K-pop singer Baekhyun in a promotional photo for his EP 'Essence of Reverie.' Photo from Baekhyun's X account

South Korean singer Baekhyun, best known as a member of the boy group EXO, made his comeback on Monday with his fifth extended play "Essence of Reverie," hoping to showcase a new facet of himself as an artist.

In a YouTube livestream aired an hour prior to the EP's release, the 33-year-old idol said "Essence of Reverie" talks about Baekhyun at the boundary between reality and ideals.

"I tried to show you the Baekhyun you think of and the real Baekhyun. I tried to bring you [a] new side," the singer, whose real name is Byun Baek-hyun, said in the subtitled livestream.

"I always try to show new sides you have never seen before. This time around, you will really see something new," he added.

Composed of seven songs, "Essence of Reverie" is fronted by the single "Elevator," which Baekhyun described as a pop and R&B track featuring a catchy guitar and synth sounds layered over a trap beat.

Lyrically, the song likens one's heart to an elevator.

"Your heart goes back and forth like an elevator. I always want to go into your heart to find an answer. It can be the basement floor or higher floors. I want to explor[e] every floor and become the person you like," Baekhyun said.

Ahead of the EP's release, Baekhyun pre-released "Chocolate," promoting the track on South Korean music shows.

Baekhyun is also set to embark on his "Reverie" world tour, which will make a stop at the Mall of Asia Arena on October 18.

READ: EXO's Baekhyun returning to Manila for 'Reverie' tour

Baekhyun debuted in 2012 as a member of EXO, one of K-pop's most popular male acts, known for songs such as "Growl," "Ko Ko Bop" and "Love Shot." He launched his solo career in 2019 with the EP "City Lights."

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