Okay-pop has all the time grappled with its share of scandals and accusations associated to label practices. Nevertheless, 2024 marked a major turning level, as most of the trade’s darkest secrets and techniques grew to become alarmingly obvious.
The fallout from the disbandment of LOONA and the dismantling of FiftyFifty, as soon as heralded as rising stars in 2023, appeared like remoted incidents. But, it was arduous to foresee that NewJeans, a pioneering and extensively celebrated lady group, can be ensnared within the net of insider label politics, with their struggles making headlines. Moreover, the formation of the “international lady group” Katseye by Geffen/Hybe’s Popstar Academy supplied a uncommon perception into the unyielding Okay-idol coaching routine. AppleTV’s outstanding collection Okay-Pop Idols delivered some of the revealing glimpses into the cruel expectations that Korean idols and their labels face.
In the meantime, legendary Okay-pop star HyunA referred to as off her worldwide tour amidst controversy surrounding a public romance. The destructive reactions surrounding a member’s return to the boy band Riize drew worldwide condemnation. Regardless of these challenges, 2024 additionally supplied many moments price celebrating in a yr stuffed with surprising narratives. BabyMonster demonstrated spectacular streaming figures, positioning themselves as the subsequent Blackpink, whereas the solo ventures of Blackpink members showcased an array of distinctive kinds, hinting that YG Information’ delayed launch technique might have stifled their inventive circulate.
Distinguished lady teams corresponding to (G)-IDLE, aespa, and Le Sserafim vied for top-tier standing, and every discovered their very own victories. Rising teams like Kiss of Life, tripleS, and ALL(H)OURS proved that even smaller labels could make a major affect with the suitable songs and expertise. Seventeen, the world’s most constant boy group, continued to thrive. Amongst idols, BIBI stays the one artist able to effortlessly spanning genres with any launch, regardless of how controversial. In the meantime, solo performances from Hwasa and Nayeon, of Twice, resonated strongly with audiences, showcasing a feel-good dance-pop vibe. Though ICHILLIN’ had struggled to carve out an identification, they completed the yr sturdy with their finest single, “Official,” since their early choices in 2021. Notably, up-and-coming rapper Daniel Jikal’s solo debut underwhelmed, failing to seize the enjoyable and ingenious spirit of his widespread TikTok originals, indicating that P Nation ought to discover that playful vitality in future tasks.
So, seize your photocards, swap in your gentle stick, and prepare to benefit from the exhilarating and unpredictable journey that 2024’s Okay-pop scene guarantees.
15. Dreamcatcher – “Justice” (Dreamcatcher)
Dreamcatcher has advanced considerably since their debut because the cheerful group MINX in 2014. “Justice,” the lead single from their tenth mini-album, showcases an excellent mix of arduous rock and Okay-pop, honed to perfection. Whereas earlier hits like “BOCA” and “Maison” built-in playful components, “Justice” channels a dramatic edge by its minimalistic snare beat and sweeping synths, culminating in an awe-inspiring vocal climax.
The lyrics navigate themes of inside wrestle and the pursuit of ardour by a lens of justice. The group’s vocal harmonies elevate the depth, notably throughout the bridge when Yoohyeon delivers an electrifying belt that stands out for the yr. Dreamcatcher excels in avoiding melodrama, opting as a substitute for an earnest and highly effective method. “Justice” may very properly be their strongest title observe so far.
14. BOYNEXTDOOR – “Good Man” (KOZ Leisure)
Below rapper Zico’s KOZ Leisure, the boy group BOYNEXTDOOR is steadily rising their fanbase with daring and adventurous melodies. Following the success of their earlier hit, “Earth, Wind & Hearth,” the playful and relaxed “Good Man” showcases their capacity to defy conventional boy band norms. Kicking off with a laid-back horn motif, Woonhak’s opening line—“Don’t be such a wuss”—units a playful tone, contrasting with the self-deprecating humor of the refrain.
Whereas many Okay-pop teams concentrate on creating unforgettable sonic occasions, BOYNEXTDOOR efficiently embraces a extra informal vibe by leaning into the mellow whereas others go for exuberance. Their charming relatability might set them aside as Okay-pop’s first genuinely informal superstars.
13. (G)-IDLE – “Spouse” (Dice)
(G)-IDLE’s “Spouse” has polarized listeners—some praised it passionately, whereas others deemed it their worst launch of the yr. Regardless, the observe sparked important conversations and stands out as their most distinctive effort but. Over a simple dance beat, the lyrics handle mundane home duties like cooking and cleansing, whereas concurrently exploring the complexities of up to date roles and expectations.
Within the outro, they convey a want for his or her accomplice to expertise euphoria even when they “do not wanna spouse.” With its simplistic setup and catchy music video, “Spouse” presents a shocking quantity of socio-political commentary, making it doubtlessly considered one of (G)-IDLE’s most intriguing and divisive songs.
12. Kep1er – “Tipi-Faucet” (WakeOne)
Kep1er has all the time showcased expertise and charisma, but discovering the suitable timing has confirmed troublesome. Following their hit debut with “Wa Da Da” and an look on a survival present, they struggled to interrupt by as greater than energetic rookies. Following a member reshuffle, the group has now solidified their identification, and “Tipi-Faucet” displays their renewed sense of confidence.
With its clean electro beats, the music captures the exhilaration of text-based romance, culminating with catchy, upbeat percussion throughout the refrain. “Tipi-Faucet” signifies a maturation of their sound that solely a assured group can pull off, displaying that even after dropping members, Kep1er stays as decided as ever to win hearts in every single place.
11. loossemble – “TTYL” (CTDENM)
Following the tumultuous and public disbandment of LOONA, followers (ORBIT) have been eager to help the members of their subsequent ventures. Whereas every lady has discovered reasonable success in several tasks, their unified expertise is especially exemplified in loossemble. The group has constantly launched catchy title tracks and is presently on their third mini-album.
With “TTYL,” the quintet delivers a bubbly, danceable beat, mixing playful flirtation with memorable choreography and infectious hooks that present a pleasant escape. Channeling the pop spirit, loossemble encapsulates the enjoyment of crafting uplifting songs, skillfully intertwining components that evoke heat and happiness.
10. Kiss of Life – “Sticky” (S2)
Kiss of Life’s swift rise to prominence could be traced again to their spectacular backgrounds, with members Julie, Natty, Belle, and Haneul every having skilled at distinguished businesses. What units them aside is their repertoire of dynamic and modern songs, like “Sticky.” Whereas this observe might lean in the direction of conference, it radiates a comfy heat. “Sticky” is poised to turn into a standout amongst non-album singles, indicating a long-lasting affect on the Okay-pop panorama.
9. ALL(H)OURS – “Shock” (Eden)
Initially, ALL(H)OURS’s debut single “Gotcha” fell flat, barely making an impression upon its launch. Nevertheless, the group turned the tide with “Shock,” a observe that boldly defied the norms of a brand new boy band rising from a small label. Whereas it resonates with darkwave and EDM undertones, the music’s distinctive sound breaks away from conventional Okay-pop kinds, creating an electrifying expertise.
“Shock” options aggressive synth beats and dynamic vocal filters, forming an exhilarating climax throughout its rousing refrain. Their rallying cry, “Kickstart the beast!” isn’t merely a catchy lyric; it signifies the daybreak of a brand new period for each ALL(H)OURS and probably for Okay-pop as a complete. This fearless method guarantees to depart a long-lasting impression.
