Red Velvet Topped Global iTunes Charts With New EP
The group returned to the music scene with the release of their five-track EP titled Velvet Summer.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in R&B
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Red Velvet has reached the top of the iTunes Top Albums Chart in 15 different regions following the October 2026 release of their latest project. The new EP, Velvet Summer, marks the first group release from the artists in over two years.
Why it matters
The successful debut of the EP highlights the enduring popularity of Red Velvet, as all five tracks from the record secured positions on domestic music charts. This return signals a significant comeback for the group after a hiatus spanning more than two years.
The EP contains five tracks that all charted domestically, while the release reached the top spot on iTunes across 15 international regions. This project is the first group effort from Red Velvet in over 2 years.
The players
Red Velvet
Red Velvet is a South Korean girl group known for their diverse musical styles and consistent commercial success in the global pop market.
Joy
Joy is a prominent member of the group Red Velvet who serves as both a vocalist and a creative contributor for their latest project.
The details
The five-track EP titled Velvet Summer showcases a blend of bossa nova and reggae musical influences, particularly on the title track Surfin' Boy. Member Joy contributed to the group's creative direction by writing the lyrics for the lead song.
Timeline
Red Velvet released the EP Velvet Summer in October 2026.
Industry Dynamics
Red Velvet's return highlights the intense competition within the K-pop sector, where groups must maintain momentum despite long gaps between full-group projects. This comeback aligns with broader trends where established acts leverage global digital storefronts to validate their market relevance.
Fans can now access the full five-track EP across major digital music platforms worldwide. The group's return ensures that new material from the ensemble is available for streaming after a two-year wait.
The takeaway
The successful launch of Velvet Summer demonstrates how established groups can regain their footing after extended hiatuses by focusing on diverse genre influences. Listeners interested in the creative evolution of the group can note the infusion of bossa nova and reggae elements.
Further reading
Explore more artist updates in our R&B section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KBS WORLD Radio.
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