ILLIT Releases Special Video for Love, older you

K-pop group ILLIT has surprised fans with the release of a special video for “Love, older you,” a standout track from their fourth mini-album, MAMIHLAPINATAPAI. The video, which dropped on June 4, offers an intimate look at the group, blending behind-the-scenes footage with a nostalgic, analog aesthetic.

A Deeply Personal Creative Direction

The visual content for “Love, older you” is presented through two distinct lenses: a “GRWM” (Get Ready With Me) version showing the members’ natural daily routines, and a “PAW PAW” version featuring the members interacting with animals. This artistic choice aims to highlight the song’s warm, alternative pop sound.

Did You Know? The members of ILLIT were fully involved in the creation of “Love, older you,” as every member contributed to the songwriting process, penning lyrics as letters to their younger, struggling selves.

Sustained Chart Success

This release comes while the group continues to dominate the charts with their current title track, “It’s Me.” Despite having been released over a month ago, the song remains a fixture in the top tier of major South Korean platforms, including Genie, Flo, Bugs, and Melon’s “Top 100.”

The group’s international reach is equally significant. “It’s Me” recently secured the 7th spot on the Oricon “Weekly Streaming Ranking” and reached 6th on the Billboard Japan “Streaming Songs” chart. The track is seeing a steady climb on global charts, including the U.S. Billboard “Global 200,” suggesting that their influence is expanding well beyond their domestic market.

Expert Insight: The strategic release of a special video while a lead single is still peaking on global charts is a calculated move to sustain momentum. By pivoting to a more personal, “alternative” track, ILLIT is likely attempting to deepen their emotional connection with fans, which may help solidify their long-term position in a highly competitive industry.

What Comes Next

Looking ahead, the group is prepared for a high-profile appearance at the “2026 Weverse Con Festival.” The event, scheduled for June 6 at the KSPO DOME and 88 Lawn Field in Seoul, serves as a direct opportunity for the group to engage with their audience. Given their current chart trajectory and the release of this new visual content, observers might expect the group to maintain this high level of activity throughout the summer festival season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the creative focus of the new “Love, older you” video?

The video centers on behind-the-scenes content of the group’s concept photos, using an analog film aesthetic to create a warm atmosphere. It features two versions: “GRWM,” which shows the members’ daily lives, and “PAW PAW,” which focuses on the members interacting with animals.

ILLIT | Love, older you | Believe in tomorrow's you and dream on | Special Video🌙 | 2026 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒑

What inspired the lyrics for “Love, older you”?

The lyrics were inspired by letters written by the five members to their younger selves, specifically addressing moments from their childhood when they felt like giving up.

How is the group performing on global charts?

As of early June, their track “It’s Me” reached 7th on the Oricon “Weekly Streaming Ranking” and 6th on the Billboard Japan “Streaming Songs” chart. They also saw an increase in ranking on the U.S. Billboard “Global 200” and “Global (excluding U.S.)” charts compared to the previous week.

How does the personal nature of “Love, older you” change your perspective on the group’s artistic growth?