aespa became the first K-pop group to land on the cover of the UK music magazine Dork, with the issue hitting stands in September. This achievement highlights their growing global influence, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.
The cover coincided with the release of their highly anticipated all-English single, “Better Things,” which debuted on August 18, 2023, through SM Entertainment and Warner Records.
The song is a minimalistic uptempo dance track with rhythmic percussion and lyrics about prioritizing “more valuable things in life.” To promote the release, they also rolled out a charming three-episode web sitcom, “Better Things.” The series debuted earlier in August and received a positive response for its member chemistry.
The Dork September issue included an in-depth interview and photoshoot with members Karina, Ningning, Winter, and Giselle. The magazine’s cover features all four aespa members, dressed in vibrant, eclectic outfits that reflect aespa’s futuristic and bold aesthetic.
In an interview, Winter stated that they had confidence in their debut album but “never in a million years expected to receive so much love and attention so fast this early on.”
The members talked about their busy schedule while preparing for their first global tour, Synk: Hyper Line. Winter said she feels both nervous and excited about performing for fans around the world.
Karina expressed excitement to meet fans in the U.S., Europe, and South America, and Ningning looked forward to performing in front of new audiences. Giselle shared how important it is to live up to fan expectations while showing new stages and performances.
During the interview, they talked about their big achievements, like their debut hit Black Mamba, performing at major U.S. festivals like Coachella, and upcoming shows at London’s O2 Arena.
Giselle said performing at Tokyo Dome was a proud moment, and Ningning shared that walking the Cannes Film Festival red carpet felt like a dream. The group credited their fans, known as MYs, for their support and success.
Meanwhile, aespa will continue their US tour with shows in Miami (August 22), Atlanta (August 25), Washington (August 27), and more.