LIGHTSUM’s SANGAH, CHOWON, and JUHYEON are opening a new chapter with their first official unit.
Cube Entertainment will release the trio’s digital single “Beautiful Pain (SANGAH, CHOWON, JUHYEON)” and a live clip today (Jan. 15) at 6 p.m. KST across major streaming platforms.
Marking LIGHTSUM’s first unit project, the song puts the spotlight on each member’s distinct vocals while carving out a fresh lane from the group’s existing sonic palette. The three previously drew attention with a powerhouse cover performance of “Golden” from the "KPop Demon Hunters" soundtrack.
“Beautiful Pain (SANGAH, CHOWON, JUHYEON)” reimagines BTOB’s hit “Beautiful Pain” in the unit’s own colors. A clean, acoustic guitar-driven arrangement pairs with the trio’s delicate delivery to capture the push and pull between beauty and heartbreak.
The unit will also unveil the track live for the first time on Mnet’s "M Countdown" today at 6 p.m. KST.
Ahead of the release, SANGAH, CHOWON, and JUHYEON shared a candid Q&A about the project.
Q. What were your first reactions when LIGHTSUM’s inaugural unit was confirmed?
SANGAH: We’ve worked together a lot since our trainee days, so hearing we’d debut as a unit felt especially meaningful. I’m excited and full of butterflies.
CHOWON: I was thrilled to be part of LIGHTSUM’s first unit and couldn’t wait to show a different side of us.
JUHYEON: The three of us performed together often as trainees. We always hoped we’d share a stage as a trio someday, and it feels like that wish finally came true.
Q. How did you differentiate your version from the original?
SANGAH: We focused on blending our voices so each member’s charm stands out but still feels seamless together. Since it’s our first time promoting a ballad, we paid extra attention to conveying emotion.
CHOWON: We practiced hard so that if BTOB heard it, we’d make them proud. Within that, we expressed it in LIGHTSUM’s own style.
JUHYEON: The arrangement pairs well with winter, so we aimed for a warm yet delicate feel. You’ll hear a different kind of winter sensitivity that’s uniquely LIGHTSUM, distinct from BTOB’s.
Q. What vocal or rap moments did you zero in on for this track?
SANGAH: In the rap, I wanted to channel the original’s mood through my own color―so I was very intentional during recording.
CHOWON: I tried to pack as much of the lyrics’ emotion into my vocals so fans could feel the message just from my voice.
JUHYEON: I aimed for a crisp, ear-catching tone, and there are several sections where I really matched the emotions to the lyrics―so I hope listeners follow the words and melody together.
Q. What kind of synergy do you hope this unit brings to LIGHTSUM as a whole?
SANGAH: I hope we discover new facets through this unit and let those strengths naturally flow into group promotions, making us an even more multi-dimensional team.
CHOWON: Our group stages often lean performance-heavy, while the unit lets us spotlight vocals. It’s a great chance to show that LIGHTSUM is a strong vocal group, too.
JUHYEON: We’ll highlight individual charms we couldn’t fully show in group activities and broaden LIGHTSUM’s musical universe.
Q. Any message for SUMITs who’ve been waiting?
SANGAH: Thank you for always standing by us. Let’s make a lot of fun memories this era!
CHOWON: Thank you for waiting so patiently. I’ll repay you with my songs and my voice. Always grateful―and I love you!
JUHYEON: Thank you for waiting so long. I hope these comeback stages feel like a happy gift to you. Stay warm, don’t catch a cold, and see you soon!
Photo= Cube Entertainment
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)