Beat the heat with these K-pop bangers
With comebacks from your favorite artists and much-anticipated debuts from the scene’s hottest talents, 2024 has been a treat for K-pop fans all over the world.
Here are our picks for the best newly-released and upcoming K-pop tracks that will surely make your summer playlist.
Sheesh – BabyMonster
YG Entertainment’s rookie girl group finally makes their full seven-member debut with their first mini album “BABYMONS7ER.” This comes after the release of “Batter Up” back in November 2023, where member Ahyeon did not debut with the group due to health concerns.
“Sheesh,” the title track from the seven-track EP continues to highlight the skills and talents that have made BabyMonster such a highly anticipated prospect. Nonetheless, with apparent similarities to several Blackpink tracks, particularly “How You Like That,” the song fails to dispel any lingering comparisons the group has with their YG labelmates. Teddy might as well have produced this one.
But I digress, it’s still a banger all around. And don’t get me wrong, say what you want about YG, but their patented outros will never grow old.
I Wonder… (with Jung Kook of BTS) – J-Hope
Military or not, BTS is the gift that keeps on giving. And just following Kim “V” Taehyung’s latest track, “FRI(END)S,” comes “I Wonder…” from J-Hope’s newest EP, “Hope on the Street Vol. 1.”
Fellow member and 2023’s breakout star, Jung Kook, joins him on the track filled both with optimism and excitement for the future. It’s a shame there isn’t a video out for it yet. Soon, hopefully.
Deja Vu – Tomorrow X Together
It’s clear, Tomorrow X Together cannot stick with a singular genre. Whether that’s a good or bad thing is yet to be decided, but for now, it’s safe to say that we can always expect something new and fresh from the quintet. “Deja Vu” is the must-listen title track from the group’s latest EP “Minisode 3: Tomorrow.”
Propose – Lee Mujin
Lee Mujin, if you’re familiar with the name, is the host of KBS’ “Leemujin Service : Duet with Mujin,” where K-pop artists are invited not only for an interview but also to sing and duet with him. BTS’ Jimin, NewJeans’ Hanni, and Le Sserafim’s Chaewon are some who have already guested on the show.
READ: Jimin of BTS shows the only way artists should be using autotune
But, let’s get one thing straight, he isn’t just a part of your favorite variety segment. He’s a recording artist who is absolutely deserving of your attention. His latest release, “Propose,” promises to induce heart-fluttering feels on par with your usual K-drama OSTs.
You should also check out his other track, “Traffic light,” which is his most popular song to date—as well as the latest Leemujin Service episode, where he interviews Tomorrow X Together’s Huening Kai.
Magnetic – ILLIT
HYBE strikes again, or more specifically, Belift Lab—the label behind Enhyphen. ILLIT (which stands for “I Will Be It”) is their five-member girl group that was formed through the JTBC reality show “R U Next?.”
“Magnetic” is the lead single from their debut EP “Super Real Me.” With a fresh sound and a youthful vigor that brings to mind NewJeans, it’s safe to say that we’ve found a new group to watch out for.
Officially Cool – Bang Yedam, Winter
Bang Yedam and Winter of Aespa come together for an unexpected collaboration that is sure to stir any lingering feelings you may have about your ex—especially if you’re still friends with them.
In case you missed it, Bang Yedam was once a member of YG Entertainment’s Treasure, until his departure in 2022 to pursue a solo career. He joined GF Entertainment in 2023 and signed with them as a soloist and producer.
Could It Be – Yuqi
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(G)I-DLE’s Yuqi is set to make her solo debut with her first mini album “YUQ1.” The EP is scheduled for release this Apr. 24, but till then, fans can look forward to the project’s pre-release track, “Could It Be,” which will be out this Apr. 5.
If you didn’t know, she has already performed the upcoming song in one of their past concerts.
Midas Touch – Kiss of Life
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One of 2023’s hottest rookies, Kiss of Life, is set to make their 2024 return with “Midas Touch,” which is set to be released tonight, Apr. 3.
They made their mark as a must-watch group with their debut EP “Kiss of Life” which included hits such as “Shhh” and “Sugarcoat.”
