The song was released on June 10, 2022, through Epic Records Japan, as the third and lead single of the EP after the Japanese version of "Maniac", and "Your Eyes".
[3] The Korean version of the song was included on the group's seventh Korean-language EP Maxident, scheduled for release on October 7.
[12] An accompanying music video for "Circus", directed by Bang Jae-yeob, was premiered alongside the single release on June 10, 2022, preceded by two teasers.
[15] The group performed "Circus" at Buzz Rhythm 02 on July 9, alongside "Back Door",[16] the two-hour special episode of Music Station on August 5,[17] and Best Artist 2022 on December 3, along with "Maniac".
[18] The Korean version was performed for the first time their "Seoul Special (Unveil 11)" of Maniac World Tour on September 17,[19] as well as the 2022 MBC Gayo Daejejeon alongside "Case 143" on January 1, 2023.