LOOP by 1VERSE is a dynamic pop-glitch track inspired by retro gaming. It blends bit-crushed sounds and distorted vocals to create a playful, arcade-like atmosphere.

Nathan shared his interpretation of the song: “LOOP makes me think of going to an arcade and playing a claw machine. When you lose, you keep trying until you get it.”

Kenny drew inspiration from a personal experience: “I had journaled about my insecurities because I wasn’t good at claw machines. I told everyone at the recording session as if it were therapy. I trained so hard that I got two plushies for under 20,000 won.”

The group co-wrote and produced the track in Los Angeles alongside producers Adrian McKinnon and Skylar Mones, with creative contributions from group members Seok, Nathan, Kenny, and Aito.

This collaboration was particularly meaningful for Aito: “It was my first time writing and composing a song. When I met the producer in LA, I was amazed to see firsthand how they create music.”

Before its official release, 1VERSE debuted LOOP live at Chicago’s Anime Magic convention, then performed at Gamescom in Cologne and Asian Revolution in Mainz.

Q&A

Q: WHAT INSPIRES YOUR CREATIVITY?

1VERSE: We draw inspiration from everywhere: anime like Jujutsu Kaisen, Demon Slayer, and Naruto, video games, and the sounds of 오락실 (oh-rak-shil, Korean arcades).

AITO: It’s an honor to come from Japan, the birthplace of anime. Having grown up with anime, it’s great to see K-pop and animation cross over. I was even inspired to dress up for Anime Magic.

KENNY: My inspiration comes from journaling, and sometimes my thoughts turn into songs. I wrote “Crying Summer” about how, as an adolescent, holiday breaks meant for family often felt lonely because I couldn't go back home.

Q: HOW DO YOU DECOMPRESS?

AITO: Visiting home always helps me recharge, so I make every effort to go back during breaks.

NATHAN: After work, you need time to disconnect so you come back with a fresh mind and perform better.

KENNY: What he really means is that he likes PC bangs (internet cafes) and pochas (street food pubs). As for me, I like to bake. I also recently listened to the Heated Rivalry audiobook because a friend recommended it.

Q: HOW WAS YOUR TRIP TO LATIN AMERICA?

NATHAN: I was told Latin American fans were passionate, but experiencing their energy firsthand was insane! We didn’t have enough time, so we need to go back to try the recommendations we missed.

AITO: I had the best time trying the meat in South America!

KENNY: I tried Açaí! One thing I loved about Brazil was the buffet lunches. For about 70 reais, you could eat as much as you wanted, and every meal tasted like home cooking. I can't wait to go back.

Discover 1VERSE’s story and join their official channels for dance practices, vocal covers, and offstage fun.