Stray Kids will release their fourth full-length album, ″Karma,″ on the 22nd at 1 PM (12 AM EST). The title track, ″Ceremony,″ was announced on the group’s official SNS channel on the 20th, alongside a teaser titled ″Stray Kids [INTRO ’KARMA’].″

The title ″Karma″ reflects themes of fate and consequence, while also conveying the idea of being ″Calmer.″ Stray Kids aims to express that when faced with negative karma, they will counter it with positive actions. They described ″’KARMA’ as a word we can proudly claim from our current position, representing both our strength and our caution.″

″Ceremony″ is seen as the perfect anthem for Stray Kids, especially following their record-breaking world tour, ″,″ which included 54 concerts across 34 countries. The song was chosen for a grand celebration in their hometown of Seoul, with the members expressing confidence in its impact, stating, ″We’re confident,″ and ″We think we can do well.″

Produced by the team 3Racha, ″Ceremony″ was crafted as a gift for fans in anticipation of their upcoming stadium tour. The production team noted that the song is designed for large venues, encouraging a communal atmosphere where everyone can cheer together.

The members actively contributed to the performance, with Hyunjin providing diverse ideas and Lee Know meticulously designing the choreography to enhance the song’s meaning. Hyunjin shared, ″The song has many elements and a dynamic melody, so I wanted rich choreography.″ Lee Know added, ″Drawing from our year of touring experience, we plan to showcase everything we have on music shows, including individual ceremonies at the end.″

″Karma″ marks Stray Kids’ return two years after their previous album, ″★★★★★ (5-STAR).″ Alongside ″Ceremony,″ other tracks like ″Bbicheori,″ ″In My Head,″ ″Phoenix,″ and ″Banjeon (Halftime)″ were considered for the title track. The producing team 3Racha, consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, contributed to all 11 tracks on the album, highlighting Stray Kids’ distinctive musical style.

The album features a diverse range of genres, with each track telling its own story. Notable songs include the members’ favorite ″Bbicheori,″ ″Creed,″ created in a hotel room, ″Eongmang (Mess),″ released after five years, ″In My Head,″ ideal for rock festivals, ″Banjeon (Halftime),″ filled with twists, ″Phoenix,″ a fan favorite for sing-alongs, the intriguingly titled ″Ghost,″ and the bright fan song ″0801.″

Stray Kids expressed gratitude for their fans’ unwavering support, stating that both ″Karma″ and ″Ceremony″ are dedicated to them. They acknowledged the long wait for new music, emphasizing their desire to deliver high-quality work as soon as possible. ″Thanks to our fans’ trust, we were able to move forward. This album is our way of repaying their faith and love,″ they said.

The group believes that ″fate is not given, but something to be pioneered.″ ″Karma″ will be released on the 22nd at 1 PM, and through this album, Stray Kids aims to achieve new musical milestones while strengthening their bond with fans.