Aespa just dropped the main aespa KISS N TELL concept photos for their first Japanese mini album KISS N TELL, and the Y2K glam is loud. On a giant CD in sugary pink looks, the members debut colorful wigs that signal a softer, sparkly new era.
The teasers, released July 3 at midnight KST, preview styling for the mini album arriving July 24 in Japan. It is aespa’s first Japanese release in about two years since debut single Hot Mess. With fans calling the vibe “magical and cute,” curiosity is high.
‘KISS N TELL’: aespa’s First Japanese Mini and Pink Y2K Era
KISS N TELL, billed as aespa The 1st Japan Mini Album, drops July 24, 2026 through Warner Music Japan in partnership with SM Entertainment. The EP packs six original Japanese tracks, including title song Kiss N Tell, anime opening ATTITUDE, and drama theme In Halo.
It is their first Japanese project since the 2024 maxi single Hot Mess, arriving on the heels of Korean album LEMONADE debuting at No. 9 on the Billboard 200. To match that momentum, aespa planned a tight rollout with multiple album versions and a Tokyo fanmeeting.
- Release date: July 24, 2026 in Japan
- Format: 6 track Japanese mini album
- Versions: Limited Edition, Poster, and KISS N TELL versions
- Fanmeeting: MY-J presents aespa JAPAN FANMEETING 2026 “MY CLASSMaeTE” at Keio Arena Tokyo, July 18 to 20
- Tie ins: ATTITUDE for anime Kill Blue, In Halo for drama Gimbap and Onigiri – Two Lovers Are Alike Yet Different
Inside the aespa ‘KISS N TELL’ Concept Photos
The main KISS N TELL version shows aespa perched on a giant CD in coordinated pink toned outfits, a scene described by their Japanese site as fantastical and mysterious with a retro future twist. Other versions move the group into a glossy salon setting filled with kitschy details that scream early 2000s.
Across the aespa KISS N TELL concept photos, each member sports a colorful wig and glamorous styling that lean hard into Y2K charm and a slightly vintage aura. Fans have labeled the concept “cutesy” and “magical and cute,” and Winter’s striking blue hair in particular has people comparing her to an anime lead.
Karina, Giselle, Winter, Ningning: Y2K Glam Member Breakdown
Karina leans into center visual status here, matching the pink toned set with a playful but polished take on Y2K glam that still feels recognizably aespa. Beside her, Giselle’s presence naturally connects the concept to her Japanese roots, giving her shots the feel of a retro future it girl straight out of a Tokyo street style photo.
Winter’s anime blue hair makes her the instant focal point, turning the softer concept into something that still feels slightly otherworldly. Ningning amplifies the high gloss side of the shoot, pairing the colorful wig and glam makeup with a confident gaze that sells the whole Y2K fantasy and hints at how powerful this era could look on stage.