Highlight Revives 'Beast' Name for Anticipated Comeback After Nine Years

Highlight is reviving the name 'Beast' nearly nine years after its last use. In anticipation of their upcoming mini-album, Highlight will release a pre-release track under their original name 'Beast' to build excitement for their comeback.

The pre-release track 'No Ending,' unveiled on the 16th, is an emotional ballad that likens a breakup to the final scene of a movie. Known for impactful hits like 'On Rainy Days' and '12:30,' Highlight continues the legacy of Beast-style ballads with 'No Ending.'

Following the pre-release, Highlight will release their mini-album 'From Real to Surreal' on the 28th. The album will feature four tracks: the pre-release 'No Ending,' the title track 'Chains' written and composed by Lee Gikwang, 'Good Day to You,' and 'Follow Me.'

This comeback marks the first official use of the name 'Beast' since 2016, making it a significant event. After departing from Cube Entertainment, Highlight established Around Us Entertainment and continued their activities under the new name 'Highlight' due to trademark issues.

The music industry has evolved, recognizing that a team name holds more than just a label. Increasingly, groups retain their names even after leaving their agencies. In line with this trend, Highlight reached an amicable agreement with Cube Entertainment in April last year regarding the use of the 'Beast' trademark, reclaiming their original name. Around Us Entertainment stated, "While we will continue to promote as Highlight, it is a nostalgic moment to present the name 'Beast' to our fans once again."

Thus, Highlight has officially released music under the name 'Beast' for the first time in about nine years. Fans who have been with them since their debut, as well as listeners who loved Beast's music back then, are expressing their excitement for this comeback.

It is rare for a group that changed its name due to trademark issues to return to its original name. By releasing music under the name 'Beast,' Highlight sets a new milestone in the music industry. With this album, they plan not only to evoke nostalgia but also to write a new chapter based on the emotions and identity they have built over the years.

By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr