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The 20 Best K-Pop Albums of 2024 (So Far): Staff Picks


The best K-pop albums of 2024 so far, from BTS' RM, IU, PLAVE, LOONA and more.

Image Credit: DAEHAN CHAE ATEEZ kicked off another epic era with the first part of the group’s Golden Hour series, delivering one of its catchiest singles to date in “WORK.” But as the catchy song lures fans in, the tribal beats and chants on “Blind,” the reggae groove of “Shaboom” and the sentimentality of “Empty Box” make this EP a musical trip around the world, as well through a range of emotions. From the unexpected electro-R&B grooves of Chaeryeong’s “Mine” to the sweet synth-y gem “Blossom” from Lia (gifted to fans on the LP even as the star is on hiatus for her mental health), ITZY’s fifth anniversary in 2024 is all the more special with this project, which lets the group’s members finally share and extend themselves more creatively. The set highlights Yugyeom at his artistic peak, beginning with the bossa nova single and opening track “La Sol Mi,” and continuing as with the swirling ’80s synthesizers of “SHINE,” the effortless hip-hop hooks of “1 Minute” and more delightful turns, as you fall into one of the best album listening experiences from Korea this year.

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