MONSTA X Returns Unapologetically with Bold Pre-Release Single “Do What I Want”
- Anderson Longenecker
- Aug 29
- 3 min read
MONSTA X is back in full force and fans are hyped for their upcoming mini-album, The X, set to release on September 1, 2025, at 6 PM KST.
This comeback is extra special as it marks the group’s first full-member release since their 2021 mini-album One of a Kind, which featured the hit title track "Gambler." After years of staggered military enlistments (with the exception of rapper I.M), all six members—Shownu, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, Joohoney, and I.M—are now reunited. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of their debut in 2015, making this album especially meaningful for MONBEBEs.
“Do What I Want” Kicks Off a New Era
Ahead of the album, MONSTA X dropped the pre-release single "Do What I Want," on August 18, setting the tone for a promising comeback. The high-energy dance track blends Brazilian funk, house, and MONSTA X’s signature powerful beats, delivering a refreshing yet familiar sound that’s perfect for the club scene. The song lyrics were penned by I.M and Joohoney, who deliver a rebellious message filled with confidence. Joohoney also takes a production credit for this song (and much of the album), which fans are excited to see given his past productions for title tracks such as "Gambler" and "Love."
Watch the music video for “Do What I Want” here:
Inside the Music Video
The “Do What I Want” music video opens with flashing text and low-fidelity graphics, injecting a 90s nostalgia that is unexpectedly fresh. With slightly overexposed shots, the camera flips between the members dancing in a garage, playing pool, and hanging out casually. The beat then picks up, cueing in car-washing, bubbles, and leader Shownu making an appearance with angel wings.
But then comes the twist—the members all sport horns and pointed ears, resembling dokkaebi (도깨비) or goblins from Korean folklore. This bold styling adds depth to the meaning of the song, perfectly aligning with the track’s free-spirited, unapologetic theme and MONSTA X’s edgy aesthetic.
For a closer look at their choreography, check out the performance video here:
A Decade of MONSTA X
Formed through the show NO.MERCY, MONSTA X debuted in 2015 with their title track "Trespass" and quickly gained a reputation for their intense sound, sexy performances, and powerful vocals.
Over the years, the group has flexed their musical capability—experimenting with multiple genres, from hip-hop and EDM to R&B and Latin influences—and even released two full-length English albums, solidifying their international presence.
Just after having a fan concert in Korea to celebrate the six members being reunited once more, MONSTA X performed at Waterbomb Busan and headlined at KCON in L.A.—exactly a decade after first performing there. With a jam-packed schedule, MONSTA X are giving fans all the love with a new album that's as fierce as the rest of their music.
As I.M raps in “Do What I Want”:
“Some say this is enough / But time has passed and it’s already been over decade / We never slack off / The six of us together are never afraid.”
Pre-Save The X
Fans can now pre-save The X ahead of its official release here.
What’s your favorite MONSTA X song? What excites you most about The X? Drop your thoughts in the comments or connect with us on Instagram or X!
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Edited by Batul Netterwala