IU is back with her fifth studio album LILAC!

The 10-track project — her first full-length album since Palette in 2017 — marks the conclusion of a chapter in the South Korean singer-songwriter's career and the beginning of an exciting new one.

In a recent interview with W Korea (translated by Soompi), IU, who turns 29 this year, explained the meaning behind the album's title.

“In the language of flowers, ‘lilac’ means ‘memories of youth," she shared.

"I wanted to include a farewell with the message ‘I’m now going onward to my next chapter’ while also greeting my upcoming 30s at the same time.”

LILAC was first teased by IU during her acceptance speech at the 35th Golden Disc Awards in January. Later that month, the soloist released 'Celebrity', the first single off the album. 

The "bright" and "cheerful" song was the first indicator that LILAC would be sonically different from IU's earlier works. 

Likening the project to a "blockbuster film", IU, whose real name is Lee Ji Eun, said: "There are times in the planning stages for concerts when more so than anything else, I want to put on a show that’s totally entertaining. I created this album with a similar mindset.”

Written by IU, 'LILAC', one of the album's two title tracks, is an upbeat number characterised by its nostalgic pop sound. 

Its eye-catching accompanying music video features a number of colourful sets as well as a delightful dance sequence set against the backdrop of a train station. 

'Coin', the second title track off LILAC, goes in a slightly different direction with its brass riffs. It was also written by IU and composed by the vocalist alongside Kako and renowned South Korean producer Poptime.

"I’ve mainly written calm songs that tell personal stories so far. I decided that that wasn’t the right fit for this album’s tone, so I didn’t hesitate to remove those,” shared IU.

LILAC also comprises a collaborative track, titled 'Troll', with R&B singer-songwriter and rapper DEAN.

To celebrate the album's release, the singer penned a message to her fans to thank them for their support. "Until the album was released, I waited silently with Uaena. I want to share the warmth of spring... Thank you and I love you," wrote IU. 

3월 25일인 오늘
아이유의 정규 5집 발매를 맞이해
앨범이 나오기까지
묵묵히 기다려준
유애나와 함께
봄의 따스함을 나누려고 합니다.

마음을 전달받는 분들께도,
사랑하는 우리 유애나에게도
모두의 마음에
따뜻한 봄이 찾아오길 바라요!

늘 같은 자리를 지켜주는 유애나
고맙고 사랑해요♥ pic.twitter.com/DmlJvF2z4K

— EDAM Ent. (@edam_ent) March 25, 2021

Stream LILAC here: