IVE Unveils Hero Comics Concept Photos for ‘Looks Can Kill’

IVE is teasing a new fictional universe with concept photos featuring distinctive hero characters. Combining powerful action with playful expressions and props, the images highlight each member’s individual charm.

Starship Entertainment released Rei and Leeseo’s “Hero Comics” concept photos for the new mini album “Looks Can Kill” through IVE’s official social media on October 12. Photos of An Yujin and Jang Wonyoung followed on October 13, further developing the release’s characters and story.

An Yujin radiates strength through kicks and board-breaking moves. Playful touches—making a finger heart over a fallen stunt performer or looking relaxed in front of dumbbells—give the action scenes an unexpected twist. Her powerful movements and mischievous attitude create a witty hero persona.

Jang Wonyoung demonstrates martial arts moves with a staff, slicing fruit and thrusting it forward. Close-ups accompanying the dynamic action reveal another side of her through wistful eyes and a composed air. A unit photo of the two facing each other conveys determination, while hair and styling reflecting their signature colors create a striking visual contrast.

Rei and Leeseo’s previously released photos evoke training scenes at a “Hero Academy.” Leeseo uses her long hair in rope-like action sequences to portray a unique superpower, while props such as a yo-yo and a doll bring out her character’s kitschy, mischievous personality.

Rei conveys formidable strength through barehanded action and bandages, while also striking carefree poses, winking with one leg hooked over a bar or holding up a bucket. Their unit shots feature piercing looks at each other and dynamic action. Bold movements captured with a wide-angle lens, comic-style collages and speech bubbles bring the “Hero Comics” concept to life.

The mini album introduces new characters and stories unique to IVE by expanding the group’s music and visuals. According to Starship Entertainment, its hero universe reflects the group’s identity, grounded in confidence and self-determination. Sports Seoul’s coverage of Rei and Leeseo’s concept photos described the release as presenting heroes who break away from conventional archetypes, conveying the message that anyone can be the main character and hero of their own life.

The title track, “Looks Can Kill,” amplifies IVE’s signature presence and confidence. A challenge previously revealed a snippet of the song and its key choreography, offering an early taste of its mood. With the concept photos establishing each member’s character, anticipation is building for the hero-inspired performances they will bring to the stage.

IVE will pre-release “Looks Can Kill” on online music platforms at 6 p.m. KST on October 19, followed by the official release of the mini album of the same name on October 26.