MONSTA X Unit Shownu X Hyungwon Drops New Album 'LOVE ME' After Three-Year Break

헬리아 기자 helianik@wikitree.co.kr

작성일 2026-05-21 10:55

MONSTA X's sub-unit Shownu X Hyungwon to release their second mini-album ‘LOVE ME,’ marking a mature return to music after a three-year hiatus dedicated to their military services.

The popular MONSTA X sub-unit, Shownu X Hyungwon, has officially returned to the music scene with their second mini-album, ‘LOVE ME.’ Releasing on May 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM KST, this project marks the duo's first joint release in three years. The album contains seven tracks, including unique solo songs from both members and B-sides written and composed by Hyungwon.

SHOWNU X HYUNGWON EP [LOVE ME] Concept Photo / STARSHIP Entertainment

The Story Behind the Title Track "Do You Love Me"

According to WikiPickyMedia's report, The main song on the album is "Do You Love Me," a track that describes the confusing emotions of a romantic game of push-and-pull. The song combines a heavy drum beat with bright brass and guitar sounds, creating a smooth and mature style that highlights the duo's unique vocals.

During their three-year break, both artists focused on their mandatory military duties. They also joined the full MONSTA X group to release an album before their youngest member, I.M, enlisted.

The members shared how their time away from the stage changed their daily perspectives:

Hyungwon: "Living under strict military rules made me realize how precious freedom is. It made me feel grateful for the small things in life."

Shownu: "Working regular hours as a public service worker helped me understand office employees. I learned how hard it is to stay in shape when all you want after work is fried chicken and beer."

Performance vs. Production: Choosing the Main Song

Hyungwon took a major creative role in this album by writing, composing, and arranging four songs, including a track called "Superstitious." Both members admitted they originally wanted "Superstitious" to be the main single because of its bright, easy-listening style. However, they ultimately agreed with their agency's advice to choose "Do You Love Me" instead. Shownu explained that their biggest strength as a duo is powerful live dancing, and the intense choreography of the final title track fits their performance-heavy identity perfectly.

The album also features two distinct solo tracks that highlight their individual styles. Shownu’s solo song describes the exhausting feeling of trying to escape a toxic relationship, while Hyungwon’s solo uses water imagery to portray a love so deep it leaves him feeling breathless.