Stray Kids Go Full Throttle with Explosive New Single “RUN IT”

By Narelle | June 28, 2026

There are songs that ask you to listen, and then there are songs that demand you move. Stray Kids’ “RUN IT” firmly belongs in the latter category. Released as the pre-release single for their upcoming EP THIS & THAT, the track is an adrenaline-fuelled anthem that perfectly captures the group’s relentless ambition while setting the tone for an exciting new era.

From the opening moments, “RUN IT” wastes no time establishing its larger-than-life presence. Thunderous percussion, soaring brass and an infectious rhythm combine to create a stadium-ready sound that feels tailor-made for live performances. It’s bold, cinematic and unapologetically Stray Kids, embracing the confidence and fearless energy that have become synonymous with the eight-member powerhouse.

Stray Kids – ‘Run It’

Visually, the music video matches the song’s intensity at every turn. Dominated by striking black-and-white imagery, the members perform alongside an army of dancers in choreography that feels both commanding and meticulously precise. The minimalist colour palette only heightens the impact of every movement, allowing the performance itself to become the focal point rather than relying on elaborate visual effects.

As always, Stray Kids’ greatest strength lies in their ability to balance individuality with teamwork. Each member brings a distinct flavour to the performance, whether through commanding rap verses, powerful vocals or magnetic stage presence. Yet despite their individual moments to shine, the group never loses sight of the collective energy that has made them one of K-pop’s premier performance acts.

Musically, “RUN IT” leans into an anthemic style that feels both fresh and familiar. The production is massive without becoming overwhelming, allowing the vocal and rap sections to breathe while maintaining an almost relentless momentum. The chorus is designed to be shouted back by thousands of fans, making it easy to imagine becoming a defining moment during the group’s upcoming world tour.

The choreography deserves particular praise. Sharp formations, explosive transitions and dynamic camera work ensure that every beat lands with maximum impact. The members’ precision is remarkable, but it’s the passion behind the performance that truly elevates the music video. Every movement feels purposeful, reinforcing the song’s message of pushing forward without hesitation.

The styling also complements the concept perfectly. Rather than distracting with extravagant costumes, the wardrobe embraces sleek monochrome looks that amplify the video’s bold aesthetic. Combined with dramatic lighting and cinematic cinematography, the visual presentation feels polished from beginning to end.

If there is one criticism, it’s that “RUN IT” prioritises atmosphere and performance over emotional storytelling. Fans looking for a deeper narrative may find the concept relatively straightforward. However, that’s clearly intentional. This is a performance-driven anthem built to energise audiences, and it succeeds spectacularly in that goal.

With “RUN IT,” Stray Kids once again prove why they continue to lead the conversation when it comes to high-impact performance music. It’s explosive, confident and impossible to ignore, a powerful statement that not only launches a new musical chapter but also builds enormous anticipation for THIS & THAT. If this single is any indication, Stray Kids are only picking up speed.

What did you think of ‘Run It’ from Stray Kids? Are you looking forward to the release of ‘THIS & THAT’? Let us know in the comments below.

Written and edited by Narelle