.
It draws inspiration from the late 1980s hip-hop era, a time he personally recalls as the beginning of his own connection with rap music.
“I thought, why not bring back music from 40 years ago and let today’s teenagers try it?” Yang said, highlighting how BABYMONSTER’s fresh interpretation exceeded expectations.
This marks the first time BABYMONSTER has tackled this genre, signaling an experimental yet nostalgic shift in their sound.
Music Video and Promotions Confirmed
The release of “HOT SAUCE” will be accompanied by a music video and music show promotions, making it a full-scale comeback.
It is the first of two pre-release tracks planned ahead of their October mini-album.
October Mini-Album: Tracklist and Expectations
Four Songs, Four Concepts
The upcoming mini-album will consist of four tracks, each offering a different side of BABYMONSTER’s artistry:
1. “HOT SAUCE” – A fun and energetic hip-hop track with late ’80s influence
2. September Pre-Release – A slow-paced song with strong hip-hop elements, described as a favorite among both members and producers
3. Title Track (October 1) – Still under wraps, but expected to be the album’s centerpiece
4. Opening Track – A powerful performance piece that may serve as the opener for a future world tour
Yang expressed high confidence in the quality of all four songs, especially the second pre-release, which he called “a great song to listen to.”
BABYMONSTER’s Journey So Far
From Debut to Rising Stars
BABYMONSTER debuted on April 1, 2024, with the EP Babymons7er, featuring the lead track “SHEESH.”
Originally a seven-member group, they now consist of six members—Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Rami, Rora, and Chiquita—following Ahyeon’s departure in December 2023.
Their discography includes:
– “DREAM” (May 14, 2023) – Pre-debut promotional single
– “BATTER UP” (Nov 27, 2023) – Official debut single
– “SHEESH” & “Like That” (Apr 1, 2024) – From debut EP
– “FOREVER” and “Stuck In The Middle” – Additional post-debut tracks
These releases have positioned them as successors to YG’s legacy girl groups like BLACKPINK and 2NE1.
>>> 2NE1, BLACKPINK, BABYMONSTER – YG Entertainment Makes Its Own History With 2025 Plans
Editor’s Comments
BABYMONSTER’s “HOT SAUCE” marks a bold step into retro hip-hop territory, showcasing YG’s willingness to experiment with genre while honoring musical history.
The strategic release plan—two pre-releases followed by a mini-album—demonstrates confidence in the group’s versatility and market appeal.
By aligning nostalgic sounds with contemporary performance energy, BABYMONSTER is poised to strengthen their identity within K-pop’s competitive landscape.
Expect strong fan engagement and media interest as teasers and promotions roll out.