K-Pop Playlist: Bringing the Drama

AdminFebruary 1, 2025

Whether it’s theatrical flair in the choreo, unfiltered lyrics, or a rebellious vibe, this week’s selection of new releases each brings their own kind of drama! I can’t wait to share exciting comebacks from favorites ONEUS, icons GOT7, and rookie group KickFlip. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!

Mark (NCT) – ‘Fraktsiya (feat. Lee Young Ji)

As he prepares for a solo album release this coming April, NCT’s Mark dropped a surprise new single for the fans, and IT IS FIRE!!! This spy-themed hip-hop track (love the Men In Black references), features a driving, staccato rap-flow, filled with candid brags, subtle digs, and humorous quips. Joining Mark, with her signature husky tone and equally confident flow, is the amazing Young Ji. This pairing is rap perfection!!

Jung Seul – ‘Tabom (feat. ShinDong)

I love trot! And I instantly fell for this new, latin-infused single from up-and-coming singer (and Miss Trot 3 finalist) Jung Seul! The song also features the vocal and performance talents of Super Junior’s ShinDong. I appreciated the simple set and unique ‘one-take’ film styling of the MV — it put all the focus on the main characters!

ONEUS – ‘IKUK’

Oneus chose to highlight their theatrical flair in the MV for their recent title-track drop ‘IKUK’! The acrobatics incorporated throughout the choreo, and the dramatic switch-up of the melody during the dance break, were the performance elements I enjoyed most!! Definitely recommend watching more than once, to take in ALL the details.

An ShinAe – ‘South to the West’

This current release, from soloist An ShinAe, is a groovy and addictive bop! I am loving the alternating soul-filled vocals and sing-song rap styling she uses, to express the different sides of herself. It’s exciting to see this spirited artist return to the music scene with outstanding new tracks — ShinAe is quickly finding a spot on my favorites list!

GOT7 – ‘Python’

It’s been over TWO years since GOT7 came together to release their last new album. During their group hiatus, the members successfully pursued a variety of solo ventures. But now, they are reunited and it’s fantastic to see them performing together again for their title-track ‘Python’! The song features a dream-like R&B vibe, punctuated with edgy K-Pop vocals, raps, and choreo — it’s addictive!

KickFlip – ‘Mama Said’

JYP just debuted their newest, seven-member boy group and I already adore these fresh-faced new rookies! Teenage rebellion has never been more delightfully upbeat — ‘Mama Said’ takes on the drama of being young and figuring out the answer to that age-old question: “What are you gonna be when you grow up?”

CIX – ‘Thunder’

An a cappella intro, heavy bass-beats, energetic groove, and smooth vocal harmonies?!?! YES, PLEASE!!! CIX absolutely delivers with their powerful and electric comeback track. I’m also loving the sharp, yet smooth choreo for this song. Hopefully I can learn the moves at my K-pop dance class soon — it’s hard to sit still when ‘Thunder’ begins playing!!