This week’s releases highlight the continuing evolution of the K-pop and broader Asian music scenes, with a mix of solo debuts, group comebacks, and highly anticipated singles. The diversity in sound—from emotional ballads and heartfelt solos to vibrant pop and experimental tracks—reflects the growing range of artistic expression in the industry. Additionally, this week sees several artists tapping into global influences, whether through bilingual tracks or international collaborations.
Key trends this week include:
- Solo Projects and Debuts: K-pop idols continue to carve out their own solo paths, with Irene (Red Velvet) and Jin (BTS) both offering introspective, emotionally rich albums. JAY B (GOT7) also makes a bold move with his full-length album, exploring deeper personal themes.
- International Appeal: Many of the releases, especially from groups like WayV (NCT) and SEVENTEEN, feature Japanese versions of tracks, reflecting the strong crossover between Korea and Japan. There's also a growing trend of artists experimenting with bilingual content and global collaborations, like Jin’s feature with Taka (ONE OK ROCK).
- Seasonal Remixes and Festive Energy: As we head into the colder months, Lisa (BLACKPINK) offers a playful remix of her track "Moonlit Floor (Kiss Me)" with a holiday twist, signaling the beginning of the festive season in the music world.
Let’s break down the releases day by day to see which artists are making waves this week.
October 23, 2024
A busy day for new releases from a diverse range of artists!
- E.SO (formerly Seoyul of BerryGood) makes her solo debut with the digital single "add9." Fans of her previous work will likely be excited to hear her new sound in this release.
- Lovelyz drops a special single titled "Dear," which carries sentimental vibes and is sure to tug at the heartstrings of their loyal followers.
- Newcomer Silly Silky releases their debut mini-album "Début," including tracks like "Romantica" and "Un-lock," promising a fresh take on pop.
- Raon follows up with the release of her digital single "Knock Yourself Out," continuing to capture her unique style.
- Oh Hyunwoo releases a soothing digital single titled "Rest on My Shoulder," offering a calm and introspective listening experience.
- BTOB returns with a new entry in their "Becoming Project," delivering the heartfelt single "Be Alright."
- DPNS (Dickpunks) also releases a new track "Our First Melody," a catchy and upbeat digital single.
- izna celebrates their debut with a mini-album simply titled "IZNA," marking the beginning of their musical journey.
- TWS follows with the release of their single album "Last Bell," featuring the track "Last Festival," a bittersweet tune to wind down the day.
- WayV (NCT) brings a new Chinese mini-album titled "FREQUENCY," including the title track in both the original Chinese and a Korean version, adding variety for their international fanbase.
October 24, 2024
Another exciting day of releases.
- TMC drops their Japanese digital single "You Are My Dream," offering a dreamy, melodic experience for their fans.
- Jin of BTS releases his much-anticipated digital single "Falling," featuring Taka from ONE OK ROCK. It's expected to be an emotional ballad with a rock-infused twist.
- Irene of Red Velvet makes her solo debut with the mini-album "Like A Flower," showcasing her beautiful vocals and emotional depth in tracks that explore love and self-reflection.
- SUPER JUNIOR-D&E is back with a repackage of their mini-album, "INEVITABLE," which includes new tracks like "I Try" and "24/7 Ride."
October 25, 2024
A day with plenty of variety, featuring both fresh talent and returning favorites.
- KJRGL releases their Japanese mini-album "prelude~the brilliant blue," including the acoustic version of the track "prologue~the deepest blue," bringing a calm and soothing vibe.
- NCT WISH drops their full-length Japanese album "WISHFUL," with the track "Wishful Winter" promising an uplifting, wintery theme.
- R1AN debuts with the digital single "Sweet Yet Bitter," a mixture of light pop and deeper emotions.
- SEVENTEEN continues to build their impressive discography with the Japanese single album "Shohikigen."
- JAY B (of GOT7) releases "Archive 1: [Road Runner]," a full-length album featuring songs like "Crash" and "Cloud Nine."
- Kyuhyun (of SUPER JUNIOR) unveils his long-awaited full album "COLORS," with the emotional ballad "Unending Days."
October 26, 2024
A full day of singles and albums across genres.
- Jang Minho brings his latest mini-album "Essay ep.3," which features the songs "Tiki-taka of Love" and "Young at Heart." This release continues his exploration of heartfelt and introspective lyrics.
October 29, 2024
A special remix single alongside new mini-albums.
- Lisa (of BLACKPINK) releases a festive remix of her song "Moonlit Floor (Kiss Me)" with the "Santa Baby Remix." The remix offers a fun, seasonal twist on the track.
- UKISS releases their Japanese mini-album "RE:PRESENT," with the track "Morse Code (Japanese Ver.)," giving fans a fresh take on their classic sounds.
- Park Jeup (from IMFACT) shares his mini-album "MELLIFLUOUS," featuring tracks like "Destiny" and "RESET," showcasing his smooth vocal style.
- WOO (formerly of LIMITLESS A.M) debuts with the digital single "No Way," offering a bold, catchy song that highlights his unique style.
- DEAN returns with the digital single "3:33," featuring the laid-back, groovy track "NASA" featuring FKJ.
- V (of BTS) releases his highly anticipated single album "Winter Ahead," featuring the song "Winter Ahead" with Park Hyoshin.
- Roa (from Someilsang) releases the digital single "CLOCK IT," offering an exciting blend of pop and electronic elements.
- SAAY drops her digital single "Paradise," a smooth and atmospheric song that explores themes of escapism and love.
October 30, 2024
Rounding out the month with a solo project.
- Jinjin (from ASTRO) releases the next installment of his JIN LAB Project with the single "Runaway." Fans can expect an experimental and introspective track from the artist, continuing his exploration of his solo sound.
These releases span a variety of genres, from pop and rock to R&B and ballads, offering something for every listener to enjoy this week!