Idol Unexpectedly Debuts New Song During “SMTOWN,” Sparks Explosive Reactions
SHINee’s Key surprised fans by performing his brand-new song ahead of its official release during today’s SMTOWN concert in Tokyo.
The track — the title song of his upcoming third full-length album, Hunter — instantly grabbed attention, left the crowd in awe, and sparked explosive online reactions.
Scheduled for release on August 11, “Hunter” will be Key’s latest comeback and first since Pleasure Shop in 2024.
KEY 키 'HUNTER' MV Teaser
KEY 키 The 3rd Album 【HUNTER】
➫ 2025.08.11 6PM (KST)💿https://t.co/xP3vnX2uCt
🔗https://t.co/DY7gFzWC4Z #KEY #키 #HUNTER #KEY_HUNTER #SHINee #샤이니 pic.twitter.com/fmdgVx3ey6— SHINee (@SHINee) August 7, 2025
The live performance revealed a dynamic and powerful sound, drawing praise not only for the vocals but also for Key’s captivating stage presence. Fans and netizens quickly took to social media to share their enthusiasm about the performance and the new track.
SHINee’s Key absolutely killed it with the pre-release stage of his new song, “Hunter.”
There are too many highlight moments to count. The song is seriously amazing
— Viral TheQoo post
헌터 도쿄돔 pic.twitter.com/TwWIsSMXwl
— 룰루 (@mylittlefreaks_) August 9, 2025
도쿄 SMT 헌터 선공개 #key pic.twitter.com/EgDqDh9J8Z
— 궁깅이 (@_key_d_day) August 9, 2025
Although some fans pointed out minor critiques regarding the choreography, the overwhelming response was positive, emphasizing how much anticipation there is for the new track but also for the new album.
- “Wow, the song is really good. It even reminds me of [SHINee’s] Married to the Music, I love it.”
- “Kibum ㅠㅠㅠㅠ The combo of Kenzie and Kibum is amazing.”
- “So cool, Kim Kibum.”
- “The song is good! But the arm choreography looks a bit heavy? Kind of disappointing. Maybe because he bulked up? The chorus part is the best.”
- “Love the song.”
With “Hunter” set to drop in just a few days, fans are eagerly counting down to hear the full album and see what new musical directions Key will explore.
