Last time I wrote about a Japanese STAYC single they were saying “Meow.” Now, they’re saying MWUAH. Fair enough. Not everyone speaks Japanese, I guess. These strange utterances match their quirky sound, though sometimes the group’s music feels like one good idea without the development to make it into something fantastic.
The titular “MWUAH” appears as a cheeky sound effect at the end of this song’s chorus, but most of the track is a more melodic affair. There are plenty of opportunities to mug for the camera, surrounded by a robust chorus and backed by a bounding pop beat. It’s boilerplate J-pop, but fits STAYC’s charms well. The girls belt out the hook with plenty of power, adding a nice sense of climax each time it comes around. The bubbly sound feels more in line with summer comebacks than the dead of winter, but it’s nice to hear a burst of upbeat sunshine this time of year.
The one thing that keeps me from rating MWUAH higher is the sense that something’s missing to make the track a true standout. None of the melodies hit with the force I’d like. Even the effusive chorus opens well but quickly retreats into more forgettable hooks. Still, this is a step in the right direction for the group’s Japanese discography.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
Grade: B-
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
Um, Yeah. It sounds like debut era Twice, which is not a bad era to emulate. I mean, though, that was ten years ago.
I think the song and performance is better than an 8 … if it were 2016. In 2026, are we still doing cheerleader chants adlibs?
LikeLiked by 2 people
i am definitely the target audience for cheerleader chant adlibs in 2026! i think that this sound does run the risk of being a little cliche/underbaked but also anything 2016 is a win in my book
LikeLiked by 2 people
I will also raise my hand for cheerleader chant adlibs… I’m here for it. You aren’t wrong about debut era Twice… very similar vibes. I’m also here for that.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am happy that people are happy with cheerleader chants. Cheer away! We all need more joy in our lives.
LikeLike
I love that they did the Pitbull “Woooeeee!” to open the second verse. Reminds me of when KPop would just grab from anywhere.
LikeLiked by 2 people
i was pleasantly surprised by this, i really enjoyed it! same rating for me because i agree none of the hooks quite stuck, but recently 80% of new releases are skips for me so this is a relief to say the least
LikeLiked by 1 person
also really like say my name from the album!
LikeLike
I’d give this 8,8,9,9 = 8.5
STAYC is fairly reliable for my tastes. Excited to listen to the whole album.
LikeLike
I pretty much agree (8/10) but because I’m a SWITH I know it will grow on me over time, like all their songs do 👍👍
LikeLike
Still need to listen, but from the comments, it looks like I’ll really enjoy it! ❤
LikeLike
Personally, I prefer it sung in Korean over Japanese, but for a song aimed at the Japanese market, I think it would have been better to include a bit more Japanese. They’re probably already preparing to release a Korean version of this song soon.
Still, it’s a very commendable song—a lighthearted dance number. 8/10.
LikeLike
Happy party music
LikeLike
do you like their latest kpop comeback btw (I WANT IT)
LikeLike