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Singer-songwriter IU surprised fans on Wednesday morning by releasing the digital single Bye, Summer without prior notice on major streaming platforms.

According to her agency, the track was unveiled quietly with no promotional campaign, intended as a warm gift to fans as summer draws to a close.

The song first appeared in September 2023 at the encore of her world tour concert 2024 IU H.E.R. World Tour Encore: The Winning at Seoul World Cup Stadium. At the time, IU introduced the track with her own guitar accompaniment, saying, “This summer felt unusually long, but thanks to you, it was the best summer.” During the performance, a brief rain shower stopped just as the song ended, creating a cinematic moment that fans still recall vividly.

A live video of the performance later went viral on YouTube, and fans continuously requested an official release. Nearly a year later, Bye, Summer has finally been unveiled, sparking enthusiastic reactions.

Written and composed by IU, the track also credits composer Seo Dong-hwan — who collaborated with her on Love wins all — as co-composer. Combining IU’s signature lyrical vocals, a simple yet tender melody, and a refreshing band sound, the song captures the bittersweet emotions of summer’s end.

A lyric video was released simultaneously on IU’s official YouTube channel. The short animated film depicts a boy and a girl making summer memories before parting ways at the turn of the season.

IU is also set to host a fan meeting, 2025 IU Fan Meetup: Bye, Summer, at KSPO Dome in Seoul on September 13–14.