As 2025 approaches, let’s reflect on the successes of K-pop in 2024. The industry, as always, has proven to be a treasure chest of gold. Over the past twelve months, we’ve witnessed countless releases, sold-out tours, and the debuts of many promising rookie groups. It wouldn’t be the phenomenon it is without the endless creativity that continues to charm fans and critics alike. With comebacks arriving thick and fast, we’ve taken a moment to highlight the few that stood out for us this year.
DXMON, SPARK
Boy groups truly did a great job at entertaining fans throughout the year. A memorable example among them was rookie group DXMON, who burst onto the scene with their debut mini-album, HYPERSPACE, on January 17th. This six-track release featured title songs SPARK & BURN UP, instantly gaining attention. This is partly thanks to their striking aesthetics – who can forget that red mohawk? The strength in the title tracks is undoubtedly the rappers, and while they do dominate, it’s the vocalists who do a great job of smoothing out the balance and together make for a great debut.
Interview: here
TRENDZ, GLOW
TRENDZ is a group carving their path in the K-pop scene, radiating positivity through their music With an upbeat discography and a bright skip in their step, it’s hard to not be drawn to a group like TRENDZ. Their track GLOW lives up to its name – it leaves listeners smiling with its refreshingly upbeat sound and relatable lyrics without feeling corny or overly sentimental. TRENDZ always delivers these messages in a fun, pop-infused way that always sounds genuine. GLOW is a standout song on their June album Dreamlike, which keeps the tradition of presenting a realistic but optimistic take on life. The seven-piece had a successful summer touring the US on the Leo Presents K-pop Breakout tour before going to Turkey in October. January 5th will see them back with a new track, Bad Enough.
TREND, GLOW
Interview: here
A.C.E, My Girl
A.C.E has shown us quite a few sides to them this year. Their title track, My Girl, from the sixth mini-album, My Girl: My Choice, showed yet another display of the group’s evolving sound with a funky beat layered over finger-snapping rhythms. Released in February during the winter season, the song brought a fresh summer day vibe that felt like nostalgic sunny days, leaving behind a delectably sweet and delightful impression. The mood-boosting video perfectly complemented the track. This was in stark contrast to November’s release, Piñata, which took a darker turn, showing that good guys can indeed go bad. There is nothing better than a group having a little bit of everything to dive into. You want the sweet, good girl treatment; February’s release was for you, but for those who love a lively, feisty anthem, Piñata is worth a listen.
H1-KEY, Deeper
H1-KEY started the year with the release of the single Thinkin’ About You in January, followed by the second digital track, Deeper. The third album introduced a rock chick vibe, particularly Let it Burn, which served as a girl power anthem. The kind of song that makes you want to be a bedroom performer, a place to let out the frustrations of life. Want to get over someone and let yourself be free? Then the rappers provide that bad b*^ch energy, making it a go-to for when setbacks appear and raise their ugly heads. Deeper though, displays versatility with some powerful vocals, making for a beautiful powerful ballad that works well with the thumping backing track, and combined with the raps and spoken word elements, it is a must-listen. H1-Key is a strong, mature, and empowering group that girls need today. Their music serves as a strong reminder that everything works out. The final pre-chorus gives a gentle message: “You’re going to be fine.”
Interview: here
TXT, Deja Vu
TXT always creates heavenly songs that leave no option but to sit and absorb the lyrics and the raw emotion that is jam-packed into every single note sung. While many popular fourth-generation boy groups have made plenty of comebacks this year, TXT shone by being able to deliver emotionally charged tracks such as Deja Vu, which has been described as emo rock thanks to the chorus, “Say my name/I’ll hug you tight, as promised on the first day/Like déjà vu.” The title track comes from April’s sixth mini album, Minisode 3: Tomorrow, which gave fans the aforementioned emotions. An honourable mention goes out to their latest album, The Star Chapter: Sanctuary, giving us the incredible track Heaven. While it’s no surprise that TXT members know how to sing, what makes Heaven so special is the deliverance. The twinkling hooks and soft musicality walk hand in hand to the pearly golden gates and are heavenly singing: “Heaven, the light of sleeping stars awakens.”
OMEGA X, Stay With Me
A group that deserved a glowing 2024 was OMEGA X, the 11-member group featured on the OST for web drama Jazz for Two. Their song Stay With Me stood out as a gorgeous, softer ballad showing their duality from past songs such as 2022’s Love Me Like. In November, the group released TO., a five-track Japanese album that had a variety of genres, but it was Cool My Head that really highlighted their vocals alongside the pop and rockabilly influences that worked surprisingly well together.
All(H)ours, Shock
If bold and confident songs were what you were after this year, then All(H)ours went above and beyond to deliver. The title track, 도깨비 (SHOCK), is the ultimate party anthem that welcomed in the summer wonderfully. With their powerful, larger-than-life vocals driving the fast-paced rhythm, it makes for an adrenaline-fuelled listen. Songs like these are the ones that hit the mark with their sound: energetic without being overwhelming, relying on the delivery of lyrics rather than overproduced sounds. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself joining in with them, hyping yourself up. “I’m ready for action. Three, two, one, let’s go,” and “Ayyy, 도깨비.”
Interview: here
Gyubin, Satellite
Imagine being in the 2000s and needing a light, spring-like song – soloist Gyubin captured that vibe with her debut single, I Really Like You. It sounds straight out of that era, offering a sound that still has a place in today’s world. As her debut single, not only was it an impressive start, but it was Satellite, released in June, that rocketed her to popular acclaim. This song, although much mellow and with a hint of ballad influence, echoes confusion and worries of life, particularly as a teenager. Yet, Gyubin acts as a source of light in it all. It’s beautiful and slow, and although at just 18 years old, she knows how to use her voice for the crucial moments of emotion in lyrics such as “I don’t need to know all the answers.” Which can be relatable regardless of age.
DREAMCATCHER, (드림캐쳐) JUSTICE
Dreamcatcher is a group known for being quintessentially cool. They also never disappoint when it comes to releases. Their track (드림캐쳐) JUSTICE off album (VirtuouS) is no exception; it’s bold and definitely a badass anthem. The guitar riffs sound like they’ve been plucked straight out of a fantasy fight video game. It’s tracks like this that have become a signature style and what Dreamcatcher is known for. This is another one of those songs and isn’t shy of using rock elements alongside electronic sounds, rap, and, of course, those gorgeous vocals. It’s as if they’re telling a tale as a warrior woman, especially in the final chorus where Yoohyeon declares, “Justice makes me alive.”
Dreamcatcher(드림캐쳐) , JUSTICE
SEVENTEEN, MAESTRO
Every choir needs its maestro, and Woozi of SEVENTEEN conducted quite the track with MAESTRO for their comeback album, Greatest Hits box set 17 is Right Here. Battling the topic of AI in music and art, the music video is a must-watch, raising the question, just who is the real Maestro? But besides that, while the pre-chorus builds quickly, the chorus is playful yet repetitive, and although it may seem simplistic, it works well with the theme of the song. The choreography supports this, with it being quick-footed and showing just how in sync thirteen members can make a routine look easy-peasy.
The comeback also included videos for the additional B-side releases: LALALI, Spell, and Cheers to Youth, each turning the spotlight on their respective units – hip hop, vocal, and performance teams. Though each is completely different in sound and style, they each capture exactly what makes SEVENTEEN so enjoyable to listen to.
P1Harmony, Sad Song
P1Harmony have had quite the year; their first comeback, Killin’ It, earned them their first-ever win on KBS2TV’s Music Bank. Following that success, they returned in September with the album Sad Song and its title track of the same name. Contrary to its name, it’s far from sad – in fact, it’s another level of energy, acting as a hype track that is bubbling with energy. Another interesting song from this album was Wasp, a unit track featuring rappers Jongseob and Intak. Far from a sting, this track delivers everything you could want from this rap duo – it’s fast-paced, has a catchy chorus, and has a good flow that bounces back between the two rappers.
London show review: here
YVES, Loop (Feat. Lil Cherry)
She may have been known for her role in the iconic girl group Loona, but Yves has proven her musical versatility this year as both a soloist and producer. She made her solo debut in May with her first extended track, LOOP. The title track, Loop, featured rapper Lil Cherry who adds a burst of power along the vocals of Yves. It’s a sleek dance number, almost unbothered by the cool delivery of lyricsim from both Lil Cherry and Yves. Later in the year, Yves followed up with her second EP, I (Did), and went on to leave a great impression on fans during her Apple Cinnamon Crunch Tour.
Interview: here.
London show review: here
TAEMIN, Sexy In The Air
Everyone looks forward to a Taemin comeback, and this year was no exception. This time with a new company behind him, it saw Taemin take on a new era and artistic route. His six-track album, Eternal, displayed that unique style, with the lead single, Sexy in the Air, bringing everything fans love about him – charisma, sensuality, and the powerful vocals that back up just why he’s so successful. In contrast, Deja Vu offers a gliding wave of melody, with softly echoing refrains in the distance. Songs like this draw listeners in, inviting them to revel in Taemin’s soothing tones and angelic vocals. His charming crooning leaves you wanting more, as his voice gently envelops you in its calming embrace. The K-pop king is set to make his way to Europe for the first time on his aptly named Ephemeral Gaze tour in March of 2025.
ATEEZ, Ice On My Teeth
Ateez has had a busy year, balancing a global tour in between two new albums. In May, they launched a new era with Golden Hour, Part 1, featuring the motivational title track Work, spread across the K-pop realm. But it was Golden Hour: Part Two that truly saw them shine and reach their full potential. This six-track album was more cohesive and explored themes that were rooted in reality, particularly with the track Enough which rounded off the album with an emotionally strong and powerful message. But Ice on My Teeth captures Ateez at what they do best – dripping in confidence, a dark aurora, and driven by irresistible beats that make it hard to not play on repeat. Fans, also known as Atiny, will be putting in preparations to master every lyric and dance move beat for beat as they’ll be welcoming their idols to Europe in January 2025.
Let’s not forget that the music industry often groups all genres of Korean music under the K-pop umbrella – but not us. We wanted to shine a light on the best K-rap, indie, rock, and hip-hop offerings we enjoyed in 2024 as well.
J-HOPE, NEURON
The rapline member unleashed a wide range of genres with his third solo album, Hope on the Street Volume 1 (HOTS). The album came as his TV series of the same title hit Amazon Prime. The album, consisting of six tracks, acted as a soundtrack for each episode, as it saw J-Hope take us back to his dance roots, exploring the art of dance in various cities. Among the tracks, one of the essential picks is the iconic Lock/Unlock, which features legendary bass player Nile Rodgers. Like the series, the song shows J-Hope’s ability to reveal the many facets of his artistry. It’s a perfect blend of dance, bass, and pop, held together by his vocals and the brilliant interplay of Roger’s basslines. The title track NEURON, is a more personal track, reflecting on his love for dance and paying tribute to his Neuron dance crew from Gwangju’s underground hip-hop dance team. With its gospel-like chorus, the track celebrates his dance journey and later features rappers Gaeko and Yoon Mirae, retelling a story that one can never tire of hearing.
KAVE, Stone
July marked the booming return of the rock group with their album Flight of Ideas, a seven-track album that was led by their title track, Legend. However, it was November when the band truly soared higher with their album Say My Name. The opening track, Achoo, dominates with its operatic tones – a big 180 from their previous album. What distinguishes this group from other rock bands is not only their fearlessness in experimenting with sounds, but also the inclusion of the double title track—Stone, a pure rock masterpiece, and You, which proves to be more of a playful challenge than anything else. Each track builds in intensity, louder, and such energy it needs to be experienced live. With a group made up of producers and musicians, it’s clearly evident this is a band that refuses to sit pretty in one single box or genre.
Bang Yongguk, BUSS IT DOWN
2024 has been a great year for the soloist, from his US tour to the release of his latest EP 3, which features some of his best work to date. Exploring different sounds and utilising his deep baritone voice wonderfully. The album consisted of six tracks, such as the powerhouse BUSS IT DOWN and the pop-rock title track BAD (feat. YOUHA). That’s not all; the singer wrapped up the year on his European leg of the BANG YONGGUK tour, taking him across Europe, including London.
Interview: here
London show review: here
James An, A Streetcar Named Desire (feat. Donna Goldn)
No list would be complete without James An’s exceptional EP, I Have No Friends and Must Party. The Korean-Canadian artist delivers a raw, honest exploration of conflict, beauty, and the small joys of life – like his beloved dog, Sasha. The EP’s title track, A Streetcar Named Desire, shows James’ versatility, beautifully blending styles and sounds. Featuring Donna Goldn, the track pairs lush, jazzy instrumentals with stunning vocal harmonies, creating a relaxed yet charming listening experience. This release is a must for anyone seeking an album with a strong message and an artist unafraid to push creative boundaries. As one listener aptly put it, “The strength of I Have No Friends and Must Party lies in its musicality – you never know what sound will surprise you next.”
JAMES AN, A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE
Interview: here
RM, Groin
Undoubtedly one of the most incredibly complex albums of the year, Right Place, Wrong Person has been featured on countless “best album” lists across nearly every publication, and rightfully so. RM has an exceptional ability to convey his feelings and thoughts through music with beauty and precision. Not only does the album boast one of the most electrifying openings, but RM is also unafraid to explore unexpected directions, such as featuring grime artists on tracks like Domadchi (feat. Little Simz.). But it’s Groin that stands out as the shining star of this suoerb album. Not only was the music video filmed in the heart of London, but the song’s pointed lyrics go above and beyond, offering a glimpse into his thought process. The track shines with brilliance as he mocks internet trolls and haters. Lyrics such as “Get yo ass out the trunk / Don’t care what you talking / You walk like a duck, bitch” serve as poetic justice for those who have harsh opinions about him and the world he inhabits. Think you can do better? The track feels like a playful challenge, laughing in the face of those who believe they can.
Album review: here
Blish, Last Words (Feat a.9uy)
Blish is a breath of fresh air, an artist who weaves a mixture of vocals, sounds, and messages that feel like pure poetry. A talent everyone should be keeping an eye on, he released a great collaboration this year, Last Words, featuring 9uy. Blish masterfully mixes sounds with his vocals, creating a unique style that is unmistakably his. The gentle ebb and flow of the music beautifully carries his voice, while 9uy’s lower-pitched tones bring a calming energy, fusing them into the perfect duo.
Last Words follows Blish’s 2023 album, Wanderland, which we praised as “a treasure trove of unskippable tracks, each one a gem showcasing an array of intriguing sounds.” We look forward to seeing what 2025 holds for Blish and those eager to experience the next chapter of his artistry.
Interview: here.
Summing up, we honestly cannot wait to see what Korean artists have in store for fans and the industry in 2025. The upcoming year promises to be a vibrant one for music lovers. Judging by the number of tours already making their way to the U.K. shores, it’s clear that live performances will take center stage, offering fans unforgettable experiences and a chance to see and meet their favourite artists.
Written by Kirsty Bright
View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to films, music, and arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. With rich content already available to our readers, we aim to expand our reach and grow alongside our audience by delving deeper into emerging platforms such as K-pop and Asian music more broadly. At the same time, we remain committed to exploring the vibrant and ever-evolving global landscape of film, music, and the arts, celebrating the immense talent and creativity that define these industries worldwide.
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