NCT’s MARK heats up the cold winter season with his new hip-hop track Fraktsiya, featuring Lee Young-ji. Released on December 16th via SM Entertainment, the song mixes UK drill-inspired beats, house-infused chords, and thunderous 808 basslines. MARK’s razor-sharp verses and Lee Young-ji’s unstoppable bars converge in a song that feels like a victory lap for two artists at the peak of their game.

For MARK, Fraktsiya is a reflection of his journey as one of K-pop’s most versatile figures. “The K-pop industry was my inspiration for this song,” he explains. “Looking at my position in the K-pop scene made me think that I can be living in various worlds.” His lyrics celebrate the multifaceted nature of his career, oscillating between group activities with NCT and his burgeoning solo endeavours. The track is an introduction to his debut solo album set to release in April 2025.

The collaboration with Lee Young-ji feels natural. Known for her fearless approach to music, Young-ji, without a doubt, adds an edgy energy to the song. MARK, who has long admired her work, shared his feelings about the collaboration. “I’ve always wanted to do something with Young-ji one day. I always imagined that we’d have an interesting type of chemistry, and I for sure wasn’t wrong. She was so positive about the request, and I’m so thankful to her.” 

Fraktsiya also demonstrates the global influence of K-pop and hip-hop. As a Canadian-born artist, MARK cleverly connects two worlds – the Western and the Korean – bringing a sound that truly represents him as an artist. His work with NCT 127 and NCT DREAM shows his versatility and underscores his immense potential as a soloist. Just last month, NCT DREAM performed at London’s OVO Arena Wembley as part of their third world tour, THE DREAM SHOW 3: DREAM( )SCAPE, following the release of their million-selling album DREAMSCAPE. They also recently wrapped up a run on the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour, sharing the stage with global icons like Katy Perry and The Kid LAROI.

We absolutely love how Fraktsiya becomes a bold statement from two artists unafraid to experiment and expand their horizons. It captures the creative energy of K-pop’s ongoing global ascent while staying rooted in the genre’s ability to evolve. 

Featured image courtesy of SM Entertainment

_{View of the Arts is an online publication that chiefly deals with films, music, and art, with an emphasis on the Asian entertainment industry. We are hoping our audience will grow with us as we begin to explore new platforms such as K-pop / K-music, and Asian music in general, and continue to dive into the talented and ever-growing scene of film, music, and arts, worldwide.}