2024 has proven to be a year of extraordinary creativity and diversity within the K-pop landscape. From highly anticipated releases by BTS’ RM, TWICE, and ATEEZ that elevated K-pop to new heights on the Billboard 200, to debut albums from emerging talents, this year has delivered an abundance of albums that demand attention, appreciation, and repeated listens.
Several established artists embarked on bold and creative transformations: NCT DREAM explored darker themes on “DREAM( )SCAPE,” ITZY delved into songwriting on “Born to Be,” and Cha Eun Woo captivated with his storytelling on “Entity.” Meanwhile, new releases from GOT7’s Yugyeom, DAY6’s “Fourever,” ARTMS’ “DALL,” A.C.E’s “My Girl : My Choice,” and Yves’ debut solo album “LOOP” each brought fresh energy and marked new chapters in their musical journeys.
Reflecting the best traditions of K-pop, this year’s top albums have not only showcased daring experimentation and risk-taking but also spotlighted the personal stories and evolving musical visions of the artists.
With an impressive array of mini-albums, EPs, and full-length albums released in just the first half of the year, these 20 records have set their creators apart in the competitive K-pop scene. Below, Billboard presents our critics’ selection of the 20 finest albums from the Korean-pop industry in 2024 so far.
The 20 Best K-Pop Albums of 2024 (So Far)
20. ZEROBASEONE – You Had Me at HELLO
ZEROBASEONE delivers polished production and catchy melodies in their latest offering, showcasing depth and versatility beyond expectations. Tracks like “Solar POWER” and “Feel the POP” highlight the band’s maturity in both performance and lyrical content.
19. Cha Eun Woo – Entity
Cha Eun Woo, known for his multifaceted career, ventures into new musical territories with “Entity.” The EP features the hauntingly beautiful storytelling of “STAY” and explores R&B influences in tracks like “U&I,” while revealing unexpected facets of Eun Woo’s musical identity.
18. Yves – LOOP
Yves’ solo debut under PAIX PER MIL surprises with its clubby title track “LOOP,” alongside dreamy electro-R&B in “DIORAMA” and emotionally charged rock in “Afterglow.” Yves’ exploration showcases her raw vocal talent and marks a transformative journey in K-pop.
17. BOYNEXTDOOR – HOW?
BOYNEXTDOOR, under HYBE’s KOZ Entertainment, finds their niche with the genre-hopping “HOW?” EP. Lead single “Earth, Wind & Fire” captivates with its dynamic production, while the EP as a whole offers unexpected yet satisfying musical twists.
16. A.C.E – My Girl : My Choice
A.C.E returns post-military service with ambitious aspirations on “My Girl : My Choice,” featuring electronic-pop declarations in “Effortless” and heartfelt R&B balladry in “Angel.” The album underscores A.C.E’s global ambitions with English versions of their singles.
15. Dynamicduo – 2 Kids on the Block – Part.3
Dynamicduo celebrates their 20th anniversary with “2 Kids on the Block – Part.3,” blending pop-rap hits like “PITAPA” with collaborations that highlight their enduring influence in K-hip-hop.
14. NCT DREAM – DREAM( )SCAPE
NCT DREAM explores new thematic depths on “DREAM( )SCAPE,” addressing anxiety and empowerment through tracks like “Smoothie.” The EP showcases the group’s evolution while staying true to their signature style.
13. EPEX – Youth Chapter 1 : Youth Days
EPEX’s first full-length album, “Youth Chapter 1 : Youth Days,” resonates with its generation through anthemic tracks like “Graduation Day.” The album explores themes of love and adolescence, delivering a diverse musical experience.
12. Jeong Sewoon – Quiz
Jeong Sewoon showcases his versatility as a singer-songwriter on “Quiz,” with standout tracks like “sharpie,” a crossover collaboration that blends K-pop with indie rock influences.
11. ARTMS – DALL
ARTMS reunites with LOONA producer Jaden Jeong for “DALL,” exploring avant-garde electronic and pop elements in tracks like “Virtual Angels.” The album pushes boundaries and sets the stage for future innovation.
10. DK – Nakseo
DK’s debut full-length album “Nakseo” blends R&B and electronic influences in tracks like “LTNS” and “Groovin,” showcasing the iKON member’s musical growth and versatility.
9. DAY6 – Fourever
DAY6’s first release as a quartet, “Fourever,” features powerful anthems like “Welcome to the Show” and highlights their evolution in sound and style.
8. tripleS – ASSEMBLE24
tripleS impresses with their ambitious 24-member lineup on “ASSEMBLE24,” delivering diverse styles from empowerment anthem “Girls Never Die” to the Afrobeats-inspired “White Soul Sneakers.”
7. ATEEZ – Golden Hour: Part.1
ATEEZ kicks off the “Golden Hour” series with infectious singles like “WORK” and explores global influences across the EP, setting the stage for their upcoming stadium tour.
6. ITZY – Born to Be
ITZY’s “Born to Be” showcases the group’s maximalist approach with anthems like “UNTOUCHABLE” and reveals individual creativity through solo tracks, marking a significant milestone in their career.
5. Yugyeom – Trust Me
Yugyeom’s “Trust Me” marks his artistic evolution with smooth vocals and introspective lyrics, demonstrating his versatility across R&B and hip-hop genres.
4. PLAVE – ASTERUM : 134-1
PLAVE’s virtual concept album “ASTERUM : 134-1” blends reggaetón influences with rock-pop elements, highlighting the group’s unique blend of digital artistry and musical prowess.
3. TWICE – With YOU-th
TWICE’s “With YOU-th” celebrates friendship and growth with standout singles like “I Got You” and “One Spark,” showcasing the group’s evolution and cohesion as they approach their 10th year in the industry.
2. IU – The Winning
IU’s “The Winning” captivates with powerful ballads and inspirational tracks like “Love Wins All,” showcasing her timeless musicality and ability to transcend trends.
1. RM – Right Place, Wrong Person
RM’s “Right Place, Wrong Person” is a deeply personal and ambitious solo effort that explores complex emotions and cultural influences. With tracks like “LOST!” and collaborations like “Domodachi,” RM delves into profound themes, marking a standout release in 2024.
As the year progresses, these albums not only define the current state of K-pop but also set the stage for what’s to come, promising more innovation and excellence from Korea’s vibrant music scene.
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