ONEW and ZICO’s “Tic Tac Toe” Wins on “Music Core,” Tops Two Circle Charts

SHINee’s ONEW has scored a music show win with “Tic Tac Toe,” his collaboration with ZICO. The song’s chart success and music show trophy are building anticipation for his upcoming single album, “Illusion.”

ONEW took first place with “Tic Tac Toe” on the October 17 broadcast of MBC’s “Show! Music Core” without appearing on the show. The song is the second title track from “Illusion,” due out October 20, and its win gives the release an extra boost ahead of its official arrival.

The track also topped Bugs’ real-time chart on release day and entered the upper ranks of Melon’s HOT100. It then claimed No. 1 on both Circle’s Digital Chart and Download Chart for week 41 of 2026, covering October 4–10. The “Music Core” trophy follows those two chart victories.

“Tic Tac Toe” is an R&B and hip-hop track that playfully compares the subtle dynamics and emotions between a man and a woman to a game. ONEW’s smooth, flowing vocals alternate with ZICO’s distinctive rap, with the contrast and harmony between their voices creating a layered rhythmic feel.

Bouncy 808 rhythms and crisp trap textures provide an upbeat backdrop for the pair. Their vocal and rap exchanges bring added energy to the song’s playful take on relationships.

Both artists bring established musical identities to the collaboration. Sports Donga highlighted the delicate vocal delivery of ONEW, who debuted with SHINee in 2008, alongside the individuality of ZICO, who debuted with Block B in 2011 and has built a career as a rapper and producer. The outlet noted how their different musical styles come together harmoniously on the track.

Colleagues from across entertainment have also joined the song’s challenge. Participants include ZICO, SHINee members, fellow artists, actress Park So-dam and comedian Kwak Beom, giving fans more opportunities to enjoy ONEW’s chemistry with a range of guests.

“Illusion” arrives on music platforms on October 20 at 6 p.m. KST. The single album explores emotions arising from differences in interpretation, beginning with the idea that people can perceive the same sights and experiences differently. “Tic Tac Toe” offers a taste of its varied musical palette.

According to Sports Seoul, ONEW will present three title tracks on the album. Following his fifth mini album, “TOUGH LOVE,” he is preparing to share new music, with the early chart achievements and music show win for “Tic Tac Toe” adding to anticipation for “Illusion.”