2024 has been a phenomenal year for K-pop, with groundbreaking albums pushing creative and musical boundaries. From chart-topping hits to fan-favorite B-sides, these albums have redefined the industry. Here are the top 10 K-pop albums of 2024 that you need to check out!
Golden Hour: Part. 1 — ATEEZ
Release Date: May 31, 2024
Title Track: "Work"
Viral Song: "Work"
ATEEZ’s 10th EP, Golden Hour: Part. 1, brought yet another global hit with the title track Work. Known for their groovy hip-hop sound, ATEEZ delivered a fresh and emotional take on the chaos of modern life.
"Work" resonated worldwide, blending fun beats with relevant lyrics, making it an unforgettable addition to their stellar discography. Fans are calling it a defining moment in ATEEZ's musical legacy.
The Winning — IU
Release Date: February 20, 2024
Title Track: "Shopper"
Viral Song: "Love Wins All", "Holssi"
After a two-year hiatus, IU returned with her highly anticipated EP, The Winning, delighting fans with five iconic tracks. The album’s lead single, "Love Wins All", was released on January 24, 2024, and quickly became a fan favorite.
The follow-up single, "Holssi", dropped on February 16, while the title track, "Shopper", was unveiled alongside the EP’s release on February 20. IU’s heartfelt lyrics and unique sound made this comeback a monumental success.
IVE Switch — IVE
Release Date: April 29, 2024
Title Track: "Heya"
Viral Song: "Accendio"
IVE’s second EP, IVE Switch, dropped on April 29, 2024, featuring six tracks, including the title track "Heya" and the viral B-side "Accendio". The album showcases a blend of elegance and self-love, with innovative approaches to music and choreography.
"Accendio" quickly gained attention for its addictive beat, proving once again that a year isn’t complete without an iconic release from IVE.
Easy — LE SSERAFIM
Release Date: February 19, 2024
Title Track: "Easy"
Viral Song: "Smart"
LE SSERAFIM’s Easy explores the group's internal struggles and vulnerabilities behind their confident façade. Released on February 19, 2024, the album features five tracks, including the Afropop-inspired viral hit "Smart".
The title track, "Easy", is a trap and R&B masterpiece emphasizing how the group handles challenges effortlessly. The popularity of "Smart" even prompted the release of a music video, highlighting the group's fresh take on Amapiano-infused music.
Assemble 24 — TripleS
Release Date: May 8, 2024
Title Track: "Girls Never Die"
Viral Song: "Girls Never Die"
TripleS unveiled their first full-group studio album, Assemble 24, on May 8, 2024, featuring all 24 members. The title track "Girls Never Die" is a high-energy dance song with an up-tempo house beat layered with rock guitar.
The empowering lyrics celebrate boldness and overcoming challenges with vibrant, fearless energy, making it an instant favorite among fans.
Flow — ONEW
Release Date: September 3, 2024
Title Track: "Beat Drum"
Viral Song: "Beat Drum" and "Hola!"
Onew's third EP, Flow, marked his first release under Griffin Entertainment after departing SM Entertainment. Released on September 3, 2024, the album offers a personal touch, with lyrics and compositions largely penned by Onew himself.
Tracks like "Beat Drum" and "Hola!" radiate positivity, capturing the brightest moments he wanted to share with his fans, making it a feel-good masterpiece.
Midas Touch — Kiss of Life
Release Date: April 3, 2024
Title Track: "Midas Touch"
Viral Song: "Igloo"
Kiss of Life made a remarkable debut with their first single album, Midas Touch. Released on April 3, 2024, by S2 Entertainment, the album contains two tracks: the lead single "Midas Touch" and "Nothing".
Member Julie explained that the songs narrate love’s journey — from its euphoric early stages in "Midas Touch" to its disheartening conclusion in "Nothing". The group has become an icon in K-pop, pushing boundaries with their unique storytelling and viral tracks like "Igloo".
Romance: Untold — Enhypen
Release Date: July 12, 2024
Title Track: "XO (Only If You Say Yes)"
Viral Song: "XO (Only If You Say Yes)"
Enhypen's second studio album, Romance: Untold, marked a new musical direction for the group with its mix of R&B and synth-pop. Released on July 12, 2024, the album soared to the top of the charts in South Korea, Japan, and France, while claiming the No. 2 spot on the US Billboard 200.
Fans especially loved the flirty lyrics and upbeat sound of the title track, "XO (Only If You Say Yes)", solidifying it as a standout in their discography.
Armageddon — Aespa
Release Date: May 27, 2024
Title Tracks: "Supernova" and "Armageddon"
Viral Song: "Armageddon"
Aespa's first full-length album, Armageddon, delivered a bold musical statement. Released on May 27, 2024, the album features 10 tracks blending hip-hop, dance, and ballad elements. The double title tracks, "Supernova" and "Armageddon", captivated fans with their unique soundscapes.
"Supernova" is a hyper-pop masterpiece about cosmic explosions, while "Armageddon" brought high-energy vibes, quickly going viral for its dynamic beats and thrilling performance.
17 Is Right Here — Seventeen
Release Date: April 29, 2024
Title Track: "Maestro"
Viral Song: "Cheers to Youth"
Seventeen’s second compilation album, 17 Is Right Here, celebrated their career milestones with a collection of hits and unreleased gems. Released on April 29, 2024, the album includes all their Korean-language singles, Korean versions of Japanese tracks, and new songs like "Spell", "Cheers to Youth", and "Lalali".
The lead single "Maestro" showcases Seventeen’s group's development in music exploring new style, while "Cheers to Youth" resonated with fans for its nostalgic and uplifting message.
These 10 albums highlight the extraordinary talent and innovation within the K-pop industry. Each release, from Enhypen's Romance: Untold to IVE’s Switch, offers something unique and captivates fans worldwide with unforgettable tracks and performances.
As K-pop continues to break barriers and redefine global music, these albums stand as milestones of 2024, setting the stage for even greater achievements ahead. Which one tops your list? Let us know!
Komen