A weekly playlist of ten tracks hand-picked by allkpop's editors in Korea, bringing together this week's K-pop releases across a range of genres.
TXT's fifth Japanese single is a Brazilian funk track with raw synths and a rhythm full of texture, reshaped in TXT's own color through expressive vocals and emotion. The lyrics compare a relationship nearing its unavoidable end to fireworks fading over a midsummer night, holding onto the quiet wish that it wouldn't have to end.
Marking their 20th anniversary, BIGBANG returned on Aug 19 with BiiiG. Anticipation ran high well before release, and the moment it dropped it swept across the Korean charts, proof of the pull they still hold. G-Dragon, forever chasing something new, this time brought drum and bass, and BIGBANG's easy, hip vocals and rap layer over it for a grand, sweeping mood. The music video, as always, shows their forward-thinking visual sense.
The double title track from wave to earth's second full album, "hyang" captures the bittersweet feeling of a memory returning through a scent, wrapped in the band's signature intricate sound. The music video stars actor Lee Sang-yi, whose delicate performance adds a cinematic layer to the song's nostalgia.
The third release in the 'J-POP REMAKE' project curated by Kangnam, Lee Suhyun takes on Matsuda Seiko's 1980 classic "Aoi Sangosho." Following earlier entries by Taeyeon and HANRORO, the AKMU vocalist reinterprets the breezy original in her own tone.
BOYNEXTDOOR's second Japanese single lives up to its title with a dynamic, high-energy build. Repetitive hooks and a quick tempo drive the momentum, while irregular rhythms, cascading melodies, and glossy piano meet the members' tones for a track that pulls you all the way in.
JYP's first new girl group in four years since NMIXX debuts with "SQUEEZY," a funk-based dance track with an addictive melody. The message, squeezing out every tangled feeling and bit of stress like a squishy toy, comes through with witty, bouncy energy. The playful music video offers a first look at what the group calls their own charm, "whip-hop."
Korean hip hop's power couple reunite on one track for the first time in about eight years. Tiger JK's witty rapping meets Yoonmirae's soulful, commanding tone over a trendy beat, with lyrics that liken a man falling in love to a soccer match and old-school game tactics. The 8-bit arcade visuals of the music video, co-directed by the couple's 18-year-old son in his directorial debut, play out like a retro game.
Following BIGBANG, another K-pop legend returns: Kim Jaejoong is back with single album 'THE WAVE'. Title track "Tonight" puts his powerful vocals over a sleek, energetic sound, carrying an unguarded drive to breathe with fans on stage once again and throw himself back into the world.
ODD YOUTH's third single is their first summer track since debut, adding a refreshing cool to the group's bold, free image. With a sound and music video made for the season, it carries a message about moving forward toward what you want without looking back.
R&B singer-songwriter george, known since "Boat," returns with new single "bgf." Her voice's signature easy, laid-back sensibility comes through in both the song and the music video, making it a perfect fit for when you need a breather in a busy day.
Which release is on repeat for you this week? Let us know in the comments.
