IU and the timeless journey of her self-written songs

A surprise gift in autumn

In September 2025, IU delighted fans with the sudden release of 'Bye, Summer'. The track, first heard during her 2024 HEREH tour in Seoul, quickly became a seasonal highlight. Fans had speculated its release, especially as her upcoming fan meeting carried the same title, fueling excitement.

According to Sports Chosun, the performance preview already proved how much listeners anticipated an official version.

The start of her songwriting

IU began her journey as a songwriter with 'Hold My Hand' in 2011, part of the soundtrack for 'The Greatest Love'. Written at just 17, the song's charm and sincerity earned it chart success. Later, it resurfaced as a fan favorite through viral concert clips, cementing its status as a milestone in her discography.

Signature self-composed tracks

Her discography features landmark works that define her artistry. 'Friday', her first self-written title track, maintained long-lasting chart success without promotions, earning a spot in Melon's all-time Top 5 for the 2010s. 'Twenty-three' unveiled her candid struggles with identity, while the reflective 'Palette (Feat. G-DRAGON)' captured her growing self-acceptance. 'Blueming' blended playful wordplay with modern romance, and 'Celebrity' encouraged outsiders with its uplifting message.

A legacy still unfolding

Recent years brought songs like 'Shh..' (Korean title: '홀씨'), where IU expressed ambition and determination, showcasing her continuous evolution. Following global tours and acclaimed acting projects, she now returns to intimate storytelling with 'bye, summer'. Each self-written track acts as a snapshot of her journey, leaving fans to wonder what story her next chapter will tell.