The moment is here as the much-anticipated comeback of ILLIT Cherish MV from their second mini-album, I’LL LIKE YOU, has finally arrived, and fans are thrilled with what the group has delivered. While this song may not carry the same bold energy as the Magnetic it offers something equally exciting: a refreshing, mellowed-out sound that perfectly complements the group’s evolving style.
ILLIT Cherish MV Review
Before starting the review, I would like to say that I feel ILLIT had one of the most impressive debuts this year, breaking multiple records and quickly gaining attention. However, their rise hasn’t been without challenges. The group has faced constant comparisons to NewJeans, with some fans pointing out similarities in concept and style. While this has sparked discussions, it’s important to note that these comparisons likely stem from company decisions rather than the members themselves, who are simply executing what’s been given to them. Despite these distractions, ILLIT has continued to prove their talent and potential.
When ILLIT debuted with Super Real Me and the title track Magnetic, the song became an instant hit on my playlist. For four straight months, it dominated my listening sessions, thanks to its addictive beat and energetic vibe. The track set the bar incredibly high for the group, leaving fans wondering how they would top such a strong debut.
So when I heard that ILLIT was making a comeback with Cherish, I had my doubts. Could they really surpass the impact of “Magnetic”? To my surprise, Cherish (My Love) delivered right from the first listen. While it offers a different energy—more mellow and vocally focused—the track is just as catchy and addictive.
Cherish (My Love) MV is a dance-pop track that leans more into smooth vocals and a laid-back vibe compared to the upbeat and intense rhythms of Magnetic. While some may have expected a Magnetic 2.0, ILLIT cleverly steers away from repeating themselves. Instead, the group embraces a softer, more melodic approach, showcasing a different facet of their musical identity. It’s a bold choice for such a young group to not rely on the formula of their first hit, but it proves to be a smart decision.
The track begins with a captivating introduction featuring Wonhee, who confidently declares, “You know what? Not even God can stop me.” From the moment these words are spoken, it’s clear that ILLIT is here to establish their own path, and Wonhee’s delivery of this line sets the tone for the rest of the MV—empowered, self-assured, and refreshingly fearless.
The MV for Cherish is as visually engaging as it is musically pleasing. From the very start, the members’ confidence radiates through their captivating performances and styling. The choreography, while less intense still holds a strong presence with smooth, flowing movements that perfectly match the song’s mood. The balance of strong yet graceful dance moves highlights ILLIT’s versatility as performers.
Moka, in particular, stands out with her new, more mature styling, showing a growth in her image since the group’s debut. The styling across the board feels age-appropriate and tasteful, adding to the polished visual appeal of the music video. As the girls dance through sleek sets and ethereal backdrops, the visuals create a dreamy atmosphere, which pairs beautifully with the song’s softer tone.
Minju and Yunah are also heavily featured in this comeback, and their vocals shine in this more vocally-driven track. Minju’s husky voice brings richness to the verses, while Yunah’s soft, emotive delivery offers a delicate contrast. Their harmonies are seamless, and their contrasting tones make Cherish feel layered and emotionally resonant.
One of the strongest elements of Cherish is its catchy chorus, which has the potential to stay stuck in listeners’ heads for days. It is addictive in its own way, thanks to its singable melody and smooth transitions. The mid-tempo beat provides a sense of calm while still maintaining enough energy to keep the song moving forward.
The second verse of the song is where Cherish truly hits its stride. From Minju’s husky vocals leading into harmony with Yunah, to Wonhee’s soft yet commanding delivery, the progression is incredibly satisfying. The song has moments of subtle intensity, particularly with Minju’s standout “Boy I” line, which adds a touch of power to the otherwise mellow track.
While Magnetic may have showcased ILLIT’s bold and daring side, Cherish highlights the group’s vocal strength and ability to deliver a more laid-back yet equally compelling sound. It’s a song that feels perfect for the colder months, with its chill vibe making it an ideal winter track that fans can cosy up to.
Cherish may not be as high-energy but it also doesn’t need to be. The group has successfully shown that they can expand their sound and experiment with a more melodic, refined style without losing the charm that made them stand out in the first place. ILLIT has taken a risk by not following the same formula that brought them immediate success, but that decision pays off with a refreshing, feel-good track that still captures the essence of what makes the group special. With this song, ILLIT has proven that they have the range and versatility to continue evolving, and it’s exciting to see where they’ll go from here.
Watch ILLIT Cherish (My Love) MV Below
ILLIT I’LL LIKE YOU album is now streaming on Spotify and other music platforms.
Did you guys like the ILLIT comeback Cherish? Let us know your thoughts in the comment below!