A fearless declaration of identity, NMIXX’s ‘Know About Me’ bridges experimental chaos and structured storytelling, solidifying their position as K-pop’s most audacious sonic explorers. As the third installment in the Fe3O4 trilogy, it marks the completion of a journey that began with ‘Break’ and ‘Stick Out’—a metamorphosis from questioning to confidence, from rebellion to resolution.

The music industry thrives on predictability, formulaic structures, familiar melodies, and safe commercial choices. Yet, there are moments when artists challenge these conventions, daring to venture into the unknown, creating art that is polarizing yet unforgettable. NMIXX, the six-member powerhouse under JYP Entertainment, has mastered the art of controlled unpredictability.

With their latest release, ‘Know About Me’, the group refines their signature experimentalism while retaining the genre-defying energy that first set them apart. However, what makes this comeback particularly significant is its role in completing the Fe3O4 trilogy. As the final chapter in a conceptual series that began with ‘Fe3O4: Break’ and ‘Fe3O4: Stick Out’, ‘Know About Me’ serves as the culmination of self-realization and empowerment, answering the questions posed in its predecessors.

In this editorial, we explore the intricate layers of music, visuals, and symbolism that shape ‘Know About Me,’ tracing the group’s evolution, the Fe3O4 trilogy’s overarching themes, and their future trajectory.

Song Details

• Song Title: Know About Me
• Album: Fe3O4: Forward
• Release Date: March 11, 2024, at 6 PM KST
• Genre: K-pop, Electronic Pop, Experimental Pop, Dance
• Label: JYP Entertainment
• Members (Stage Names):
  • Lily (릴리)
  • Haewon (해원)
  • Sullyoon (설윤)
  • Bae (배이)
  • Jiwoo (지우)
  • Kyujin (규진)

A Trilogy of Growth: How ‘Know About Me’ Completes Fe3O4

Before dissecting the song and music video, it is essential to understand how this trilogy functions as a three-part narrative exploring themes of identity, defiance, and ultimate self-acceptance.

Fe3O4: A Scientific Metaphor for Magnetism and Identity

Fe3O4, or magnetite, is one of the strongest naturally occurring magnetic materials, a fitting metaphor for the push and pull of identity, self-doubt, and external expectations. Each album represents a different stage of personal growth, mirroring the way magnetic forces can both repel and attract, disrupt and realign.

The Three Chapters

‘Fe3O4: Break’ (The Awakening)

• Theme: Realizing one’s limitations and the need to break free.

• Key Message: “I feel the forces pulling me, but I don’t know which direction to go.”
• Musical Identity: Bold, chaotic shifts—symbolizing confusion and struggle.

‘Fe3O4: Stick Out’ (The Rebellion)

• Theme: Rejecting norms, standing out despite the pressure to conform.
• Key Message: “I refuse to be defined by others—I will carve my own path.”
• Musical Identity: Edgy, unpredictable structures—a sonic fight against expectation.

‘Fe3O4: Forward’ (The Resolution)

• Theme: Fully embracing one’s identity and moving forward without hesitation.
• Key Message: “This is who I am, and I no longer seek validation.”
• Musical Identity: Still experimental, but more refined and deliberate, reflecting clarity.

With this framework in mind, ‘Know About Me’ becomes not just a song but a conclusion, the moment where the internal battle settles, and self-assurance takes hold.

A Cinematic Opening: The Visual Aesthetics of ‘Know About Me’

The music video for ‘Know About Me’ is not just a collection of stunning frames, it’s a journey of self-discovery, liberation, and confrontation with identity. The use of mirrors, shifting landscapes, and surreal spaces isn’t merely aesthetic but deeply metaphorical, mirroring the song’s narrative.

The Symbolism of Space and Reflection

• Mirrors & Reflections → Represent introspection and duality—the battle between who they are and who they are expected to be.
• Open Doors & Expansive Environments → Symbolize the transition from uncertainty to confidence, stepping into an uncharted but self-determined future.
• Light vs. Shadow → Juxtaposes self-doubt and empowerment, a visual metaphor for the internal struggles and triumphs of self-realization.

Key Scene Breakdown

• Opening Shot → A dreamlike transition into NMIXX’s conceptual world, inviting the audience into their mindscape of self-discovery.
• Midway Choreography Focus → The moment where doubt is cast aside, replaced by fierce, synchronized movements, mirroring confidence and defiance.
• Final Sequence → A powerful visual crescendo, showing the group running, reaching, and standing firm, signifying the final step in their transformation.

This visual storytelling seamlessly ties into the overarching Fe3O4 trilogy, completing the narrative arc that began with ‘Break’ and ‘Stick Out.’

Visual Aesthetics & Cinematography

1. Color Palette: The video features a vibrant yet sophisticated mix of pastel, neon, and earthy tones. Bright visuals contrast with darker, moody scenes to create a dynamic aesthetic.
2. Lighting: The use of backlighting and neon glows enhances the futuristic, cyberpunk-inspired moments, while softer lighting complements emotional or dreamy sequences.
3. Camera Movements: Smooth tracking shots and dynamic angles emphasize the group’s energetic choreography. Close-ups highlight members’ expressions, adding emotional depth.

Concept & Storyline

1. Theme: The video follows a self-discovery and empowerment narrative, with symbolic elements hinting at themes of breaking barriers and embracing individuality.
2. Storytelling Elements: Abstract imagery, futuristic cityscapes, and surreal settings suggest a journey of growth, possibly connected to their Fe3O4 storyline.
3. Symbolism: Mirrors, reflections, and shifting dimensions suggest themes of identity, perception, and transformation.

Performance & Choreography

1. Dance Style: The choreography blends high-energy movements with intricate formations, aligning with NMIXX’s signature powerful dance style.
2. Key Moves: Several standout moments include synchronized group formations and isolated movements emphasizing the beat drops.
3. Execution: The members’ sharp and fluid movements showcase both their technical skill and expressive performance.

Styling & Fashion

1. Outfits: A mix of futuristic streetwear, high-fashion couture, and sporty aesthetics. Some members wear bold accessories and layered textures.
2. Hair & Makeup: Hairstyles range from sleek and edgy to soft and natural. Makeup emphasizes bright eyeshadow, glossy lips, and artistic embellishments.
3. Fashion Theme: The wardrobe choices reflect a blend of cyberpunk, modern street fashion, and retro influences.

Dissecting the Chaos: The Musical Experimentation of ‘Know About Me’

One of the most defining aspects of ‘Know About Me’ is its unconventional structure, a trademark of NMIXX’s music. The song doesn’t follow a standard verse-prechorus-chorus structure but instead uses dynamic transitions and sudden shifts to keep the listener engaged.

The Unconventional Structure

Unlike standard verse-prechorus-chorus arrangements, ‘Know About Me’ is built on dynamic tension and sudden resolution.

• Intro → A misleadingly soft, atmospheric opening lures the listener into a false sense of calm.
• Verse 1 → The rhythmic tension builds, layering synth textures with a pulsating undercurrent.
• Pre-Chorus → A moment of restraint, where the instrumental briefly pulls back, creating suspense.
• Chorus Drop → A bold, bass-heavy explosion, completely shifting the song’s mood and pace.
• Bridge & Final Chorus → A culmination of vocals, rhythm, and harmony, delivering maximum impact before the resolution.

The Genius of the Chorus Drop:

The moment the bassline kicks in, it becomes evident that this isn’t just another pop song. The groove is intense, the instrumentation dense yet crisp, and the vocals commanding yet fluid. The deep, punchy beats contrast sharply with the previous melodic sections, making the drop feel both unexpected and addictive.

Musical Highlights:

1. Dynamic genre-mixing → The seamless transition between electronic, bass, and pop elements keeps the song fresh and unpredictable.
2. Vocal layering & harmonization → Unlike many beat-heavy tracks, NMIXX ensures their vocals remain the focal point, with harmonies adding depth and warmth.
3. Drum & Bass Influences → The sharp, percussive hits give the song a driving momentum, reminiscent of underground club music fused with pop sensibilities.

It’s controlled chaos, and it works.

Lyrical Depth: The Evolution of NMIXX’s Message

Beyond the technical brilliance, ‘Know About Me’ is an anthem of self-assertion. The lyrics, while abstract in places, reinforce themes of confidence, individualism, and fearless authenticity.

Themes Explored:

1. Defying Expectations → NMIXX refuses to be defined by industry norms or external perceptions.
2. Self-Acceptance → The message is clear: they are done seeking validation, they know who they are.
3. Forward Momentum → The repeated imagery of moving forward, breaking through barriers, and embracing the unknown aligns with the trilogy’s overall theme.

The combination of these lyrical themes with the bold instrumentation creates a track that is both introspective and aggressively confident.

Where Does NMIXX Go From Here? The Future of Their Sound

With ‘Know About Me’, NMIXX demonstrates maturity in their sonic evolution while maintaining the essence of their unique experimentalism. But where do they go from here?

Possible Future Sound Directions:

1. More refined genre fusion → Keeping the unexpected transitions but smoothing out the shifts.
2. Darker, bass-heavy club beats → Exploring deeper electronic soundscapes, influenced by drum & bass, techno, or cyberpunk aesthetics.
3. Orchestral & cinematic elements → Incorporating grander, layered production, similar to epic OST-style compositions.
4. Rock & pop-punk influences → Given their bold vocal delivery, a punk-infused concept wouldn’t be surprising.

Their trajectory suggests that they will continue to challenge the limits of K-pop composition, refining their experimental edge into a more digestible yet cutting-edge sound.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for NMIXX

‘Know About Me’ is more than a song, it’s the resolution of a trilogy, the final affirmation of self-awareness and artistic confidence.

• Final Verdict: 9/10
• A thrilling, boundary-breaking track that cements NMIXX’s reputation as K-pop’s fearless musical architects.

With the Fe3O4 trilogy now complete, one question remains: where does NMIXX go from here? Whatever direction they take next, one thing is certain, they are no longer seeking validation. They are leading the charge.