Aespa is gearing up for an exciting musical comeback this June, just three months after dropping a revamped version of their track “Whiplash.” Ever since SM Entertainment confirmed the group’s return, anticipation among fans has been running high. But that excitement took a sharp turn when a possible leak emerged online, stirring speculation across the fandom. A U.S.-based fan may have inadvertently spilled the beans on not just the album’s release date but also its title—setting off a wave of reactions across social media.
The speculation began on June 3 when a fan browsing through the website of the American bookstore chain Barnes & Noble came across a listing that appeared to detail an unreleased aespa project. According to the screenshot they shared, aespa’s upcoming album is allegedly titled “Dirty Work,” with a release date set for June 27. This unexpected reveal instantly sent fans into a frenzy. If accurate, it would mean the album’s debut is just around the corner, yet SM Entertainment has yet to drop an official teaser or confirmation.
The reaction from the fandom was split. A portion of fans were thrilled by the early discovery, eager to latch onto any hint of what the new era might bring. They expressed excitement at the prospect of knowing something ahead of schedule and began speculating on the album’s concept, visuals, and sound. However, others were more critical, expressing frustration over the leak potentially spoiling a carefully timed promotional rollout. For some, the early disclosure felt like a violation of the anticipation that builds around major comebacks.
Further amplifying the buzz is the fact that aespa’s supposed comeback date matches the confirmed release of KATSEYE’s second EP, Beautiful Chaos, which is also set to drop on June 27. This parallel timing has sparked excitement about a potential crossover or collaborative interaction between the two global girl groups. With K-pop artists often promoting new tracks through joint social media content, including TikTok challenges and Instagram reels, fans are now eagerly hoping to see aespa and KATSEYE share a screen or a dance move.
Adding to the intrigue is the context of aespa’s recent controversies, particularly around leader Karina and her public stance on a political issue, which already placed the group under intense public scrutiny. Now, the combination of a comeback leak and high-profile competition has once again drawn the spotlight to the group. Whether or not the leak turns out to be accurate, one thing is clear—aespa’s next era has the world watching, and their return promises to be anything but quiet.