Unmissable K-pop Hits 2023
Best Releases in the Last Quarter
1. New Jeans ‘ Super Shy ’
The South Korean girl group “NewJeans” debuted last year with a refreshing “Y2K” style that caught public attention. Their debut album “Hype Boy” has remained in the top half of the charts until now. Their latest releases “Ditto” and “OMG” earlier this year propelled them to the peak of success, making them strong contenders for various major awards.
The recently released song “Super Shy” is also highly anticipated. Similar to “New Jeans,” “Super Shy” incorporates the fast-paced dance beats of “Jersey Club” as the foundation for its arrangement. The members of “NewJeans” showcase their soft and gentle vocals, and the music video, shot in Spain, features vibrant and highly saturated visuals. The overall presentation exudes a refreshing summer vibe, as if enjoying the coolness under the shade of trees, displaying the lively charm of “NewJeans.”
2. ITZY “None of My Business
ITZY released a new mini-album that includes a total of six songs, including the title track “CAKE.” Personally, I really love the song “None of my business” from their album, which I can listen to on repeat endlessly. Na na na na na. Their songs are truly amazing and enjoyable to listen to.
3.정국 (Jung Kook) ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’
BTS member Jung Kook collaborated with 24-year-old American rapper Latto for his latest solo debut single “Seven,” and the music video was released on July 14th. The video features South Korean actress Han So-hee as the female lead, and she and Jung Kook portray a passionate and love-hate relationship. Their playful interactions captured viewers’ attention, and the MV quickly surpassed 6.7 million views.
The new single “Seven” has an MV that lasts almost 4 minutes, resembling a condensed version of a mini-movie, taking fans on a journey to witness the week-long life of this adorable “couple.” No matter rain or shine, scorching sun or torrential rain, even the end of the world, nothing can stop my love for you! Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 7 days a week, it feels like the love for you is like a 7/11, never closing. “Seven” is an incredibly cute song, and even cuter is how Jung Kook and Han So-hee finally come together at the end of the video. The music’s rhythm is also delightful, so everyone should go and give it a listen!
4. (G)I-DLE — I DO
“I DO” is the latest song released by the South Korean girl group (G)I-DLE in 2023. It is included as the title track in their first English mini-album “HEAT,” produced by Cube Entertainment in collaboration with the American label “88rising.” Unlike their previous catchy and upbeat styles, this time they explore an 80s-inspired “Synth Pop” genre, blending electronic and pop music, resulting in a nostalgic and sentimental song. It beautifully expresses the bittersweet feelings towards love and fleeting moments of various beautiful things. The song is accompanied by lyrics and a sci-fi-themed MV that resembles a short film, which received overwhelmingly positive reviews shortly after its release.
5.효린(HYOLYN) — 이게 사랑이지 뭐야(feat. Paul Blanco)
I love this song. Such a refreshing feeling after hearing the song and watching the MV. Hyolyn never disappoints!
The MV showcases various summer street-style couple outfits, exuding a strong sense of romance. The key point lies in incorporating at least one item with the same color. For example, Yuqi’s red, white, and blue pants perfectly complement the color of the male lead’s shirt, and they both add different colored pieces to enhance the summery vibe. Personally, I adore the scenes of playing in the rain and exploring the streets, both featuring denim outfits. The denim-on-denim look in the rain adds a vintage yet vibrant touch to the MV.
Listening to this song really brings joy, immersing me in the delightful atmosphere of the summer season.
