KPOP MONTHLY - Summer 2022 Edition

KPOP MONTHLY Summer 2022

Boy Group Edition

BTS RELEASE NEW Anthology ALBUM, PROOF

J-Hope drops first solo album

Seventeen returns with repackage: Sector 17

A summer kpop playlist Jaehyun releases first solo single

ENHYPEN Releases New mini album

I.M Leaves starship ent.

ATEEZ return with new album KEY Returns with full album

COVERS JUNE, JULY & AUGUST

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4-5 - BTS Returns With Anthology Album PROOF 6-7 - Seventeen Releases Repackage: Sector 17 8 - J-Hope’s First Solo Album: Jack in the Box 9 - The Boyz Return with 7th Mini Album: Be Aware 10 - ATEEZ Comeback with “The World EP.1: Movement” 11 - ENHYPEN Releases New Album “Manifesto: Day 1” 12 - Key Returns with Full Album “Gasoline” 13 - Jaehyun’s SM Station Solo “Forever Only” 14-18 - All Comebacks

19 - Upcoming Comebacks 20 - I.M Leaves Starship Entertainment + Rest of MONSTA X Renew Contracts 21 - Jungkook Becomes a Vampire in New Photobook 22 - Chen’s First Appearance Since Military Discharge 24 - KQ Entertainment 23-24 - TXT and J-Hope at Lollapalooza 24-25 - A Kpop Summer Playlist 26-29 - My Favourite Titles By Underrated Groups 30-31 - Hairstyles That Remind Me of Summer

BTS RETURNS WITH On June 10th, BTS made their long awaited return with anthology album, “PROOF”, Marking the group’s first album in over a year.

The new album features three CDs encapsulating BTS’s 9 year career. CD 1 includes the group’s title tracks since debut along with new title track, “Yet To Come”, and the long awaited official release of “Born Singer.” CD 2 features unit and solo tracks chosen by the members as well as new song, “Run BTS!” CD 3 includes exclusive unreleased demos and new track, “For Youth.”

The music video for “Yet To Come” dropped at 12:00am (EST) and features the members in a desert in Las Vegas. Within the desert are references to BTS’s past including the ride from Spring Day, the bus from No More Dream and the truck from HYYH era. The song reflects on BTS’s past and proclaims that the best is still “yet to come” through its sentimental lyrics.

Check out the “Yet to come” music video on HYBE’s official YouTube channel.

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ANTHOLOGY ALBUM Bts comeback BTS premiered their new tracks, “Born Singer,” “Yet to Come” and “For Youth” on a special live stage featuring SIlk Sonic’s Anderson Paak. Check out the full video on BTS’s YouTube channel, BANGTANTV.

With this comeback, BTS made their first music show appearence in over 2 years. They debuted “Yet To Come” and b-side “For Youth” on M Countdown on June 16th.. They performed these songs again on Music Bank on the 17th and Inkigayo on the 19th.

“Yet to Come” got its first music show win on the June 15th episode of Show Champion.

CHeck out the full album on spotify!

5

Seventeen Seventeen Releases Releases Repackage Repackage On July 18th, SEVENTEEN released “Sector 17”, the repackage of their full album “Face the Sun.”

SEVENTEEN returned with “HOT” off full album “Face The Sun” in May of this year. On June 26th, the group dropped a teaser titled “Come Into Our World: SECTOR 17 #1” which announced the repackage of Face The Sun.

The repackage titled “Sector 17” includes all tracks on Face the Sun as well as 4 new songs: “Circles”, “Cheers”, “Fallin’ Flower (Korean Version)”, and the title track “_WORLD.” Prior to the comeback, Seventeen surprised fans by dropping teasers for Leaders Unit song, “CHEERS.” The music video for the prerelease song was released on July 7th. Hoshi, Woozi and S.Coups are seen in various cool outfits in this hip-hop inspired song. The catchy choreography led to a few TikToks featuring the other members. The leaders unit later performed the song on MTV Performance Series, “We Speak Music” and Mnet’s M Countdown.

Listen to “Cheers” now on Spotify and watch the music video on HYBE’s Official YouTube Channel.

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SECTOR SECTOR 17 17 Following a variety of teasers including a highlight medley, the official music video for “_WORLD” was released on July 18th at midnight (EST). In the music video, the members are seen in a cityscape cheerfully dancing in bright white outfits during the day scenes and shimmering in glittery jackets and pants during the night scenes. The song itself is a sweet love song that encourages listeners to join SEVENTEEN in their “new world.”

Check out music video for “_WORLD” on HYBE’s official YouTube channel

SEVENTEEN debuted the track on M Countdown on July 21st followed by Music Bank on the 22nd and Inkigayo on the 24th. Since its release, “_WORLD” has already received three music show wins. It’s first win was on Show Champion on July 27th. “_WORLD” later went on to win on M Countdown and Inkigayo.

Listen to the whole album now on spotify!

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J-HOPE’S FIRST SOLO ALBUM

“JACK IN THE BOX” Following the announcement of BTS’s second chapter and the beginning of their solo careers, ARMY received news that J-Hope would be the first to drop a solo album titled “Jack in the Box.” On July 1st, the pre-release track, “MORE”, was introduced to fans. The music video is edgy and artistic, showing off a new, darker side of J-Hope.

J-Hope is seen walking through various rooms and even rocking out with a band. The song itself is a blend of hip-hop and rock/alternative and discusses J-Hope’s career and passion for music.

The full album dropped on July 15th with tracks that explore every part of Hip-Hop. The album includes 10 all new tracks including: “Pandora’s Box”, “What if…” and the title track “Arson.” Jack in the Box tells a cohesive story that can be experienced by listening to the entire album in order. The physical copy for the album was officially released on July 29th.

The Music video for “Arson” was released at the same time as the album and features Hoseok in white attire walking through a collection of destroyed cars while the set slowly illuminates in flames. The video is rather eerie and dark, similar to “MORE.” “Arson” is a hip-hop track that describes J-Hope’s burning passion and ambition.

Listen to the full album now on Spotify!

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THE BOYZ

RE TUWI R TH N

7th Mini Album

BE AWARE

On August 16th, The Boyz made their long awaited comeback with their 7th mini album, “BE AWARE.” The album includes 6 new songs: “Bump & Love”, “C.O.D.E”, “Levitating”, “Survive The Night”, “Timeless” and the title track,” Whisper.”

“Timeless”, a prerelease track for the album, received its own music video on August 8th. The music video is light and summery and features the members enjoying themselves. The song includes lyrics written by members Sangyeon, Hyunjae, New, Q and Sunwoo.

After weeks of teasers, the music video for the energetic title track, “Whisper” was released on August 16th. The video is bright and features neon lights, colourful props, various settings and charming solo member shots. The fun, summery song describes an irresistible love portrayed through an addictive whisper.

The Boyz premiered “Whisper” on the August 19th episode of Music Bank.

Check out the new album now on spotify!

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ATEEZ ATEEZCOMEBACK COMEBACKWITH WITHTHE THEWORLD WORLDEP.1: EP.1: MOVEMENT MOVEMENT On July 29th, ATEEZ made their long awaited comeback with mini album, “THE WORLD EP. 1: MOVEMENT” ATEEZ initially teased their comeback through eerie posters found around Madrid, Spain and Hongdae, Seoul. After weeks of concept photos and teasers, a highlight medley for the album was dropped on July 28th, which shared small snippets of each song for the first time.

The album features seven new songs including Propaganda, Sector 1, Cyberpunk, The Ring, WDIG (Where Did I Go), New World, and title track Guerrilla.”

Check out the music video on KQ’s Official YouTube Channel!

On July 29th, music video for the energetic title track “Guerrilla” was released. In the video, the members pose in a dark, futuristic world where they are seen dressed in a variety of cool outfits. The video plays with the concept of rebellion as members are seen infiltrating screens and sharing the message “wake up” to those watching.

“Guerrilla” made its music show debut on Music Bank on the day of its release alongside b-side “Sector 1.” “Guerrilla” got its first win on The Show on August 2nd. It went on to win on Show Champion the following day.

Check out the album now on spotify!

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ENHYPEN Releases new album “Manifesto: Day 1” On july 4th, Enhypen returned with mini album “Manifesto: day 1.” The album features 6 new songs including title track Future Perfect (Pass the Mic), Paradoxxx Invasion, TFW (That Feeling When), Shout Out, Foreshadow and Walk The Line.

Future Perfect (Pass The Mic)’s music video was released at midnight (EST) on July 4th. The video showcases members in front of an airplane hanger in the day and at a freight dock during the night. The music video differs from ENHYPEN’s past videos as it channels a cooler, more hip-hop-esque concept. The song itself features more rap segments than usual, displaying the members’ various talents. The song received its first win on The Show on July 12th.

ENGENE’s then got a surprise as BELIFT LAB dropped a teaser for a Paradoxxx Invasion music video.

The official video for the b-side was released on July 20th, following the group’s conclusion of promotions for “Future Perfect (Pass The Mic).” The video is bright, playful and channels 90s energy. Unfortunately, after debuting the song on July 21th, Jake, Jay and Heeseung contracted COVID-19, prompting the group to cancel their appearances for the week. On July 29th, ENHYPEN resumed their “Paradoxx Invasion” promotions as they performed on Music Bank.

Check out both music videos on HYBE’s Official YouTube Channel.

Listen to Manifesto: Day 1 now on spotify!

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KEY KEY G A S O L I N E returns with full album

On August 30th, SHINee’s Key returned with his second full album Gasoline that includes 11 all new tracks: Bound, Burn, Guilty Pleasure, G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time), I Can’t Sleep, Ain’t Gonna Dance, Another Life, Delight, Proud, Villain Ft. Jeno of NCT and Gasoline, the title track of the album.

Key teased the new album in various ways including performing the unreleased title track, Gasoline at SMTOWN’s family concert in Korea on August 20th.

The futuristic music video for Gasoline dropped on the day of the album release and features Key in various glittery and sci-fi based outfits as he dances in various fantastical atmospheres. The song lyrics describe Key’s drive to succeed and evolve as symbolized through burning gasoline. Check out the video on SM Town’s Official YouTube Channel.

Gasoline made its music show debut on the September 1st episode of M Countdown along with b-side Bound. On September 3rd, Key premiered the performance of b-side “Villain” alongside NCT’s Jeno.

Check out Key’s new album on Spotify.

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Jaehyun’s Jaehyun’s SM SM Station Station Solo Solo

Forever Only

NCT’s Jaehyun’s latest solo single, “Forever Only”, dropped on August 18th.

Prior to the song’s release, SM dropped a series of stunning concept photos that capture the essence of the song.

The video is romantic, sensual and displays Jaehyun’s ethereal visuals. Jaehyun is seen in different locations such as an empty house in the day and a beach in the evening.

He also poses with various props such as a guitar and a motorcycle. The lyrics describe a loneliness caused by the slowly fading love which are portrayed through Jaehyun’s stunning vocals.

Watch the video now on SM’s YouTube Channel

Jaehyun performed Forever Only for the first time on NCT’s “NCT SHOW” which can be found on NCT’s Official YouTube Channel.

Listen to the whole song Now on spotify!

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Xdinary Heroes released their first mini album “Hello, World!” on July 20th.

P1harmony Released their fourth mini album, “Zero In” on July 20th

Wonho released his third mini album, “Facade”, on June 13th.

All COMEBACKS

The next pages feature an overview of all the comebacks that happened this summer including solo releases, universe releases and collabs

CIX released their fifth mini album “Ok episode 1: ok not” on August 22nd.

Golden Child Released their sixth mini album “Aura” on August 8th.

ONF Released special album “Storage of onf” on august 16th.

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June 5

SOLOIST

June 6

June 8

June 10

Son Dongwoon Today’s Weather

TRENDZ Who

BTS Yet To Come

June 15

June 15

June 15

June 16

DRIPPIN Zero

BDC Blue Sky

OMEGA X Play Dumb

June 20

June 21

June 21

Youngjae Sugar

TAN Louder

Kim Jaehwan Snail

SUPERKIND WATCH OUT

SOLOIST

SOLOIST

June 27

SOLOIST

Yoojung Begin

SOLOIST

SOLOIST

DAWN Stupid Cool

June 13

SOLOIST

WONHO Crazy

June 17

Universe Single

June 24

The Boyz Sweet

June 27

Jungkook (with Charlie Puth) Lee Minhyuk (HUTA) Left and Right SOLOIST Boom

SOLOIST Collab

July 1

July 3

July 4

July 5

Mark Tuan imysm

T1419

ENHYPEN

Winner I Love You

When The Sun Goes Down Future Perfect (Pass

The Mic)

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July 7

July 7

July 12

MONSTA X If With U

Super Junior Mango

July 15

July 18

July 19

July 19

July 20

J-Hope Arson

SEVENTEEN _WORLD

ZICO Seoul Drift

NCT U Rain Day

Xdinary Heroes TEST ME

July 20

July 20

July 20

July 21

July 21

P1Harmony Doom Du Doon

GreatGuys Blind Love

BLITZERS Hit The Bass

July 22

July 25

July 26

TXT & Iann Dior Valley of Lies

YOUNITE Aviator

TAN Walking On The Moon

MCND Mood

SOLOIST

Collab

Universe Single

July 12

WOO JIN YOUNG SOLOIST Delicious

SOLOIST

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July 13

ASTRO U&Iverse

Universe Single

SF9 Scream

MONSTA X (with Sam Feldt) Late Night Feels

Collab

July 26

SOLOIST

KB be free

JUly 27

ATBO Monochrome

DEBUT

SOLOIST

July 27

July 27

July 28

ZICO Freak

TO1 Drummin

ATEEZ Guerrilla

August 8

August 9

August 9

Golden Child Replay

SOLOIST

Kino Pose

SOLOIST

BM Strangers

August 1

SOLOIST

SooHyun The Soju Fairy

SOLOIST

Bye (ft. Whee In)

The Boyz Whisper

August 18

August 17

August 17

ONF Your Song

BAE173 DaSH

LUMINOUS Engine

LUCY Play

August 19

August 22

August 23

August 23

WONHO Don’t Hesitate

CIX 458

LEO Losing Game

SOLOIST

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August 16

RAVI

Collab

August 17

SOLOIST

BTS & Benny Blanco & Snoop Dogg Bad Decisions

Collab

August 15

August 16

Universe Single

August 5

JAY B Rocking Chair

SOLOIST

SOLOIST

JAEHYUN Forever Only

August 24

SOLOIST

Ha Sungwoon Focus

August 24

August 25

August 25

August 26

August 29

BLANK2Y Fuego (Burn It Up)

DKB 24/7

Junji be mine

Mark Tuan far away

TEMPEST Can’t Stop Shining

August 29

August 30

Lee Jinhyuk Crack

KEY Gasoline

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Upcoming Comebacks SEPt 1st RM of BTS and Balming Tiger (COLLAB) SEPt 5th ONEUS AND Kim Jaehwan SEPt 6th Lee changsub

SEPt 9th Jackson wang

Sept 16

Sept 21

NCT 127

Xiumin

And many more yet to come!

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I.M Leaves Starship Entertainment + Rest of MONSTA X Renews Contracts

MONSTA X was formed through the survival show NO.MERCY and they later made their official debut in 2015 with “Trespass.”

2022 marks monsta x’s seventh anniversary as well as the expiration of their seven year contract.

After various conversations with the six members of MONSTA X, Starship Entertainment announced I.M’s departure from the company on August 8th.

Despite the end of I.M’s contract with Starship Entertainment, he will remain a member of MONSTA X and participate in group activities. I.M released an official message to MONBEBE through the group’s fancafe, I.M explained that he was looking for a new challenge with a different meaning but would still prioritize group activities.

The remaining five members of MONSTA X (Shownu, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon and Jooheon) have renewed their contracts with Starship Entertainment and will continue promoting with the company.

Keep an eye out for MONSTA X and I.M’s future activities. In the meantime, check out I.M’s solo mixtape, “Duality.

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Jungkook Becomes a Vampire In New Photobook

On August 11th, BTS got fans guessing by dropping a mysterious, alluring teaser of Jungkook.

After various other image and video teasers, HYBE announced the release of a special photobook series titled “Me, Myself, &,” which features concepts and ideas from the members themselves.

Jungkook is the first of the members to release this photobook.

Jungkook’s photobook, “Me, Myself & Jungkook ‘Time Difference,’ features the concept of a darkening soul portrayed through a vampire. In the teaser video, Jungkook is seen carefully selecting his outfit and various pictures to include in the book.

The photobook was released for pre-order on August 18th at 11am (KST).

Within minutes, the first round of preorders sold out. The third round of preorders is currently available on Weverse Shop if you would like to grab your own copy of Jungkook’s Photobook.

Keep an eye out for the remaining “Me, Myself &” photobooks 21

Chen’s First Appearance Since

Military Discharge

At London’s HallyuPopFest, EXO’s Chen graced festival goers with his first live appearance since his discharge in April.

Chen was a headlining act on the first night of London’s HallyuPopFest that was held at the OVO Arena Wembley from July 9th to the 10th. This marks Chen’s first performance since his military discharge on April 25th after enlisting on October 26, 2020.

Chen serenaded the crowd with stunning performances of his solo tracks “Shall We?” “My Dear,” “Beautiful Goodbye,” “Love Words,” and “Everytime.”

Chen also appeared on the red carpet prior to his performance.

Look out for Chen’s other upcoming promotions 22

KQ Entertainment Introduces New Trainees in

KQ Fellaz 2 Performance Video On August 20th, KQ Entertainment premiered their new set of trainees in an all new performance video.

The energetic performance video introduces the 10 members of the new trainee group “KQ Fellaz 2.” The group performs a skillful and powerful choreography to Chris Brown’s “Iffy” in a bright, summer setting.

The trainee group consists of Minjae, Junmin, Sumin, Jinsik, Hyunwoo, Junghoon, Seeun, Hunter, Yujun and Yechan. (left to right)

KQ Fellaz 2 marks the first KQ trainee team since the original KQ Fellaz who eventually debuted in 2018 as ATEEZ.

Keep an eye out for more KQ Fellaz 2 content on KQ’s official social media accounts.

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TXT and J-Hope Kpop got its chance to shine at this year's Lollapalooza with both TXT and J-Hope being announced as performers. Earlier in the year, it was announced that TXT would be performing at Lollapalooza in Chicago at the end of July. On July 8th, J-Hope of BTS was announced to be headlining the show and closing the festival as the very last performer of the four day event.

Prior to the shows, Weverse announced the free streaming of both TXT and J-Hope’s sets for countries outside the U.S. Fans within the U.S could watch it on streaming service, Hulu.

TXT performed on Saturday the 30th, the third day of the event, and was one of the last performers of the day. They started the show energetically with their latest title track, “Good Boy Gone Bad.” The boys then moved on to perform “Frost” followed by an introduction ment where they greeted fans.

They then performed “Anti-Romantic” before introducing special guest Iann Dior who performed new collaboration “Valley of Lies” with the members. Iann Dior left the stage and the members continued the show with their English track, “Magic.” Next, they rocked the stage with “Thursday’s Child Has Far To Go” followed by “LO$ER=LOVER.” They wrapped up their show by singing “0X1=LOVESONG.”

Check out TXT’s full performance on their YouTube channel, TOMORROW X TOGETHER OFFICIAL. 24

at Lollapalooza J-Hope performed on Sunday the 31st, the final day of the event. J-Hope began his set with pre-release track, “MORE” followed by “Pandora’s Box.” Then, he continued to a throwback segment in which he performed “Base Line” off his first mixtape Hope World, followed by his verse from BTS’s “Cypher pt.

1.” Next up was “Hangsang” which was accompanied by overflowing energy from the large crowd.

Following “Hangsang” was a euphoric performance of “P.O.P (Piece of Peace).” “Equal Sign” was next followed by “STOP” and “Blue Side.” J-Hope then performed “Safety Zone” and “What If…” before premiering his newest title track, “Arson.”

After a quick costume change, J-Hope returned with “Dynamite Tropical Remix” and the title track from his first mixtape, “Daydream.” Next up was “Outro: Ego”, “Hope World” and “Trivia: Just Dance”, all of which hyped up the crowd. Then, Becky G joined J-Hope on stage for a special live performance of “Chicken Noodle Soup”, marking the duo’s first performance of the track together. Finally, J-Hope ended his legendary Lollapalooza set with “Future.”

Check out J-Hope’s full performance on BTS’s YouTube channel, BANGTANTV. 25

A A Kpop Kpop Summer Summer Playlis Playlis One of the reasons I love kpop is its capability to have the perfect song for every season. Certain songs just fit with certain seasons, some for obvious reasons and some for no reason at all. My summer playlist is one of the best playlists I have and I always get so excited when it’s a beautiful sunny day and I get to listen to this playlist. So I’m here to share some of the songs on my very lengthy summer playlist!

Bloom Bloom - The Boyz

Wave - ATEEZ

Our Summer - TXT

D.D.D - The Boyz Good Evening - SHINee

The View - Stray Kids

View - SHINee

Idol - BTS Trigger The Fever - NCT DREAM

Flow - MONSTA X

Fantasia - MONSTA X Butter - BTS

Utopia - ATEEZ Euphoria - Jungkook

Highway to Heaven - NCT 127

Shine - PENTAGON

So What - BTS

Fireflies - NCT DREAM

We DO - SuperM

Magic - TXT

0X1=LOVESONG - TXT

Save - NCT 127

No Air - The Boyz

LO$ER=LOVER - TXT

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FIRE - BTS

Dope - BTS

Don’t Fight The Feeling - EXO

Outro: Wings - BTS

Silver Spoon - BTS

I’m Fine - BTS

Anpanman - BTS

Really Really - Winner

Dimple - BTS

Dive Into You - NCT DREAM

Best of Me - BTS Replay (PM 01:27) - NCT 127

Dynamite - BTS

Treasure - ATEEZ

Permission To Dance - BTS Ko Ko Bop - EXO

Power - EXO

Superhuman - NCT 127

What U Do? - EXO Paradoxxx Invasion - ENHYPEN

Tamed-Dashed - ENHYPEN

It’s Definitely You - V & Jin

Doom Du Doom - P1Harmony

_WORLD - Seventeen Kick It - NCT 127

Surfin’ - Stray Kids

Just Right - GOT7

I Want You - SHINee

Poppin’ - Baekhyun Dear Sputnik - TXT

Like Always - X1

Summer 127 - NCT 127

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Don’t Wanna Cry - SEVENTEEN

My Favourite Titles My Favourite Titles There are a lot of really amazing K-Pop groups and songs out there, some of which are easier to discover than others. It can seem really overwhelming to find songs that suit your taste in the thousands of songs out there. So, I’ve created this list of some of my favourite songs by underrated groups. Underrated is a title often given to groups with great potential, but have smaller audiences and are harder to find. I think underrated is a really subjective title to give a group so the groups on this list are who I personally think are underrated. Keep in mind, I prefer the cooler and sexier concepts over cute concepts. So, if you prefer cute concepts. this list may not be as helpful to you. However, most of these groups do have cute concept songs, so I’ll leave a title of one at the end of each explanation!

CIX - MOVIE STAR

I could go on and on about CIX for days. Ever since hearing Movie Star, I have been fully committed to them. They have a flawless discography and they keep returning with a new and unique sound. I think they are really different from other fourth generation groups as they stand out with songs that sound like a perfect blend of third and fourth generation k-pop. They never fail to impress me with their amazing music and they always return with a different concept.

Their whole career is worth checking out! The concept of Movie Star is that cool, slick, vogue-like aesthetic that is really clean and sexy. Movie Star is simply the song that introduced me to them and I still listen to it three years later. One of CIX’s cute concept songs is Cinema, which is just as amazing as Movie Star!

SF9 - Tear Drop

SF9 has been around since 2016 and have continuously released amazing songs. Since hearing Now or Never and RPM, I couldn’t understand why SF9 was not more popular. Firstly, they are kings of the sexy concept and pull it off so well while still finding a way to make it different every time. They also never fail to release unique songs. I’ve selected Tear Drop as it is one of my favourite SF9 songs and it really solidified my belief in their greatness. This is one of my most listened to songs of 2021 and I was instantly addicted to it. Other amazing SF9 songs include Believer, Enough and Trauma. If you’re looking for a cuter concept, SF9 just released Scream which channels a cuter side of the members.

Golden Child - Wannabe

Since watching ATEEN with Bomin, I have kept my eye on Golden Child. That same year I was introduced to them, they released this incredible song. I can’t get over how amazing it is and every time I listen to it, I still end up blown away by its perfection. It’s so catchy, addictive and has a really modern sound. It also follows in line with my favourite clean and sexy concept which just ties it all together perfectly. Following Wannabe, Golden Child continued on to release some more great songs such as One (Lucid Dream) and Ra Pam Pam, all of which are worth checking out. Golden Child is also really famous for their cute concepts, some of them including: Pump It Up, Genie and even their debut, Da Dam Di.

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By Underrated Groups

By Underrated Groups ONlyoneof - savanna

OnlyOneOf really got heads turning with libidO last year, which was the song that introduced me to them in the first place. I was interested in their music and decided to look through their catalog of songs. This is how I found “savanna” which is one of their debut tracks. “Savanna” is such a unique, sexy and r&b influenced debut which is rare for a fourth generation group. After hearing this song, I became engrossed in their music really quickly. Overall, OnlyOneOf is another group that really stands out amongst others purely off their music. Since their debut, they have released so many other songs that suit this same sexy style such as “angel” and “sage.”

Tan - du du du

As soon as I heard this song I was in love. It is an anti-drop so I may be a bit biased, but this is such an amazing debut song. Both the English and Korean versions are both just amazing and it was a really strong way to start off their career. Sometimes, groups debut with an amazing song, but fail to live up it with the songs that follow. However, TAN is not like this at all. Since Du Du Du, TAN have made two comebacks with Louder and Walking On The Moon both of which are just as amazing as their debut. However, they were formed on a competition show and they only have a temporary contract. Despite this, I’m sure they still have a lot of amazing music still in store.

P1Harmony - Doom du doom Just like that, another anti drop makes its way onto the list. I love anti drops and the drop in this song specifically is so satisfying. Not to mention, the song and choreography are both crazily catchy. This song has only recently been released, but I swear I’ve listened to it a hundred times already. It has a strong fourth generation sound while not going too overboard. Their live stages for this song were amazing and they are great performers. Overall, P1Harmony has always really stood out to me and I believe they have such great potential. They are a rookie group, but the members already have contributed to the production of their music. They are seriously worth looking out for.

1the9 - Spotlight

Yes, I know, 1THE9 has already disbanded, but I’m not here to talk about their disbandment. I’m here to tell you all about the great songs they released while they were a group. Spotlight is just one of the pieces of their amazing discography. I had a really difficult time choosing between Domino, Blah and this song However, in the end, I decided to stick with their debut track, Spotlight. This song is really special, I have yet to hear one like it. I’m not sure how to explain its exact genre, but it somewhat gives latin vibes. As I mentioned earlier, some other amazing 1the9 songs are Domino and Blah.

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VICTON - Mayday I was introduced to VICTON through X1 and I remember the exact day this song dropped. I saw it in my recommended and listened to it while I was in the kitchen. My jaw dropped and I couldn’t believe how amazing it was. It quickly became one of my favourite songs and everytime I listen to it, I still get goosebumps. It is powerful while still maintaining a strange sense of calmness. The members all showcase their variety of talents, from Hanse’s catchy rap to Seungwoo’s stunning vocals to the satisfying choreography. It is really worth a listen. If you’re looking for a cuter concept, check out their debut track, I’m Fine.

UP10TION - Blue Rose UP10TION was another group I was introduced to through X1. I’m not sure how exactly I stumbled across this song but it is insanely good. It has such an edgy sound and somehow blends in some rock/alternative aspects into third generation kpop. All the members get a chance to shine as it has both strong raps and vocals. It has both a modern sexy concept as well as a grunge concept, both of which perfectly fit the song’s vibe perfectly. This is such a unique song and I think everyone should listen to it at least once.

BDC - Moon Walker

Seriously, no one talks about BDC. They only debuted two years ago and they have already released so much amazing music. Moon Walker is just one of their fantastic songs. The best part of this song has to be the drop following the vocals in the pre-chorus. This drop has such an unexpected and unique sound but it isn’t overwhelming at all. It actually sounds like a western EDM song. Overall, their main concept is space, more specially the moon. They have a lot of songs relating to this such as Shoot The Moon and Moon Rider. I really can’t explain how amazing their music is and it is really disappointing that more people don’t know them. So please, whenever you get a chance, check these guys out!

VERIVERY - Lay back

Lay Back is one of my favourite songs of all time and because of it, I have continued to look out for VERIVERY’s new releases. Lay Back really stood out to me as it is such a catchy and different song. The drop for the chorus is perfect and the mirror concept in the music video is so interesting and ties into their complex storyline. VERIVERY really came through with this song and I later found out that they have been continuously doing so since debut.

VERIVERY’s debut, Ring Ring Ring is a cute concept song, so if that is more your style, go and check that one out!

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NU’EST - Inside Out I have so much to say about NU’EST. They were such an underrated group for their entire career and I’m really sad that they didn’t get the attention they deserved while they were a group. Inside Out was NU’EST’s 2021 release and it completely blew me away. Again, songs are great to me when they are unique and can easily stand out amongst others. Inside Out does exactly this. On top of being one of the most romantic songs I’ve ever heard, it is extremely catchy and practically graces the ears every single time. This is probably my favourite song of 2021 and everyone should take the time to listen to it at least once. If you’re looking for a cuter concept, go check out Love Me.

DKB - ROllerCOaster

I remember there being a lot of hype around DKB’s debut of “Sorry Mama.”

After that, I didn’t hear about them much despite their following singles being great. Then, Rollercoaster showed up in my recommended and I clicked on it curiously. I was addicted to this song for weeks. It is so calm and soothing even though it is about the rollercoaster of emotions that come with a broken relationship. It has a grungier concept and overall definitely suits the fall/winter season. Overall, DKB’s music is really vibey, I can’t describe it in any other way. Since Work Hard, DKB have really made this sound their own and it is so unique. For a cuter concept, check out Work Hard.

There are many other groups out there, but many of them I don’t know as well as these groups I have discussed. So, listed below are some other less known groups for you to check out.

E’LAST

ONF

DKZ

EPEX

KIngdom

KNK

OMEGA X

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HAIRSTYLES

That Remind Me Of

Summer

Kpop is known for many things such as dedicated fandoms and interesting concepts. However, perhaps the most noticeable indication of kpop to locals is the vibrant and unique hair colours that often come along with it. As this is the summer edition of kpop monthly, I thought it would only be fitting to select a few iconic hairstyles that remind me of summer. Let’s get onto the list!

Changmin (The Boyz) - Bloom Bloom Orange

Changmin was my original bias from The Boyz because of this hairstyle. The colour was so pretty and suited him so well. I think the specific shade was so unique and it really reminds me of summer especially as it was in Bloom Bloom which has a really bright, summery vibe.

Baekhyun (EXO) - Red anD black Ko KO Mullet

Baekhyun’s red and black mullet is one of the sexiest things that has ever happened and I refuse to accept any hate towards it. It was so unique and different yet it worked so well and fit Ko Ko Bop’s concept amazingly. Every time I see it I get reminded of summer as my brain connects this hairstyle to Ko Ko Bop which is one of the most iconic summer songs out there!

Jungkook (BTS) - Cherry Kook

Cherry Kook really didn’t last long enough. I think I associate this hairstyle with summer because he had it during the summer and various summer promotions such as the Airplane Pt. 2 performance from the 2018 Summer Package in Saipan. I also really love the vibrancy and youthfulness of it. Overall, I love this style on Jungkook and I know many other ARMY love it just as much.

Hongjoong (Ateez) - wave red

Upon thinking of hairstyles for this list, for some reason, this bright red Hongjoong was one of the first styles to pop into my head. I think this is because of the saturation of the colour and the fact that this hairstyle was first introduced in one of the best summer kpop songs of all time–Wave. This colour just looks amazing on him.

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Chan (stray Kids) - wavy blonde

This hairstyle is pretty simple, but on Chan, it just hits differently. Firstly, it suits him so well. Secondly, it reminds me of their Mixtape 4 self-filmed video in Australia. This video is one of my favourite self-filmed video as it has such a sunny and summery vibe. Overall, wavy blonde Chan reminds me of the summery atmosphere of Australia in Mixtape 4.

RM (BTS) - Proof short hair

Not many idols can pull off this short hair look, but Namjoon does it flawlessly. Between the cut and the red tips, this just screams summer. I also wanted to add this because it differs greatly from the other styles on this list and a short cut like this is very unique for kpop idols.

Chenle (NCT) - We young purple

Chenle’s purple hair is one of my favourites of his hairstyles. It completely suited him and the light, summer concept of We Young. I think both the beach background of the concept photos and the We Young music video contribute to the connection of this hairstyle and summer.

Not to mention, that little sailor hat…

Sehun (EXO) - Ko ko bop Orange

Another short haircut makes its way onto the list. Although they are both short cuts, Sehun’s styling is very different from Namjoon’s. I think this styling suits him extremely well and it is definitely something not everyone can pull off. This reminds me of summer because of its orange colour and its connection to Ko Ko Bop.

Doyoung (NCT) - Highway to heaven Blue

I wish we could have seen more of Doyoung with this hair colour. It totally suited the Highway to Heaven vibes while also reminding me of how handsome Doyoung is. He really steals the scene with this vibrant blue. I think my brain has connected this to summer because Highway to Heaven is one of my favourite summer tracks and the atmosphere portrayed in the video is so refreshing.

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KPOP MONTHLY Boy Group Edition Summer 2022 Writer: Brooklynn D’Mello Editor: Brooklynn D’Mello, Andrea D’Mello Design: Brooklynn D’Mello Summer Edition October 6th, 2022

For more K-Pop News, keep an eye out for the future editions of KPOP MONTHLY.