Red Velvet is officially returning with new music this summer. SM Entertainment has announced that the globally popular K-pop group will release its new mini album, Velvet Summer, on August 3, marking the group’s first full-group comeback in more than two years.
The five-track mini album will be available across major music streaming platforms at 6 PM KST on August 3. Leading the release is the title track, “Surfin’ Boy,” which promises a fresh seasonal sound while continuing the musical identity that has made Red Velvet one of K-pop’s defining acts. Physical editions of the album are also available for pre-order worldwide starting July 6 through online and offline retailers.
The announcement comes after months of anticipation from fans following the group’s last full-group release, Cosmic, in June 2024. With a new album, a sold-out fan-con, and worldwide pre-orders now underway, Red Velvet is preparing for one of its biggest summer promotions in recent years.
Velvet Summer continues Red Velvet’s signature summer legacy
According to SM Entertainment, Velvet Summer features five tracks built around vibrant summer-inspired sounds, colorful moods, and the group’s signature musical versatility. The album is headlined by “Surfin’ Boy,” which serves as the lead single for the comeback.
Red Velvet has long been associated with memorable summer releases, earning the nickname “Summer Queens” through songs such as “Red Flavor,” “Power Up,” “Umpah Umpah,” and “Queendom.” The agency said the new project delivers another seasonal soundtrack while introducing fresh energy that reflects the group’s evolving artistry.
The comeback also represents Red Velvet’s first full-group project in over two years, making Velvet Summer one of the most anticipated K-pop releases of 2026.
Sold-out fan-con highlights strong anticipation ahead of comeback
Before the album arrives, Red Velvet will reunite with fans during the 2026 Red Velvet FAN-CON, ‘A Day in Red & Velvet’, scheduled for August 1 and 2 at Korea University’s Hwajeong Gymnasium in Seoul.
SM Entertainment confirmed that the fan club pre-sale sold out, highlighting the strong demand surrounding the group’s long-awaited return. The two-day event will give fans an opportunity to celebrate with the members just before Velvet Summer officially launches worldwide.
Physical versions of the mini album will become available on August 3, with global pre-orders already open through participating retailers.
Red Velvet builds on more than a decade of global success
Since debuting in 2014, Red Velvet has become one of K-pop’s most influential girl groups through hits including “Bad Boy,” “Russian Roulette,” “Ice Cream Cake,” “Psycho,” “Feel My Rhythm,” and “Cosmic.”
The group has achieved numerous milestones throughout its career. The ReVe Festival: Finale became the first female K-pop album to top the iTunes Top Albums chart in 44 countries, while “Psycho” reached No. 1 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart. Their 2021 mini album Queendom also topped iTunes album charts in 51 countries.
Red Velvet has continued expanding its international presence through successful releases, world tours, and landmark performances, including becoming the only K-pop act to perform at Primavera Sound Barcelona in 2023. As the group enters a new chapter with Velvet Summer, fans can look forward to another addition to its long list of celebrated seasonal releases.
